Eswatini Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution in Eswatini due to crime and unrest.

Crime

Crime is common in Eswatini. Sporadic armed robberies and carjackings occur. Local police may lack the resources to deal effectively with criminal incidents.

Unrest

Demonstrations and protests occur sporadically in Eswatini. Americans should avoid all public gatherings, even peaceful ones. They could turn violent with little or no warning.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Eswatini

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Eswatini, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Public protests, demonstrations, and strikes do occur occasionally in Eswatini, mostly in response to political or economic issues. Security forces police such events heavily and have used force on occasions.

You should:

• avoid all protests and marches
• be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark
• monitor local media
• keep up to date with developments

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

There can be casual theft, pickpocketing and occasional muggings, particularly at the edges of towns and cities, and at night. Armed robbery has happened but is not common. You should:

• avoid walking in the downtown areas of Mbabane and Manzini after dark
• keep valuables in a safe place
• avoid carrying large amounts of money
• keep expensive-looking jewellery and watches out of sight

Criminal activity usually increases during the pre-Christmas festive season.

Risk level

Eswatini - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Eswatini due to the risk of civil unrest.

Demonstrations

Waves of pro-democracy protests took place throughout the country in 2021. Further demonstrations are likely, particularly in Mbabane and Manzini. Security forces have used violence to disperse crowds, resulting in casualties.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Crime

Petty crime, including robbery is common but is relatively low compared to other countries in southern Africa. Do not show signs of affluence, and ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Violent crime such as armed carjacking, burglary, car theft, and mugging is uncommon, but does occur, mostly in Manzini, Mbabane and rural areas. Avoid walking in these areas after dark.

Crime rates tend to increase ahead of and during the holiday season.

Carjackings

Avoid entering or leaving Eswatini by road after dark, as there have been several armed carjackings on main roads from South Africa and Mozambique. Keep car doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight at all times.

斯威士兰风险等级为红色（极高风险）。

外交部提醒中国公民近期暂勿前往斯威士兰，已在当地的人员和机构尽快撤离或转移至安全地区。如遇紧急情况，请及时报警并与中国驻南非使馆取得联系。

外交部和驻外使领馆将继续密切关注海外安全形势变化，动态调整有关风险评估，并实时在中国领事服务网等平台发布、更新相应安全提醒，请持续关注。