Pafuri Tented camp, knp
in the far north of the kruger national park lie the luvuvhu and limpopo rivers. nestled in between the two lies eden in the form of pafuri tented camp
Return Africa
Pafuri Tented Camp lies nestled on the northern bank of the Luvuvhu River, in the Far North of the Kruger National Park. It is the gateway to the magical Makuleke concession and the Pafuri region, otherwise unavailable for exploration by the general public.
Pafuri region
As one approaches the Luvuvhu River in the north of KNP, the bush begins to change drastically. For mile upon mile, from Letaba further south all the way up to Punda Maria stretches a seemingly endless sea of Mopane trees. This can become relatively tiresome, and though great for Elephant populations, yields little in regards to other game or bird life.
Then, roughly 30km north of Punda Maria, and 5km south of the Luvuvhu, the Mopane just seems to stop. As it stretches behind you in the rear view mirror, the bushveld surrounds diversify. Waterholes and pans dot the vlei, Acacia savannah returns, Guarri trees appear and even mythical Baobabs dominate the horizon.
The road then crests a hill and once at the peak, the Pafuri region unveils itself ahead of you. As one drives further on, and become immersed in the mixed bush of a riverine habitat, one can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. There is an aura of magic in the air, an inexplicable sensation of entering a mystical kingdom. This is Pafuri. It is unlike anywhere else in South Africa, and in order to explore it fully, one must stay on the north side of the river.
Pafuri tented camp
Return Africa’s Pafuri Tented Camp is a small slice of heaven. As one crosses the bridge over the Luvuvhu, the road bends to the East, hugging the river bank. Hidden among the immense Jackalberry, Mahogany, Sycamore Fig and Fever Trees is this Eden, a hidden gem amidst the chaos of South Africa’s largest national park.
The design of the Camp is spectacular - it is raised up on stilts, not only keeping it out of reach of the flooding river but also elevating it above the ground, offering a sense of immersion in the canopy. The centre of the camp is dominated by the reception area, dining area and a pool with a bar, all of which can be seen in the images above. The camp feels incredibly intimate, chic and authentic, and there is something special about the communal areas not having any walls. This openness with the bush, the river and the sky is priceless.
Rooms stretch along the river bank both to the East and West of reception. Each suite is completely private and cannot be seen by its neighbours, and has a pristine river view. Bathrooms including both indoor and outdoor showers grace each room, and the furniture is plush, comfortable and in keeping with the rustic authenticity of the Camp. Everything about this lodge is immaculate, from the accommodation to the staff and service, to the food and the guiding.
Return Africa is simply a must stay for anyone interested in Safari. It is a hidden gem, an authentic and yet luxurious slice of Eden, nestled on the banks of the perennial Luvuvhu river. It is the gateway to the Pafuri region and all its delights, from large herds of Elephant to stunning Fever Tree forests to unrivalled bird life. You will be welcomed by the Makuleke people to their homeland, shown all its wonders and will feel as though you are, for a short time, part of an ancient, mystical kingdom.