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The tiny mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland, sandwiched between South Africa and Mozambique, has been dubbed the "Switzerland of Africa". African culture and traditions flourish here alongside some modern luxury hotels and excellent wildlife reserves.

Swaziland is the smallest country in the southern hemisphere, but it has a big heart despite its depressed economy. The capital, Mbabane, lies at the northern end of the lush Ezulwini Valley: a small, unpretentious town that caters well for tourists.

the country's main attractions are Mlilwane, a well-established game sanctuary; the magnificent Mantenga Falls; the casino resort of Piggs Peak; and the annual ceremony of the reed dances at the Royal Kraal in Lebombo on the country's eastern border. Swaziland is also known for its exquisite arts and crafts and its breathtaking scenery, especially in the western highlands, which rise to more than 6,000 feet (1,829m), riven with abundant rivers, waterfalls and forested gorges.

Time: Local time is GMT+2.

Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. The plug type used is a 15-amp round, three-pin plug as used in South Africa. languages are Siswati and English.

Health: Travellers arriving in Swaziland within six days of having been in a yellow fever infected area require a vaccination certificate. Cholera and typhoid vaccinations are recommended, as are malaria prevention measures for those visiting the lowland areas. Hepatitis B and bilharzia are highly endemic. There is an extremely high HIV/AIDs infection rate. Mains water in hotels and towns is safe to drink and food, including dairy products, presents no risk. Medical facilities are poor in the country, but the tourist hotels offer private services for minor problems. Serious cases can be transported to South Africa for treatment. Medical insurance is recommended.

Tipping: Service charges are not normally included in bills, but tips of 10% are customary.

Safety: The crime rate is low and most visits are trouble free. It is wise, however, to take precautions against theft, and avoid travelling by road at night.

Customs: Homosexuality is illegal.

Communications: The International direct dialling country code for Swaziland is +268 and the outgoing code 00. The country is covered by a GSM 900 mobile network, and an Internet service provider is active. Post offices open weekdays from 8am to 5pm, and Saturdays 8am to 11am. Public telephones are well distributed through the towns and villages.

Duty Free: Travellers to Swaziland do not have to pay duty on the following items: 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 1 bottle alcoholic beverage (up to 0.75 litres). For goods re-imported to the country, travellers must complete a DA65 or NEP-form. Married couples travelling together, are allowed free import for one person.

Travellers arriving in Swaziland within six days of having been in a yellow fever infected area require a vaccination certificate. Cholera and typhoid vaccinations are recommended, as are malaria prevention measures for those visiting the lowland areas. Hepatitis B and bilharzia are highly endemic. There is an extremely high HIV/AIDs infection rate. Mains water in hotels and towns is safe to drink and food, including dairy products, presents no risk. Medical facilities are poor in the country, but the tourist hotels offer private services for minor problems. Serious cases can be transported to South Africa for treatment. Medical insurance is recommended.

Matsapha International Airport (MTS)

Location: The airport is situated three miles (5km) north west of the town of Manzini. Time: Local time is GMT +2. Contacts: Tel: +268 84455. Transfer to the city: Taxis are available into Manzini. Car rental: Car rental is available at the airport (Avis and Hertz). Facilities: Facilities include a bank and bureau de change, and a snack bar. Parking: Short and long-term parking is available. Departure tax: E20.

Swaziland Climate and Weather

Conditions in Swaziland vary according to altitude, with the higher areas being generally cloudy, misty and several degrees cooler than the rest of the country. The mountainous region in the west, where most tourists spend their time, is humid and wet, the rain falling in occasional violent storms. In the middle and lowland regions conditions are drier, the climate ranging from sub-tropical to tropical as one moves east. The rainy season is generally between October and May and is warm and wet, while cooler and drier conditions prevail from June to September.

Swaziland Passport & Visa Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: A visa is not required by British nationals for a stay of up to 14 days. This may be extended.
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
Entry requirements for Australians: Australians do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
Entry requirements for South Africans: South African nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders: Nationals of New Zealand do not require a visa for a stay of up to two months.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a visa, but it may be obtained free of charge on arrival.
Passport/Visa Note: All visitors require a passport, tickets or documents for return or onward travel, and sufficient funds to cover their stay.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements