Pafuri Camp is on the northern bank of the Luvuvhu River in a lush riverine forest within Makuleke Concession, part of the far north of Kruger National Park.
This is arguably the best area for walking in Kruger National Park with its spectacular scenery and diverse wildlife. This area includes the great Limpopo and Luvuvhu Rivers, both with well developed floodplains and a series of vitally important seasonal pans. Between the two rivers lies a ridge of hills whose many springs attract the region's game. The varied terrain includes woodland, vast expanses of floodplains and lush forest.
Pafuri Camp has twenty luxurious thatched tents raised off the ground on wooden walkways. There are two plunge pools, a dining room and lounge. There are six family tents which can sleep up to four under one roof. The interiors are furnished in local Makuleke style. They all have river views and 220v lighting and en-suite batherooms. There is hot and cold running water and an additional 'outside' shower to get closer to nature.
The area is home to all the Kruger species, elephants being the most visible but this is not an area of mass congregations of animals. It is stunningly beautiful and there is plenty of wildlife but you have to look harder for them! It is famous for the more unusual animals such as Nyala , Eland and Sharpe's Grysbok, not commonly seen in more southern parts of Kruger. For birders there are hundreds of species including the rare Pel's Fishing Owl.
The Makuleke people who live on Kruger's western boundary are landlords to this camp and conesstion and earn direct financial benefits from each guest who stays there.
Overnight walking trails can be done from here using a trails camp for accommodation. A walking safari is the perfect way to get a true feel for the African wilderness. The pace of the walks will be moderate allowing plenty of time for game viewing and birding . Here is an example of a 4 day walking safari.
On the first day guests will meet their guide at Pafuri Camp and, after the safety briefing, will depart by road to the Trails camp. Having settled in, guests can take a short afternoon walk during which the guide explains the guidelines for the trail. Back in camp, guests can shower, take sundowners and then enjoy the evening meal. After dinner guests relax around the fire before retiring to an early bed. Accommodation is for a maximum of 8 trailists in ensuite thatch and canvas tents raised on low platforms. The covered dining area overlooks the fire where all cooking takes place. On days 2 & 3 guests rise early and after a light snack and coffee and depart just before 6am for the morning walk. For approximately 3-4 hours guests will follow animal paths and investigate likely areas for game or bird activity. Guests will arrive back in camp in time for a hearty brunch and a well-earned siesta. The shorter afternoon walk leaves camp after high tea and possibly takes in some of the area's magnificent scenery. On return to camp guests have time to shower and change before relaxing over sundowners and then enjoying a delicious freshly cooked dinner. On the 4th day there is a shorter morning walk and guests then return to Pafuri Camp for brunch where the Trail ends. There is the option of adding an extra night or two at this camp for game drives into more remote parts of the concession.
