| Wildlife encounters in Swaziland an experience not to be missed
Swaziland may be one of the smallest African country’s but it certainly makes up for its size with its rich variety of landscapes and habitats and abundance of fauna and flora, and wildlife. The country, although not large enough to offer lots of big game experiences, has 17 protected areas which are home to a very wide range of species, including the sought after ‘Big 5’.
Beautiful scenery, diverse birdlife and close encounters with Africa’s legendary wildlife, thrill many visitors and a stay in Swaziland is incomplete without a visit to one of the game or nature reserves.
The Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Hlane Royal National Park, Mkhaya Game Reserve, and Phophonyane Falls Ecolodge and Nature Reserve offer guests the unique opportunity to witness the spectacular wildlife of Swaziland.
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Swaziland’s pioneer conservation area, is a beautiful and secluded sanctuary situated in Swaziland’s “Valley of Heaven”, the Ezulwini Valley. Visitors can explore the southern portion of the Sanctuary by foot, vehicle, on horseback or on mountain bikes. Those who simply want to relax can sit back in the camps and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Hlane Royal National Park is home to the largest herds of game in the Kingdom. Hlane covers 30 000 hectares of Swazi bushveld, dominated by ancient hardwood vegetation. This National Park is home to lion, elephant and white rhino, with an abundant and diverse bird life, including the highest density of nesting white backed vultures in Africa.
In 1979, the Mkhaya Game Reserve was established to save the pure Nguni breed of cattle from extinction and is a proclaimed Nature Reserve. Its focus has expanded over the years to include other endangered species such as black rhino, roan & sable antelope, tsessebe, white rhino, elephant and other locally endangered species.
In the north-west, near Piggs Peak, is the private Phophoyane Nature Reserve. Perched above the cascading Phophonyane Falls, this little reserve can rightly claim its title as Swaziland’s "Garden of Eden".
Swaziland is certainly offers a variety of attractions for all of its visitors. This small nation is all that’s best about Africa in one small but perfectly formed and welcoming country. |
