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The Kingdom of Eswatini

Maguga Dam

Maguga Dam, an impresseive expanse of blue water, can be reached via a loop road east of the MR1, which crosses the Nkomati Valley at the dam wall. It is Swaziland’s largest reservoir and its wall, which stands 115m high, is the fourth largest in southern Africa. Visitors can pause to take in the view at various points. Boating and fishing are both available on the dam, with fully equipped houseboats for hire. You might even glimpse one of the hippos that sometimes make their way here along the Nkomati.

The dam was built under the auspices of the joint South Africa/Swaziland Komati Basin Water Authority (KOBWA), and today produces hydroelectric power and supplies irrigation to farmers across a wide area. When completed in 2001, it received the South Africa Institute of Civil Engineering award for ‘most outstanding achievement’ in the international category.

For many visitors Maguga Dam is just a scenic pit-stop between Mbabane and the Kruger Park. In this respect, the Maguga Lodge restaurant is beautifully located. Seated on southern shore, its terrace overlooking the glittering waters. With more time, you can enjoy hikes to local bushman paintings and waterfalls, bird-watching and mountain biking.

Activities at Maguga Dam
Accommodation at or near Maguga Dam
Maguga Lodge
Maguga Dam
Tradtional rondavel chalets and campsite overlooking the exquisite Maguga Dam.
A 4 berth boat on Maguga Dam with self catering facilities you can hire!
Umushi weNkosazane Resort and Spa
Malolotja Nature Reserve
Lodge set within picturesque setting of Malolotja
Small and welcoming guest house in the rural town of Pigg's Peak.
Piggs Peak Hotel
Pigg's Peak
Large hotel with luxury suites, conference facilities and an onsite casino.
Phophonyane Falls Ecolodge
Phophonyane Nature Reserve
Stunning rustic and alternative accommodation in a diverse and tropical nature reserve.
Hawane Resort
Malolotja Nature Reserve
Unique chalet accommodation with great food and activities
Malolotja Cabins
Malolotja Nature Reserve
Self Catering Cabins with panoramic views of Malolotja
Luxurious accommodation in a picturesque backdrop.
Places nearby
One of the very best highland reserves in Southern Africa.
Large settlement in the North West with Swaziland's most scenic handicraft outlet.
Nestled at the foot of a mountain. A rejuvenated mining town.
Experience glass-blowers as they create beautiful sculptures with recycled materials.
The oldest mine in the world.
A private nature reserve home to the tumbling Phophonyane River and Falls.
Incredible art by the Sam people up to 4,000 years ago.
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Maguga Dam