Nthakeni Limpopo Northern Kruger
Our thoughts
Camping Goes Glam at Nthakeni’s 5-Star Bush Experience
Nthakeni Bush and River Camp is the hidden gem of the far northeast Limpopo. Your base to explore the Northern Kruger Park. It is a camp for serious nature lovers with a variety of different types of accommodation options. We chose the Mufanda campsite on the edge of the Mutale River. You could hear the tunes of the cowbells in the distance and an orchestra of birds in the trees. The camp is spoilt for Baobabs these gracious ladies stand proud along the trails.
What’s hot
Close to the Kruger Pafuri gate
Spacious and clean campsites
Community driven
Nini, the little dog that joined us on walks
What’s not
You need a 4×4 when raining
There is NO electricity at the campsite
NTHAKENI GALLERY
Without a doubt one of the best Campsites we have been to with beautiful river views and very private. There is a pool for when the temperatures are rising and an honesty bar to fetch a cold beer. The owner and the community are very helpful and friendly. This is truly an amazing gem!
Frequently asked questions
Where is this campsite located?
Nthakeni is located in northern Limpopo, near the village of Tshikuyu and close to the Pafuri Gate of the Kruger National Park.
How are the ablutions at the campsite?
Some stands have private bathrooms / toilets / showers.
Are there braai/kitchen facilities?
Braai (barbecue) areas are available. For cottages: there is a kitchenette (with gas stove / fridge) in the self-catering cottages. Some of the more rustic campsites have a “fully equipped” private kitchen.
Are pets allowed?
“Pets are allowed by Arrangement” for the campsites.
Is there water connection at the camping site?
Some sites have taps with “drinkable water," and there is a tap for hose pipe. There is a donkey boiler for hot water.
Is there a swimming pool?
There is a swimming pool at the camp.
Is the campsite fenced?
There’s limited specific info about full fencing, but the camp is “off the grid” in a remote natural area
Is there electricity at campsite?
As mentioned, not all campsites have power; many rely on solar.
Is there a shop?
There is a small kiosk shop on-site selling basic necessities (drinks, sweets, charcoal, etc.).
Is there other accommodation available besides camping?
Camping / Caravan stands (bush & river campsites). Thatched-roof cottages. Tented camp (group tents).
Is there a restaurant ?
There is a restaurant on site (“Thusani Shack Restaurant”) that serves local cuisine.
Is there wifi available at the campsite?
No wifi available at sites.
How do I book?
You can book a stay at Nthakeni Camp throughthe officia website Book at Nthakeni.
Nthakeni Campsite Review
Nthakeni Bush and River Camp is situated in the far northeast of Limpopo province, South Africa. It is located 6 km away from the Pafuri gate, which is the northernmost gate of Kruger National Park. We experienced the real Africa in a tribal trust area.
We were on the banks of the Mutale River and a true nature lover’s camp. The area is a birder’s paradise with over 450 species being identified. If trees are your thing, you will be amazed at the diversity of trees to be seen in our area, including magnificent Baobab specimens. Explore the area with a 4×4 vehicle, hiking, or cycling.
The ideal base camp to visit is the northern part of the Kruger National Park or the Transfrontier Mozambique section of the park. Nthakeni Camp is a beautiful and well-equipped place to stay.
The campsite offers a unique outdoor shower experience with hot water provided by a donkey boiler. The shower is situated under a tree, with a cement floor drain enclosed by reeds. It is equipped with a mirror, a handmade basin, and a concrete base. Additionally, there are hooks available to hang clothes and towels.
The kitchen at the Mufhanda Campsite has a gas cooker and is fully equipped with pots, pans, and utensils. The camp has a borehole, and the water is drinkable, although guests can also bring their own supply. The toilet is decorated with driftwood, which adds an unexpected touch to the morning routine. Even the toilet holder is hand-carved, showcasing attention to detail.
The campsite has well-maintained trails and walkways that resemble those found in a 5-star lodge. There is also a clean swimming pool, a local menu restaurant on request, an honesty shop, and a boma near the pool. All of these facilities have been designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, creating a sophisticated yet rustic atmosphere.
One highlight of the camp is a Yorkie named Nini, who greets guests at their tents in the morning. Nini has her own story and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits Nthakeni.
Overall, Nthakeni Campsite offers a combination of modern amenities and a natural bush feel. Guests can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding baobabs and explore the various trails available.
The camp is spoilt for baobabs; these gracious ladies stand proud along the trails.
