Outdoor Activities in Swaziland, Kingdom of

Swaziland is a landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa, known for its wildlife and beautiful landscapes. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy during your visit. Here are some tips and information about the various outdoor activities available in Swaziland.

Hiking and Backpacking

Swaziland offers numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. Some popular trails include:

• Malolotja Nature Reserve: With over 30 kilometers (19 miles) of hiking trails, Malolotja is a must-visit for hikers. The reserve also has camping facilities for backpackers.
• Shewula Nature Reserve: Located in the northwest of Swaziland, Shewula offers guided hikes through its pristine forests and grasslands. The reserve also has a community-based tourism program, where local guides take you on hikes and share their knowledge about the flora, fauna, and culture of the area.
• Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary: Mlilwane offers a range of trails suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers. The sanctuary also has camping facilities and a restaurant.

Bird Watching

Swaziland is home to over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Some of the best places to spot birds include:

• Hlane Royal National Park: Hlane is one of Swaziland’s largest parks and is home to a variety of bird species, including the southern ground hornbill, lappet-faced vulture, and black eagle.
• Mlawula Nature Reserve: Mlawula has over 350 bird species, including the beautiful narina trogon and the elusive African emerald cuckoo.
• Malolotja Nature Reserve: Malolotja is a great spot for bird watchers, with over 300 bird species recorded in the reserve.

Mountain Biking

Swaziland’s rugged terrain makes it an ideal destination for mountain bikers. Some popular mountain biking trails include:

• Shewula Nature Reserve: Shewula has a network of mountain bike trails that cater to all levels of experience.
• Mlawula Nature Reserve: Mlawula has a 24-kilometer (15-mile) mountain bike trail that takes riders through its beautiful grasslands and forests.
• Malolotja Nature Reserve: Malolotja has a network of mountain bike trails that cater to both beginners and experienced riders. The reserve also offers guided mountain bike tours.

Wildlife Viewing

Swaziland is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. Some of the best places to see wildlife include:

• Hlane Royal National Park: Hlane is home to over 1,000 rhinos, as well as elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo. The park also has a reptile center where you can learn about Swaziland’s snakes and tortoises.
• Mkhaya Game Reserve: Mkhaya is a small reserve that is home to black rhinos, elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo. The reserve also has a high density of wild dogs, making it one of the best places in Swaziland to see these elusive animals.
• Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary: Mlilwane is a great place to see a variety of wildlife, including zebra, wildebeest, and impala. The sanctuary also has a predator enclosure where you can see cheetahs, lions, and hyenas up close.

Safety Tips

• Always carry water with you when hiking or mountain biking.
• Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
• Never leave valuables in your car when visiting a nature reserve.
• Be aware of wildlife at all times, especially when hiking or mountain biking.
• Always respect the local culture and traditions when visiting Swaziland.