Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary Eswatini: A Comprehensive Guide to History, Amazing Facts, and Things to Do
Nestled in the Ezulwini Valley of Eswatini, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a 4,560-hectare reserve filled with an abundance of wildlife, natural beauty, and a rich cultural and historical past. Established in 1961, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is the oldest wildlife sanctuary in the country and is also known as the “place of the little fire” in the local language. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, warthogs, and baboons. It is also a popular destination for bird watching, with over 350 species of birds recorded in the reserve.
History of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1961 by Ted and Elmon Motsa, two brothers from the local Motsa family. The brothers had inherited the land from their father, who had bought it in the early 1950s to protect the wildlife from poaching. The brothers decided to turn the land into a wildlife sanctuary and began to invite visitors to come and experience the natural beauty of the reserve.
In the early years, the brothers worked hard to protect the wildlife and develop the sanctuary. They introduced a variety of conservation initiatives, such as the introduction of game fences and the introduction of game guards to patrol the area. They also started a number of educational programs to teach visitors about the importance of conservation and the wildlife in the reserve.
Today, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is managed by the Motsa family and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Eswatini. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, warthogs, and baboons. It is also a popular destination for bird watching, with over 350 species of birds recorded in the reserve.
Amazing Facts about Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
• Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is the oldest wildlife sanctuary in Eswatini, established in 1961.
• The sanctuary covers an area of 4,560 hectares.
• The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, warthogs, and baboons.
• Over 350 species of birds have been recorded in the reserve.
• The sanctuary is managed by the Motsa family, who have been protecting the wildlife and developing the sanctuary since its establishment.
• The sanctuary is a popular destination for bird watching, with over 350 species of birds recorded in the reserve.
• The sanctuary is also home to the rare and endangered wattled crane, which is found only in Eswatini.
Things to Do at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing day in nature, there’s something for everyone at the sanctuary. Here are some of the top things to do at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary:
• Game Drives: Enjoy a game drive through the reserve to see the wide variety of wildlife that call the sanctuary home.
• Bird Watching: With over 350 species of birds recorded in the reserve, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for bird watching.
• Hiking: Explore the reserve on foot and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Horseback Riding: Enjoy a leisurely ride through the reserve on horseback.
• Cultural Tours: Learn about the history and culture of the local people with a guided cultural tour.
• Nature Walks: Take a leisurely walk through the sanctuary and observe the wildlife in its natural habitat.
• Fishing: Enjoy a day of fishing on one of the many lakes in the reserve.
• Camping: Spend a night under the stars in the reserve’s camping area.
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a great destination for visitors looking to experience the natural beauty of Eswatini. With its wide variety of activities and its rich history and culture, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.