When to Go

Eswatini is very a much a year round destination with lots to offer across all seasons. Below is some advice regarding climate plus a month by month guide. For further details on the fantastic cultural and sporting Events which Eswatini is renowned, go to the Events page. And for a calendar of Public Holidays, check the Travel Advice page

Best Time to Travel/Climate

As with all Southern Hemisphere countries, seasons are opposite to that of the majority of Europe and North America in the Northern Hemisphere. Generally speaking, rain falls mostly during the summer months, often in the form of thunderstorms typical of tropical environments, although Eswatini can vary from tropical to temperate.

The dry season (Winter) lasts from mid-April to mid-October, with an average temperature of 20°C (the days being sunny and the nights chilly). The rainy season begins at the end of October, lasting through to March. During the dry seasons expect hot days when the sun is out, but temperatures can drop quickly at night with extra layers needed at all year round.

Variations in temperature are also dependent on the altitude of the different regions with temperatures of up to 40 degree having been recorded in some areas.

Monthly Guide

All activities in Eswatini are available year-round, but here are a few ideas of what to try out each month. Also take a look at the Events page for more details on specific events happening in the country this year, including Eswatini’s famed Festivals.

January

Start off in and around Swailand’s tourism heart, the Ezulwini Valley, for an introduction to the country – visit to the Mantenga Cultural Village and explore Mlilwane Sanctuary – by vehicle, on foot, by bike or on horseback.

February

It’s Festival time! The Marula Festival celebrates the harvest of the Marula fruit – and try a drink or two!

March

It’s pretty warm in the lowveld, so head up to the highlands of Malolotja to visit the World’s Oldest mine at Ngwenya and experience the thrilling Tree Top Canopy Tour.

April

Take some time to investigate Eswatini’s vast array of internationally renowned handicrafts, produced by socially responsible, community focused organisations – see the artisans in action and do some shopping!

May

One of the biggest and certainly the best performing arts festival in Southern Africa is Eswatini’s Bushfire. A feast for all senses and a worthy modern addition to the traditional festival calendar.

June

Make the most of the dry season winter months to try out White Water Rafting while the Usutu River is likely to be flowing more gently (or try this in January for a more challenging experience!)

July

Take part in the Sibebe Survivor to trek up and down the world’s Largest Granite dome – Sibebe Rock. The views from the top are stupendous.

August

Eswatini’s Umhlanga Reed Dance is one of the most breathtaking sights on the continent – tens of thousands of brightly dressed girls dancing for the King and Queen mother! The scale and spectacle can only be truly appreciated firsthand.

September

With vegetation low, track Mkhaya’s famed rhino on foot for the most thrilling safari experience possible.

October

Before the temperatures rise, visit Eswatini’s biggest national Park, Hlane, for a chance to see lion (and more rhino, of course).

November

Pay a visit to Shewula to learn about Swazi life – a wonderful community tourism project on the Lubombo Mountains, with views back across the whole country.

December

End the year with a visit to Eswatini’s most important and sacred Festival – the Incwala Festival.