Hiking in Eswatini
Including Mantenga Nature Reserve, Mhlambanyatsi Forest Trails, and Mkhaya Game Reserve. On the map.
The vibe
Hiking here feels like wandering through an ancient, rolling landscape where the horizon is dominated by rugged peaks and sweeping highveld grasses rather than groomed trails. The cooler, dry months from May to August offer the most comfortable trekking conditions, keeping you clear of the summer heat and seasonal rains. It is a largely DIY experience where you move at your own pace through open terrain, feeling more like a private explorer than a tourist on a guided path.
You pay a small conservation fee at the entrance of most reserves.
Mantenga Nature Reserve
Hhohho Region
Nomsa Skosana / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
This reserve is home to the famous Mantenga Falls, the largest waterfall by volume in Eswatini. The surrounding trails wind through lush forest and rocky outcrops, offering a mix of easy walks and moderate hiking paths.
Access. Located in the Ezulwini Valley, easily accessible by road. The reserve has a well-marked visitor center and established trailheads near the cultural village.
Notes. The area is popular with tourists; visit early in the morning to enjoy the trails without crowds.
Mhlambanyatsi Forest Trails
Manzini Region
stone wu / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
These trails traverse the expansive pine plantations and indigenous forest patches of the Mhlambanyatsi region. The area offers a cool, shaded hiking experience with undulating terrain and frequent sightings of local birdlife.
Access. Accessible from the village of Mhlambanyatsi. Many trails start near the local forestry offices or guest lodges.
Notes. Check with local forestry management for any active logging operations that might affect trail access.
Mkhaya Game Reserve
Lubombo
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
While primarily a wildlife reserve, Mkhaya offers guided bush walks that provide an intimate experience with the lowveld ecosystem. These walks focus on tracking wildlife and learning about the unique flora of the region in a pristine, protected environment.
Access. Access is strictly controlled and requires pre-booking for guided tours. Visitors are met at a designated meeting point and transferred into the reserve.
Notes. Walking is only permitted with an armed ranger due to the presence of large game animals.