In response to rising river levels and forecasts of sustained heavy rainfall across the Soutpansberg catchment, RETURN Africa took the precautionary decision earlier this week to evacuate Pafuri Camp and guest facilities on the Luvuvhu floodplain.
All guests and staff were evacuated safely, and everyone is well. We remain in direct contact with affected guests and agents to provide updates and alternative arrangements.
Like several river systems further south in the Kruger National Park, the Luvuvhu has moved into flood. The river overtopped its banks east of Lanner Gorge, inundating the floodplain. Based on current observations, the flood appears to have peaked overnight on the 13th of January 2026 at levels comparable to those recorded in 2013 and is now receding.
This floodplain is part of a Ramsar wetland of international importance, where occasional flooding replenishes soils, sustains biodiversity, and strengthens the resilience of the landscape.
Access to the affected areas remains cut off at this stage. As soon as conditions allow, our teams will enter the floodplain to assess the impact on infrastructure, equipment, and the surrounding environment. Following this assessment, we will finalise and communicate a structured recovery and reopening plan.
As a precautionary measure, all bookings scheduled to travel before 1 February 2026 have been postponed. Our reservations team will contact you should your booking be affected, and we will communicate any further adjustments once we have a clearer picture of access, damage assessments, and recovery timelines.
RETURN Africa carries comprehensive insurance cover for events of this nature, and we are confident in our ability to recover responsibly and methodically. Our priority remains the safety of our people, followed closely by the careful restoration of our facilities.
We are grateful to our staff and the Kruger Section Ranger for their professionalism and calm execution during the evacuation, and to our guests and trade partners for their understanding and support. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
We look forward to welcoming guests back to Pafuri Camp once conditions allow and remain committed to ensuring both safety and the integrity of this extraordinary landscape.
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
