Transportation

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in Swaziland, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Swaziland is provided for general reference only and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Traffic accidents in Swaziland may pose an even greater hazard than crime. Visitors should use extreme caution when driving, given the relatively high rates of speed of drivers on major thoroughfares. Other hazards include poor lighting and irregular traffic signals; presence of pedestrians, animals, and slower moving vehicles; aggressive driving behavior; and erratic stopping for pedestrians and animals. Traffic drives on the left in Swaziland, which requires U.S. drivers to exercise particular caution. Special care should be used in driving at night and in fog, especially in rural areas. Rural and suburban areas are poorly lit and pose additional safety hazards as pedestrians and animals cross the road. Many vehicles are poorly maintained and lack headlights.

Extreme caution is recommended if/when using mini-bus taxis, locally known as khumbis, which follow fixed routes and are flagged down by passengers almost everywhere on the streets and roads of Swaziland. Many of these vehicles fail to meet minimal safety standards. Drivers frequently overload the vehicles, travel at excessive speeds, and text/SMS or talk on cell phones while driving, which is illegal in Swaziland. Fatal accidents involving these conveyances are very common.

The Royal Swaziland Police Service sets up periodic road blocks and use radar to monitor your speed. Respect the local laws. If you are pulled over for a moving violation you will be responsible for the consequences. Always drive with your driver’s license. Failure to do so will result in a fine.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the website of Swaziland’s national tourist office.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Swaziland, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Swaziland’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.