Right at the heart of Eswatini is hidden Malolotja Nature Reserve, a jewel for adventure lovers and nature fanatics alike. The giant 18,000-hectare reserve envelopes highlands, rugged hills, and deeply forested gorges, with rock formations believed to date back to ancient times—all part of what represents the oldest in the world. And the spectacular Malolotja Falls descend 95 meters, feeding the Nkomati River.
Malolotja Nature Reserve is where ancient rocks meet untamed beauty, offering a haven of rugged landscapes, rare wildlife, and thrilling adventures. It’s a sanctuary where every trail tells a story, and every moment connects you to the timeless essence of Eswatini.
For those seeking a thrill, the Malolotja Canopy Tour provides an adrenaline-charged experience. The tour features a 50-meter suspension bridge and 11 wooden platforms ingeniously attached to the steep sides of Silotshwane Gorge. Participants zip-line from platform to platform on a steel cable high above the forest canopy and Majolomba River.
Wildlife and Bird Watching
The wildlife at Malolotja is unique with species like Blesbok, Zebra, Blue Wildebeest, and rare Black Wildebeest. Other common animals include the smaller antelopes like Grey Rhebok and Mountain Reedbuck. The reserve is a paradise for bird watchers, with the endangered Blue Swallow, Gurney’s Sugarbird, and the Southern Bald Ibis, which nests on the cliffs above the falls.
Walking and Exploring
The Malolotja Nature Reserve offers more than 200 kilometres of hiking trails that guide through the best in Southern Africa. Trails range in difficulty from easy walking to high-difficulty multi-day hikes. For something more adventurous, the Malolotja Canopy Tour is an action-packed experience through the forest with suspension bridges and zip lines over the Silotshwane Gorge.
Craftsmanship and Culture
While you leave, just stop over at the local stone-carvers stalls near the entrance. They create wonderful carvings from soapstone that portray all aspects of this rich Eswatini cultural heritage. Malolotja Nature Reserve is a must to see when it comes to magical scenery, rich in wildlife, and exciting adventures; it is indeed a highlight in southern African.
