About

ONLY VISA or MASTERCARD ACCEPTED - all bookings made via other credit cards cannot be honored by the property and therefore will be cancelled

A safe and peaceful base to explore Swaziland, Sondzela Backpackers boasts a wide range of exciting activities, great value accommodation options and excellent facilities all within the stunning Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary: an Outdoor Lover's Paradise.

Available activities at Mlilwane Rest Camp include open game viewer drives, hourly/overnight horse safaris, Umphakatsi cultural village visit, stunning aquatic wildlife viewing, close encounters with plains game, self-guided hiking & mountain biking and big game day tours to Mlilwane's Sister Reserves; Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve.

Recently renovated, the excellent value accommodation options include camping, bunk beds and dorms, private Rondavels and private rooms set within a beautiful garden where warthog and Ostriches are often spotted. Facilities include a games room and Hog and Wart Bar, swimming pool, great-value home-cooked Venison dinners, communal TV lounge, kitchen & laundry area.

A FREE Sondzela Shuttle to and from the neighbouring Malandela's Restaurant and Internet Cafe and FREE entry with a Wild Card is also offered.

Please note:

Check in from 14.00
Check out before 10.00

Breakfast not included. Light cooked breakfast - cereal, toast, egg, juice, tea/coffee. Self-catering facilities available.

Payment upon arrival by cash (South African Rand) or credit card (Visa or Mastercard)
Cancellation policy: 24h advance notice

15% VAT included in Rates

Conservation fee - ZAR85pp is applicable on entry to the park and is valid for the duration of your stay. Alternatively entry is FREE for Wild Card Holders.

All reservations accepted are subject to Big Game Parks reservation conditions.

House Rules

Check In

0:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until 10:00

  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free Parking
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Tours/Travel Desk
  • Shuttle Bus
  • Parking
  • Housekeeping
  • Card Phones
  • Reception (limited hours)
View all facilities

Reviews

9.6Superb(436)
  • Value for Money
    9.6
  • Security
    10.0
  • Atmosphere
    9.1
  • Cleanliness
    9.6
  • Staff
    9.6
  • Location
    9.8
  • Facilities
    9.6
Summary of traveller reviews

Sondzela Backpackers in Malkerns offers a tranquil escape within a nature reserve, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Guests praise the friendly and helpful staff, comfortable rondavels, and the unique experience of wildlife encounters. The location is ideal for walking and cycling, with many trails available. Some guests noted that directions can be unclear and facilities might need minor updates, but overall value is high.

Was this helpful?
Stayed in Aug 2026
7.7
S
Susanne
Mixed Group, 31-40, Austria
Rooms could be a bit more furnished. Too old and the walls extra thin, you hear emitting that happens in the building. Food is good but a bit too expensive for a single choice dinner.
Stayed in Jul 2026
10
E
Evan
Male, 18-24, Canada
Sondzela Backpackers is an incredible place to stay! It is on a slice of heaven with beautiful sunsets every night. Fruit trees all around and friendly animals all over. I cannot say enough good things about staying here! It has been my favourite place I have ever stayed at.
Stayed in Jul 2026
10
S
Sascha
Couple, 31-40, Netherlands
We had a wonderful stay at Sondzela Backpackers! We originally wanted to stay at the main rest camp in the park, but it was fully booked, so we ended up booking one of the rondavels here,and we're so glad we did. The rondavel was comfortable, clean, and had everything we needed. It's also located just around the corner from the main rest camp, making it a very convenient base for exploring the park. This time of year can be busy with student travel groups, but despite that, we weren't bothered
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Location

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Malkerns, Swaziland
4.1km from city centre