MTN Bushfire Festival 2025

Event Location:
House On Fire, Malkerns Valley, Eswatini

Event Dates:
May 30 – June 1, 2025

Event Opening Hours:
Gates open daily at 4:00 PM; performances continue into the late evening.

Event Description:
MTN Bushfire is Eswatini’s premier international music and arts festival, renowned for its eclectic lineup, inclusive atmosphere, and commitment to social and environmental causes. Held annually at the iconic House On Fire venue in the scenic Malkerns Valley, the festival attracts over 20,000 attendees from more than 55 countries. The 2025 edition marks the 18th year of this transformative event, celebrating the theme #GreenYourFire, which emphasizes sustainability and positive change.

Event Highlights:

• Diverse Lineup:
  The 2025 festival features a rich array of artists from across Africa and the globe, including:

  • Amadou & Mariam (Mali)

  • Thandiswa Mazwai (South Africa)

  • Bholoja (Eswatini)

  • Jeremy Loops (South Africa)

  • Makhadzi (South Africa)

  • Musa Keys (South Africa)

  • Ladysmith Black Mambazo (South Africa)

  • Boom Shaka (South Africa)

  • Zara McFarlane (UK)

  • Steam Down (UK)

  • 340ml (Mozambique)

  • Abao Aymos (Taiwan)

  • Grupo Mavichi (Colombia)

  • The Dizzy Brains (Madagascar)

  • Nduduzo Makhathini (South Africa)

  • Madala Kunene & Sibusile Xaba (South Africa)

  • Money Badoo (South Africa)

  • Feli Nandi (Zimbabwe)

  • Jembaa Groove (Ghana/Germany)

  • iPhupho l’ka Biko (South Africa)

  • Khole (Eswatini)

  • Zee Nxumalo (Eswatini/South Africa)

  • Young Zesh x Lyrikal Busta (Eswatini)

• Multiple Stages:
  The festival boasts eight dynamic stages, including:

  • Main Stage

  • Ballantine’s Firefly Stage

  • House On Fire Amphitheatre

  • Bring Your Fire Stage

  • KidZone Stage

  • Heineken Stage

  • Jägermeister Stage

  • Corona Stage
    Each stage offers a unique experience, from high-energy performances to intimate acoustic sets and family-friendly activities.

• Cultural and Social Initiatives:
  Beyond music, MTN Bushfire is a platform for social change. The festival’s #BRINGYOURFIRE call to action encourages attendees to engage in positive social and environmental initiatives. The 2025 theme, #GreenYourFire, focuses on sustainability, with programs and activities designed to promote environmental awareness and action.

Event Visitors:
MTN Bushfire attracts a diverse audience, including music enthusiasts, families, artists, and activists from around the world. The festival’s inclusive and family-friendly environment makes it a unique cultural experience for attendees of all ages.

Event Systems:

• Stages:
  Eight stages equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, each offering a distinct atmosphere and lineup.

• Production:
  High-quality production ensures an immersive experience, with attention to detail in stage design, visual effects, and acoustics.

• Interactive Zones:
  Areas dedicated to art installations, workshops, and social engagement activities, allowing attendees to participate actively in the festival’s themes.

Tickets:
As of now, online tickets for MTN Bushfire 2025 have officially sold out. However, Eswatini residents can still purchase discounted tickets through the MoMo WhatsApp Marketplace by sending “Hi” to 7808 4000 and following the prompts. Additionally, previously owned tickets may be available for resale through the Howler Ticket Resale platform.

Accommodations:
A variety of accommodation options are available to suit different preferences and budgets:

• On-Site Camping:

  • All Out Africa Campsite: Offers Bring Your Own, ready-erected tents in the Canvas Camp, and a secure Family Camping zone.

• Glamping:

  • Harambee Hotel: Provides luxurious camping with fully equipped tents, exclusive amenities, and daily gourmet breakfasts.

• Rush Adventures Camps: Situated within the festival grounds, offering Pro Dome and Lux Safari options for a comfortable stay.

• Off-Site Accommodation: The festival has partnered with various hotels and lodges in Eswatini to ensure convenient and comfortable stays.

Transportation:

• By Air:
  Eswatini Air offers a 15% discount on return flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Harare for MTN Bushfire ticket holders. The discount is valid for flights between May 26 and June 8, 2025, using a special promo code.

• By Road:
  Shuttle services are available from Johannesburg to the festival grounds and back, ideal for attendees who have already arranged accommodation.

• Local Transport:
  Public transportation and taxis are available within Eswatini to reach the festival venue.

Additional Notes:

• Weather Considerations:
  May and June in Eswatini are typically mild and dry, but attendees are advised to bring layers for cooler evenings.

• Health and Safety:
  An on-site medical team and upgraded security measures ensure the health and safety of all festivalgoers.

• Connectivity:
  MTN Eswatini offers SIM card data packages for attendees to stay connected during the festival. SIM cards can be ordered online and picked up at the border or MTN service centers en route to the festival.