Hlane Royal National Park

Eswatini (Swaziland), Africa

Hlane Royal National Park is a pristine wildlife sanctuary in Eswatini, famous for its population of white rhinos and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can embark on self-drive safaris, guided tours, and birdwatching in the park's lush woodlands and savannas. Unique attractions include the rich cultural heritage of the nearby communities and the chance to encounter the big cats of Africa. Its serene atmosphere and commitment to conservation make it an ideal escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Matsapha

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Hlane Royal National Park

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go on a game drive

Explore Hlane's wildlife on a thrilling game drive.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the lion sanctuary

Get close to majestic lions in a protected environment.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a guided walking tour

Experience the park's flora and fauna up close.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Birdwatching

Spot diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the park's history

Learn about Hlane's cultural heritage and conservation efforts.

No booking required
6

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Camp under the stars

Enjoy a night in nature at a campsite.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory

Witness artisans creating beautiful glass art.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a community tour

Engage with local culture through immersive experiences.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take photographs of wildlife

Capture stunning images of Hlane's diverse wildlife.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local cuisine

Taste traditional Eswatini dishes at local eateries.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Hlane Royal National Park rest camp

Relax in nature at the park's comfortable rest camp.

Booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the surrounding areas

Discover nearby attractions and scenic landscapes.

No booking required
13

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a local festival

Experience vibrant cultural celebrations throughout the year.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-12 (#174 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Lilangeni

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Swati

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Karoo Roast Ostrich Steak

Grilled ostrich meat steak. (National dish)

Sishwala

VE

Traditional porridge made from maize.

Incwancwa

VE

Stewed pumpkin leaves with spices.

Umbidvo Wetintsanga

VE

Mixed vegetable dish with groundnuts.

Emasi

V

Fermented milk product, similar to yogurt.

Phrases to learn

English

Swati

Hello

Sawubona

(Sah-woo-boh-nah)

Yes/No

Yebo / Cha

(Yeh-boh / Chah)

Thank you

Ngiyabonga

(Ngee-ah-bon-gah)

Excuse me

Ngiyaxolisa

(Ngee-yah-kho-lee-sah)

How much?

Ngakhi?

(Ngah-khee)