Mlawula Nature Reserve

Mlawula is Swaziland’s most diverse lowveld reserve because it stretches up into the mountainous Lubombo region, accounting for its wide range of flora and fauna. Unique areas like the Androstachys forest and the cycad Encephalartos umbeluziensis which is found only in this reserve. Mlawula incorporates the former Blue Jay/Ndzindza reserves within its 16,000 hectares. There is an extensive network of one, two and three-day trails which extend to the top of the mountainous Lubombo region.

For accommodation there is a choice of two separate camping sites. Sifiso camp has an ablution block, running water at each individual camping site, individual braai or barbecue areas and summer houses to sit in should it rain. You will be visited by curious, though tame, ostriches. The camp is situated on the banks of a seasonal river where there are vast trees to sit under in dense green light.

There is also an attractive mountain top camp, Mapelepele, that is best suited to groups who book the whole camp, although you can stay there in just one tent. There are four large furnished tents on platforms with their own outdoor baths and showers which are perched on the top of a cliff, giving excellent views whilst you bathe. There are communal toilets and kitchen facilities.