The Letaba River, whose name means "river of sand" in Sotho, is one of the major rivers in South Africa's Northern Province (Limpopo). Its upper stretches originate in the Magoebaskloof mountains, which receive substantial rainfall annually. The river flows through varied terrain before eventually passing through Kruger National Park, where it is known for sandy banks and seasonal flow patterns typical of the region's bushveld rivers.

The most documented paddling section lies just below Ebenezer Dam, accessed via the R528. The put-in is at the bridge where the R528 crosses the river, and the take-out is at a low-level bridge on a dirt road that branches off the R528. This section runs approximately 7 kilometres and typically takes three to five hours to complete. It is rated Grade 3 to 4, with a character described as steep and narrow. No permits are required.

The section is dam-controlled by Ebenezer Dam, and a paddleable level can generally be expected during summer. Because of the tight and steep nature of the run, it is strongly advisable to paddle this section at a low level first. Most rapids consist of slides rather than vertical drops, which makes the section relatively manageable at lower flows despite the gradient. A long, very steep stepped slide appears before the halfway point; pine trees may obstruct critical lines. Approximately midway through, there is a very narrow stretch that is not paddleable and must be portaged on the right. Further downstream, a waterfall drops into a deep pool and may be runnable; alternatively, boats can be lowered on the left using ropes. The recommended craft is a kayak.

On the Groot Letaba River near Haenertsburg, guided river tubing trips are available, operating on the R528 corridor in Limpopo. These trips accommodate groups of two to twenty people, last approximately 2.5 hours, and require participants to be able to swim and be at least ten years of age.

The broader Letaba River corridor through Kruger National Park is notable for elephant activity, crocodiles, and prolific birdlife, including at Engelhard Dam, considered one of South Africa's top birdwatching sites. Leopard sightings are also reported along the Letaba River Road.