Sondzela Backpackers, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Sondzela Backpackers markets itself as "the WILDest backpackers in Eswatini," set at the southern end of Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in the Ezulwini Valley — the same sanctuary that is home to the more upmarket Reilly's Rock Hilltop Lodge. It is run by Big Game Parks and gives budget travellers a base for Mlilwane's self-guided hiking, mountain biking and horse riding.

Accommodation ranges from camping and shared dorms (3 to 12 beds) to private double rooms and rondavels, some with communal ablutions and some en-suite, giving solo travellers, couples and small groups a genuine spread of price points within the same wildlife-sanctuary setting as its pricier neighbour. A free shuttle connects guests to Malandela's Restaurant and the wider Malkerns arts and craft scene nearby.