The transport to Maguga Dam for Canoe Safaris departs from the Swazi Trails offices at Mantenga Craft Centre in Ezulwini. Here there is safe parking for vehicles. For those without a means of getting to the departure point, a hotel or lodge pick-up in the Ezulwini, Mbabane and Manzini areas can be arranged. An additional charge may be levied on occasions. Pick-ups can also be easily facilitated at lodges in the Hawane, Malolotja and Maguga areas.
A minimum of 4 participants is required for a Canoe Safari booking.
Cancellation policy
For the Swazi Trails Canoe Safari cancellations made 21 days or more in advance of arrival, will incur an administration fee of no more than 10% of the value of the amount paid. If the Canoe Safari booking is cancelled within 14-20 days, 25% of the total price is forfeited, if within 7-13 days, 50% of the total price is forfeited, if within 0-6 days, 100% of the total price is forfeited.
Children policy
The Swazi Trails children's policy allows participants as young as 6 years to participate provided that sufficient small or kiddies-size lifejackets are available.
Children under 18 years, accompanied by two adults may enjoy a 50% discount on the full adult rate.
Unescorted minors (under 18 years) require the written consent of a parent or guardian.
Maguga Canoe Safari (half day)
Instant booking available
This half day Swazi Trails adventure activity takes place entirely on flatwater and therefore will appeal to those who prefer a gentle cruise to the otherwise adrenaline-packed white-water rafting offered on the Great Usutu. Maguga Dam on the Komati River filled to its full capacity for the first time in early 2006, and has since then presented a beautiful stretch of water framed by towering mountains. These canoe safari trips are undertaken in sit-on-top two-man canoes.
This half day of canoeing covers approximately 10km. The standard format followed by Swazi Trails is to enter the water near the Komati Bridge and then paddle downstream towards the dam wall. Bird-watching, the possible siting of hippo and crocodile and the regular leaps of startled fish keep interest alive on this gentle cruise. Its a time to chat, get to know your fellow paddlers and enjoy the tales spun by your local guides. A light picnic lunch is enjoyed on arrival at the take-out, as well as someice-cold refreshments.
The activity is fully guided and all equipment is supplied.
The canoe trail departs from the old Komati River Bridge upstream of the dam at 09h45. For those requiring transport, the combi leaves from the Swazi Trails office at Mantenga Craft Centre, Ezulwini, at 08h30.
Arrangements can be made for self-drive travellers to meet the Swazi Trails crew at Maguga Lodge, where safe parking is available. Participants on half day trips who are exiting Swaziland to the north (Matsamo/Jeppes Reef) or west (Bulembu) are encouraged to take this option, so as to save time and distance later in the afternoon.
Travelling time from the Swazi Trails offices (Ezulwini) to the dam is one hour. Travelling time from Pigg's Peak is 20 minutes.
The Canoe Safaris vary in length, depending on weather conditions and paddling ability of participants. The average trip length is just over 10km although shorter "out and back" trips can be arranged specially for groups and corporate fun days. Trips typically involve 2.5 to 3 hours of paddling.
All canoe safaris start with a thorough safety briefing and the opportunity to practice paddling and recovery techniques. Participants paddle their own boats and must be prepared for gentle, but continuous activity throughout the morning. Rest breaks and short walks are undertaken on the bank and the island. Light energy snacks and refreshments are provided.
Lunch is a picnic-style affair under a shade tree near the dam wall. The standard menu is chicken or cheese rolls, together with fruit and chocolates.
The return trip to Ezulwini takes approximately one hour.
Participant guidelines
No prior experience is necessary to attempt this canoe safari. Participants of all ages are accepted. For children of under 10 years of age, Swazi Trails must be advised in advance so as to ensure suitable size PFD's (lifejackets) are available. All canoeing equipment is provided.
Participants must be of sound health and will be required to sign a Waiver and Indemnity Form before departure.
Other disclosures
Up to 22 persons can be booked on any one canoe safari departure. For larger groups Swazi Trails is able to facilitate split departures. For team-building and corporate events the fleet of canoes can be supplemented with two-man rafts from the Swazi Trails white-water rafting fleet. This can help to increase participation numbers to 60 people or more. For larger conference or incentive groups special formats can be used for 120 or more. Swazi Trails can be contacted directly for any special requests of this nature at conferences@swazitrails.co.sz .
Participants are warned that canoeing is an active and participative adventure pursuit and that some effort is to be expected both on and off the water. Although the canoes are relatively stable, the capsizing of the canoe is a possibility, especially for large-bodied persons. Participants are well briefed and prepared for this possibility and an experienced guide is always close by. PFD's (lifejackets) are worn at all times. Crocodiles and hippo are known to inhabit the dam, though these are shy and seldom encountered. This is not a malarial area. Those with particular concerns are recommended to contact the Swazi Trails office for further information.
What to bring on a canoe safari - Swimming costumes, sunglasses, broad-rimmed hats and plenty of sun protection cream are recommended. A light windbreaker is useful, especially for changes in weather. Wetsuits are generally not provided nor deemed necessary, although those with their own gear are welcome to bring such along. No valuables should be brought along on trips. Cameras and videos may be taken at own risk, provided that the owner has a suitable waterproof casing.
| Activities | From |
| Mountain Bike Safari | ZAR 275 |
| Maguga Dam Houseboat- Day Rental | ZAR 600 |
| Adventure Caving - day trip | ZAR 595 |
| Mountain Biking Culture Safari Combo | ZAR 475 |
| Canopy Tour Swaziland | ZAR 450 |
| White Water Rafting (half day) | ZAR 750 |
| Quad Biking Devil's Cauldron 1-hour trail | ZAR 350 |
| Quad Biking Devil's Cauldron 2-hour trail | ZAR 550 |
| Mountain Biking Culture Trail | ZAR 375 |
| Adventure Caving - Evening with dinner | ZAR 695 |
| [more activities] | |
