36 DAYS TO GO: ESWATINI INVADES PHAKAMA

By Tlalane Dlamini

The countdown is on, with just 36 days to go until Eswatini takes its tourism, entertainment and travel experience across the border for the Phakama Mpumalanga Festival, taking place from 31 October to 1 November 2026 at 116 Montana Gardens, Ngwenya Estate in White River, Mpumalanga.

Under the banner “Eswatini Invades Phakama,” the weekend will bring together music, entertainment, camping, travel and tourism, while creating opportunities for cross-border movement and strengthening the spirit of Triland tourism between Mozambique, Mpumalanga and Eswatini.

More than a festival outing, the Phakama experience presents an opportunity for Emaswati to travel, explore Mpumalanga, connect with fellow travellers and experience the region as part of a growing cross-border tourism network.

TRAVEL WITH THE ESWATINI CREW

Transport has been arranged for travellers joining the Eswatini delegation, with a 70-seater bus departing for Nelspruit on Saturday morning, 31 October, and returning on Monday morning, 2 November 2026.

The arrangement will allow travellers to enjoy the full weekend experience without the pressure of arranging their own transport.

Two packages are available.

Package 1 – E2000

• General admission ticket
• Camping accommodation
• Sunday breakfast
• Transport included

Package 2 – E2700 VIP

• VIP admission ticket
• Camping accommodation
• Sunday breakfast
• Transport included

Groups of 10 qualify for a 10 per cent discount, making the experience suitable for friends, families, colleagues and organised travel groups looking to travel together.

With only 36 days remaining, organisers are encouraging everyone interested in joining the Eswatini delegation to confirm their participation as soon as possible.

Early confirmation will assist with finalising transport arrangements, camping accommodation and group logistics ahead of the trip.

STRENGTHENING THE TRILAND TOURISM SPIRIT

The Phakama experience reflects the growing spirit of Triland tourism, where movement between Mozambique, Mpumalanga and Eswatini creates opportunities for people to explore neighbouring destinations, participate in events and strengthen tourism connections across the region.

For Eswatini travellers, the weekend offers more than entertainment. It provides an opportunity to experience Mpumalanga, support regional tourism and participate in a cross-border travel experience that encourages greater movement between destinations.

As the countdown continues, travellers are being encouraged to gather their groups, confirm their participation and make arrangements ahead of the October departure.

The Phakama experience is set to bring together travel, entertainment and tourism while contributing to the continued development of cross-border tourism within the Triland region.

Venue: 116 Montana Gardens, Ngwenya Estate, White River, Mpumalanga
Festival: 31 October – 1 November 2026
Transport: Saturday morning departure, returning Monday morning
Package 1: E2000
Package 2 VIP: E2700
Group discount: 10 per cent for groups of 10
Bookings: 7851 4262 / 7638 5370

With 36 days to go, travellers interested in being part of the Eswatini delegation are encouraged to confirm their spots early and prepare to experience Phakama in the spirit of Triland.