Swaziland

Swaziland has a much lower crime rate than other countries in the region.

Hippopotamuses are found rarely in the country's rivers, and are one of the more dangerous animals you are likely to come across. They are actually quite fast animals, as well as being extremely strong and with large, powerful jaws. They often stay submerged in shallow water during the day, but come out at night to graze. They can be unpredictable, territorial and very protective of their young. Do not stand between a hippo and the water.

Crocodiles are a more common danger when swimming in rivers.

Swaziland also has one of the highest numbers of people struck by lightning per capita in the whole world and it is common to know or know of somebody who has been struck by lightning

Be careful when crossing any of Swaziland's nineteen border gates. It is forbidden to take meat into certain areas, and the soldiers have the right to search both you and your vehicle extensively. It is extremely inadvisable to stray into 'No-Man's Land', a 5km stretch of territory between Mozambique and Swaziland; several locals have been shot by soldiers guarding the edges of the respective territories.

Whilst physical violence is not prevalent save on weekends when many may imbibe copious quantities of brandy or marula, a highly intoxicating alcoholic beverage, wandering around alone after dark is not advisable, particularly outside Mbabane and Manzini where there is little or no street lighting. Keep your money hidden and, if you are working or travelling in impoverished rural areas, do not eat expensive foods in front of the locals, particularly the children, who, especially if they are AIDS orphans and fed as part of the Sebenta school programme, do not get to experience luxury items.

While Swazi main roads are in good repair, a four wheel drive is essential to see much of the interior, unless you wish to be stranded miles from anywhere, with a patchy telephone signal as mobile telephone masts are few and far between. Other drivers, particularly HGVs, often overtake without warning and without checking for oncoming traffic. 'Kombis', local minibuses which function as taxis, drive at a neck-or-nothing rate with more than a full quota of passengers.

respect

Swazis are very loyal to the King and the Royalty; be smart about what is said openly.

Swaziland is also predominantly Christian, and modesty in dress is encouraged.

Swazis adhere strongly to their historical traditions, which are widely practised today. Many who are suffering from an illness will consult a sangoma to determine its cause and an inyanga to prescribe a treatment. It is the height of disrespect to be disparaging towards these individuals or to refer to them as witch doctors.

talk

English is the official language of business. It is advisable that travellers learn a little of the local language, SiSwati also known as Swazi which, in rural areas, is spoken almost exclusively.

contact

Cellphone coverage is similar to South Africa, even in most nature reserves there is coverage although it might be weak. There is only one wireless operator in Swaziland, namely MTN-Swazi. SIM cards from South Africa do not work here, unless it's MTN and roaming has been enabled. It's easy to buy a starter pack with a MTN-Swazi sim card pretty much at every gas station or grocery store. You do not need proof of residence or ID to get a pack.

Although there is coverage, the phone service itself is bad with many calls not connecting or connecting to the wrong phone number, SMSes not arriving and international calling being more expensive than in South Africa.

Note that Starter Pack sim cards expire within 30 days if not used, and that they cannot be used in South Africa.