Africa, Eswatini 
Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is a small kingdom sandwiched between South Africa and Mozambique. Just a 25-minute drive from the capital, Mbabane, the Murrilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, which stretches across a beautiful valley known as the "Eswatini Valley", is a special place where you can get up close and personal with the African wilderness with its unique concept of "safari without big beasts". Away from the flow of tourists in search of the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo), we will introduce you to a journey where you will encounter unexpected "Africanness" in a protected area that can be said to be a hidden gem.
The origins of Eswatini conservation
Mlilwane is not just a tourist destination, but the origin of Eswatini's nature conservation activities. Originally a hunting ground, Ted Reilly bought the land in 1961 and converted it into a wildlife sanctuary, which was the beginning of Murrilwane. As the Kingdom's first nature reserve, it laid the foundation for the subsequent development of the national park system.
Today, the site covers 4,560 hectares and is home to more than 300 species of birds and 40 species of mammals, with a diverse ecosystem of grasslands, rivers, wetlands, and forests. It is worth mentioning that there are no wild animals, so you can enjoy safaris on foot, mountain biking, horseback riding, and other free styles that are not tied to a car.
A special sense of proximity to wildlife
The biggest attraction of Murilwane is the "just right distance" from wild animals. If you walk along the walking trail, you can quietly observe zebras, nyalas (spiral-horned antelopes) and impalas grazing a few meters away. In particular, the "Hippo Trail" offers a chance to see the hippopotamus habitat up close.
Horseback safaris are open to beginners, and as you ride your horseback, the wildlife is less wary of humans and shows you closer and more natural. The animals that gather in the Samburu Wetland seen from the horse are as beautiful as if they jumped out of a picture book.
Wild scenery on a mountain bike
When it comes to safaris in Africa, four-wheel drive vehicles ... Overturning the image is the mountain bike safari in Murrilwane. Cycling along the designated trails offers the exhilaration of feeling the breeze across the vast plains and unexpected encounters with wildlife.
In particular, the "Sunrise Tour" in the morning is exceptional, and it is a luxurious experience where you can quietly observe the animals waking up in the morning fog without the sound of the engine. The opportunity to see wildlife in pristine conditions during the most active hours of the day is a privilege not found in large safari parks.
Traditional Accommodation Experience
Accommodation is also one of the attractions of the reserve. In particular, staying in a traditional circular hut (Behib) called "Behib Village" is a unique experience of Murilwane. Constructed of thatched roofs and mud walls, these huts retain their traditional feel while providing comfortable bedding and minimal amenities.
In the evening, there is also a dinner around the bonfire. The rangers' wildlife stories under the stars are a treasure trove of living knowledge that can't be conveyed in TV documentaries. There is also a spacious campsite where you can stay closer to nature.
Cultural opportunities
In Mlirwane you can get a glimpse not only of nature, but also of the rich culture of Eswatini. Within the reserve is the Swazi Cultural Village, where you can experience traditional lifestyles, crafts, music and dance.
In particular, the traditional dance performances held on Sundays are not to be missed. The colorful costumes and powerful dances evoke a deep sense of history and pride. Beaded accessories and textiles handmade by local women are also popular as practical souvenirs.
Practical Information: How to Visit and Enjoy
Murilwane is about a 25-minute drive from Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini. Its location within a day trip of Johannesburg, South Africa (about a 4-hour drive) is also ideal for a weekend getaway.
The entrance fee is surprisingly reasonable at about $5 for adults. Activities are extra, but at around $30 for a horseback safari and $10 for a mountain bike rental, it's very affordable compared to other safari experiences in Africa.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September). At this time of year, there is less grass and animals are easier to find, and the risk of malaria is reduced. However, it gets cold in the mornings and evenings, so you need to wear clothes that can be layered.
Lastly: A place to feel the real Africa
It's not a touristy safari that sells big beasts, but a place that is loved by locals and has a spirit of conservation – Murrilwane is a great discovery for travellers looking for that 'other Africa'.
It's a bit different from a journey to meet the Big Five, and it's a gentle and deep interaction with the wild. And above all, you can enjoy the African experience safely and at your own pace. Why don't you create your own special memories at the Mrilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, a hidden gem of your trip to Southern Africa?
