Where birdwatchers feel at home in the wild. 
Listen for the Narina Trogon or watch African Finfoot from your private pool overlooking the river. 
Step from your private thatched lodge directly into a rich, bird-filled riverine forest. The venue
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Set in the tranquil northeastern corner of Eswatini, Mbuluzi Game Reserve is one of the country’s best-kept secrets for birdwatching.
This private reserve covers over 3,000 hectares of mixed habitats — riverine forest, savanna, acacia woodland, and rocky slopes — creating ideal
conditions for an impressive variety of birdlife. More than 300 species have been recorded here, making Mbuluzi a true hotspot for
birders exploring southern Africa.
With neighbouring Mlawula Nature Reserve and Hlane Royal National Park nearby, Mbuluzi also forms part of a larger protected area network that supports incredible biodiversity.
A 5-star feel without the 5-star price. 
Enjoy luxury with all the home comforts. 
Choose the accommodation option that suits you: luxury tented, rustic thatched, or sleek, contemporary lodges. Accommodation
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Mbuluzi has a choice of nine self-catering lodges and a camp site. The lodges vary in size and style. Some lodges have a modern feel, whilst others offer tented
luxury or thatched roofs.
• Lodges are fully equipped for self catering
• All lodges provide a home from home feel
• All lodges are serviced daily
• Most lodges have Starlink wifi
• Peace and quiet guaranteed (apart from the bird noise)!
All lodges are situated within the peaceful reserve and have river views which is ideal for early-morning birding right from your deck.
Please check www.mbuluzi.com to see information on size and facilities at each of the nine lodges.
Where Habitats Meet and Birds Thrive
Mbuluzi’s diversity of landscapes means you can see an exceptional range of species in just a day’s exploring. Along the Mlawula River, look carefully under the overhanging vegetation for the African Finfoot, one of southern Africa’s most elusive and rewarding sightings. The riverbanks also attract Giant Kingfisher, White-backed Night Heron, and a variety of waders and weavers. The thornveld is alive with rollers, hornbills, and bee-eaters, while open plains attract raptors such as Martial Eagles, Bateleurs, and Tawny Eagles. The Narina Trogon is another treat and is often seen at lodges.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Mbuluzi offers well-maintained self-drive routes, peaceful walking trails, and several bird hides positioned near waterholes and along the river. Whether you prefer a full-day checklist challenge or a relaxed morning stroll, the reserve’s varied terrain keeps every outing interesting. For newcomers or those seeking expert insight, guided birding walks can be arranged through the reserve office.
Why Birders Love Mbuluzi
• Over 300 species recorded — including several rare and sought-after birds
• Varied habitats within easy reach
• Excellent photography opportunities with natural light and quiet surroundings
• Flexible access for self-guided birders or small groups
• Year-round birding with seasonal highlights
Mbuluzi offers well-maintained self-drive routes, peaceful walking trails, and several bird hides positioned near waterholes and along the river. Whether you prefer a full-day checklist challenge or a relaxed morning stroll, the reserve’s varied terrain keeps every outing interesting. For newcomers or those seeking expert insight, guided birding walks can be arranged through the reserve office.
Why Birders Love Mbuluzi
• Over 300 species recorded — including several rare and sought-after birds
• Varied habitats within easy reach
• Excellent photography opportunities with natural light and quiet surroundings
• Flexible access for self-guided birders or small groups
• Year-round birding with seasonal highlights
Narina Trogon is often considered mythical but does exist here.
Courtesy Patty McGann.
White-backed Night Heron is the shy and a sought after tick on many life lists.
Courtesy Justin Ponder, Wikimedia Commons.
Martial Eagle is the epitome of raw raptor power and strength.. 
Due to its camouflage, African Emerald Cuckoo is missing from many birder's lists.
Courtesy Jim Scarff, Wikimedia Commons.
The baby-like call of Trumpeter Hornbill can he heard daily. Facilities and services
All accommodation fully equipped for self-catering
Lodges serviced daily
Nine lodge options: from luxury tents, rustic thatched villas, to sleek, contemporary lodges
A variety of lodge sizes to suit couples up to groups of eight
Lodges serviced daily
Nine lodge options: from luxury tents, rustic thatched villas, to sleek, contemporary lodges
A variety of lodge sizes to suit couples up to groups of eight
Birding On Site
Well-maintained roads and trails
Great bird hides, rivers, and dams
Bike hire
Well-maintained roads and trails
Great bird hides, rivers, and dams
Bike hire
For the birder
Self drive
Well-laid-out walking/hiking trails
Birding Guide available
Well-laid-out walking/hiking trails
Birding Guide available
24-hour birding
Birding from your lodge on the riverbankt
Over 300 species listed
Birding from your lodge on the riverbankt
Over 300 species listed
Top ticks
White-backed Night Heron
Narina Trogon
African Finfoot
Dwarf Bittern
Narina Trogon
African Finfoot
Dwarf Bittern
Narina Trogon
African Broadbill
Green-winged Pytilia
Thick Billed Cuckoo
African Broadbill
Green-winged Pytilia
Thick Billed Cuckoo
Nearby hotspots
Mlawula Nature Reserve
Hlane Royal National Park
Hlane Royal National Park
Recommended accommodation discount
To book
(No landline)
+268 7625 9390 (Whatsapp)
+268 7625 9390 (Whatsapp)