eSwatini has flown under the radar for a long time, as far as filming locations go. It is a missed opportunity, but yet one of the most beautiful locations Southern Africa has to offer, and here’s why.
LOCATION
This incredible country is a location dream! eSwatini has so much to offer film and production crews from giant mountain ranges through to beautiful Savannah, outstanding wildlife opportunities, fascinating history, warm and friendly people and incredible National Parks. What is more is it boasts a nation of welcoming and incredibly hospitable people, many of whom still practice and are extremely proud of their age-old cultural traditions – it is a country of extremely rich and authentic African culture.
The Swazi folk hold tradition closely and celebrate many vibrant festivals such as the Reed Dance, Bushfire Festival and the Marula festival. There are many others that take place throughout the year.
The massive range of landscapes are widespread, and you will find a mix of each in every region. There are three various regions that make for a production paradise. The wildlife is abundant and vast, making the country, as a whole a beautiful place to film in. There is rarely a location where you will find beauty like this, especially on a country-wide scale.
Hhohho
Located in the north-western region and is known for its green hills and mountainous regions. And if you were to search far enough, you might just find some breath-taking waterfalls.
Shiselweni
Shiselweni is in the southern region and has beautiful lakes and flatlands.
Lubombo
Located in the eastern side, and much like Hhohho, is very well known for its mountain ranges.
With regards to filming visas and permits in these specific areas, the process is easily managed by us.
ACCESS
Eswatini is a very affordable location, being on a one-to-one ratio to the South African Rand. It also has a very decent network of roads in good condition, making it easier to reach these locations. Film Fixers Africa has spent over twenty years producing content and this includes Swaziland. Our knowledge of the country has truly grown every time we go in; there is just so much to discover. And the contacts we have made there make it such a pleasure to film there. And, from a tourist’s viewpoint, is one of our favourite locations.
CLIMATE
With the various regions comes the varying climates. As they all do, climate depends on the regions. The mountainous areas are generally colder and wetter. The best months to film would be from May to September as it has the dry, cooler weather. eSwatini has hot, wet seasons from October to April. These climate patterns make it incredibly easy to manage.
As we said, eSwatini is often missed by location scouts. It is a hidden gem waiting, and we would love to show it to you.