A white rhino, known as Masalempini, and her calf in Mkhaya Game Reserve.

©Philip Lee Harvey/Lonely Planet

Mkhaya Game Reserve

eSwatini (Swaziland)


Spectacular Mkhaya was established in 1979 to save the pure Nguni breed of cattle from extinction. It’s known, however, for its black and white rhino populations (it boasts that you’re more likely to meet rhinos here than anywhere else in Africa). It's not all about rhinos though – look out for tsessebe (antelope), giraffes, buffaloes, hippo and crocodiles. It’s near the hamlet of Phuzumoya, off the Manzini–Big Bend road.

If you want to visit the reserve you have to book in advance, and even then you can’t drive in alone; you’ll be met at the pick up location at a specified pick-up time – either 10am or 4pm. While day tours can be arranged, it’s ideal to stay for at least one night. Entry fees are included in the package price.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby eSwatini (Swaziland) attractions

1. Nisela Safaris

24.46 MILES

Nisela is a small private reserve nestled at the foot of the Lebombo Mountains south of Nsoko. Wildebeest, giraffes, zebras, warthogs and numerous species…

2. Manzini Market

26.55 MILES

Manzini’s main drawcard is its colourful market, whose upper section is packed with handicrafts from eSwatini and elsewhere in Africa. Thursday morning is…

3. Hlane Royal National Park

29.46 MILES

You come to Hlane Royal National Park for the big stuff. eSwatini’s largest protected area, this well-organised reserve is home to elephants, lions,…