Mkhaya Game Reserve

Mkhaya Game Reserve  -  In the south east is Mkhaya Swaziland’s refuge for endangered species where the animals feel so unthreatened and have such confidence in their world that visitors can literally associate with elephant, rhino, buffalo, and a host of other creatures at little more than an arms length.

Black rhino are also a feature of Mkhaya. It is pure Nature Magic. Mkhaya is also where the pure Swazi Nguni Swaziland’s own indigenous breed of cattle was saved from extinction for posterity.

“Closer to nature” is the main focus of this unique reserve and its no-nonsense approach to unpretentious outings is becoming evermore popular with travelers sick of over-commercialization and loss of the real Africa.

As Swaziland’s Refuge for Endangered Species, Mkhaya is a modern day success story for rhino conservation. Black and white rhino, as well as elephant, buffalo and many other species of rare game are easily tracked for visitors by the same skilled Swazi rangers whose efforts ensure its survival.

Accommodation is provided in “Stone Camp”. Managed and hosted entirely by friendly Swazi staff, the daily camp routine revolves in true romantic fashion around delicious meals on the fire, Landrover excursions, guided walks and evenings under a myriad of stars. Two night visits recommended.

A special Landrover day tour between 10H00 and 16H00 allows access for day trippers and local residents.

Mkhaya is the Kingdom’s VIP destination.

Mkhaya Game Reserve Accommodation:
Laid out along the banks of a dry river bed, is Stone Camp where the vegetation comprises of tall fig, leadwood, sausage and knobthorn trees, with a lush under-canopy giving it a year-round subtropical appearance.

Bird life in the camp is a special feature with many species of robin, purple-crested lourie, narina trogan and pink-throated twinspots among the special treats. Smaller game such as warthog visit the camp whilst the big game, such as elephant, is kept at bay outside the camp by a three-strand electric cordon.

The camp is comfortable, quiet and relaxing and a welcome retreat after a day out in the burning sun.

The camp is known as `Stone Camp` due to the dolerite rocks used in the construction of the semi-open stone and thatch cottages. This unique style accommodation in its primeval setting offers visitors the opportunity of really getting back to nature.

All twelve units are laid out individually in the riverine forest overlooking the dry riverbed, linked by central and branch pathways surfaced with river sand and lit at night by paraffin lanterns as the camp has no electricity.

Each unit is totally private due to the thick vegetation, though some units are close enough together for use as an extended family unit.

The entire internal structure of these cottages, although veiled for privacy, is open to the external bush, which gives visitors a totally unique, true bush experience.