&Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge

The thatched main area of the lodge is centrally located within the camp on a raised wooden platform. On it, you can settle back in comfortable wicker chairs to admire the constant parade of lion, antelope, elephant, giraffe and more. Inside, the bar and dining area are large and stylish. Eat at private tables or communally, beside the fireplace or under the stars on the deck. Seating areas inside and out invite you to settle back with a book or share your sightings with other guests.

There are just six lovely suites, built of thatch and teak with floor-to-ceiling windows. If privacy is prime, you'll find it here – there's ample space between the rooms. The luxury continues indoors, with huge mosquito-netted beds, air conditioning, gorgeous West Africa-inspired fabrics, and an ingenious bathroom with deep tub, shower and twin basins. Relax on your private wraparound deck or take a dip in your private plunge pool, if no elephants, antelope or baboons have come for a drink!

Activities here are much the same as those at Phinda's other lodges, but the wetland does bring an added dimension to your safari sightings. There are standard day and evening game drives, bush walks and, at extra cost, walking safaris, tracking and a various beach activities. From your suite, look out for the Big Five and the 200-plus wetland waterbirds, and observe the sand forest (home to shy suni and red duiker antelope). Take a leisurely sunset cruise along the Mzinene River.