&Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge

&Beyond Phinda Game Reserve
KwaZulu Natal
South Africa

Phinda Forest Lodge – A Luxury Escape in a Rare Sand Forest

Tucked away in one of the last remaining dry sand forests of Africa, Phinda Forest Lodge offers an unparalleled safari experience within the Phinda Private Game Reserve. Spanning 1,000 hectares (2,471 acres), this eco-designed luxury retreat is seamlessly integrated into its surroundings, making it one of the world’s first lodges built with sustainability in mind.

Nicknamed “Seven Worlds of Wonder,” Phinda’s diverse ecosystem blends lush woodlands, grasslands, wetlands, and forests, creating an extraordinary landscape interwoven with mountains, rivers, marshes, and pans. This rich habitat is home to Africa’s Big Five and an impressive 436 bird species, offering some of the continent’s most spectacular wildlife encounters.

The lodge features 16 elegant suites with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, immersing guests in the serene beauty of the sand forest. Wake up to birds fluttering outside your suite, spot wildlife wandering through the trees, and fall asleep to the tranquil sounds of nature.

Between game drives, unwind by the rim-flow swimming pool, positioned at the edge of the forest with views of a nearby waterhole. The spacious guest decks overlook a sweeping grassy meadow, providing the perfect setting to enjoy the untouched wilderness. In the evenings, gather under a star-studded sky for a lantern-lit boma dinner, where the glow of the fire flickers and curious bush babies peek from the treetops above.

Highlights At Phinda Forest Lodge

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the forest at Phinda Forest Lodge, where 16 luxurious glass suites blend seamlessly into one of the world’s last remaining dry sand forests. Wake up to the soft rustle of leaves, watch small wildlife and vibrant birdlife from the comfort of your suite, and feel completely at one with nature.

Siyeza Safari offers a range of thrilling adventures, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience:

• Guided walking and tracking safaris, led by expert rangers.
• Infrared Night Eye drives, revealing the nocturnal wonders of the reserve.
• A sleep-out under the stars, where the African night sky becomes your ceiling.
• Hands-on conservation experiences, such as rhino notching and pangolin tagging, contributing to vital wildlife protection efforts.

Beyond the reserve, explore the rich culture and coastal beauty of the region:

• Zulu village tours and Africa Foundation community visits for an authentic cultural experience.
• Maputaland explorations, where lush landscapes meet fascinating history.
• Scuba safaris and ocean adventures, offering sightings of dolphins, whales, and other marine life.
• Seasonal night turtle drives, witnessing these ancient creatures nesting along the beach.

For those with special interests, we arrange tailored safaris, including birding, photographic, family-friendly, and private safaris, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience.

Expert Tips For Your Stay At Phinda Forest Lodge

Phinda Private Game Reserve is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. However, what truly sets Phinda apart is its exceptional sightings of cheetah and black rhino, offering a rare opportunity to witness these endangered species in their natural habitat.

The ancient sand forest, one of the last of its kind, shelters some of Africa’s most elusive wildlife. Keep an eye out for the shy suni antelope and the rare red duiker, two of the smallest and most secretive antelope species, rarely seen elsewhere. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the rich birdlife, with over 436 species recorded in the reserve.

For an unforgettable experience, join a guided walking safari to track wildlife on foot, or take a Night Eye drive to uncover the nocturnal wonders of the reserve. The diversity of habitats at Phinda means that every safari is unique, offering new and exciting wildlife encounters at every turn.