Wildlife Walks of Eswatini (Swaziland)
Embark on an extraordinary African adventure in the small-but-mighty kingdom of Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland. Enjoy guided nature walks among grazing zebras and exotic birds in the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and journey deeper into the wilderness with thrilling game drives. We’ll venture to the acclaimed Mkhaya Game Reserve for intimate wildlife encounters with Africa’s Big 5 and discover the rich culture of Eswatini through visits to local communities and artisanal workshops. Then, discover Hlane Royal National Park for game viewing and scenic walks. This once-in-a-lifetime trip promises new and meaningful experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Africa's wonders.
What you’ll love
- Walking and driving through game reserves to spot Eswatini's astonishing wildlife
- Searching for the elusive black rhino
- Meeting different cultures at social and community projects which sustain local traditions
- Visiting Ngwenya Glass Factory to see the artistry of crafts men and women
- Staying at Foresters Arms a colonial hotel of real character and charm
- A more personalised experience thanks to small group sizes (maximum 12 people)
What’s included
- Local Tour Manager who leads walks and sightseeing
- 11 nights’ touring accommodation across Eswatini
- 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches & 11 dinners
- All sightseeing and entrance fees (as per itinerary)
- All in-destination transport
- Free upgrade to Premium Economy flights (first eight passengers only)
- Return flights from London the UK including baggage and transfers
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
On our Worldwide holidays, our day-by-day descriptions will help you understand where you’ll be exploring and what you’ll be doing. The itineraries are put together carefully to give you the best experience. While every effort will be made to adhere to the described itinerary, we may occasionally vary the sequence shown here or substitute an alternative to suit local conditions or for other operational reasons.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Overnight flight from the UK.
Arrive at King Mswati III International Airport in Sikhuphe where your local Tour Manager will meet you for the transfer to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, where we stay for three nights. Check into your unique Beehive accommodation and relax or explore the surrounding wildlife-filled grounds. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner and enjoy a briefing from your Tour Manager about your upcoming adventure.
Beehive Huts, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
The beehive huts have the feel of traditional Emaswati homesteads with grass domeshaped huts arranged in semi-circles all semienclosed by traditional Emaswati kraal fencing. A beehive is a traditional grass dome construction with a low door and no windows providing for a deep sleep. Huts are tastefully designed with twin beds and en-suite bathroom yet in keeping with the surrounding area, they are surprisingly larger inside than you anticipate! The camp is unfenced, yet relatively safe as only smaller species of wildlife occur in the Sanctuary. It is tranquil and relaxing with a continual stream of animals such as impala, warthog and nyala walking between the facilities and grazing outside your room. One of the attractive features of the camp is the restaurant which overlooks a picturesque bird pool providing wonderful wildlife viewing. You can admire crocodiles and prolific birdlife while enjoying delicious meals. The restaurant consists of a cosy inside area with a fireplace and comfortable couches as well as two outside wooden deck areas, where you can enjoy meals and drinks from the bar.
Distance: 10km
Ascent/descent: flat
Embark on a nature walk through Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by lush landscapes and abundant wildlife. Listen to the calls of zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and exotic birds as you traverse the scenic trails. We’ll enjoy lunch overlooking a small pool where birds flock, before an afternoon guided walking safari to a different part of the reserve.
Beehive Huts, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
The beehive huts have the feel of traditional Emaswati homesteads with grass domeshaped huts arranged in semi-circles all semienclosed by traditional Emaswati kraal fencing. A beehive is a traditional grass dome construction with a low door and no windows providing for a deep sleep. Huts are tastefully designed with twin beds and en-suite bathroom yet in keeping with the surrounding area, they are surprisingly larger inside than you anticipate! The camp is unfenced, yet relatively safe as only smaller species of wildlife occur in the Sanctuary. It is tranquil and relaxing with a continual stream of animals such as impala, warthog and nyala walking between the facilities and grazing outside your room. One of the attractive features of the camp is the restaurant which overlooks a picturesque bird pool providing wonderful wildlife viewing. You can admire crocodiles and prolific birdlife while enjoying delicious meals. The restaurant consists of a cosy inside area with a fireplace and comfortable couches as well as two outside wooden deck areas, where you can enjoy meals and drinks from the bar.
Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Continue your exploration of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary with a morning walk along the Sondzela Trail and enjoy panoramic views of the park. In the afternoon, choose from a variety of optional activities, such as mountain biking or a guided game drive. End the day with a memorable sundowner game drive.
Beehive Huts, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
The beehive huts have the feel of traditional Emaswati homesteads with grass domeshaped huts arranged in semi-circles all semienclosed by traditional Emaswati kraal fencing. A beehive is a traditional grass dome construction with a low door and no windows providing for a deep sleep. Huts are tastefully designed with twin beds and en-suite bathroom yet in keeping with the surrounding area, they are surprisingly larger inside than you anticipate! The camp is unfenced, yet relatively safe as only smaller species of wildlife occur in the Sanctuary. It is tranquil and relaxing with a continual stream of animals such as impala, warthog and nyala walking between the facilities and grazing outside your room. One of the attractive features of the camp is the restaurant which overlooks a picturesque bird pool providing wonderful wildlife viewing. You can admire crocodiles and prolific birdlife while enjoying delicious meals. The restaurant consists of a cosy inside area with a fireplace and comfortable couches as well as two outside wooden deck areas, where you can enjoy meals and drinks from the bar.
Distance: 2 miles (3km)
Visit Gone Rural and Swazi Candles for a cultural experience. You’ll learn about local empowerment initiatives and traditional craftsmanship. Then, embark on a wildlife safari in Mkhaya Game Reserve, and enjoy opportunities for close encounters with rhinos and other wildlife species.
Depart for Mkhaya Game Reserve, renowned for its intimate wildlife encounters and conservation efforts. Enjoy a guided safari drive through the reserve, keeping your eyes peeled for black and white rhinos, buffalos, leopards, and other wildlife species. Spend the night at Stone Camp, nestled along the banks of a dry riverbed.
Stone Camp, Mkhaya Game Reserve
Unique in style and offers visitors the opportunity of really getting back to nature. Each cottage is laid out discretely in the riverine forest overlooking the dry riverbed, linked by pathways which are lit at night by paraffin lanterns. The entire internal structure of these cottages, although veiled for privacy, is open to the external bush, which gives visitors a totally unique and true bush experience. There is no electricity in the camp which adds to the charm and tranquillity of the camp. Magical.
Today we will enjoy an early morning game drive before breakfast. Afterwards, we’ll grab a bite to eat before the opportunity to go on walking safari where you can learn how to track wildlife and discover the medical uses of plants. For the remainder of the afternoon, you can choose to sit at nearby Kirky Hide to see what wildlife will appear. Late afternoon we will enjoy another game drive.
Stone Camp, Mkhaya Game Reserve
Unique in style and offers visitors the opportunity of really getting back to nature. Each cottage is laid out discretely in the riverine forest overlooking the dry riverbed, linked by pathways which are lit at night by paraffin lanterns. The entire internal structure of these cottages, although veiled for privacy, is open to the external bush, which gives visitors a totally unique and true bush experience. There is no electricity in the camp which adds to the charm and tranquillity of the camp. Magical.
Journey to Hlane Royal National Park, home to diverse wildlife including Africa’s Big 5. Visit a local school for orphaned and vulnerable children before arriving at our accommodation near a watering hole frequented by wildlife. Spend the afternoon at leisure before a sunset safari drive to see elephant, rhino and lion.
Ndlovu Camp, Hlane Royal National Park
Ndlovu Camp has delightful ensuite twin rondavels near to Ndlovu waterhole. These twin rooms are beautifully designed and set in the bush away from the main part of the camp. There are often impala wandering through the area and each rondavel has its own veranda. At night you go to sleep listening to the rumbling roars of lion. There is no electricity in the camp and paraffin lights are provided giving a wonderful atmosphere to your room.
Distance: 6km
Embark on a thrilling rhino drive in the morning, offering close encounters with these magnificent creatures. Then, depart for Mbuluzi Game Reserve and hike amidst pristine bushveld landscapes. Enjoy walking trails and the opportunity to observe giraffes in their natural habitat.
Ndlovu Camp, Hlane Royal National Park
Ndlovu Camp has delightful ensuite twin rondavels near to Ndlovu waterhole. These twin rooms are beautifully designed and set in the bush away from the main part of the camp. There are often impala wandering through the area and each rondavel has its own veranda. At night you go to sleep listening to the rumbling roars of lion. There is no electricity in the camp and paraffin lights are provided giving a wonderful atmosphere to your room.
Distance: 3 miles (5km)
Experience the rich culture of Eswatini with a visit to Shewula, the first community ecotourism project in the country. Take a guided walk through the community, interact with locals, and enjoy lunch at Shewula Mountain Camp. Learn about traditional Emaswati lifestyles and appreciate the natural beauty of the Lubombo conservancy.
Ndlovu Camp, Hlane Royal National Park
Ndlovu Camp has delightful ensuite twin rondavels near to Ndlovu waterhole. These twin rooms are beautifully designed and set in the bush away from the main part of the camp. There are often impala wandering through the area and each rondavel has its own veranda. At night you go to sleep listening to the rumbling roars of lion. There is no electricity in the camp and paraffin lights are provided giving a wonderful atmosphere to your room.
Travel to Foresters Arms, a comfortable lodge set amidst beautiful gardens. Take a leisurely walk in the surrounding plantations and enjoy the tranquillity of the natural surroundings.
Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)
Venture to Malolotja Nature Reserve for a guided hike through stunning mountain landscapes (approx 4-5hr walk and 250m climb). Marvel at breathtaking viewpoints and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the reserve. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature before returning to your accommodation.
Foresters Arms
The bedrooms are tastefully decorated, with bathrooms en-suite, telephones and satellite TV. The personal touch of the Foresters Arms spills over into the bedrooms with a homely and welcoming feeling to them. The rooms are spacious and all open up onto the delightful gardens and the outstanding views over the surrounding countryside. The stunning gardens are a favourite haunt of sunbirds, paradise flycatchers and other colourful birds.
Distance: 1 mile (2km)
Visit Ngwenya Mine, the world's oldest mine, and learn about its history and significance. Explore the Ngwenya Glass Factory, where skilled craftsmen create beautiful glass products from recycled materials. Enjoy shopping for souvenirs before returning to your accommodation.
Foresters Arms
The bedrooms are tastefully decorated, with bathrooms en-suite, telephones and satellite TV. The personal touch of the Foresters Arms spills over into the bedrooms with a homely and welcoming feeling to them. The rooms are spacious and all open up onto the delightful gardens and the outstanding views over the surrounding countryside. The stunning gardens are a favourite haunt of sunbirds, paradise flycatchers and other colourful birds.
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Arrive back in the UK.
Beehive Huts, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
The beehive huts have the feel of traditional Emaswati homesteads with grass domeshaped huts arranged in semi-circles all semienclosed by traditional Emaswati kraal fencing. A beehive is a traditional grass dome construction with a low door and no windows providing for a deep sleep. Huts are tastefully designed with twin beds and en-suite bathroom yet in keeping with the surrounding area, they are surprisingly larger inside than you anticipate! The camp is unfenced, yet relatively safe as only smaller species of wildlife occur in the Sanctuary. It is tranquil and relaxing with a continual stream of animals such as impala, warthog and nyala walking between the facilities and grazing outside your room. One of the attractive features of the camp is the restaurant which overlooks a picturesque bird pool providing wonderful wildlife viewing. You can admire crocodiles and prolific birdlife while enjoying delicious meals. The restaurant consists of a cosy inside area with a fireplace and comfortable couches as well as two outside wooden deck areas, where you can enjoy meals and drinks from the bar.
Stone Camp, Mkhaya Game Reserve
Unique in style and offers visitors the opportunity of really getting back to nature. Each cottage is laid out discretely in the riverine forest overlooking the dry riverbed, linked by pathways which are lit at night by paraffin lanterns. The entire internal structure of these cottages, although veiled for privacy, is open to the external bush, which gives visitors a totally unique and true bush experience. There is no electricity in the camp which adds to the charm and tranquillity of the camp. Magical.
Ndlovu Camp, Hlane Royal National Park
Ndlovu Camp has delightful ensuite twin rondavels near to Ndlovu waterhole. These twin rooms are beautifully designed and set in the bush away from the main part of the camp. There are often impala wandering through the area and each rondavel has its own veranda. At night you go to sleep listening to the rumbling roars of lion. There is no electricity in the camp and paraffin lights are provided giving a wonderful atmosphere to your room.
Foresters Arms
The bedrooms are tastefully decorated, with bathrooms en-suite, telephones and satellite TV. The personal touch of the Foresters Arms spills over into the bedrooms with a homely and welcoming feeling to them. The rooms are spacious and all open up onto the delightful gardens and the outstanding views over the surrounding countryside. The stunning gardens are a favourite haunt of sunbirds, paradise flycatchers and other colourful birds.
Essential information
Eswatini has a sub-tropical climate with warm to hot temperatures and the highest rainfall in summer (Oct-April) and cool, dry winters (May-Sept). Daytime temperatures in summer range from 20-30 degrees Celsius and winter 15-24 degrees Celsius with cold mornings and nights. Packing adaptable layers is advisable.
Essentials
- Walking shoes with good ankle support and grip
- Lightweight breathable clothing
- Sandals or flip flops
- Waterproof jacket or poncho for summer departures
- Walking clothing
- Walking socks (plus spares)
- Sunhat
- Gloves/mitts and warm hat for winter
- Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)
- Headtorch
- High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
- Sunglasses
- Rucksack (15-30 litres)
- Mobile phone
- Insect repellent
- Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.)
- Passport
- Visa (if applicable)
- Copy of your travel insurance policy
Recommended
- Collapsible walking poles if you prefer to use them
- Swimwear and travel towel
Optional extras
- Small mat for rest stops or picnic lunches while walking
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
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| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | ||||||||
|
31 Aug - 13 Sep 2026 13 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £5,199
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire |
from £5,199 |
Last few spaces |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | ||
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | ||||||||
|
31 Aug - 13 Sep 2026 13 nights |
Itinerary Single from £4,449
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire |
from £4,449 |
Last few spaces |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | ||
3279Kg of CO₂e
Average carbon footprint per person Learn More
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