The Traveling Taylors

The biggest surprise? Hlane Royal National Park isn’t a luxury safari destination—and that’s actually a good thing.

The Big Surprise

Hlane Royal National Park surprised us because it’s more personal and intimate than we expected. You’re not packed into a minibus with 10 other tourists. Instead, you’re on a small guided tour with just a few people, which makes the experience feel exclusive and special.

The park is also much less crowded than other safari destinations in the region. This means you’ll have a better chance of seeing wildlife and taking photos without the distraction of other vehicles. Many travelers recommend the ultimate travel action camera like this  for capturing stunning photos and videos of your safari in incredible detail. 

Another surprise was the affordability. Compared to other safari destinations in Southern Africa, Hlane Royal National Park is quite affordable, which makes it accessible to more people. If you’re still planning your trip, our full Hlane Royal National Park guide covers the best times to visit, costs, and where to see wildlife in more detail.

Accommodations & Costs

There are a few accommodation options within the park, ranging from budget-friendly rest camps to more comfortable chalets.

The rest camps provide a great base for exploring the park. They are basic but clean accommodations. You can rest during the hottest part of the day and then go out on an afternoon safari. Because wildlife viewing often means lots of photos and videos, having a reliable travel backpack like this one makes it easy to carry your camera gear and accessories.

There’s also a restaurant at the main rest camp where you can get meals. For travelers who want something ultra convenient, individual mouthwash packets like these are easy to keep in a bag or pocket for quick freshness after meals.

Activities

The main activity at Hlane Royal National Park is wildlife viewing.

You can do guided walks, vehicle safaris, or a combination of both. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the park and its wildlife. To skip the logistics, this full-day Hlane Royal National Park safari from Manzini includes a guided game drive with transport sorted for you.

The walks are more immersive and allow you to experience the park at a slower pace. Comfortable shoes are essential when exploring on foot, and many travelers recommend supportive walking sneakers like these for full days of sightseeing.

The vehicle safaris are more comfortable and allow you to cover more ground. You’ll have a better chance of seeing the larger animals like elephants and giraffes. Since Hlane sits within easy reach of the rest of the country, it’s worth pairing your visit with the Eswatini capital and the traditional beehive homes at Mantenga Cultural Village.

Is Hlane Royal National Park Worth Visiting?

Hlane Royal National Park is a hidden gem that offers an authentic safari experience at an affordable price. It’s perfect for budget travelers who still want to see wildlife in their natural habitat.