New holidays

Wildlife Walks of Eswatini (Swaziland)

Wildlife-Walks-of-Eswatini-1.jpg
Duration: 13 nights
Type: Worldwide walking holidays
Walking Grade: 2

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

  • Walk amongst Eswatini's astonishing wildlife in pristine sanctuaries
  • Enjoy several thrilling game drives
  • Experience Swazi culture with a community visit to meet friendly locals and learn traditions
  • Witness the artistry of Emaswati craftsmen and women glassblowing at Ngwenya Glass Factory
  • Embark on fascinating safaris to search for elusive black rhinos
  • Discover the historic Ngwenya mine, the oldest mine in the world
  • A more personalised experience thanks to small group sizes

What’s included

  • Return flights from London Heathrow including baggage and transfers
  • Guided walks and sightseeing with local leaders
  • 11 nights’ accommodation across Eswatini
  • 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches & 11 dinners
  • All sightseeing and entrance fees (as per itinerary)
  • All in-destination transport

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 in Eswatini and transfer to your accommodation at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Check into your unique roundhouse accommodation and take some time to relax or explore the surrounding wildlife-filled grounds. In the evening, gather for dinner and enjoy a briefing from your guide about the 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. 


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. 


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. 


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. 


Embark on a thrilling rhino drive in the morning, offering close encounters with these magnificent creatures. Then, depart for Mbuluzi Game Reserve for a day of hiking 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. 


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. 

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. 


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. 


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

It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Walking boots 
  • Waterproof jacket 
  • Waterproof trousers 
  • Insulated jacket/top 
  • Walking clothing  
  • Walking socks (plus spares)  
  • Sunhat 
  • Gloves/mitts and warm hat
  • Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)  
  • Headtorch 
  • High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)  
  • Sunglasses with a dark lens 
  • Rucksack (15-30 litres)  
  • Mobile phone 
  • Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.) 
  • Passport 
  • Visa (if applicable) 
  • Copy of your travel insurance policy 
  • UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC

Recommended

  • Collapsible walking poles 
  • Swimwear and travel towel
  • Snacks
  • Dry bags
  • Rubbish bags
  • Insect repellent

Optional extras

  • Camera 
  • Sit mat
  • Flask for hot drinks 
  • Durable lunch box
  • Gaiters 
  • GPS device 

Guest reviews

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Non-member fee: £30 per person.

If you choose land only, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements, including your flights and airport transfers at your destination. Any flights booked independently will also not be covered by our ATOL license.

Date (Start - End) Itinerary Double / Twin Room Single Room Notes / Offers Trip Notes Book
2025

28 Aug - 10 Sep 2025

13 nights

Itinerary
Flight from London Heathrow Airport

Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
Call to Enquire Call to Enquire Trip Notes
Date (Start - End) Itinerary Double / Twin Room Single Room Notes / Offers Trip Notes Book
2025

28 Aug - 10 Sep 2025

13 nights

Itinerary

Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
Call to Enquire Call to Enquire Trip Notes

Important information

  • With flight holidays: Price includes return flights to Johannesburg, hold baggage and airport transfers

*If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, please ensure you’ve selected a land-only option before proceeding to book.

Duration:
13 nights
Type:
Worldwide walking holidays
Walking Grade:
2

Call to Enquire

New holidays

020 3974 8865

For group bookings of 10+ guests click here

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Carbon Footprint 3279Kg of CO₂e

Average carbon footprint per person Learn More