MLILWANE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, ESWATINI

The widely popular Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in Eswatini (a country formerly known as Swaziland) is conveniently located between Mbabane and Manzini. Whether you are driving from South Africa via Mbabane, or from other parts of Eswatini via Manzini, you can easily reach this nature reserve in Ezulwini Valley (Valley of Heaven). The meaning of Mlilwane is ‘Little Fire’.

WILDLIFE AT MLILWANE

There are Zebras, antelopes, warthogs, wildebeests, and other ground animals roaming all around the massive area. Hippos and crocodiles give a spectacle as they bask in the sun near the water bodies inside the nature reserve. 

HIKING AND TRAILS IN THE MLILWANE PLAINS

As a result of the conservation efforts at Mlilwane, so many species were saved from extinction in Eswatini. The spacy grassland plains are the perfect habitat for animals and they have trails that guests can hike to the peak of Nyonyane Mountain—also known as the Execution Rock.

One would think walking in trails that are carved out in the plains where the animals are grazing is putting one’s life at risk. That, however, is not the case—wild animals that are reared at the reserve are not dangerous, except for water animals such as crocodiles found in the dams.  

Related Content: Eswatini Travel Guide

STAYING AT MLILWANE: THE HOTEL IN THE WILD

There is accommodation at Mlilwane that includes Beehive Huts, Rest Camps, Reilly’s Rock Hilltop Lodge, and Down’s Gran. The price range caters to all sorts of budgets—affordable self-catering accommodation and luxurious lodges for a higher price. Also at Mlilwane grounds is the Sondzela Backpackers accommodation for backpackers.  

Animals are loosely wandering about—especially in the morning, you could be lucky and spot a zebra grazing right outside your cottage or hut. 

OTHER THINGS TO DO AT MLILWANE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

There are all sorts of other things you can do around the reserve in addition to hiking to the mountain peak via foot trails—swimming, bird watching, watching animals on a Land Rover guided safari, horseback tours, cultural tours, bike trails, and eating at their restaurant. Day visitors can also take part in the activities and eat at the restaurant or have a picnic at the Rest Camp. 

For more information, including game reserve prices and contact details, visit the official website of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.