Discover Hhohho: Dam and Hiking Tours

Maguga Dam sets a striking benchmark for Hhohho: it holds 332 million cubic metres of water, and its wall is 115 metres high. Malolotja Game Reserve is located near the dam. Covering 18,000 hectares, it is considered Eswatini’s largest protected area. The region also offers hiking tours led by members of local communities.

Maguga Dam and its surroundings

The two measurements describe different aspects of the structure: 332 million cubic metres refers to its capacity, while 115 metres is the height of the dam wall. This gives you a sense of the dam in terms of both the volume of water and its physical dimensions.

Malolotja Game Reserve, located near Maguga Dam, offers another nature-focused option for your travel plans. Its area of 18,000 hectares and its designation as Eswatini’s largest protected area give a clear sense of its scale.

Route and guided hiking tours

The road from Mbabane to Piggs Peak crosses Maguga Dam. If you include this route in your plans, you can visit the dam as part of the named road route. Check current road conditions before setting out.

Hiking tours in the Hhohho region offered by Maguga Lodge are led by members of local communities. This makes locally guided hiking, alongside the dam, a specific option to consider when planning your trip. Check tour availability in advance.

Culture and nature in Eswatini

King Sobhuza II Park is a national monument in Eswatini and was officially opened on 13 May 1994. Inside a domed structure, the park houses an oversized statue of King Sobhuza II and two symbolic lions. Its monument status, opening date and architectural design each offer a different point of interest for a visit.

The exhibitions at the Eswatini National Museum trace the history of the EmaSwati from the Stone Age through the colonial period to independence. Lion Cavern is located at Ngwenya Mine, considered the oldest mine in the world. The museum and the mine offer different ways to explore history: the exhibitions span a long period, while Lion Cavern focuses on a specific heritage site.

The Malolotja Canopy Tour® in Malolotja Nature Reserve includes eleven elevated platforms in the forest, ten zip lines and a 50-metre suspension bridge over the Majolomba River. These details describe different parts of the tour. Check before your trip whether it is currently operating.

Visitors can drive along 54 kilometres of road in Mlawula Nature Reserve to observe wildlife. This differs from a guided hiking tour: the focus here is on spotting wildlife along the roads.

Getting around Eswatini

Local transport in Eswatini includes buses and kombis, or shared taxis. For a short two-week stay, self-driving is one way to explore the country. Check local connections and road conditions before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Mbabane, Lobamba, Piggs Peak, Bulembu, Lubombo, Manzini, Shiselweni.

Return to the main travel overview: Eswatini.