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Mbuluzi Game Reserve in Swaziland

Bordered by the Lumbombo mountains and the flowing Mbuluzi River, Mbuluzi Game Reserve in Swaziland is a beautiful and diverse landscape, filled with wildlife, birds and stunning vistas. From rugged cliffs and open bushveld to wide open plains and meandering rivers, this reserve offers a multitude of sights to see and activities to enjoy. Walk unguided along the network of trails, travel over mountain passes to see some spectacular views and wander among herds of inquisitive giraffes in this beautiful expanse of unspoiled land. 


  • Best Time to Go

    May - September

  • Average Safari Cost

    $80 - $1,000 pp/day

  • Highlighs

    Walking trails, self-guided walks, walking among giraffes, fishing and mountain biking.

Why Visit Mbuluzi Game Reserve

Mbuluzi Game Reserve is privately owned and offers an incredible safari experience. Stay in one of the luxury family lodges along the beautiful Mlawula River or camp out for a more rustic experience. This is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the spectacular surroundings and explore the land at your own pace - without a guide! Giraffe are abundant in the reserve and you can see these amazing animals up close as you journey through the park.

There are multiple walking trails which are clearly marked and link up with each other so that you can easily find your way around and choose how far you want to walk. The diversity of the reserve's land guarantees you some rewarding wildlife sightings on your journey. Travel to Mbuluzi Game Reserve for a fulfilling wilderness adventure.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Doesn't get very crowded
  • Great hikes with giraffes
  • Excellent birdwatching
  • Stunning scenery
  • Good road network
Cons
  • Lack some of the typical safari animals

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Mbuluzi Game Reserve is during the dry season, from May to September. Temperatures are cool and wildlife can easily be found around water sources. Wildlife viewing is fairly consistent throughout the year round, but outdoor activities may be more enjoyable and easier to plan during the dry season. The wet season is from October to April, which consists of hot and humid days with frequent rainfall. Afternoon rain showers occur quite often and can disrupt activities and travel plans. This is the best time for bird watching as migratory species are present in the area.

For more information when to visit see our Swaziland Safari - Complete Travel Guide.

Start your African Adventure

Wildlife and Birds

While the reserve may lack some of the flagship safari animals, you can expect to see giraffe, kudu, impala, zebra and wildebeest grazing throughout the land. Hippos and crocodiles can be seen lazing in the river waters and if you're very lucky you may even spot a leopard. The giraffes are one of the main attractions of the reserve as you will see plenty of them as you explore the land on foot. They are usually just as interested in you as you are in them and may approach you for a closer look!
List of Animals
  • Leopard
  • Hyena
  • Giraffe
  • Kudu
  • Warthog
  • Wildebeest
  • Zebra
  • Crocodile

Rare Animals

  • Leopard, hyena

Frequently Seen Animals

  • Giraffe, zebra, kudu, impala, crocodile, wildebeest, warthog, nyala, jackal
Birdwatching

Mbuluzi Game Reserve has over 300 recorded species of bird and is an excellent birding destination. There are several rare species to look out for, including the white-backed night heron and the Narina trogon. There are also many different raptor species that can be found within various areas of the reserve.

Endangered Birds

  • White-backed vulture, hooded vulture

Getting There and Safety

Flights

For the flights to Swaziland via South Africa (the only way to get here), it is advised to check Skyscanner (for multiple destination flights), to see which airlines can take you there and compare various ticket prices.

If you are based in the UK and Europe, check out these flights.

If you are based in the USA and Canada, check out these flights.

Visas

For more information on visas see our Swaziland Safari - Complete Country Guide.

Vaccinations and Malaria

Check your local travel health authority for more information:

Travel Insurance

Going on a safari in Africa comes with obvious risks. We recommend you get travel insurance for all safaris in Swaziland. Make sure your insurance has full medical coverage, emergency air evacuation, repatriation and the standard travel insurance for cancellations, delays and luggage cover.

Check World Nomads’ travel insurance calculator to see the cost of your safari trip cover.

What to Pack

For more details on what to pack see our Safari Packing List.