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Write a User ReviewSoar like a bird in a birder’s paradise
Malalotja Nature Reserve is more for fans of flora than fauna, boasting some of the most rugged and unspoiled scenes of nature in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). That said, it should be every birder’s first stop in Eswatini and those who want to find some excitement after a day in Mbabane can traverse the Malalotja canopy via 10 zip slides and a 50m-long suspension bridge. If your reason for visiting Eswatini is to seek out large mammals, then this is not the park you’re looking for: head instead to Hlane or Mkhaya. But if you want to escape the game vehicle and spend some quality time with some fresh air, scenic views and 280 species of bird, then Malalotja is the park for you.
Wild and Beautiful Hiking
Malolotja is comparatively small but very scenic nature reserve in the western highlands of Eswatini, bordering South Africa. It comprises high grasslands and narrow valleys with some beautiful waterfalls and pools where you can swim.
Don’t come here expecting to see lots of wildlife – although we did see blesbok and eland close to the main camp, plus black wildebeest, zebra and reedbuck in the upland grasslands. There are also some special mountain birds including bald ibis, sentinel rock thrush and black eagle.
Do come here if you love wild hiking! There are a number of trails and wilderness campsites (with no facilities), with options for half-day excursions to multi-day hikes to really immerse yourself in this wild, rugged scenery.
As well as camping, there are some simple self-catering chalets near the main reception area.
Malolotja is also home to a canopy ride, where thrill-seekers can zip across a spectacular valley suspended on a wire.
Pristine wilderness in the Swazi highlands
Malolotja is a beautiful hiking destination. On my visit, I wasn’t equipped for an overnight trail, but that is the way to really appreciate this pristine area. I went on a day hike and enjoyed looking at little grassland flowers – easily overlooked but stunning from close up. I visited in the dry season, so the waterfall wasn’t at its best, but worth checking out all the same. Although I’d chosen a short hike, I’d taken my time looking at birds, flowers and a troop of baboons, and I found myself some distance from the end as sunset loomed. The walk/run back was less memorable, but my last glance over my shoulder as I got safely back to my car took my breath away: endless rolling hills at dusk with a shimmer of orange at the horizon. I knew I’d have to come back for an overnight expedition.