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Established by the early conservationists in the 1930’s, this restaurant has an intimate feel and is situated in an area rich in history,with lush vegetation and a wide variety of rare bird species and wildlife. Our warmth of service and African-inspired menu allows for a perfectly relaxed bushveld dining experience, in a place that invites one to kick back and swop safari stories – slowing the pace and recharging body and soul.
Named after the Mopani trees that are so prolific on the surrounding plains, this northern bushveld camp is situated on a rise that commands a spectacular view over the Pioneer Dam in northern Kruger. Sunsets from our restaurant deck are simply food for the soul, made all the more magic by the calls of the water birds below and sounds of the surrounding wild - with our sumptuous African-inspired menu and friendly staff rounding off the perfect dining experience.
Set in a peaceful clearing along the Shingwedzi River – this northern camp is positioned in prime elephant and buffalo country where large herds are prevalent. Hippo’s regularly frolic in the pools below the restaurant in the wetter summer months and superb sightings grace our visitors in drier winter months as animals fight over the diminishing pools. Experience Africa in all its wild splendour as you sip on a sundowner and enjoy a delicious,hearty meal in this special place.

What greater pleasure could there be other than sitting on an open deck overlooking the African bush, sipping on a crisp Chardonnay as the sun sets and the calls of the wild envelop you? Exquisitely alive landscape, good company, service with a smile and delicious food - makes for a soul quenching experience.

The MPILA trio of restaurants in the northern part of the iconic Kruger National Park, look forward to welcoming you with all the warmth and magic that Africa has to offer.

“MPILA” is the name given to a plant with many healing properties for animals and humans alike. It is derived from the Zulu/ Xhosa word ‘MPILO’, which means life

Join us at MPILA for so much more than just nourishment...

Testimonials

“After a long, hot and dusty game drive we were treated to the most delicious meal at MPILA Shingwedzi. The food was beautifully presented and served with a smile and the experience was a perfect balance of all our favourite things, topped off with a sighting of hippos frolicking in the pools just below the deck where we were seated. Such a special lunch that will be remembered forever!”

Nancy Hoepner
Testimonials

“After a long, hot and dusty game drive we were treated to the most delicious meal at MPILA Shingwedzi. The food was beautifully presented and served with a smile and the experience was a perfect balance of all our favourite things, topped off with a sighting of hippos frolicking in the pools just below the deck where we were seated. Such a special lunch that will be remembered forever!”

Nancy Hoepner
Tesimonials

“After a long, hot and dusty game drive we were treated to the most delicious meal at MPILA Shingwedzi. The food was beautifully presented and served with a smile and the experience was a perfect balance of all our favourite things, topped off with a sighting of hippos frolicking in the pools just below the deck where we were seated. Such a special lunch that will be remembered forever!”

Nancy Hoepner
Tesimonials

“ After a long, hot and dusty game drive we were treated to the most delicious meal at MPILA Shingwedzi. The food was beautifully presented and served with a smile and the experience was a perfect balance of all our favourite things, topped off with a sighting of hippos frolicking in the pools just below the deck where we were seated. Such a special lunch that will be remembered forever! ”

Nancy Hoepner