Escape to Umfula Tented Camp

Tucked away at Kromdraai, between the magnificent Makhonjwa Mountains and overlooking the beautiful Komati River, lies a little piece of Lowveld paradise where visitors can escape the rush of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Umfula Tented Camp is more than just a place to pitch a tent or spend a night away. It is the result of a dream, years of determination and a family who refused to give up when circumstances changed.

The story began in 1990 when Victor Fourie was working at Msauli Mine. He fell in love with the small mining village, its people, the surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear rivers and streams. It was during these early years that he developed a deep connection with the area and began dreaming of establishing something of his own.

During that period the area surrounding Msauli Mine was part of the old KaNgwane Homeland and was mostly occupied by the Swazi people that also worked on the mine.  In April 1993 KaNgwane Homeland government ceased to exist and after the April 1994 election it became part of Mpumalanga Province.

It was during this time that Victor visited the Swazi Chief Philimon T Nkosi to negotiate and obtain land to build a house and to start a fish farm to sustain and supply fresh fish to the rural community.  At the same time the mine closed down and he was retrenched. Victor took over an established business, Siza Bantu Café, at the Kromdraai (Ekulindeni) settlement. He also transformed a neglected milk stall nearby into a tavern, building the business from the ground up. The income generated by these two ventures helped him fund the Mlondozi Fish Farm Project and lay the foundations for his family home. He also became involved in the development of the Ebutsini 4x4 Trail, which officially opened in December 2015 and operated until January 2020, when it was forced to close due to illegal gold mining activities in the area.

However, life and circumstances had other plans. He decided to return to the mining industry, and his dream was put on hold for many years. The idea of sharing this beautiful natural setting with others had, however, already been planted. While working on the foundations of what was intended to be his family home, a visitor once questioned why Victor wanted to keep such a beautiful gem to himself instead of sharing it with the world. Those words stayed with him.

In December 2021, during a camping weekend with his sons, Quintin and Shaun, the family decided it was time to revive the project.

The original fish farming idea was abandoned in favour of something new: a rustic tented camp where visitors could experience the natural beauty that Victor had come to love. On December 20, 2021, Umfula Tented Camp was born. The name Umfula means river or stream in isiZulu and isiXhosa, a fitting choice for a camp overlooking the Komati River.

Construction began with limited resources, plenty of hard work and the involvement of local workers. Victor's son Shaun took charge of the project while Victor continued working at Sheba Mine. When health problems eventually brought his mining career to an unexpected end, he moved to the property and devoted himself to turning their dream into reality.

Between 2022 and 2025, the family steadily developed the camp, creating a collection of accommodation options, including bush tents on wooden decks, fisherman's cabins, thatched A-frame cabanas and tents for hikers and bikers. The facilities also include off-road campsites, communal kitchens, ablution facilities, a bar, restaurant and boma areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are additional projects in the pipeline such as a swimming pool, outdoor hot bathtubs, a zip line, hang bridge, and an underground mining tunnel tour to mention a few.

The journey was not without its challenges. Transporting building materials across the Makhonjwa Mountains and navigating the final stretch of dirt road proved difficult, particularly during the rainy season. Nevertheless, the family persevered, determined to see their vision through.

Another challenge that tested the family's determination was the illegal mining activity that affected parts of the surrounding area between 2022 and 2024. These activities created considerable difficulties and raised safety concerns, not only for the local community but also for those wanting to explore the area. Victor and his family worked closely with the Eswatini authorities and the SAPS to address the problem and bring the illegal operations to an end. While it was a difficult period, the situation has since been brought under control, and the family remains committed to providing visitors with a safe and peaceful environment in which to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Today, Umfula Tented Camp offers visitors an opportunity to experience a quieter, more natural side of the Lowveld. Whether it is a weekend away from the demands of everyday life, a camping adventure, or simply a chance to sit back and enjoy the scenery, the camp offers a setting where time seems to move at a different pace. Surrounded by mountains, with the Komati River providing a beautiful backdrop, it is an ideal escape for couples, families, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the peace and tranquillity of nature.

For Lowvelders looking for a change of scenery without travelling too far from home, Umfula Tented Camp is well worth discovering. Pack a bag, leave the daily routine behind and enjoy a little time in nature. Sometimes the best escapes are closer to home than we think, and sometimes the most beautiful places are those created by people who simply refuse to give up on a dream.

Visitors interested in experiencing the camp can contact Victor directly for accommodation options, bookings and further information. Contact him on 072 222 8849 or visit his facebook page.