Mlilwane Game Sanctuary / Reilly’s Rock Hilltop Lodge / Sondzela Backpackers.
Please be advised that Google directions to these properties are incorrect. Please use the following GPS coordinates for the Sangweni Gate, which is the entry point for these properties.
26.28475 S, 31.11464 E
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is Eswatini's (formerly Swaziland) pioneer conservation area, a shining example of what is possible if passion, vision and action fuse.
Once a highly profitable multi-purpose farm, and being labelled an "impossible dream", Mlilwane was proclaimed in 1961 and is now the kingdom’s most popular eco-destination for locals and internationals alike.
The name 'Mlilwane' ('Little Fire' in siSwati) was derived from the numerous fires started by lightning strikes on the Mlilwane Hill, but now holds significance as the little fire that ignited the conservation movement in Swaziland.
Mlilwane’s diverse habitats support a surprisingly extensive species list. Endless hours of guided or self-guided exploration within the small 4560 Ha sanctuary are possible due to the relative absence of dangerous game.
The southern plains stretch to the striking Nyonyane Mountain (Execution Rock) with its exposed granite peak.
Tourism is concentrated in this southern section of the park, while guided Chubeka Trails explore the northern section, as far as Luphohlo Peak.
Mlilwane’s Rest Camp offers a range of affordable accommodation with self-catering and catered options available. Alternatives within Mlilwane include Sondzela Backpackers 2 km to the south, luxurious Reilly's Rock Hilltop Lodge and Down Gran’s Self-Catering Cottage, a short 3km to the north of Rest Camp.
All Activities depart from our Activities Centre at Reception, with detailed maps on sale. The Hippo Haunt Restaurant and Swimming pool with summerhouses provide the opportunity for true relaxation. Day Visitors are welcome to self-drive and picnic at the Rest Camp, visit the restaurant or take part in activities until 18h00.
Situated between Mbabane and Manzini, with 24-hour access to the Sanctuary, guests are free to enjoy the neighbouring tourist hubs of Ezulwini and Malkerns, with their many unique attractions and craft shops.
Visit Mlilwane's neighbouring Chief's Village for an informative and fun, authentic traditional experience. Our guide will meet the group at our Sangweni Gate and lead the short walk to the homestead, sharing the do’s and don’ts and facilitating interpretation. Hosted by our vibrant, energetic and interactive Chief, learn a little siSwati, try your hand at plaiting ‘Lutindzi’ grass or grinding maize.
This is a group activity hosted by our local Chief, giving guests an insight into the way of life in rural Swaziland.
Esitjeni Village Walk
A 2-hour guided walk through the Esitjeni community alongside Mlilwane allows a glimpse of life on a day-to-day basis.
Observe how architecture is changing and fields are tended, walk past the primary school and buy refreshments at the local grocer. For the rest, it is spontaneous and could include grinding maize, carrying water, building a wall or washing clothes in the stream. Guests meet our guide at Sangweni Gate, from where the circular walk commences into the Esitjeni Community.
Please bring a sun hat, sun block, and change for the grocer. The group may be requested to carry a small sack of mealies or the like for interactive experiences.
