Officially known as the ‘Kingdom of eSwatini’ and still referred to as Swaziland, this tiny landlocked nation boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage and is Africa's last remaining absolute monarchy. Swaziland encompasses a diverse array of ecosystems featuring towering mountains and low-lying savannah, tangled rainforests and lush river valleys. Highlights of this laid-back land include the mesmerizingly beautiful ‘Valley of Heaven’, the handicraft haven of the Malkerns Valley and the Hlane Royal National Park, famed for its white rhinos, antelopes and lions. Visitors can look forward to excellent wildlife watching, rafting, mountain biking, and hiking along a network of scenic trails which traverse spectacular mountainous landscapes.
As previously described
Set in what is arguably Swaziland’s most spectacularly beautiful region – the aptly named ‘Valley of Heaven’ – Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural wonderland of grassy plains, granitic mountains, cascading waterfalls and abundant wildlife. The southern section can be explored on foot, mountain bike, horseback or in vehicles, while access to the more remote northern half is restricted to guided hiking groups. Located relatively close to the reserve are the towns of Malkerns and Ezulwini, famous for their many craft shops and other attractions. Visitors can also look forward to staying in traditional beehive-shaped huts and enjoying a breakfast overlooking hippo and crocodiles wading in the water and resting on the banks.
Set in the heart of Swaziland’s lowveld, Mkhaya Game Reserve is home to a variety of animals. Described as Swaziland’s ‘refuge for endangered animals’, Mkhaya Game Reserve was established in 1979 to preserve the dwindling breed of pure Nguni cattle. It has had much success in this regard, and the scope has since been expanded to include other wildlife at risk, including black and white rhino, elephant and sable antelope. It also shelters more ubiquitous species, such as buffalo, giraffe, hippo, and a colourful profusion of birds. Visitors can look forward to guided bush walks, day and night game drives and excellent photographic opportunities.
Located in the Lubombo Conservancy, Mbuluzi Game Reserve is a privately owned reserve in Eswatini. It is home to three beautiful lodges that are situated on the Mlawula River, as well as a stunning campsite. The reserve stretches over 3000 hectares of African landscape which is characterized by the deep Mbuluzi gorge and steep Lubombo escarpment, rocky cliffs, dense riverine forests, and vast open savannah. Visitors can look forward to spending their days spotting a wide range of wildlife, discovering scenic hiking trails, and experiencing the mountain-biking route that winds around the reserve offering impressive views. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this beautiful corner of eSwatini.
Situated in Swaziland’s Lubombo Region, Hlane Royal National Park is the country’s largest protected area covering 30 000 hectares of Swazi bushveld. The landscape is characterised by ancient hardwood vegetation, shallow pans, and lowveld grasslands. The park is home to lion, elephant, white rhino, and leopard with an array of diverse bird life, including the highest density of nesting white-backed vultures in Africa. Visitors can enjoy guided bush walks, excellent game viewing, bird watching, lion and rhino tours, guided mountain bike trails as well as fascinating cultural tours.
As previously described
