Mlawula Nature Reserve in Swaziland
Mlawula Nature Reserve in Swaziland is a beautiful and diverse stretch of land that offers a wide range of activities for an enjoyable safari getaway. The landscape is filled with birds, animals and beautiful flora, which makes this the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. From the rocky valleys of the Lubombo Mountains to lush green grasslands, the Mlawaula Nature Reserve has a lot to offer and is well worth a visit!
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Best Time to Go
May - September
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Average Safari Cost
$80 - $1,000 pp/day
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Highlights
Python Pools, Hyena Pool, walking and hiking trails, Khabane Cave, Siphiso Vallley and Mbuluzi Gorge.
Why Visit Mlawula Nature Reserve
Mlawula Nature Reserve has many special spots where you can find various animals and beautiful scenery. Explore the Python Pools, which are found in a gorge, for a chance to see pythons, klipspringer and terrapins. See hyenas at the Hyena Pool at the end of the Siphiso Valley. Many different animals can be encountered while hiking on the trails in the valley, including wildebeest, kudu and zebra. Khabane Cave is definitely worth seeing as it offers spectacular views over the reserve.
There are many different walking and hiking trails within the reserve that you can explore without a guide. These allow for more intimate and special wildlife encounters. Hike up the Lubombo Mountains for breathtaking views of endless horizons and pure, untamed land. Travel to the Mlawula Nature Reserve for a tranquil and enriching safari experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Many walking trails
- Stunning scenery
- Excellent birdwatching destination
- Self-guided activities
- Doesn't get too crowded
Cons
- Limited accommodation options
- Lacks some of the typical safari animals
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Mlawula Nature Reserve is during the dry season, from May to September. This is the best time for wildlife viewing as the vegetation is sparse and animals can usually be found gathering around water sources. Daytime temperatures are mild, while nights can get very cold so pack warmly!
The wet season is from October to April, which consists of hot and humid days with frequent rainfall. Temperatures can peak above 104˚F(40˚C) from December to February, which can be quite uncomfortable and unpleasant. Afternoon rain showers and thunderstorms 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
Popular Tours
4 Day Kruger Camping Safari
Wild Planet`s 4 Day Kruger Safari a perfect introduction to South Africa's Kruger National Park. On this tour you will spend 3 nights at 2 different Rest Camps inside the National Park. We choose the camps based on the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The tour is an absolute must for first time visitors to South Africa and for wildlife enthusiasts. Kruger Park is one of the best examples of conservation in Africa. The Park is home to the `Big 5` and many other endangered animals that you have always dreamed of seeing. Join us on your ultimate dream African vacation.
4 Day Kruger Safari
Wild Planet`s 4 Day Kruger Safari a perfect introduction to South Africa's Kruger National Park. On this tour you will spend 3 nights at 2 different Rest Camps inside the National Park. We choose the camps based on the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The tour is an absolute must for first time visitors to South Africa and for wildlife enthusiasts. Kruger Park is one of the best examples of conservation in Africa. The Park is home to the `Big 5` and many other endangered animals that you have always dreamed of seeing. Join us on your ultimate dream African vacation.
6 Day Kruger Safari
Wild Planet Safari`s 6 day Kruger Safari is the first of our extended Kruger tours, the safari has been designed for wildlife enthusiasts and guests with a longing to be in the African bush for lengthier periods of time. Our expert guides will help to nurture and grow any special interest you may have and their experience and knowledge of animal territories and habitats is sure to provide many exciting wildlife sightings over the 6 day safari.
South Africa Rainbow Route - SAa17
The Rainbow Route is an overview tour of South Africa including neighbouring Kingdom of Swaziland. The tour covers many highlights with a strong focus on the national parks. This diverse country is explored over great distances that may involve long days on the road, generally followed by a full day to experience the area. The fully accommodated tour offers a great value for money way to explore South Africa.
Wildlife and Birds
- Leopard
- Kudu
- Wildebeest
- Zebra
Rare Animals
- Leopard, aardwolf, aardvark, pangolin, serval, oribi
Frequently See Animals
- Zebra, wildebeest, kudu, jackal, impala, red duiker
With over 300 recorded species of bird, Mlawula Nature Reserve is an excellent birding destination. See shimmering violet-backed starlings fly throughout the reserve as they show off their striking colour. Some of the specials include the African finfoot, Retz's helmet-shrike and the white-backed night heron.
Endangered Birds
- White-headed Vulture, Hooded Vulture, White-backed Vulture, Cape Vulture, Lappet-faced Vulture, Steppe eagle
Getting There and Safety
For the flights to Swaziland via South Africa (the only route), 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.
For more information on visas see our Swaziland Safari - Complete Country Guide.
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.
For more details on what to pack see our Safari Packing List.