Accommodation available from
R75.00
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"We visited Sondzela in 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2011, each time we stayed a week or more in one of the rondavels with a beatiful view. The staff is very friendly and the food is lovely. This is the only park we know were one can walk freely, even without a guide, amongst the animals. The place is very central in Swaziland. Within walking distance one can take public transport to all over the country. "
Sondzela Backpackers
Ellie Rhebergen
Stayed at Big Game Parks, 30 Mar 2012
Located in:
Sondzela Backpackers is ideal for: Exploring Swaziland • Budget Travel • Chilling in Peaceful Surroundings • Experiencing Nature Up-close & Personal • Photographers
Welcome to Sondzela Backpackers
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Sondzela Backpackers is located within Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary's southern boundary overlooking the beautiful Mhlambanyatsi Valley. It offers travellers visiting Swaziland an unbeatable range of excellent value accommodation in stunning surroundings, with its own Swimming Pool, large garden, ample safe parking, camping ground, Braai area, Bar, Laundry, DSTV & Games Room.
Just a 15min walk from Mlilwane Rest Camp and within walking distance to the Malkerns main road and Mahlanya fresh produce market, Sondzela offers comfortable accommodation in scenic gardens with easy access to the numerous activities and site-seeing opportunities that Big Game Parks and Swaziland offers. A FREE Sondzela Shuttle is also offered to and from Malandela's Restaurant and Internet Cafe to further enhance ease of travel.
Known as the WILDest backpackers in Swaziland; after wrestling the resident Ostrich for your spot by the pool or becoming at one with Zebras on horseback you'll understand why.
Accommodation at Sondzela Backpackers
From R75.00
Camping at Sondzela Backpackers (Own Tents only)
Set in the beautiful Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Sondzela offers campers a spacious camping ground.
From R100.00
Sondzela Main House Dormitory - Single Bed
Located in Sondzela's Main House is a dormitory with single beds and a communal bathroom.
The dormitory offers excellent value for money, with a swimming pool, lounge, games room and bar all nearby. Bedding provided.
From R130.00
Sondzela Main House - Private Double Room
Located in Sondzela's Main House are private double rooms with access to a communal bathroom.
Perfect for those who prefer a bit more privacy, with a swimming pool, lounge, games room and bar all nearby. Bedding provided.
From R130.00
Sondzela Main House - Private Twin Room
Located in Sondzela's Main House are private twin rooms with access to a communal bathroom.
Perfect for those who prefer a bit more privacy, with a swimming pool, lounge, games room and bar all nearby. Bedding provided.
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From R145.00
Sondzela Huts (Rondavels)
Overlooking the beautiful Mhlambanyatsi Valley are 12 private Huts/Rondavels.
Each Rondavel includes one double and one single bed with a cold-water basin and is located near to the ablution block.
Activities at Sondzela Backpackers
From R120.00
Mountain Bike Hire (per hour)
Hire a mountain bike to get up close and personal to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary's rich flora and fauna. Bikes are well maintained and available next to Mlilwane Rest Camp Reception.
Mountain Biking in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular activitiy which enables guests to experience nature up close and personal from a series of trails and roads.
Enjoy a gentle hourly ride along the plains or a 3-4 hour mountain bike trail into some of the most beautiful mountains in Swaziland.
Mlilwane is also the home of the extremely popular annual Nedbank Swaziland's Imvelo MTB Classic mountain bike race which draws cyclists from afar. The event offers marked trails of different distances and levels of difficulty to ensure that everybody is catered for and is a fun day out for all with the added bonus of perhaps winning a prize to boot! In 2012 this event is being held on the 9th June and guests will be able to enter in April 2012 - exact date to be confirmed.
Guests with their own bike are also welcome to use the roads and trails within the park at no extra charge.
Guided mountain bike hire is also available.
From R130.00
Guided Mountain Bike Trail (per hour)
Take a Swazi-guided mountain bike trail through Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mountain Biking in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular activitiy which enables guests to experience nature up close and personal from a series of trails and roads.
Enjoy an expert, Swazi-guided hourly mountain bike ride along the plains or a 3-4 hour mountain bike trail into some of the most beautiful mountains in Swaziland.
Mlilwane is also the home of the extremely popular annual Nedbank Swaziland's Imvelo MTB Classic mountain bike race which draws cyclists from afar. The event offers marked trails of different distances and levels of difficulty to ensure that everybody is catered for and is a fun day out for all with the added bonus of perhaps winning a prize to boot! In 2012 this event is being held on the 9th June and guests will be able to enter in April 2012 - exact date to be confirmed.
Guests with their own bike are also welcome to use the roads and trails within the park at no extra charge.
From R80.00
Umphakatsi Cultural Experience
Visit Mlilwane's neighbouring real Chief's Village to experience authentic Swazi culture.
Enjoy a hands-on experience of our neighbouring lady chief 'Inkhosikati' in her homestead 'Umphakatsi' - a very real glimpse of Swaziland's culture that will leave you with a newfound respect and basic understanding of the Swazi way of life.
Your guide, who will hand the ladies in your party traditional Swazi cloths 'Emahiya' to wrap around their waists, greets you at Mlilwane's main gate. The homestead is a short drive from the main gate and a short walk from Mlilwane's boundary fence.
Before entering the Inkhosikati's homestead 'Liguma', you are requested to remove your shoes. On entry, the Inkhosikati and the village children, often wearing traditional clothing, will warmly welcome you. The standard Swazi greeting to the Inkosikati is 'Yebo Nkosi'.
The Inkhosikati has a vibrant, energetic and infectious mannerism and not only talks you through how the huts and traditional items are made but also teaches you the siSwati words for them. She encourages interaction; so ladies try your hand at grinding maize and plaiting mountain grass or gents, join the children in Swazi song and dance.
This is both informative and memorable - a taste of true Swazi hospitality - and should not be missed!
From R270.00
Sunrise/Sunset Game Drive (2hr)
Enjoy a Swazi-guided Sunrise or Sunset game drive through Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.
Embark on one of Mlilwane's open Game Viewer vehicles with an expert Swazi guide to explore Mlilwane's nature-rich plains.
Apart from abundant bird life and nesting water birds, there are a number of animal species to be seen including Hippo, Crocodile, Zebra, Blue Wildebeest, Kudu, Nyala, Impala, Warthog, Waterbuck, Reedbuck, Steenbok, Grey Duiker, Red Duiker, Klipspringer, Blesbok, Oribi and Suni.
Seldom seen, but present in the reserve are the ever-elusive Leopard and a variety of smaller mammals including Bushbaby, Mongoose, Aardwolf, Genet, Porcupine and Civet.
Tea/coffee and a snack is included on the Sunrise Game Drive which offers a wonderful opportunity to observe and take stunning pictures of the reserve and its residents in the early morning light.
A drink is included on the Sunset Game Drive which takes guests towards the infamous Execution Rock to enjoy the sunset over the mountains and plains.
Mlilwane Species Information:
From R210.00
Game Drive (1.5hr)
Embark on one of Mlilwane's open Game Viewer vehicles with an expert Swazi guide to explore Mlilwane's nature-rich plains.
Apart from abundant bird life and nesting water birds, there are a number of animal species to be seen including Hippo, Crocodile, Zebra, Blue Wildebeest, Kudu, Nyala, Impala, Warthog, Waterbuck, Reedbuck, Steenbok, Grey Duiker, Red Duiker, Klipspringer, Blesbok, Oribi and Suni.
Seldom seen, but present in the reserve are the ever-elusive Leopard and a variety of smaller mammals including Bushbaby, Mongoose, Aardwolf, Genet, Porcupine and Civet.
Mlilwane Species Information:
From R85.00
Guided Services (per hour)
Enlist the help of an expert Swazi guide to explore Mlilwane according to your area of interest.
Mlilwane has a team of expert Swazi guides who accompany you on your exploration of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - perfect for those with a particular interest. Please note the price excludes equipment hire.
Mlilwane Species Information:
From R170.00
Guided Birding Walk (2.5hr)
Enjoy an expert Swazi-guided Bird Walk through Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Includes bottled water.
Departing from Mlilwane Rest Camp, your expert Swazi guide will take you on a trail through Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary where you'll have the chance to spot a wide variety of bird life.
See if you can spot Black, Crowned and Fish Eagle, a wide variety of Kingfisher species, Red Bishop, Bee Eaters, Lilac-Breasted Roller Birds, Purple-Crested Louries and at least three species of Robin to name just a few of the hundreds of species of birds found at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.
Bottled water is included in the trail price.
From R20.00
Horse Riding - Kiddie Ride
Treat your child to a memorable little horse ride at Mlilwane!
Our well-mannered horses are suitable for complete beginners and our horse-guides will ensure your child enjoys a safe horse ride to remember.
From R150.00
Horse Riding - per hour (1-3hrs)
Enjoy a Swazi-guided horse trail through Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
The hourly horse trails depart from Mlilwane Rest Camp and are perfect for riders with limited experience or time constraints.
Taken at a leisurely pace, according to the capabilities of the riders, the main emphasis is on viewing the wildlife on the plains of Mlilwane from close proximity.
From R570.00
Horse Riding - Rock of Execution Challenge (3-4hrs)
Take the Rock of Execution Challenge! A wonderful four hour trail up to the top of Nyonyane Mountain where you'll enjoy stunning views.
Guests are met at Mlilwane Rest Camp at around 8am to mount for their four hour ride to the top of Nyonyane mountain; an infamous mountain also known as the 'Rock of Execution' due to the unfortunate souls who met their end being tossed from the peak to the rocks below.
Just beneath the peak of Nyonyane, riders leave the horses in a small paddock while they stretch their legs and walk the small stretch to the top of the mountain.
On arrival, guests enjoy their lunch at the top while admiring the awe-inspiring views and learn about the history of the mountain from the guides.
From R1355.00
Horse Riding - Fully-catered Overnight Cave Trail
Enjoy a wonderfully unique horse trail through the stunning plains of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary culminating in a night spent in a cave to remember.
On arrival at reception, guests are escorted to the Chubeka Trails Stable where they receive a refreshing soft drink and an introduction to their horse and itinerary, in addition to a safety briefing.
Following the briefing, riders mount their horse and proceed on the trail. On the first day, the ride takes them up the slopes of Nyonyane mountain and around the stunning Mantenga Valley, stopping at a beautiful location for a light lunch which riders will have carried along in their horse's saddle bag.
On arrival at the cave just before dark, riders are welcomed by their Camp Host, whilst the guide feeds the horses and beds them down for the night in the paddock just outside the cave. The Camp Host prepares a traditional dinner over the fire, marshmallows are roasted and a bottle of sherry is offered around. After all the excitement of the day and dinner, guests drift off in very comfortable bed rolls inside the cave.
While the horses are groomed and fed in the morning, guests are able to make use of the ablutions (a pit latrine and a canvas sink for a quick wash). The Camp Host then prepares a hearty breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast on the open-fire before the horses are tacked up and everyone mounts their horses again for a good long ride back to camp. All belongings and the camping equipment are taken to and from the cave by vehicle by the Camp Host so when the clients arrive back at camp the following day their belongings will be waiting for them.
A unique trail which will be remembered forever!
From R2750.00
Horse Riding - Fully-catered 2 Night Klipspringer Trail
Get back to nature on this fantastic 2 night horse trail taking in the local flora and fauna and sleeping out by the Lusushwane River.
On arrival at reception, guests are escorted to the Chubeka Trails Stable where they receive a refreshing soft drink and an introduction to their horse and itinerary, in addition to a safety briefing.
Following the briefing, riders mount their horse and proceed on the trail. On the first day, the ride takes them up the slopes of Nyonyane mountain and around the stunning Mantenga Valley, stopping at a beautiful location for a light lunch which riders will have carried along in their horse's saddle bag. Crossing the river, the guests will arrive at their camp spot next to the Lusushwane River.
Two-man Dome Tents are erected prior to the riders arrival allowing them to simply relax and enjoy a hot beverage while their Camp Host prepares a traditional hearty dinner on the open-fire. The horses will be staying in the camp's paddocks and riders are encouraged to help feed, groom and bed down their horses.
Ablutions at the Klipspringer camp consist of Pit Latrines, Canvas Sinks and a hot shower which is constructed by a hot water donkey and a canvas hanging shower bag which hung up in a reed and natural rock shower cubicle. In the morning, guests will be woken by the guides and the camp hosts will prepare a delicious breakfast before they head out to explore the pristine Mlilwane North area as well as the community areas. The riders will make a stop en-route to have lunch in the bush and will be back at their camp spot on the river at around 3pm to allow their horses to rest. During this time the guides often take the clients for a short walk on foot along the river admiring the natural beauty of the riverine areas and bird-watching.
After another night getting back to nature in the riverine camp, the riders are woken by their guides and breakfast is prepared and served. The riders then mount their steeds and start their trek back to camp. They arrive back at camp at around lunch-time.
Self-Guided Hiking Trails - FREE
Enjoy a self-guided hike through Mlilwane's game-studded plains free of charge.
A network of self-guided trails can be found at Mlilwane.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the plains where a variety of game is often found including Wildebeest, Zebra, Blesbok, Kudu, Impala, Warthog to mention a few, or try the harder trails leading up to the infamous Rock of Execution.
Mlilwane Species Information:
Nature Education - FREE
Visit Mlilwane's Interpretation Centre to gain a better understanding of Swaziland's natural heritage free of charge
Further your knowledge of Swaziland's natural heritage by stopping by the Interpretation Centre where you can view skulls, read about rhino salvage operations, poaching and anti-poaching efforts.
Mlilwane Species Information:
Download Mlilwane Fauna Species PDF
Swimming - FREE
Take a dip in Mlilwane's beautiful swimming pool with stunning views.
Mlilwane's swimming pool is located close to the rest camp's braai/bbq area and children's play area.
Please note it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to supervise their child at all times while swimming. Customers use the swimming pool at their own risk. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is not liable for any injuries.
Children's Play Area - FREE
Mlilwane offers a set of children's swings close to the bbq/braai area and swimming pool.
Please note the swings are for children's use only and must be supervised by an adult. Mlilwane is not liable for any injuries.
Self-Drive Roads - FREE
View a wide range of wildlife from the comfort of your own vehicle on Mlilwane's self-drive roads.
Apart from abundant bird life and nesting water birds, there are a number of animal species to be seen including Hippo, Crocodile, Zebra, Blue Wildebeest, Kudu, Nyala, Impala, Warthog, Waterbuck, Reedbuck, Steenbok, Grey Duiker, Red Duiker, Klipspringer, Blesbok, Oribi and Suni.
Seldom seen, but present in the reserve are the ever-elusive Leopard and a variety of smaller mammals including Bushbaby, Mongoose, Aardwolf, Genet, Porcupine and Civet.
Mlilwane Species Information:
Dining at Sondzela Backpackers
Dining at Sondzela
Enjoy a delicious breakfast or home-cooked dinner at Sondzela Backpackers. Please note guests are also able to make use of Sondzela's kitchen should they prefer to self-cater.
Breakfast at Sondzela
Sondzela Backpackers offers a light continental breakfast for guests. This breakfast is prepared by Swazi hosts outside on an open fire and includes eggs, toast, and cereals. It is also served at the outside eating area with stunning views of Mlilwane. Guests wanting to experience Swazi culture can try out the indengane, a thin porridge prepared by boiling mealie meal, also served as part of this filling breakfast. Enjoy this local delicacy with sugar, milk or margarine...or all those together!
Just ZAR35.00 per person (2012 Rate)
Lunch at Mlilwane
Just a short walk away from Sondzela is Mlilwane's Hippo Haunt Restaurant where you can enjoy excellent value cuisine from its A La Carte Menu. Lunch is not available at Sondzela itself. Prices vary - please see Mlilwane Dining Options for further details.
Dinner at Sondzela
Sondzela Backpackers also offers plated home cooked dinners. These are prepared on an open fire at the outside Braai area. Meals range from Swazi bush braais which include venison to potjies (stews) prepared by your Swazi hosts.
Just ZAR55.00 per person (2012 Rate)
How to Book
Breakfast and dinner are served daily at Sondzela. Simply put down your name for the meals beforehand (the previous night for breakfast and in the morning for supper) and prepare for a hearty feast among nature.
Directions for Sondzela Backpackers
Directions from Lavumisa/Golela Border
Distance +-174 km; approx driving time 2hrs.
• Travel 64 km to Big Bend and continue to Manzini – Approx 84 km.
• Drive through Manzini and follow signs to Mbabane – this will bring you directly onto the Manzini / Mbabane highway.
• Travel +-20 km on the highway.
• Take the 2nd off ramp (“Lobamba, Elangeni and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary”).
• Turn left towards Lobamba and continue up the hill +- 1,5km
• At the traffic circle, keep left, passing the Parliament Buildings (on the left) and Memorial Park (on the right).
Option 1
• Turn left at the next intersection.
• Pass the Caltex filling station on your left and travel +-500m.
• Turn right to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Mlilwane’s Sangweni Gate (Open 24 hrs).
• Reception at the gate is open from 06h00 – 17h00. After 17h00 the night guard will allow you to enter and direct you to the Rest Camp, Reilly’s Rock or Sondzela Backpackers, where gate entry is paid.
Option 2
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Turn right towards Malandela’s/Malkerns. After approx 4 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge.
Directions from Mahamba Border
Distance approx. 145km; approx driving time 1hr45.
• 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 left onto highway towards Mbabane
• Travel +-17 km on the highway.
• Take the 2nd off ramp (“Lobamba, Elangeni and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary”).
• Turn left towards Lobamba and continue up the hill +- 1,5km.
• At the traffic circle, keep left, passing the Parliament Buildings (on the left) and Memorial Park (on the right).
• Turn left at the next intersection.
• Pass the Caltex filling station on your left and travel +-500m.
Option 1
• Turn right to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Mlilwane’s Sangweni Gate (Open 24 hrs).
• Reception at the gate is open from 06h00 – 17h00. After 17h00 the night guard will allow you to enter and direct you to Sondzela +- 2km from Sangweni Gate.
Option 2
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Drive for approx 3 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge.
Directions from Matsamo/Jeppes Reef Border
Distance approx. 135 km; approx driving time 2hrs.
• 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.
• Ngwenya Glass turnoff approx 5km to the right. Good place to visit - open from 9am to 4pm from border – very worth a visit.
There are 2 directions to the park:
Option 1
• Travel +- 8 km on the highway.
• Take MR103 off ramp (to Sun International Hotels, Lobamba and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary).
• Travel +- 11km past the Royal Swazi Sun, Lugogo and Ezulwini Hotels, the craft markets, Gables Shopping Centre (Pick ‘n Pay) and Happy Valley Motel.
Option 2
• Travel +-17 km on the highway.
• Take Lobamba / Elangeni off ramp (also signposted “Mlilwane”).
• Turn right under highway towards Lobamba and continue up the hill +- 1,5km.
• At the traffic circle, keep left, passing the Parliament Buildings (on the left) and Memorial Park (on the right).
• Turn left at the next intersection.
• You will pass Parliament Buildings (on the left) and Memorial Park (on the right.
Then:
• Pass the Caltex filling station on your left and travel +-500m.
Alternative Route
• Turn right to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Mlilwane’s Sangweni Gate (Open 24 hrs).
• Reception at the gate is open from 06h00 – 17h00. After 17h00 the night guard will allow you to enter and direct you to the Rest Camp, Reilly’s Rock or Sondzela Backpackers, where gate entry is paid.
Alternative Route
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Turn right towards Malandela’s/Malkerns.
After approx 4 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge
Directions from Ngwenya/Oshoek Border
Distance approx. 49km; approx driving time 40min.
• Ngwenya Glass turnoff approx 5km from border – very worth a visit!
• 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.
There are 2 directions to the Park:
Option 1.
• Travel +- 8 km on the highway.
• Take MR103 off ramp (to Sun International Hotels, Lobamba and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary).
• Travel +- 11km past the Royal Swazi Sun, Lugogo and Ezulwini Hotels, the craft markets, Gables Shopping Centre (Pick ‘n Pay) and Happy Valley Motel.
Option 2
• Travel +-17 km on the highway.
• Take Lobamba / Elangeni off ramp (also signposted “Mlilwane”).
• Turn right under highway towards Lobamba and continue up the hill +- 1,5km.
• At the traffic circle, keep left, passing the Parliament Buildings (on the left) and Memorial Park (on the right).
• Turn left at the next intersection.
• You will pass the Parliament Buildings and Memorial Park.
Then:
• Pass the Caltex filling station on your left and travel +-500m.
Alternative Route
• Turn right to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Mlilwane’s Sangweni Gate (Open 24 hrs)
• Reception at the gate is open from 06h00 – 17h00. After 17h00 the night guard will allow you to enter and direct you to the Rest Camp, Reilly’s Rock or Sondzela Backpackers, where gate entry is paid.
Alternative Route
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Turn right towards Malandela’s / Malkerns. After approx 4 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela backpackers – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge.
Directions from Emahlatini (Houtkop)/Sicunusa
Distance approx. 77 km; approx driving time 1hr.
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.
• Travel +- 13km.
• Turn left to Malkerns (M27) (if you pass Swazi Candles you’ve gone too far).
Option 1
• Travel +- 7km past a shopping area, the Malkerns police station, a number of botanical nursery’s and Malandela’s Restaurant / Gone Rural).
• Turn left at "T" junction.
• Travel +- 5 km.
• Turn left at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary sign onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Sangweni Gate of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.
• The Rest Camp is +- 3km from Sangweni Gate.
Option 2
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Drive for approx 3 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge.
Directions from Lomahasha/Namaacha Border
Distance +-140 km; approx driving time 1hr30.
• From the border travel past Simunye Sugar Estates, through Hlane Royal National Park and continue to Manzini.
• Drive through Manzini and follow signs to Mbabane – this will bring you directly onto the Manzini / Mbabane highway.
• Travel +-20 km on the highway.
• Take the 2nd off ramp (“Lobamba, Elangeni and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary”).
• Turn left towards Lobamba and continue up the hill +- 1,5km.
• At the traffic circle, keep left, passing the Parliament Buildings (on the left) and Memorial Park (on the right).
• Turn left at the next intersection.
• Pass the Caltex filling station on your left and travel +-500m.
Option 1
• Turn right to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Mlilwane’s Sangweni Gate (Open 24 hrs).
• Reception at the gate is open from 06h00 – 17h00. After 17h00 the night guard will allow you to enter and direct you to the Rest Camp, Reilly’s Rock or Sondzela Backpackers, where gate entry is paid.
Option 2
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Turn right towards Malandela’s/Malkerns. After approx 4 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge.
Directions from Mananga Border
Distance approx. 132 km; approx driving time 2hrs.
• 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 +- 85km past Simunye Sugar Estates / town (+-15km); through Hlane Royal National Park and continue to Manzini.
• Drive through Manzini and follow signs to Mbabane – this will bring you directly onto the Manzini / Mbabane highway.
• Travel +-20 km on the highway.
• Take the 2nd off ramp (“Lobamba, Elangeni and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary”).
• Turn left towards Lobamba and continue up the hill +- 1,5km.
• At the traffic circle, keep left, passing the Parliament Buildings (on the left) and Memorial Park (on the right).
• Turn left at the next intersection.
• Pass the Caltex filling station on your left and travel +-500m.
Option 1
• Turn right to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Mlilwane’s Sangweni Gate (Open 24 hrs).
• Reception at the gate is open from 06h00 – 17h00. After 17h00 the night guard will allow you to enter and direct you to the Rest Camp, Reilly’s Rock or Sondzela Backpackers, where gate entry is paid.
Option 2
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Turn right towards Malandela’s/Malkerns. After approx 4 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge
Directions from Mhlumeni/Goba Border
Distance +-120 km; approx driving time 1hr30.
• From the border travel to Siteki – approx 19km.
• Turn right towards Manzini at petrol station.
• Turn left at the T-junction towards Manzini.
• Drive through Manzini and follow signs to Mbabane – this will bring you directly onto the Manzini / Mbabane highway.
• Travel +-20 km on the highway.
• Take the 2nd off ramp (“Lobamba, Elangeni and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary”).
• Turn left towards Lobamba and continue up the hill +- 1,5km.
• At the traffic circle, keep left, passing the Parliament Buildings (on the left) and Memorial Park (on the right).
• Turn left at the next intersection.
• Pass the Caltex filling station on your left and travel +-500m.
Option 1
• Turn right to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Mlilwane’s Sangweni Gate (Open 24 hrs).
• Reception at the gate is open from 06h00 – 17h00. After 17h00 the night guard will allow you to enter and direct you to the Rest Camp, Reilly’s Rock or Sondzela Backpackers, where gate entry is paid.
Option 2
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Turn right towards Malandela’s/Malkerns. After approx 4 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge.
Directions from Sandlane/Nerston Border
Distance approx. 76km; approx driving time 1hr30.
• 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 to 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 travel +- 13km
• Turn left to Malkerns (M27) (if you pass Swazi Candles you’ve gone too far).
Option 1
• Travel +- 7km past a shopping area, the Malkerns police station, a number of botanical nursery’s and Malandela’s Restaurant / Gone Rural).
• Turn left at "T" junction.
• Travel +- 5 km.
• Turn left at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary sign onto a dirt road.
• Travel +- 5 km to Mlilwane’s Sangweni Gate (Open 24 hrs).
• Reception at the gate is open from 06h00 – 17h00. After 17h00 the night guard will allow you to enter and direct you to Sondzela +- 2km from Sangweni Gate.
Option 2
• Continue along this road for approx 5km – past the main entrance to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and carry on until you get to Mahlanya vegetable market on your left.
• Drive for approx 3 km turn right at Vickery Seedlings (you will see a small sign to Big Game Parks reservations office and Sondzela Backpackers).
• Follow the dirt road until you get to a gate with a grass hut – tell the guard that you are going to Sondzela – drive 200m until you see the Sondzela sign at the parking area of the main lodge.
Reviews at Sondzela Backpackers
Ellie Rhebergen - Holland on 30 March 2012
We visited Sondzela in 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2011, each time we stayed a week or more in one of the rondavels with a beatiful view. The staff is very friendly and the food is lovely. This is the only park we know were one can walk freely, even without a guide, amongst the animals. The place is very central in Swaziland. Within walking distance one can take public transport to all over the country.
Anita Smith - UK on 07 March 2012
Really enjoyed my stay at Sondzela - it really does offer amazing value for money and what an amazing location! Loved the warthogs!
Set in scenic gardens, the camping ground is close to Sondzela's swimming pool and is perfectly situated with access to numerous activities and site-seeing opportunities.