As the waters of the Luvuvhu continue to recede, the floodplain is entering a period of recovery. New growth is visible everywhere, a reminder that renewal is intrinsic to this landscape. It is in this context that we share a further update on the Pafuri Collection.
Over the past weeks, our CEO, PJ Massyn, together with Operations Director Harald van Lennep, has spent extended time on site at Pafuri Camp and across the wider Pafuri Collection. These visits have allowed for a detailed assessment of the damage sustained and the scope of work required. While the scale of restoration at Pafuri Camp is significant, it also presents an opportunity to rebuild with greater resilience and to strengthen the camp for the long term.
Following this assessment, we are now able to confirm revised opening timelines across the collection:
- Pafuri Camp will reopen on 1 June 2026, allowing sufficient time to complete repairs and ensure that all infrastructure is restored to the standard our guests expect.
- Hutwini Walking Camp and Nkula Walking Camp will open as scheduled on 1 April 2026, in line with the annual walking season, which runs from 1 April to 31 October.
- Baobab Hill House, which was already closed for refurbishment prior to the flood event, remains under renovation. It will reopen on 29 March 2026.
Guests and trade partners holding bookings affected by these revised timelines will be contacted directly by our reservations team to discuss available options.
We remain committed to restoring the Pafuri Collection with care, foresight, and respect for this extraordinary landscape, and we thank our guests and partners for their continued understanding and support.
PJ Massyn – RETURN Africa
Chief Executive Officer & Co-founder
About RETURN Africa
RETURN Africa offers immersive journeys in South Africa, from its flagship Pafuri Collection in the northern Kruger National Park to historic boutique stays in Cape Town. With a philosophy rooted in heritage, community and conservation, RETURN Africa invites travellers to share in the joy of extraordinary places and the people who call them home.
Media Contact
Craig Parvess – RETURN Africa
craig@returnafrica.com
