Punda Maria restcamp

The Punda Maria region contains numerous plant species which are unique to the area surrounding the camp. Game species most likely to be sighted include impala, zebra, buffalo, elephant, eland and sable. Birding around the camp is excellent. In the camp (particularly on the Paradise Flycatcher Trail) Yellowbellied and Terrestrial Bulbul, Bearded Robin should be looked for. Birds of prey are common overhead. Black Eagle are sometimes seen, while in winter the Whitenecked Raven is a regular visitor. The Mahonie Loop, (the 25km circular drive around the camp) is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding birding drives in the Park. One should give oneself plenty of time to cover the distance, and travel with windows down and stop frequently, particularly for calls. On a good day one could record several of the following ‘specials’: Whitebreasted Cuckooshrike, Crowned Hornbill, Chestnutbellied (Greyhooded) Kingfisher, Crested Guineafowl, Gorgeous Bush Shrike Cape Parrot, African and European Golden Oriole (both summer), Yellowspotted Nicator, Stierling’s Barred Warbler and Dickinson’s Kestrel . Narina Trogon has also been recorded on the loop, but is shy and elusive. Punda Maria is near the rich Thulamela Archaeological Ruins. Thulamela is a stone walled site situated in the Far North region of the Park and dates back to approximately 450 – 500 years before present (BP). This late Iron Age site can be viewed on guided half-day trips to be booked on arrival at the camp. 

Nearest Road: H13-2 Ecozone: N 

A daily conservation levy is payable 

Wild Cardmembers do not pay conservation fees provided that Proof of Identity and Wild Card are presented on arrival.