Royal Hlane National Park – Participatory Camping Safari
A remote and wild 2‑day camping safari in northeastern Eswatini
Where Is Hlane Royal National Park?
Royal Hlane National Park is Eswatini’s largest protected area, located in the northeastern Lubombo region near the South African border and a short drive from Marloth Park and Kruger National Park. The name “Hlane” means “wilderness” in siSwati, reflecting the park’s wide open plains, ancient hardwood forests, and raw, untamed character.
Unlike busier safari destinations, Hlane offers a quieter and more traditional safari experience, with fewer vehicles, a strong conservation focus, and immersive camping in unfenced wilderness.
Discover Royal Hlane National Park
Royal Hlane National Park—known locally as “Hlane,” meaning “wilderness” in siSwati—is Eswatini’s largest protected area, covering roughly 22,000 hectares. Just a short drive from Marloth Park and the Kruger border, Hlane offers a truly wild escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Wildlife & Conservation
Hlane is home to the African Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. The park hosts one of southern Africa’s strongest white rhino populations thanks to long‑running conservation initiatives. Other wildlife includes giraffes, zebras, hippos, warthogs, kudu, impala, and more than 300 bird species.
Activities
- Guided game drives – Excellent wildlife viewing
- Self‑drive safaris – Explore the park independently
- Walking safaris – Safe guided bush walks
- Birdwatching – Over 300 recorded species
- Photography – Open plains, waterholes, and wildlife
- Cultural experiences – Optional local community visits
- Waterhole viewing decks – Watch elephants and rhinos gather
Interesting Facts
- Declared a national park in 1967 by King Sobhuza II
- Still under royal stewardship as part of Eswatini’s heritage
- Important white rhino recovery area
- Landscape includes hardwood forest, grasslands, and pans
Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, quiet wilderness camping, or a deeper connection to conservation, Hlane offers a memorable safari experience.
Tour Cost: R 1 950 per person
Includes
- 1 Dinner
- 1 Breakfast
- Entrance fees
- Sleeping bag, pillow, tent, and camping fees
Not Included
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Lunches
- Personal expenses
- Additional game drives or guided walks
Tour Details
- Minimum: 1 guest
- Maximum: 4 guests
- Departures depend on vehicle and guide availability and often run at short notice.
Interested? Speak to Oliver for availability:
Oliver@KrugerParkHostel.com
or WhatsApp
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book this trip?
Email Marion@KrugerParkHostel.com to confirm availability and book.
How long is the trip?
2 days / 1 night.
Group size?
Minimum 1 guest, maximum 4 guests.
Do trips depart daily?
No. Departures depend on vehicle and guide availability.
Can solo travellers join?
Yes, solo travellers are welcome.
Where do we depart from?
Kruger Park Hostel, Marloth Park.
How long is the drive?
Approximately 2–3 hours including the border crossing.
What documents do I need?
A valid passport. Most nationalities do not require a visa.
Is the campsite fenced?
No. The campsite is unfenced, offering a true wilderness experience.
Is it safe?
Yes. Rangers provide safety briefings and monitor the area.
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View Kruger Camping SafarisWhy Travel With Us?
Our Hlane Camping Safari is designed for travellers who want a genuine wilderness experience rather than a rushed, package-style tour. We operate in small groups, travel at a relaxed pace, and focus on time in nature — allowing guests to truly experience Eswatini’s landscapes, wildlife, and quiet bush atmosphere.
With flexible departures and a maximum of four guests per trip, the experience remains personal and immersive. From unfenced campsites and waterhole viewing to guided activities inside the park, this safari offers a raw, authentic alternative to crowded wildlife destinations.
Hosted by Kruger Park Hostel
This Hlane Camping Safari is hosted and operated by Kruger Park Hostel, specialists in small‑group, participatory camping expeditions across South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique. Our trips are built around hands‑on travel, shared camp life, and real outdoor experiences — not mass tourism or fixed itineraries.
By keeping groups small and logistics simple, we’re able to offer flexible departures, personal guiding, and a relaxed camp atmosphere that many of our guests describe as the highlight of their Southern Africa journey.
Guest Feedback
“Hlane felt completely different from the bigger parks — quieter, wilder, and far more personal. Camping under the stars, watching animals at the waterhole, and not being surrounded by crowds made this one of the most memorable parts of our trip.”