Climate in Eswatini

Eswatini has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -12°C in the coldest regions to highs of 30°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 56mm in drier regions to 334mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 249cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain very cold, making Eswatini a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Eswatini vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The South is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 30°C and an annual average of 27°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Southeast, where winter lows drop to -12°C and an annual average of -12°C. This 38°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Eswatini they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 40°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Mbabane in the Hhohho averages 27°C annually, while Nsoko in the Lubombo District averages -12°C.

Eswatini sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 56mm to 334mm per year. The Northwest receives the most rainfall, at approximately 334mm annually. The South is the driest, with around 56mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The North sees the most snowfall, with up to 249cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.