Perched at the top of Lubombo Mountains, just 20 minutes from the Lomahasha border post with Mozambique in the far north of the Lumbombo Route, is the incomparable Shewular Nature Reserve and Mountain Camp.

Apart from attracting cultural tourists from aroudn the world, it is gaining in popularity among overland and 4×4 travelers, although it is accessible by two-wheel drive vehicles. Backpackers can ride a local bus from Manzini, Simunye or the Lomahasha border.

This stunning vantage point, set on 2,650 hectares of land set aside by the community for conservation, provides spectacular views over the Swazi lowveld, including the Mbuluzi and Mlawula Nature Reserves, which merge with Hlane Royal Nataional Park to create the Lubombo Conservancy. Hlane holds great cultural significance for teh Swazi people and it supports lion, cheetah, leopard, white rhino, elephant, giraffe, hippo, crocodile, wildebeest and a variety of antelope and zebra. Samango monkeys amd leopard – although rarely seen – occur in the forested gorges of the Lubombo Mountains

The Shewula Mountain Camp is a successful community venture offering four furnished rondavels, kitchen, ablution block and camping sites. Hot water, gas-powered fridges and stoves are available, and you can choose between catered or self-catered options. The facilities of the nearby Simunye Country Club are also available to Shewula guests.

Shewula Mountain Camp is just one of the community tourism projects in Eswatini. Click here to find out about other similar tourism in the community initiatives.

Shewula Mountain Camp is also part of a new initiative which will see a number of Eco Trails developed within the Lubombo Mountains. Eco walks and treks will be opened up, to allow visitors to explore the area better on foot, as well connect to local projects and communities. Click here for more information.