The climate in Swaziland varies with the country’s altitude. The western mountains are wet, humid and often see severe thunderstorms. The country’s middle and lowlands are drier and the east is more tropical. The rainy season lasts from October to May.
Whether your stay in Swaziland is just a stopover between the more bustling destinations of Mozambique and South Africa or you’re looking for a relaxing retreat visiting one of the exceptional wildlife reserves, there’s no wrong time to book your flight to Swaziland.
Peak Season: Swaziland flights are packed during June through September, when the weather is at its best and the dry season lets the sun warm the country.
Off-peak Season: The rainy season, stretching from October until the end of May, is the best time to find a cheap flight to Swaziland. Luckily, Swaziland hosts a slew of cultural activities in the inclement weather to keep visitors from shying away from rainy season: Swazi XTreme, Africa’s largest adventure race, takes place each April, and Swaziland is hosting its first annual Fashion Week in December of 2008.
Flights to Swaziland aren’t the only ways available to enter the country: If you’re traveling to Swaziland from other points in Africa, chances are there are coaches and taxis that’ll transport you across the Mozambique and South African borders easily. In Mbabane, taxis are the most efficient mode of transport and the best way of getting to the city from the airport after your Swaziland flight lands.The following chart gives approximate journey times from Mbabane (in hours and minutes) to other major cities and towns in Swaziland.
| Road |
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Manzini | 0.45 |
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Nhlangano | 2.00 |
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Piggs Peak | 1.00 |
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Siteki | 1.30 |
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Eswatini Travel Information- As one of few remaining African monarchies, Swaziland embraces its royal family and fondly remembers King Sobhuza II, the world’s longest reigning monarch who is said to have fathered 500 children as king. Those who’ve booked their flight to Swaziland during the month of August may be in town to see the Umhlanga in the Ezulwini Valley, which is the traditional reed dance performed by young maidens hoping to be chosen as the latest bride of King Mswati III.
- The Swazi Cultural Village of Mantenga should be one of your first stops after your flight to Swaziland touches down. The village, also known as Ligugu Lemaswati, which means “the pride of the Swazi people”, is a living museum that celebrates the most beloved of Swazi traditions. To the beat of handmade drums, men and women perform the Sibhaca, a traditional Swazi dance, and after the performance you can roam freely amid the huts to view the arts and crafts on display.
- Looking to get a royal fix after your Swaziland flight? Head to Lobamba in the Ezulwini Valley, just outside of Mbabane and site of the Ludzidzini Royal Residence, which is where the Swazi royal family lives. For those looking to get their history fix the House of Parliament is also here, as well as the National Museum, which showcases Swazi art, crafts and culture.
- Animal lovers and outdoorsy types are booking flights to Swaziland for trips to Hlane Royal National Park, the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Mkhaya Game Reserve. Hlane, located in Eastern Swaziland, is the largest protected area in the country and home to herds of lions, which are a special point of pride for the Swazi people. The lion is a symbol of royalty and pride, especially for the Royal Family. The Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Ezulwini Valley, is Swaziland’s oldest protected area and is the country’s most frequently visited wildlife reserve. Milwane’s sister park, the Mkhaya Game Reserve, is where one can visit black and white rhinoceros, elephants and other endangered species in southeastern Swaziland.