Our ethos is rooted in three decades of friendship with the Makuleke people, who lost their ancestral land under apartheid but successfully reclaimed it in 1998 when they regained ownership but decided to keep the land within the Kruger National Park and to use it responsibly for the benefit of the people and the wildlife. For us at RETURN Africa, it is a privilege to be part of this great endeavour. We pay a concession fee for the use of their land. We also create jobs, support local entrepreneurs and invest in community development projects.
“As a boy, I gazed across the Luvuvhu to what was, in those apartheid years, forbidden country to the north. I did not then understand the things happening there. But even as a child, I knew I would one day return. When I did, many years later, I met the Makulekes whose land it once was and would be again. I am deeply grateful to them for granting me their trust. Today, as proud partners, we invite you to join us by visiting the dream we call RETURN Africa.”
PJ MassynFounder and Co-owner
ABOUT RETURN AFRICA
Wherever you come from, you’ll find home at RETURN Africa – and we’ll be here to welcome you.
OUR INSPIRATIONAL TEAM
RETURN Africa has consistently believed in and nurtured the potential of the Makuleke community. Through a programme of formal and informal training, underpinned by mutual trust and respect it has been exciting to witness the amazing development of our staff.
Since opening for business in 2015 the on-site management team has gradually transformed to what it is today … Proudly 100% Makuleke! And they are an exceptional team. A glance through our online reviews will leave you in no doubt that ALL of our staff are not only professional and courteous, but exude cheerfulness.
By the time you leave us you will feel as though you’re an intimate part of a happy RETURN Africa family.
Those who have met Godfrey will be familiar with his infectious energy, his broad smile and his incredible ability to remember names and faces.
But Godfrey is much more than that … having started his career with RETURN Africa as a Field Guide his enthusiasm, leadership qualities, loyalty and capacity to absorb and apply knowledge and experience have made him the indispensable manager he is today.
Because RETURN Africa’s Pafuri collection is so remote the delivery of services (including roads, building and vehicle maintenance, electricity, water and effluent handling) is akin to running a self-contained municipality. And then there’s a hospitality business to run as well!
It’s a big job handled expertly by a very impressive man.
Enos is the friendly face who is there to greet most guests on arrival. He manages all guest-facing aspects of the operation. He also deputises as General Manager. His calm, light-hearted and helpful manner inspires confidence.
Enos also began his career as a Field Guide. After qualifying in Pafuri he refined his hospitality and guiding skills at Singita (located in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve). He returned to Pafuri as a Field Guide, but with excellent people skills and a keen understanding of the industry he was soon promoted to a management position.
Everything that happens on the main decks, the presentation of the beautiful tent rooms, and the training and management of front-of-house staff falls within Enos’ responsibility.
The warm, attentive and happy interactions you will enjoy with all of our staff are testament to the example that Enos sets.
Ellen’s warm personality and can-do attitude shine through in everything she does and says.
Her career started as a junior housekeeper with responsibility for cleaning and preparing guest rooms. After having been awarded a certificate in Housekeeping Supervision she was promoted to a supervisory position.
Her interest, willingness and capacity to learn have seen her gradually take on more and more responsibility. She has now become an invaluable member of the management team with specific responsibility for housekeeping and stock management … but you will see her happily rolling up her sleeves wherever and whenever there is a need for additional hands.
Shayne has always had a passion for the kitchen. Her interest in cooking was sparked as a child by the happy mealtimes she shared with her large family in the Makuleke villages.
Before she joined RETURN Africa as an Assistant Head Chef in 2015 she had spent 13 years accumulating experience in, and then managing both urban restaurants and safari lodge kitchens.
She was appointed Executive Chef at Pafuri Camp in 2022. She and her team produce up to two hundred and fifty delicious meals per day!
Shayne is constantly evolving and developing the delectable Pafuri Camp menus. We hope you enjoy them!
