One of my goals for 2018 is to see more of Swaziland. This includes increasing visits to my local park, Mlilwane National Park.

A friend and former volunteer in Swaziland visited with her son, so in addition to visiting my homestead and eating out, we went to Mlilwane to hike Execution Rock.

The hiking group trying to pose with the zebras.

I did not make it to the top because of a short amount of time and my backpack rubbing my sunburn, but finishing a hike is not important to me. The views, exercise, and friendship were the important parts and absolutely worthwhile.

The view from my turnaround point. I live at the base of the mountains on the horizon.

Earlier in the month, one of my friends from my holiday tour continued her tour from Victoria Falls en route to Cape Town. We met up at Mlilwane as well.

Sarah and I are on the right at the Hippo Pool.

We did a loop hike through the central part of Mlilwane, and once again, it was great to get out and explore.

I use my WildCard for free entry into Mlilwane. I can use it at Swaziland’s two other national parks, and at most of South Africa’s parks. When buying it with a SADC passport or visa, the solo card pays for itself after three days at Kruger National Park. I have used it there, at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi in South Africa, and at Hlane in Swaziland.