As we are approaching the Festive season, whether you are seeking a quiet, romantic getaway or a reunion as a family or group of friends, Mbuluzi has an accommodation option that will suit you.
Mbuluzi Game Reserve is a 2600-hectare bushveld paradise in the northeast of Eswatini. The property is privately managed and is situated along the Mlawula River. The reserve is home to a large variety of animals, birds and beautiful trees. Guests are free to relax at their lodge or campsite or explore the game reserve at their own pace by car, foot or bike.
Mbuluzi Game Reserve offers an array of activities. Embark on leisurely walks along well-marked trails, where you can observe wildlife up close and be enchanted by the rich birdlife. If you’re feeling more adventurous, mountain bikes are available for hire from reception, allowing you to explore the vast expanse of the game reserve. Alternatively, you can simply relish the serenity at Mbuluzi by relaxing at your lodge and soaking up the peace and quiet.
Game-viewing roads, hiking trails and a mountain-bike route wind around the reserve, criss-crossing the Mlawula River and offering impressive views. The terrain undulates between the deep Mbuluzi gorge and steep Lubombo escarpment, with dense riverine forests, rocky cliffs and open savannah. It supports a good population of giraffe, kudu, blue wildebeest, zebra, impala and other herbivores. Hippos move in and out of the reserve, while spotted hyenas and leopards are occasionally seen. Over 300 bird species have been recorded, including rarities such as African finfoot and Narina Trogon, and the rivers hold numerous crocodiles.
Where is Mbuluzi Game Reserve?
Mbuluzi Game Reserve is part of the Lubombo Biosphere Reserve in the northeast part of Eswatini. Depending on your location, Mbuluzi Game Reserve is: 30 minutes from the Mananga Border; 50 minutes from King Mswati III International Airport; 1 hour 30 mins from the Lavumisa border or 10-minute drive from Simunye.
What are the Accommodation options at Mbuluzi Game Reserve?
There are ten exclusive self-catering lodges at the Mbuluzi Game Reserve that guests can choose from to rent and enjoy having all to themselves. Lodges vary in size from one bedroom to four bedrooms and there is also a camping option. Two lodges are shared use for those who are not looking for exclusive use of a property.
Some lodges are tented, some have swimming pools, some have DSTV and WIFI. Airconditioning is available at some lodges. You just need to pick the lodge that fits your exact needs and preference.
As all of the accommodation is self-catering, you will need to bring everything you need for your stay in terms of food and drink. The nearest shops are a 10-minute drive from the gate to Simunye Plaza, so if you do forget something essential you can easily get basic items.
All lodges are equipped for self-catering and have a braai area for cooking outside. Some lodges have full kitchens, and others have kitchenettes. Several lodges have inside and outside eating areas.
If you prefer to eat out, the Simunye Club has an extensive menu and is a 15-minute drive from the main gates at Mbuluzi Game Reserve.
What can I do at Mbuluzi Game Reserve?
There are many activities on offer at Mbuluzi including:
- Mountain Bikes can be hired from reception and used to explore the many trails through the beautiful reserve. This opportunity to get close up to the wildlife is one not to be missed.
- Birding trips (alone or accompanied by a guide) are available. There are a couple of stunning bird hides to get great views of both birds and animals at the waterholes.
- Game drives – you can drive yourself through the reserve to enjoy the wildlife, or you can pre book a guided game.
- Visit look-out points for breath-taking views. These include giraffe pan and the crocodile look-out spot.
- Bird watching from your stoep. All lodges have extraordinary river views, a pair of binoculars and some patience is all that is required!
- Game walks. Choose between walking along the dirt roads of the reserve to enjoy the trees, plants, animals and birds, or follow the well laid out trails through the bush.
- Total relaxation. A firm favourite pastime for manty guests is to simply soak in the quiet serenity of Mbuluzi with an early morning cup of coffee or a cold glass of beer or wine at sunset!
How do I book my stay at Mbuluzi?
If you would like to spend some quality time at Mbuluzi it’s easy to book.
Either go to the website www.mbuluzi.com where you can book direct or email mbuluzireception@gmail.com or simply call the team on +268 7625 9380.
Eswatini Tourism Authority continues to drive its mandate to encourage responsible travel in the Kingdom of Eswatini and promotes Eswatini as a preferred destination.