Nthakeni Bush Camp
Our thoughts
Nthakeni is not for everyone, but for those who want complete wilderness immersion it is absolutely extraordinary. Sitting around the fire under a sky blazing with stars, with nothing but the sounds of the African night around you, is one of the most powerful experiences this country offers.
What's hot
Complete remote wilderness immersion
Extraordinary star gazing
Exclusive-use privacy
Rare northern Kruger wildlife
No crowds whatsoever
Unforgettable experience
What's not
Must be fully self-sufficient
No facilities whatsoever
Extremely remote
Very hot in summer
Books out instantly when it opens
Nthakeni Gallery
Overview
Nthakeni Bush Camp is one of Kruger National Park's most remote and exclusive overnight experiences. Located in the far northern wilderness of the park near Punda Maria, this exclusive-use camp offers a completely off-grid immersion in the African bush. Nthakeni accommodates small groups only and provides an experience far removed from the conventional rest camps, no shops, no electricity, no crowds. The surrounding landscape of sandveld and mopane woodland is home to rare northern Kruger species and the night skies are extraordinary.
FAQ's
Far northern Kruger National Park near Punda Maria, Limpopo province. One of the most remote camps in the entire park.
No, solar powered only, no power points
Exclusive-use accommodation, Basic bush facilities, No electricity, No shop, No restaurant, Bring all own supplies including water, Small group only
Exclusive-use pricing — check SANParks at sanparks.org for current rates. Opens 11 months in advance.
Yes, great for families who love nature
No, pets are not permitted
Yes, Nthakeni is fully fenced
- Book via SANParks at sanparks.org or call 012 428 9111. Exclusive-use camps open 11 months in advance and book out very quickly.
May to September for comfortable temperatures. Avoid the extreme summer heat of the far north (October to March). Night skies are best in winter months with no cloud cover.
No, standard vehicle is suitable on good gravel road
- Punda Maria Rest Camp (nearest supplies), Crooks Corner, Luvuvhu River, Pafuri area, Zimbabwe border
You must be completely self-sufficient, bring everything including enough water. The remoteness is the entire point: you will have the northern Kruger wilderness entirely to your group. The star gazing from this camp is among the best anywhere in South Africa.
