Wild, beautiful and undisturbed Mlawula Nature Reserve protects an area of densely wooded rising towards the Lebombo Mountains in the country’s east, where Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) borders with Mozambique. It is a little-visited hiker’s paradise, with more than 50km (31mi) of trails and dirt roads to explore. Birding is outstanding, with at least 350 species recorded, but other wildlife is scarce and .
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Best Time To Go
- June to September (Dry season; best wildlife viewing)
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High Season
- December to January (Little-visited reserve)
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Size
- 165km² / 64mi²
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Altitude
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147-450m /482-1,476ft
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Pros & Cons
- Off the beaten track and very little visited
- Pristine scenery and excellent birding
- Floral diversity incorporates more than 1,000 plant species
- Many self-guided hiking trails available
- Fishing and mountain biking permitted
- Visits are easily combined with nearby Hlane Royal NP
- Serviced by a well-priced and scenically located lodge and rest camp
- Not much wildlife
- Limited road network
Wildlife
Mlawula is not primarily a wildlife-viewing destination. Although the mammal checklist tops 80 species, only , , , , , , , and are likely to be seen by casual visitors. The sole member of the present in Mlawula is the ultra-elusive leopard. A notable feature of the reserve is its prolific birdlife, with being particularly well represented.
Scenery
Mlawula is an exceptionally scenic reserve with a genuine wilderness feel. The western hills are flowed through by the Mlawula River and support a cover of dense thornbush. The more remote and easterly Lebombo Plateau is dotted with seasonal , incised by forested ravines and home to a unique flora including rare species. The northern boundary follows the Mbuluzi River, which cuts through an impressive gorge in the east.
Activities
Mlawula is best explored on foot. A recommended short walk connects Python Pools to the fascinating Khabane Cave. A more extensive trail network traverses the spectacular Lebombo Plateau. Fishing and mountain biking are allowed, but you need your own gear. are restricted to the limited road network connecting Main Gate in the northwest to Magadzavane Gate in the south. A detailed map is sold at the entrance gate.
Weather & Climate
Mlawula has a hot and humid subtropical climate. The Wet season summer months from October to April can be very hot, with daytime temperatures typically peaking above 30°C (86°F), and regular afternoon rain. Winter (Dry season), which runs from May to September, is pleasantly warm by day but cools off at night, and rain is very unusual.
Best Time To Visit Mlawula NR
Mlawula can be visited throughout the year. The winter months (May to September) are cooler and more pleasant for hiking, with little likelihood of rain and better wildlife viewing. By contrast, the summer months (October to April) are characterized by lusher, greener scenery and better birding (this is when are present). April and September are beautiful transitional months.
How To Get to Mlawula NR
Mlawula is quite accessible and any vehicle is usually fine for getting around the reserve’s limited road network. The main gate is located about 90km/56mi northeast of Manzini (1½ hours’ drive*), 55km/34mi northeast of King Mswati III International Airport (50 minutes’ drive*) and 20km/12mi northwest of Hlane Royal National Park (20 minutes’ drive*). The reserve can also be accessed via Magadzavane Gate in the south.
*Driving times are only a rough indication. You should always consider the possibility of significant delays.
Health & Safety
Although activities in Mlawula are self-guided, it is a safe destination to visit in our opinion. For more information, please read our malaria and vaccinations page for Eswatini, and our general ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ page: