Check Hotel/Lodge Availability

Phinda Private Game Reserve is set within easy reach of the Indian Ocean coastline and the famous Greater St Lucia Wetland Park in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Thanks to its coastal rainfall pattern, Phinda enjoys a lush green environment that contains a magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest, interspersed with mountain ranges, rivercourses, marshes and pans. With only a handful of lodges sharing the area, guests are assured of an exclusive game viewing experience. Adding to Phinda’s wildlife charms, the marine diversity of nearby Sodwana on the coast is easily accessible and offers scuba diving, fishing and even turtle watching. Accommodation on the Phinda Reserve comprises four diverse lodges: Forest Lodge, Vlei Lodge, Rock Lodge and Mountain Lodge. Phinda Forest Lodge is situated in the depths of the botanically unique Sand Forest.  The bedroom suites were hand-built by the Zulu people on small stilts to allow smaller animals complete freedom of movement along the forest floor below.  Surrounded on three sides by glass, the fertile forest floor and towering torchwood trees ensure privacy in each of the chalets.     WILDLIFE  The wide variety of landscapes at Phinda shelters an abundance of wildlife, including not only the Big Five (buffalo, white rhino, elephant, lion and leopard) but many rarer species, such as the elusive cheetah or the scarce black rhino - and 400 species of bird. To the east of Phinda lie the warm, inviting waters of the Indian Ocean - home to dolphin, whale shark, moray eel, leatherback and loggerhead turtle. FACILITIES The dining area, lounge and swimming pool overlook a tranquil open grassy vlei (wetland pan).  The elevated lookout deck is a prime bird-watching spot.  Dine on the deck or around the forest boma (enclosed reeded area).  Bush banquets are served in a clearing in the bush under a star-studded sky.  Phinda is also renowned for its bush breakfasts.    No. of Bedrooms 16 glass-encased chalets with wooden decks, comprising a bedroom, lounge and en suite bathroom with a bath and separate shower.  Rooms are air-conditioned. Activities Twice daily game drives in an open Land Rover; guided bush walks; white rhino tracking; bird-watching and birding safaris.  See also CCAfrica's Walking Safaris in Ngala and Phinda Reserves. "Flight of the Fish Eagle" air safari Turtle viewing (November to January) on Maputaland beaches Scuba diving and snorkelling Canoeing and river boat cruises Horse riding