2Nights/3Days Pongola-Hiking-Ngenya Nature Reserve-Forresters Arms-Lion Cave-Mantenga National Park
Day 1:All meals-own cost!
Depart after breakfast and our ZULU HEART then heads further north to the border of Swaziland, the road following the ancient game trails of rhino, hippo and elephant – paths that became linked with human footpaths through the aeons. Entering Swaziland ! The tiny Kingdom of Swaziland has a big heart and warm, friendly people: a kingdom which embraces and upholds its unique and ancient traditions, guarding and proudly celebrating these traditions. The Swazi people comprise a single ethnic group of several clans (like the Scots) and who are united under one monarch. Swaziland has always been a land of kings whose line has been established during the 15th and 16th centuries. Africans of Nguni descent migrated southward from Central Africa under the leadership of Dlamini III. Under Ngwane III, in the mid-18th century, some of them settled in the area which today is the Shiselweni region in southern Swaziland. These people, the Nkosi Dlamini, became known as Swazis. Entering Swaziland, we head for Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. This secluded park in the Ezulwini Valley, in central eSwatini, is known for its relaxed atmosphere and lovely hiking trails through grasslands, eucalyptus forests and some of the highest points in the Kingdom. Catch glimpses of giraffes, zebras as you hike, game drive in open Land Rovers or horseback ride through the park.
Day 2: All meals-own cost!
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, we travel to north-western Swaziland where we will overnight at the renowned Forester’s Arms Hotel. From this picturesque setting, we will strike out for various diverse sites. Ngwenya Mine in Malotja Nature Reserve. Ngwenya means crocodile, referring to a large croc-shaped mountain along eSwatini’s western border. This colourful Swazi ceremony takes place in early September every year where Swazi maidens of marriageable age, gather at the Queen Mother’s residence and set out in parties to gather reeds. Singing and rhythmic dancing takes place on the afternoon of the sixth and seventh days at the Royal Village. Ngwenya Glass Factory: One of Swaziland’s leading attractions Ngwenya Glass provides a huge selection of African curios and artifacts – all handmade, including African animals all made from 100% recycled glass.
Day 3: All meals-own cost!
This morning we will visit Mantenga Nature Reserve’s cultural village for traditional Swazi tribal dancing before transferring to King Mswati III Airport for your onward flight.
