Classic Kruger Base on the Letaba River
Set beneath mature trees on the banks of the Letaba River, this long-loved camp offers an authentic Kruger experience with convenient access from Phalaborwa Gate, abundant elephant viewing in surrounding mopane woodland, and the famous Elephant Hall museum a short walk from your bungalow. It’s an ideal, comfortable base for exploring both north and south along the main routes while enjoying relaxed evenings overlooking the riverbanks.
Price Per Person Sharing From:
From: POA
Rating | Comfortable
Highlights & What to Expect
- Convenient access from Phalaborwa Gate with easy routing for north–south game drives.
- Regular elephant sightings along the Letaba River and surrounding mopane woodland.
- Visit the on-site Elephant Hall, showcasing Kruger’s legendary tuskers.
- River outlooks from public areas for relaxed birding and sunset views.
- Guided activities booked in camp, including SANParks game drives and walks.
- Family-friendly facilities: restaurant/cafeteria, shop, pool and fuel station.
Location & Setting
Letaba Rest Camp sits on the Letaba River in the central region of Kruger National Park, with the closest access via Phalaborwa Gate, approximately 51 km away. Shaded by large trees, the camp has an open, riverine feel, and it’s common to see bushbuck and warthog grazing on the lawns. The river frontage draws elephants and other wildlife to the water, especially in the dry season, and birding along the floodplain can be excellent. Positioned roughly midway between southern and northern attractions, Letaba works well as a base for varied day drives in multiple directions.
Rooms
Accommodation spans SANParks categories: campsites, huts, bungalows, guest cottages and guest houses. Units vary in layout and kitchen facilities; most tourist units offer air-conditioning or fans, and bungalows feature private bathrooms. On an African Sky itinerary, we select comfortable, en-suite, air-conditioned units suited to your group size and travel style, prioritizing good locations within camp. Families can opt for larger cottages or guest houses, while couples typically choose bungalows near the river. Campsites remain available for self-sufficient visitors who prefer bringing their own gear and using communal ablutions and kitchens.
Facilities
Letaba provides practical, family-friendly amenities: a restaurant (Tindlovu), cafeteria, shop, fuel station, swimming pool, laundromat, conference venue, reception services and communal kitchens/ablutions for non-en-suite options. The standout attraction is the Elephant Hall museum, celebrating Kruger’s famed tuskers with engaging displays. Public areas overlook the river, creating relaxed spaces to watch wildlife and enjoy sunsets. While service levels are intentionally simple rather than luxurious, facilities are well suited to classic Kruger safaris, and the central location supports flexible game-drive planning in both directions from camp.
Amenities
Restaurant
Swimming Pool
Laundry Service
Gift Shop / Curio Shop
Filling Station
Bird Hide
Activities
Game Drives
Night Drives
Guided Bush Walks
Birdwatching
Museums
Picnics
Wilderness Dining