Makuleke Contractual Park is the northernmost part of Kruger National Park, sitting right at the point where South Africa meets Zimbabwe and Mozambique. It covers about 240 km² and is known for its mix of ecosystems, from riverine forests to mopane and fever trees, making it rich in wildlife and bird species. The area has a significant cultural history, as the Makuleke people were displaced here but regained ownership in 1998 and now manage the park in partnership with SANParks.

Accommodation options include Pafuri Camp, The Outpost Lodge, and Baobab Hill Bush Lodge, all offering guided safaris and birdwatching experiences.

Amenities inside the park are limited, so visitors should plan ahead. There are no banks or ATMs, no conference venues, and the nearest fuel station is over 100 km away. There are picnic areas, on-site dining at lodges, and basic shopping in nearby towns.

Visitors can do guided game drives, bush walks, birdwatching, and cultural tours to learn about the Makuleke people.

You can expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, bushbuck, baboons, monkeys, snakes, scorpions, spiders, bats, and lots of insects.

Safety is important, so keep distance from animals, stay with guides, and follow speed limits and gate times. Open fires are not allowed outside designated areas, and malaria is present, so take precautions. Check-in is usually from 14:00 and check-out by 10:00, but lodges may vary.

The park is roughly a 7.5-hour drive from Johannesburg, though some visitors fly to nearby airstrips and transfer to lodges.

The main access is through Pafuri Gate, with Punda Maria Gate also nearby.