ETA reports rise in festive and Incwala visitors

Adekunle OwolabiJanuary 12, 20261 Mins read8

Mbabane – Eswatini welcomed a total of 140 453 visitors over the 2025 festive season, including the annual Incwala Ceremony, according to statistics released by the Eswatini Tourism Authority.

Of the arrivals, 69 121 were Emaswati residing abroad while 71 332 were international visitors. South Africa remained the largest source of inbound visitors with 45 271 people entering through various border posts, followed by Mozambique with 20 051 arrivals, and Zimbabwe with 16 125. Malawi and the United States contributed 15 215 and 1 630 visitors respectively.

Border posts recorded the highest traffic at Ngwenya, Matsamo, Mahamba, Lavumisa, and Mananga/KMIII, accounting for the majority of international entries.

Accommodation occupancy across the country varied, with hotels reaching 55 percent, bed and breakfasts 47 percent, game and nature lodges 42.5 percent, and guest houses 34 percent. Subregional figures showed Mbabane leading at 61 percent, Ezulwini at 59.3 percent, and Manzini at 58.5 percent.

The data reflects continued interest in Eswatini as a cultural and tourism destination, particularly during the festive period and national events such as the Incwala Ceremony.

Written by

Adekunle Owolabi

Adekunle Owolabi is a journalist, political analyst, and digital strategist with experience across Africa and the Middle East. He focuses on international diplomacy, promotes digital inclusion, and advocates for a borderless Africa.