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Big Game Parks’ Swazi Safari Winter Specials
Big Game Parks’ Swazi Safari Winter Specials have started! Beat those winter blues and save up to 30% on select accommodation from 1 May 2013 to 15 July 2013 at Hlane Royal National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, including Reilly’s Rock Hilltop Lodge, and Mkhaya Game Reserve. Do not forget to bring your Wild Card for […]
Posted on 30 April 2013 | 8:18 am
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"100% We will come again! Yet another fantastic stay at Mkhaya!"
Mkhaya
Ulla Andren
Stayed at Big Game Parks, 04 Jan 2013
Mkhaya is ideal for: Unforgettable & Intimate Game Encounters • Bush Fanatics • Swazi-guided Game Drives and Walks • Day Tours • Unforgettable Overnight Stay in Truly Unique Accommodation • Birding Enthusiasts • Photographers • Black Rhino Viewing • Romantic Retreat
Welcome to Mkhaya Game Reserve
Essential Information: Please note pre-booking is required, we do not permit children under 6 yrs old as a safety precaution and there are fixed entry and exit times of 10am or 4pm depending on your itinerary - please view the Packages tab for all available options.
In the southeast of Swaziland, the heart of the lowveld, lies a magnificent unspoilt wilderness, haven to endangered species which roam the magnificent African bush.
'Mkhaya', named after the Acacia nigrescens tree found in the reserve, is home to 4 of the Big 5 including Black Rhino. Visitors can also spot the pure Swazi Nguni Breed of Cattle, Tsessebe, White Rhino, Elephant, Giraffe, Buffalo, Hippo, Crocodiles and exquisite birdlife including the elusive Narina Trogon to name just a few of the wildlife highlights.
A visit to Mkhaya offers true value for money - all rates quoted are fully inclusive of park entry fee, delicious bush cuisine, all activities (open Land Rover Game Drives and/or Walking Safaris) and truly unique, AA Highly Recommended accommodation. Unique, intimate encounters with Mkhaya's wildlife are almost guaranteed as all travel within the reserve is solely by Big Game Parks' open Land Rovers or by foot on a guided Walking Safaris.
After a day out in the hot African bush, return to a bird-rich riverine forest camp and enjoy an ice-cold drink beneath the giant sausage tree before retiring to a unique and luxurious semi-open stone and thatch cottage to drift off to sound of the bush.
Mkhaya is staffed and patrolled entirely by Swazis from neighbouring communities and currently boasts what is arguably Africa's most effective anti-poaching unit. It is totally self-financing through visitor revenues and your support is greatly appreciated as a means of sustaining this unique international conservation effort.
Entry to the park must be booked in advance and guests are met at the pick-up point at either 10am or 4pm according to their package itinerary. Overnight guests are also requested to pack a weekender or overnight bag for their stay at Mkhaya.
A trip to Mkhaya is a trip into Real Africa - a soul enriching, quality experience you'll never forget. Don't miss out, book today!
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Packages at Mkhaya
From R1775.00
24 Hour Stay (All Inclusive)
Your 24hr stay is fully-inclusive of all meals, accommodation and activities and starts at the Mkhaya Pick-up Point at 10h00 or 16h00.
From R1420.00
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
Meet at the Mkhaya Pick-up Point at 16h00 and enjoy open Land Rover Game Drives, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast at Mkhaya before departing at 10h00.
You'll be met at the Mkhaya Pick-up Point at 16h00 where you'll leave your car in a secure parking area before embarking on one of Mkhaya's open Land Rover game drives into the reserve for your first game drive. This haven for endangered species including four of the big five offers wonderful opportunities to get up-close-and-personal to a wide range of wildlife. Game viewing tracks between indigenous trees allow intimate encounters with Elephant, White and Black Rhino, Giraffe and a rich diversity of other wildlife while your local, expert guide will impart a great deal of knowledge on all the animals and vegetation you come across.
On arrival at Mkhaya's Stone Camp, your luggage will be taken to your cottage and a delicious 4-course bush dinner beneath Mkhaya's giant sausage tree will be laid out for you to enjoy and take in the stunning riverine setting and prolific birdlife. Depending on the season, there is an excellent opportunity to see the Narina Trogon and possibly Pink Troated Twinspots.
As the sunsets at Mkhaya, Stone Camp is beautifully lit by candlelight and parafin lanterns which wind their way to your accommodation; a luxurious semi-open stone and thatched cottage which will set the mood as you drift off to the sights and sounds of the bush.
You'll receive an early morning wake up call, complete with coffee, tea and a small snack, to prepare you for your sunrise game drive. After all the excitement of a morning in the bush, you'll return to Stone Camp for a hearty bush breakfast before embarking on your final game drive out of the reserve.
Please note no children under the age of 13 are permitted on the walking safari and no children under the age of 6 are permitted on the game drive.
From R2110.00
24 Hour PLUS
Enjoy one and a half days at Mkhaya Game Reserve on a fully-inclusive basis. All your meals, accommodation and activities (open Land Rover Game Drives and Walking Safari) are included in the price. This itinerary starts at 10h00 and departs at 16h00.
You'll be met at the Mkhaya Pick-up Point at 10h00 where you'll leave your car in a secure parking area before embarking on one of Mkhaya's open Land Rover game drives into the reserve for your first game drive. This haven for endangered species including four of the big five offers wonderful opportunities to get up-close-and-personal to a wide range of wildlife. Game viewing tracks between indigenous trees allow intimate encounters with Elephant, White and Black Rhino, Giraffe and a rich diversity of other wildlife while your local, expert guide will impart a great deal of knowledge on all the animals and vegetation you come across.
On arrival at Mkhaya's Stone Camp, your luggage will be taken to your cottage and a hearty bush lunch beneath Mkhaya's giant sausage tree will be laid out for you to enjoy and take in the stunning riverine setting and prolific birdlife. Depending on the season, there is an excellent opportunity to see the Narina Trogon and possibly Pink Troated Twinspots.
You'll have the opportunity to embark on an additional game drive following lunch, returing in time to enjoy Stone Camp's new Bird Hide or simply enjoy the beautiful setting before enjoying a delicious 4-course dinner served by your welcoming Swazi hosts.
As the sunsets at Mkhaya, Stone Camp is beautifully lit by candlelight and parafin lanterns which wind their way to your accommodation; a luxurious semi-open stone and thatched cottage which will set the mood as you drift off to the sights and sounds of the bush.
You'll receive an early morning wake up call, complete with coffee, tea and a small snack, to prepare you for your sunrise game drive. After all the excitement of a morning in the bush, you'll return to Stone Camp for a hearty bush breakfast before relaxing in Stone Camp.
At approximately 11am you'll have the opportunity to embark on a Walking Safari with an expert Swazi guide to learn the tricks of the trade when tracking animals, spotting birds and learning about the vegetation at Mkhaya. Bottled water is provided, as on all of the game drives, and this is a truly wonderful chance to see some of Africa's most endangered species on foot.
On arrival back at camp, relax and enjoy the surroundings before indulging in one last delicious bush lunch at Mkhaya and your final game drive out of the reserve.
Please note no children under the age of 13 are permitted on the walking safari and no children under the age of 6 are permitted on the game drive.
From R620.00
Day Tour Game Drives & Bush Lunch
This itinerary begins at 10h00 where you'll be met at the Mkhaya Pick up Point and commence your first game drive on one of Mkhaya's open Land Rovers. After a hearty bush lunch you'll embark on your final game drive out of the reserve at 16h00.
After a welcome glass of juice on arrival, you'll embark on your game drive through Mkhaya Game Reserve. This haven for endangered species including four of the big five offers wonderful opportunities to get up-close-and-personal to a wide range of wildlife. Game viewing tracks between indigenous trees allow intimate encounters with Elephant, White and Black Rhino, Giraffe and a rich diversity of other wildlife while your local, expert guide will impart a great deal of knowledge on all the animals and vegetation you come across.
Swazi hospitality is a feature of Stone Camp where you'll enjoy a hearty bush lunch beneath Mkhaya's giant sausage tree before embarking on your final game drive out of the reserve.
Please note children under the age of six years old are not permitted on this activity.
Accommodation at Mkhaya
From R1775.00
Stone Camp - Twin Cottage
Stone Camp offers 4 twin cottages (1 room, 2 single beds with shower).
From R1775.00
Stone Camp - Double Cottage
Stone Camp offers 4 double cottages (1 room, 1 double bed with shower).
From R1775.00
Stone Camp - Triple Cottage
Stone Camp offers 1 Triple cottage (1 room, 1 double bed & 1 single bed with shower).
From R1775.00
Stone Camp - Family Cottage
Mkhaya offers 3 family cottages to suit your accommodation requirements. Click here for full details.
Nkonjane Family Cottage
- 2 rooms, 2 doubles & 1 single with bath and separate shower unit
- Located close to the Reception, Bar & Dining area.
Sinkankanka Family Cottage
- 1 room, 1 double & 4 single beds en-suite with shower
- Located in the middle of Stone Camp.
Narina Family Cottage
- 1 room, 4 single beds en-suite with shower
- Located towards the end of the river sand pathway.
Rates
24hr stay, D,B&B and 24hr + rates available. All packages are fully inclusive.
Activities at Mkhaya
Included in Packages
Open Land Rover Game Drive
Included within any Mkhaya Package are its fantastic expert Swazi-guided Open Land Rover Game Drives where guests will experience unique, intimate game encounters with the reserves many endangered species. Bottled water is always available on the drive.
Local guides share their knowledge on an Open Land Rover which follows dirt-tracks between indigenous trees, thereby allowing intimate encounters and superb photographic opportunities with Elephant, Black & White Rhino, Buffalo, Giraffe, Wildebeest, Zebra, Kudu, Nyala and a rich diversity of other wildlife.
In addition to its larger species, Mkhaya boasts an abundance of smaller invertebrates and birdlife including Riverine Bushveld Forest species and Savanna Woodland species. Highlights include Raptors, Vultures, Marabou Storks, Narina Trogon and Pink Throated Twinspots.
Included in Packages
Walking Safari
If you are staying overnight at Mkhaya don't miss the 11am Walking Safari where you'll have the opportunity to experience Mkhaya's flora and fauna on foot under the expert guidance of your Swazi guide.
Amidst pockets of dense bushveld thickets and stunning areas of open Climax Knobthorn (Acacia nigresens) Veld, common sightings by walkers include Elephant, Black & White Rhino, Buffalo, Giraffe and a wide range of game including Wildebeest, Zebra, Kudu and Nyala.
In addition to its larger species, Mkhaya boasts an abundance of smaller invertebrates and birdlife including Riverine Bushveld Forest species and Savanna Woodland species. Highlights include Raptors, Vultures, Marabou Storks, Narina Trogon and Pink Throated Twinspots.
Included in Packages
Kirky's Hide
Located within easy walking distance to Stone Camp is Mkhaya's new hide which offers guests an opportunity to view Mkhaya's numerous bird, mammal, reptile, insect and amphibian species at close proximity.
About Kirky's Hide
What can you see at Kirky's Hide?
Kirky's Hide is great for viewing many species of Mkhaya's resident birds, mammals, reptiles, insects and amphibians.
For the avid birder, Mkhaya is is home to the elusive Narina Trogons, Raptors, Vultures, Marabou Storks and Pink Throated Twinspots to name just a few. Mkhaya is also home to both Black and White Rhino and a whole host of other species which you may spot from the hide viewpoint. For further information, please download the species lists below.
From R620.00
Day Tour (10am - 4pm)
This itinerary begins at 10h00 where you'll be met at the Mkhaya Pick up Point and commence your first game drive on one of Mkhaya's open Land Rovers. After a hearty bush lunch you'll embark on your final game drive out of the reserve at 16h00.
After a welcome glass of juice on arrival, you'll embark on your game drive through Mkhaya Game Reserve. This haven for endangered species including four of the big five offers wonderful opportunities to get up-close-and-personal to a wide range of wildlife. Game viewing tracks between indigenous trees allow intimate encounters with Elephant, White and Black Rhino, Giraffe and a rich diversity of other wildlife while your local, expert guide will impart a great deal of knowledge on all the animals and vegetation you come across.
Swazi hospitality is a feature of Stone Camp where you'll enjoy a hearty bush lunch beneath Mkhaya's giant sausage tree before embarking on your final game drive out of the reserve.
Please note children under the age of six years old are not permitted on this activity.
Mkhaya Species Information:
From R1090.00
1 Night Fully-Catered Bush Trail
Experience Mkhaya's African Savanna and the extensive range of endangered species which inhabit it up-close and personal on this One Night Fully-Catered Bush Trail.
Due to popular demand, the Mkhaya Wilderness Trail has been designed to offer all hikers the opportunity to experience Mkhaya’s African Savanna and the extensive range of endangered species which inhabit it up-close and personal.
Amidst pockets of dense bushveld thickets and stunning areas of open Climax Knobthorn (Acacia nigresens) Veld, walkers can expect to see Elephant, Black & White Rhino, Buffalo and a wide range of Plains Game on their first day through the endangered species area. Walking through the greater Mkhaya area on the second and third day may be rewarded with sightings of Giraffe, Wildebeest, Zebra, Kudu, Nyala and Black Rhino.
In addition to its larger species, Mkhaya boasts an abundance of smaller invertebrates and birdlife including Riverine Bushveld Forest species and Savanna Woodland species. Highlights include Raptors, Vultures, Marabou Storks, Narina Trogon and Pink Throated Twinspots.
Mkhaya Species Information:
From R1850.00
2 Night Fully-Catered Bush Trail
Experience Mkhaya's African Savanna and the extensive range of endangered species which inhabit it up-close and personal on this Two Night Fully-Catered Bush Trail.
Due to popular demand, the Mkhaya Wilderness Trail has been designed to offer all hikers the opportunity to experience Mkhaya’s African Savanna and the extensive range of endangered species which inhabit it up-close and personal.
Amidst pockets of dense bushveld thickets and stunning areas of open Climax Knobthorn (Acacia nigresens) Veld, walkers can expect to see Elephant, Black & White Rhino, Buffalo and a wide range of Plains Game on their first day through the endangered species area. Walking through the greater Mkhaya area on the second and third day may be rewarded with sightings of Giraffe, Wildebeest, Zebra, Kudu, Nyala and Black Rhino.
In addition to its larger species, Mkhaya boasts an abundance of smaller invertebrates and birdlife including Riverine Bushveld Forest species and Savanna Woodland species. Highlights include Raptors, Vultures, Marabou Storks, Narina Trogon and Pink Throated Twinspots.
Mkhaya Species Information:
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Directions for Mkhaya
Directions from Lavumisa/Golela Border
Distance +-96 km; approx driving time1hr.
• Travel 66km to Big Bend and continue towards Manzini.
• Travel approximately 30 km on this road, you will reach Phuzamoya.
• Turn right at sign to Mkhaya Game Reserve (Phuzumoya) and park behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• If you get to Siphofaneni - you have gone too far and will have to turn back 6kms.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Mahamba Border
Distance approx. 169km; approx driving time 2hrs45.
• Travel past Nhlangano and Hlatikhulu and join the Mbabane / Manzini highway about 3km before Manzini. The distance from the border to Manzini is approx. 115 km.
• Turn right onto highway to Manzini.
There are 2 options around or through Manzini:
Option 1
• At the 2nd set of traffic lights, after coming from the highway and before you get to Manzini proper, turn left onto By-pass Road, sign posted “Mavuso Trade Centre”. Beware the road is off-camber – please negotiate corners carefully.
• Cross straight over traffic lights.
• Turn left at T-junction.
Option 2
•Drive straight through Manzini – the one-way road is very busy, be careful of the mini buses. Try to keep to the right hand lane as most of the taxi’s and buses use the left hand lane. This road will take you straight out of Manzini.
• Travel +-8km from Manzini.
• Turn right towards Big Bend, just after Kai Kai Resort at the Hhelehhele junction. There is a filling station on your right.
• After approximately 40kms you will reach Siphofaneni. Travel a further 6kms.
• Cross over a small bridge over the railway, which runs UNDER the road.
• Immediately (10m) after the bridge, turn left at the Mkhaya Game Reserve sign and park your vehicle behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Matsamo/Jeppes Reef Border
Distance approx. 198 km; approx driving time 3hrs45.
• Drive through PIGGS PEAK (40 km) and continue to the Oshoek border / Mbabane highway (50km).
• Turn left onto the highway towards Mbabane. Travel approx 15km to MBABANE. This becomes the bypass road.
• At the 2nd traffic lights in Mbabane turn right onto the Mbabane / Manzini highway, follow signs to MANZINI approx.39 km.
There are 2 options around or through Manzini:
Option 1
• At the 2nd set of traffic lights, after coming from the highway and before you get to Manzini proper, turn left onto By-pass Road, sign posted “Mavuso Trade Centre”. Beware the road is off-camber – please negotiate corners carefully.
• Cross straight over traffic lights.
• Turn left at T-junction.
Option 2
• Drive straight through Manzini – the one-way road is very busy, be careful of the mini buses. Try to keep to the right hand lane as most of the taxi’s and buses use the left hand lane. This road will take you straight out of Manzini.
• Travel +-8km from Manzini.
• Turn right towards Big Bend, just after Kai Kai Resort at the Hhelehhele junction. There is a filling station on your right.
• After approximately 40kms you will reach Siphofaneni. Travel a further 6kms.
• Cross over a small bridge over the railway, which runs UNDER the road.
• Immediately (10m) after the bridge, turn left at the Mkhaya Game Reserve sign and park your vehicle behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Mhlumeni/Goba Border
Distance approx. 95 km; approx driving time 1hr.
• From the border travel to Siteki – approx 19 km.
• Turn right towards Manzini at petrol station.
• Drive from Siteki towards the Manzini for 8km.
• Turn left to Big Bend travel +-38kms.
• At the T-junction turn right towards Manzini. Travel +- 18 km.
• Turn right at sign to Mkhaya Game Reserve (Phuzumoya) and park behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• If you get to Siphofaneni - you have gone too far and will have to turn back 6kms.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Sandlane/Nerston Border
Distance approx. 126 km; approx driving time 2hrs.
• The border post is ± 17kms from Amsterdam.
• Warning: the road inside Swaziland is narrow and winding with potholes in places.It is also used by timber logging trucks.
• Travel ± 35km Bhunya (wood pulp mill).
• Turn right towards Manzini at the pulp mill.
• Approx 10 km from Bhunya there is a traffic circle – go half way around and then continue past Swazi Candles (16km from circle) until you get to a T –junction.
• Turn right onto the old Manzini / Mbabane road.
• After about 7km you will come to the Matsapha traffic circle under the Mbabane/Manzini highway.
• Go ¾ way around the circle and onto the highway towards Manzini (± 4km).
There are 2 options around or through Manzini:
Option 1
• At the 2nd set of traffic lights, after coming from the highway and before you get to Manzini proper, turn left onto By-pass Road, sign posted “Mavuso Trade Centre”. Beware the road is off-camber – please negotiate corners carefully.
• Cross straight over traffic lights.
• Turn left at T-junction.
Option 2
• Drive straight through Manzini – the one-way road is very busy, be careful of the mini buses. Try to keep to the right hand lane as most of the taxi’s and buses use the left hand lane. This road will take you straight out of Manzini.
• Travel +-8km from Manzini.
• Turn right towards Big Bend, just after Kai Kai Resort at the Hhelehhele junction. There is a filling station on your right.
• After approximately 40kms you will reach Siphofaneni. Travel a further 6kms.
• Cross over a small bridge over the railway, which runs UNDER the road.
• Immediately (10m) after the bridge, turn left at the Mkhaya Game Reserve sign and park your vehicle behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Mbabane
From Ezulwini
• From Ezulwini take the road that goes past the Royal Swazi Sun, Ezulwini Sun and Lugogo hotels. Go past the Gables / Pick ‘n Pay shopping centre.
• Turn left approx. 1 km after the shopping centre - travel approx 500m to the traffic circle, go ½ way around and travel until you pass under the highway.
• Turn right to join highway and travel on highway to Manzini.
From Manzini
• Travel +-8km from Manzini.
• Turn right towards Big Bend, just after Kai Kai Resort at the Hhelehhele junction. There is a filling station on your right.
• After approximately 40kms you will reach Siphofaneni. Travel a further 6kms.
• Cross over a small bridge over the railway, which runs UNDER the road.
• Immediately (10m) after the bridge, turn left at the Mkhaya Game Reserve sign and park your vehicle behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
From Malkerns / Bhunya
From Foresters Arms
• Drive to Mbabane – approx. 25km. At the 1st traffic light turn right (at the crossroads there will be a “Total Gardens” filling station on your left) - at the next traffic light turn right - this will take you onto the Mbabane / Manzini highway. Drive to Manzini – approx. 45km. Drive straight through Manzini.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Lomahasha/Namaacha Border
Distance approx. 119 km; approx driving time 1hr45.
• From the border travel past Simunye Sugar Estates and through Hlane Royal National Park.
• Turn Left +-25km after Simunye to Siteki/Big Bend. Travel +-3km.
• Turn right and follow this road towards Big Bend for +- 42kms.
• At the T-junction turn right towards Manzini. Travel +- 18 km.
• Turn right at sign to Mkhaya Game Reserve (Phuzumoya) and park behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• If you get to Siphofaneni - you have gone too far and will have to turn back 6kms.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Mananga/Border Gate Border
Distance approx. 134 km; approx driving time 2hrs. (Mananga Border s +- 70km from Komatipoort).
• From the border you travel a few km and the road will turn left towards Mhlume.
• Cross over the traffic circle and travel to Tambankulu.
• Cross over traffic circle, continue straight.
• At the T-junction turn right and travel past Simunye Sugar Estates / town; through Hlane Royal National Park and continue towards Manzini.
• Turn Left +-25km after Simunye to Siteki/Big Bend. Travel +-3km.
• Turn right and follow this road towards Big Bend for approx. 42kms.
• At the T-junction turn right towards Manzini. Travel about 18 km.
• Turn right at sign to Mkhaya Game Reserve (Phuzumoya) and park behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• If you get to Siphofaneni - you have gone too far and will have to turn back 6kms.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Ngwenya/Oshoek Border
Distance approx. 115km; approx driving time 2hrs.
• Follow the main road from the Border to Mbabane (about 20 km). Please beware of road works at the moment.
• Continue on the road from the border – this becomes the bypass road.
• At the 2nd traffic lights in Mbabane turn right onto the Mbabane / Manzini highway, follow signs to MANZINI 39km.
There are 2 options around or through Manzini:
Option 1
• At the 2nd set of traffic lights, after coming from the highway and before you get to Manzini proper, turn left onto By-pass Road, sign posted “Mavuso Trade Centre”. Beware the road is off-camber – please negotiate corners carefully.
• Cross straight over traffic lights.
• Turn left at T-junction.
Option 2
• Drive straight through Manzini – the one-way road is very busy, be careful of the mini buses. Try to keep to the right hand lane as most of the taxi’s and buses use the left hand lane. This road will take you straight out of Manzini.
• Travel +-8km from Manzini.
• Turn right towards Big Bend, just after Kai Kai Resort at the Hhelehhele junction. There is a filling station on your right.
• After approximately 40kms you will reach Siphofaneni. Travel a further 6kms.
• Cross over a small bridge over the railway, which runs UNDER the road.
• Immediately (10m) after the bridge, turn left at the Mkhaya Game Reserve sign and park your vehicle behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Directions from Emahlatini (Houtkop)/Sicunusa
Distance approx. 126 km; approx driving time 2hrs.
From Piet Retief
• As you approach Piet Retief from Ermelo / Amsterdam, Turn left into Theo Mocke street at the new Spur / garage complex.
• Travel +- 500m.
• Turn right (signboard reads “Emahlatini via Klein Vrystaat”) and continue straight on to the border post - approx 20km.
From Sicunusa Border
• Travel on new road past Mankayane for +- 45km to join the Bhunya / Malkerns road at a traffic circle.
• Go ¾ of the way around the circle; take the road towards Malkerns/Manzini.
• Continue past Swazi Candles (16km from circle) until you get to a T –junction.
• Turn right onto the old Manzini / Mbabane road.
• After about 7km you will come to the Matsapha traffic circle under the Mbabane/Manzini highway.
• Go ¾ way around the circle and onto the highway towards Manzini (± 4km)
There are 2 options around or through Manzini:
Option 1
• At the 2nd set of traffic lights, after coming from the highway and before you get to Manzini proper, turn left onto By-pass Road, sign posted “Mavuso Trade Centre”. Beware the road is off-camber – please negotiate corners carefully.
• Cross straight over traffic lights.
• Turn left at T-junction.
Option 2
• Drive straight through Manzini – the one-way road is very busy, be careful of the mini buses. Try to keep to the right hand lane as most of the taxi’s and buses use the left hand lane. This road will take you straight out of Manzini.
• Travel +-8km from Manzini.
• Turn right towards Big Bend, just after Kai Kai Resort at the Hhelehhele junction. There is a filling station on your right.
• After approximately 40kms you will reach Siphofaneni. Travel a further 6kms.
• Cross over a small bridge over the railway, which runs UNDER the road.
• Immediately (10m) after the bridge, turn left at the Mkhaya Game Reserve sign and park your vehicle behind the small shop. This is the Mkhaya meeting point, where you will be met by an Mkhaya guide/ranger, who will then accompany you into the park.
• Please do not drive further without a guide as the gates are kept locked.
Please note:
- General speed limit is 8km/hr and 60km/hr in towns
- Meeting times are 10am and 4pm (10am meeting time for day tour)
Reviews at Mkhaya
Ulla Andren - Mozambique on 04 January 2013
100% We will come again! Yet another fantastic stay at Mkhaya!
Michael Holthuysen, Presenter of Awesome Africa - on 21 June 2012
Mkhaya Game Reserve offers one of the most unique lodges on the continent...The game drive I did became a National Geographic experience'
John Davies, Lawson's Birding - on 01 May 2012
The birding at Mkhaya was exceptional. The best sightings of the numerous Narina Trogons were right in Stone Camp.
Kate Armstrong, Lonely Planet Author - Australia on 15 April 2012
Mkhaya boasts that you're more likely to meet big game here than anywhere else in Africa and, judging by our experience, this is true'.
Stephen Cunliffe, Photo-Journalist - on 30 March 2012
A rhino walk at Mkhaya stands on a par with a mountain gorilla experience in Central Africa.
Toddy Landry - on 07 February 2012
We thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Mkhaya and would steer others towards the reserve without hesitation. We actually spent time in all 3 reserves - Mlilwane, Hlane and Mkhaya. Each reserve offered a different sort of experience and we were thoroughly impressed by all three and by Swaziland as a whole.
Joan Mayer - Maputo (USA) on 03 February 2012
This is what one dreams about!
Lisa Caldeira & Cameron Harper - Mozambique on 01 January 2012
This place & staff is perfection!! Thank you very much.
Fabian Roecke - Germany on 18 November 2012
Great place for Safari. Great accommodation with very special "rooms" and very delicious food - definitely worth a trip!
Gabriella Hauch & Karu Fallend - Vienna/Austria on 08 February 2012
Relaxing!
Ruta Badiam - Brazil on 03 February 2012
Wonderful place!
Carole Anne & Jim Collier - Netherlands on 31 January 2012
A very special experience!
T Olches/Drewes - Berlin on 28 January 2012
Amazing place, great atmosphere, lovely people.
Heyward Family - Austria on 09 January 2012
Beautiful haven, gorgeous birds, fabulous staff!
Nishio - Japan on 28 June 2011
Our stay at Reilly’s Rock was perfect. It is located in the Mlilwane reserve where there was lots of wildlife to see. We enjoyed looking at these creatures walking around freely. The bush babies were absolutely cute and amazing. We took lots of snaps of them. The accommodation was good. It was clean, spacious and neatly arranged. We had a comfortable stay there. The entire place is calm and quiet. It is absolutely peaceful staying here. The staff are friendly and take effort to make you feel comfortable while you are here. We simply loved our stay at this place. We recommend it to anyone.
Herve Biollu - on 22 April 2011
Very nice, quiet and peaceful place. The bungalow was perfect for our family (two adults and two teens). Staff was very kind. We had a pleasant dinner around the fire and we enjoyed the breakfast as well with a nice view over the valley.
Andrea Waschke - on 29 November 2010
Very special place in a great surrounding. Staff are very nice and helpful. Would definitely come back again.
10h00 Start Itinerary
You'll be met at the Mkhaya Pick-up Point at 10h00 where you'll leave your car in a secure parking area before embarking on one of Mkhaya's open Land Rover game drives into the reserve for your first game drive. This haven for endangered species including four of the big five offers wonderful opportunities to get up-close-and-personal to a wide range of wildlife. Game viewing tracks between indigenous trees allow intimate encounters with Elephant, White and Black Rhino, Giraffe and a rich diversity of other wildlife while your local, expert guide will impart a great deal of knowledge on all the animals and vegetation you come across.
On arrival at Mkhaya's Stone Camp, your luggage will be taken to your cottage and a hearty bush lunch beneath Mkhaya's giant sausage tree will be laid out for you to enjoy and take in the stunning riverine setting and prolific birdlife. Depending on the season, there is an excellent opportunity to see the Narina Trogon and possibly Pink Troated Twinspots.
You'll then have the opportunity to embark on an additional game drive following lunch, returing in time to enjoy Stone Camp's new Bird Hide or simply enjoy the beautiful setting before enjoying a delicious 3-course dinner served by your welcoming Swazi hosts.
As the sunsets at Mkhaya, Stone Camp is beautifully lit by candlelight and parafin lanterns which wind their way to your accommodation; a luxurious semi-open stone and thatched cottage which will set the mood as you drift off to the sights and sounds of the bush.
You'll receive an early morning wake up call, complete with coffee, tea and a small snack, to prepare you for your sunrise game drive. After all the excitement of a morning in the bush, you'll return to Stone Camp for a hearty bush breakfast before embarking on your final game drive out of the reserve.
16h00 Start Itinerary
You'll be met at the Mkhaya Pick-up Point at 16h00 where you'll leave your car in a secure parking area before embarking on one of Mkhaya's open Land Rover game drives into the reserve for your first game drive. This haven for endangered species including four of the big five offers wonderful opportunities to get up-close-and-personal to a wide range of wildlife. Game viewing tracks between indigenous trees allow intimate encounters with Elephant, White and Black Rhino, Giraffe and a rich diversity of other wildlife while your local, expert guide will impart a great deal of knowledge on all the animals and vegetation you come across.
On arrival at Mkhaya's Stone Camp, your luggage will be taken to your cottage and a delicious 4-course bush dinner beneath Mkhaya's giant sausage tree will be laid out for you to enjoy and take in the stunning riverine setting and prolific birdlife. Depending on the season, there is an excellent opportunity to see the Narina Trogon and possibly Pink Troated Twinspots.
As the sunsets at Mkhaya, Stone Camp is beautifully lit by candlelight and parafin lanterns which wind their way to your accommodation; a luxurious semi-open stone and thatched cottage which will set the mood as you drift off to the sights and sounds of the bush.
You'll receive an early morning wake up call, complete with coffee, tea and a small snack, to prepare you for your sunrise game drive. After all the excitement of a morning in the bush, you'll return to Stone Camp for a hearty bush breakfast before relaxing in the Camp.
At approximately 11am you'll have the opportunity to embark on a Walking Safari with an expert Swazi guide to learn the tricks of the trade when tracking animals, spotting birds and learning about the vegetation at Mkhaya. Bottled water is provided, as on all of the game drives, and this is a truly wonderful chance to see some of Africa's most endangered species on foot.
On arrival back at camp, relax and enjoy the surroundings before indulging in one last delicious bush lunch at Mkhaya and your final game drive out of the reserve.
Please note no children under the age of 13 are permitted on the walking safari and no children under the age of 6 are permitted on the game drive
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