Here''s the itinerary for this year''s event
27 August: Maidens converge at Ludzidzini Royal Residence near Mlilwane. They are registered and counted (more than 80 000 maidens expected).
28 August: Maidens are separated into two groups, the older maidens (14 to 22 yrs) and the younger (8 to 13yrs). They are commissioned to cut the reed in designated areas by His Majesty King Mswati III.
29 August: The girls set off to cut reeds. They march in their local groups along with their supervisors. They cut from ten to twenty reeds each using bush knives, tie reeds into bundles and sleep over.
30 August: Maidens return to Ludzidzini, carrying reeds in the late afternoon to early evening.
 |
TIP: Recommended arrival date for long-weekend guests. Check into Mlilwane accommodation today. The country will be abuzz with maidens walking along main roads, returning with the reed and you will have the best base from which to experience this cultural explosion just 5km away!
31st August: A day of rest. Maidens make final preparations to their hair and traditional attire.
TIP: Take advantage of this day of rest and enjoy Swaziland’s pioneer game reserve by enjoying one of the many activities available from Mlilwane’s Rest Camp. Hop onto a game viewer to experience Swazi wildlife on a Sunrise, Sunset or Midday Game Drive. Be at one with nature on an MTB or horse trail such as the 3-4 hour Rock of Execution Challenge. Visit Mlilwane’s neighbouring Chief’s Village to learn more about Swazi culture and about the Umhlanga Red Dance by booking the Umphakatsi experience. Or since spring is in full swing, simply relax by taking a dip in the Rest Camp’s swimming pool, enjoy a self-guided hike or a sundowner at the Hippo Haunt Restaurant overlooking a picturesque hippo pool (featured above).
01 September: Maidens drop off reeds outside the Queen Mother’s residence in the afternoon and dance within the arena. Visit Ludzidzini at approximately 13.30 to avoid missing out.
TIP: In the morning/after the dancing either enjoy an activity you missed yesterday at Mlilwane or venture into the neighbouring Ezulwini to enjoy its many attractions. A 10 minute drive away is the Swazi Candles complex where you can buy some high-end mementos including crafts from Swazi Candles, Rosecraft, Baobab Batik Swazi Candles and much more. Or perhaps you’d prefer to enjoy a spa treatment at the Royal Swazi Spa or New Leaf within the Gables Shopping Centre. After dinner, take advantage of Mlilwane’s 24hr gate access and pop into House on Fire/nearby casino for some nocturnal entertainment. Exercise caution when driving through the park at night to avoid collisions with nightjars (birds) which may get blinded by headlights in the reserve.
02 September: Today marks both the main and last day of the ceremony at the Ludzidzini arena. It is a public holiday and the King will be present. This year’s event is set to be bigger as it is an election year.
TIP: Leave Mlilwane through the main gate (ESangweni) at 10h00 heading for the Ludzidzini Royal Residence (5km away). At the end of the dirt road from Mlilwane’s main gate, turn left onto the MR 103 Road, drive 200m, turn left into Ludzidzini Royal Residence. A car guard will usher you into the parking area. Follow the masses to the arena! Choose a seat near the bottom as close to the covered section as possible for the best opportunity to see the maidens and King up-close.By 12h00, the maidens will start arriving in their local groups in song and dance. The King usually arrives in the afternoon at 15h00. Dancing takes place once all the groups are in the arena. This goes on until the evening.Retire to your accommodation at Mlilwane after the festivities have finished. If you are returning home today, don’t forget to stop by Ngwenya Glass, 7 km before Ngwenya/Oshoek Border – the shop closes at 16h00.
Accommodation special
Still haven’t booked accommodation to experience Swaziland’s most famous cultural event, the ‘Umhlanga’ Reed Dance Ceremony, held from 27th August-2nd September 2013?
With limited accommodation remaining at nearby Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and a special of 15% off, book now!
STAY AT REILL''S ROCK FOR R705PPPN SHARING - DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST
Offering incredible value, the freedom to walk unguided amongst Swazi wildlife, a swimming pool, restaurant, activity centre and the friendliest of staff, your stay at Mlilwane is sure to be unforgettable for all the right reasons.
Contact Liesel at res@portfoliocollection.com
All details and Terms & Conditions of special here.