# What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About the Latest Eswatini Travel Advisory
If you’re planning a trip to Eswatini from Ottawa, recent updates from the Government of Canada require your attention. On March 18, 2026, Global Affairs Canada refreshed its travel guidance for this southern African nation, maintaining a **Level 2 advisory: Exercise a High Degree of Caution**. Understanding what this means for your safety—and your health preparation—could make all the difference in your journey.
## Understanding the Risk Level
A Level 2 advisory signals that while Eswatini isn’t off-limits, Ottawa travellers should approach their visit with heightened awareness and thorough preparation. The primary concern centres on civil unrest and the potential for demonstrations, particularly in major urban centres like Mbabane and Manzini. Since pro-democracy protests erupted in 2021, the security situation has remained fluid, with authorities occasionally responding forcefully to gatherings.
## Safety Concerns Worth Noting
Political demonstrations aside, visitors should prepare for several other realities on the ground. Petty theft remains the most common concern—pickpocketing and bag snatching occur regularly, especially in tourist areas. More serious incidents like armed carjacking happen less frequently but have been reported on roads connecting Eswatini to South Africa and Mozambique, particularly after sunset.
The takeaway for Ottawa residents? Avoid road travel after dark, keep valuables concealed, and maintain awareness of your surroundings. Holiday periods see crime rates spike, so timing matters when planning your itinerary.
## Health Preparation: Your First Line of Defence
While safety concerns dominate the advisory, health preparation deserves equal attention. Eswatini presents specific disease risks that differ significantly from what we encounter in Ottawa. Malaria transmission occurs in certain regions, particularly at lower elevations. Routine vaccinations may need boosting, and depending on your activities, additional immunizations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies might be recommended.
This is where a pre-travel health consultation becomes essential, not optional. A qualified travel health professional can assess your specific itinerary, evaluate your medical history, and create a personalized prevention plan. They’ll also help you assemble an appropriate medical kit—crucial when travelling in a country where healthcare infrastructure varies considerably from Canadian standards.
## Before You Depart
Don’t leave your travel health to chance. Schedule your consultation at least six weeks before departure to allow time for multi-dose vaccine series if needed. Discuss malaria prophylaxis options, ensure your travel insurance adequately covers medical evacuation, and get current advice on safe food and water practices.
Travelling to Eswatini? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.