Nthakeni
Bush & River CampOur thoughts
Camping Goes Glam at Nthakeni’s 5-Star Bush Experience
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 Campsite Review
Nthakeni Bush and River camp is situated in the far north-east of Limpopo province, South Africa. It is located 6km 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.
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!

Nthakeni Information
Property amenities
- Free Parking
- Wifi
- Pool
- Restaurant
- Bicycle rental
- Game room
- Children Activities
- Kid & Family friendly
- BBQ Facilities
Room Features
- Fireplace
- Private Bathroom
- Clothes racks
- Kitchenette
Room Types
- Family rooms
- Two Campsites with fully equipped private kitchen and private shower and toilet.
Languages
- English
- Afrikaans
Other Campsites we love
Sable Hide | Kruger
The Sable Hide Sleepover is situated approximately 10km from Phalaborwa Gate in Kruger National Park.
Tsendze | Northern Kruger
Tsendze, A unique and scenic campsite in northern Kruger. A rustic camping experience with modern amenities like outdoor showers and wash bays. The campsite attracts abundant wildlife, making it a birder’s paradise with sightings of birds like hornbills, barbets, and franklins.
Punda Maria | Northern Kruger
Northern Kruger | South africa
The star highlight is the magical waterhole visible from some campsites, attracting plentiful game like elephants and wild dogs. Birders will also delight in sightings from the wooden hide. Campers looking for a comfortable stay in a game-rich area of Kruger will greatly enjoy their time at Punda Maria.