A safe and peaceful base to explore Swaziland, Sondzela Backpackers boasts a wide range of exciting activities, great value accommodation options and excellent facilities all within the stunning Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary: an Outdoor Lover's Paradise.Available activities at Mlilwane Rest Camp include open game viewer drives, hourly/overnight horse safaris, Umphakatsi cultural village visit, stunning aquatic wildlife viewing, close encounters with plains game, self-guided hiking & mountain biking and big game day tours to Mlilwane's Sister Reserves; Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve.Recently renovated, the excellent value accommodation options include camping, bunk beds and dorms, private Rondavels and private rooms set within a beautiful garden where warthog and Ostriches are often spotted. Facilities include a games room and Hog n Wart Bar, swimming pool, great-value home-cooked Venison dinners, communal TV lounge, kitchen & laundry area.A FREE Sondzela Shuttle to and from the neighbouring Malandela's Restaurant and Internet Cafe and FREE entry with a Wild Card is also offered.Please note:Check in from 14.00Check out before 10.00Breakfast not included. Light cooked breakfast - cereal, toast, egg, juice, tea/coffee. Self-catering facilities available.Payment upon arrival by cash (South African Rand) or credit card (Visa or Mastercard)Cancellation policy: 24h advance noticeVAT included - Bed Levy not yet applicableA small Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary Conservation fee (Approx. R35pp) is applicable on entry to the park and is valid for the duration of your stay. Alternatively entry is FREE for Wild Card Holders. All reservations accepted are subject to Big Game Parks reservation conditions.ONLY VISA or MASTERCARD ACCEPTED - all bookings made via other credit cards cannot be honored by the property and therefore will be cancelled
Traveler Reviews
“Beautifull view doesnt make everything alright”
Great location, with an amazing view. But, it would be wise of the owners to provide more information about getting there. Maps.me AND Google maps will lead you to a back entrance which you are not...
“Beware of opportunistic thefts”
Location is very scenic and accommodation prices are reasonable. The Hippo Haunt bar and restaurant nearby is relaxing and food is delicious. But visitors to the Sondzela Backpackers must be highly...
“Peaceful stay with great views and staff”
I stayed here with a tour group. We stayed in the rondavels which were basic, however all were en-suite, with ceiling fans and very clean and comfortable. The views were fantastic and very quiet. The...
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary,MalkernsFor the Manzini-bound bus from Mbabane, make sure the driver knows you want to get off in the valley. Even some nonexpress buses aren't keen on stopping. Nonshared taxis from Mbabane cost at least US$7 negotiate at night.If you're driving from either Mbabane or Manzini, take the Ezulwini Valley/Lobamba exit off the bypass road. This puts you on the MR103, from where everything is well signposted.