Border Crossings Between Eswatini and South Africa

The border between the Kingdom of Eswatini and South Africa is a scenic and accessible frontier, wrapping around the small, landlocked nation on three sides. This 438-kilometer line is a passage between two deeply connected countries, a journey from the rolling hills and sugar cane fields of Eswatini into the diverse landscapes of South Africa’s Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.

You have a number of border posts to choose from, each serving different routes. The busiest and most significant is Oshoek, on the main highway to the capital, Mbabane. It operates 24 hours a day and handles the majority of commercial and passenger traffic. For travelers exploring different regions, other useful crossings include Jeppes Reef in the north, which is convenient for accessing the northern part of Kruger National Park, and Golela in the south, connecting to the KwaZulu-Natal coast.

The crossing procedures are generally relaxed and efficient, reflecting the close relationship between the two nations, which are linked by a common customs union. The border posts are well-maintained, and the process is straightforward for both private vehicles and pedestrians. The journey to the border on either side is often a scenic one, passing through mountainous terrain and lush agricultural valleys. This ease of access makes Eswatini a popular destination for South African tourists and a vital transit route for Swazi citizens. It is a friendly and uncomplicated passage between two of southern Africa’s most interesting and culturally rich nations.