This eco-designed luxury lodge, one of the world's first, is centrally positioned in Phinda Private Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Each of &Beyond's lodges in Phinda have been positioned in a different type of location. Phinda Rock Lodge, for example, is built into a cliff; Vlei Lodge overlooks a wetland. At Phinda Forest Lodge, the setting is a tranquil sand forest. Raised off the ground, with wooden decks and huge floor-to-ceiling windows, the lodge offers incredible views of the torchwood trees and other delights hidden in this unique ecosystem. Expect enthusiastic guiding, lion, rhino, cheetah and excellent birding.
/32.3442892,-27.7775442,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
The central areas are scattered across a handful of contemporary glass, wood and stone structures that offer great views of the leafy surroundings and the animals that live there. Inside, the atmosphere is crisp and fresh – an effect created by the whitewashed walls and earthy decor and huge windows. The dining area has private tables, and various seating spaces allow you to mingle or read quietly. Outside, a pool overlooks a stretch of grassland and the traditional boma offers star-studded dining.
Paths wind through the forest to the 16 raised suites that spread out behind the communal areas. Each suite is built of locally sourced materials, so all blend beautifully with the leafy green surroundings. The decor is modern, chic and comfortable, with air conditioning, mini-bar and luxurious en-suite bathroom. Take sundowners outdoors on your private wraparound veranda, with comfortable cushioned wicker furniture and a view unlike any other.
With its range of biomes and unique sand forest, Phinda offers unusual activities. The focus is on day and night game drives and bush walks, as well as hiking and tracking safaris for some Indiana Jones thrills. You can view turtles nesting on the nearby coast (November to February) and go on a canoe and boating trail on the Mzinene River. Snorkel, walk on the beach or go whale shark diving for something really different. (Some activities have an extra charge.)
The wildlife really is spectacular in Phinda - seeing a cheetah hunting at full speed cannot be described.
Coastal activities include snorkelling, walks on the beach and seeing nesting sea turtles. It's a fantastic foil for your safari-ing.
Typically, children over the age of 12 are welcome so younger kids may require special approval prior to staying.
A pioneer in sustainable tourism since 1991, &Beyond aims to expand its impact by 2030. Through partnerships and doubling investment, they have set a target of conserving 40 million acres of key biospheres while offering exclusive travel experiences. By doubling revenue and tripling profit, they seek to leave a positive footprint in Africa, Asia, and South America, empowering communities and preserving wildlife.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
A private, sub-tropical sanctuary with only a handful of lodges that’s as diverse as it is beautiful.
