Sub Saharan Africa

Terrorism
 
There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
 

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime
 
You should avoid travelling into or out of Swaziland by road at night.  There have been numerous incidences of car hijacking on major routes from South Africa and Mozambique.
 
The level of crime is low in Swaziland compared to its immediate neighbours.  But street crimes and burglaries do occur, sometimes involving violence.  There have also been incidents of vehicles being taken at gunpoint.  Avoid walking in the downtown areas of Mbabane and Manzini after dark and do not picnic in remote rural areas unless in a large group.

Keep valuables in a safe place and avoid carrying large amounts of money or wearing conspicuous jewellery.

 

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Swaziland Country Profile

The political situation is stable, but there are periodically organised demonstrations relating to labour and political issues in the Kingdom.  Elections and the double celebrations held in 2008 to mark both the King’s 40th birthday and 40 years of independence promoted a rising level of public protest.  Certain political parties have been banned and designated terrorist organisations.  We strongly advise visitors to avoid crowd gatherings which, if regarded as unauthorised demonstrations, could be dispersed by the Police Authorities using a degree of force, possibly involving firearms.
 
Local Travel

 
All areas of Swaziland are accessible by road, though care should be taken in rural areas (see Road Travel below).
 
Road Travel
 
UK or international driving licences (provided the latter are in English) are acceptable.
 
The standard of driving is lower than in the UK.  Drivers often cross the central reservation to avoid obstructions.  Speeding by other drivers is a problem (the maximum speed limit is 120 km on motorways and 80 km on other unrestricted roads).  Minor roads are not well maintained and road markings are poor.
 
On rural roads there have been a number of serious accidents and deaths as a result of animals straying onto roads.  Avoid driving on rural roads at night.  As well as the risk of hitting animals, there is the additional risk of abandoned unlit trailers and poorly lit heavy vehicles.
 
Do not use public transport (buses and taxis). Vehicles are, generally, poorly maintained and overloaded.
 
Be wary of anyone who offers you help if you breakdown or need to change a tyre as it presents the opportunity for theft, muggings and hijackings.  You should park in well-lit areas.  Do not pick up strangers.  Do not stop to assist (apparently) distressed motorists, as these are all techniques sometimes used by hijackers.  Instead, report the incident to the police.

 

For more general information see Driving Abroad.
 
Air Travel
 
The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community.  You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

For more general information see Airline Security.