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Bushveld paradise near the beach
Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Wallowing elephant - Phinda Private Game Reserve.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
The tiny knee-high Suni antelope is found at Phinda Private Game Reserve.
A day at Phinda Private Game Reserve is like a day in heaven.
Before breakfast an early game drive will reveal the world of some of the most spectacular wild animals in Africa, including lions and elephants. Around lunch you can take a plunge and swim with dolphins in the Indian Ocean, rounded off with a great fishing trip and delicious dinner back at the lodge.
Located between the azure ocean waters and the lush World Heritage iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Phinda's 23 000 hectares comprises 7 distinct ecosystems, including the very rare sand forest.
Phinda is a Zulu word meaning 'the return', which signifies that Phinda Private Game Reserve was the location of one of the biggest reintroductions of game in Africa. The area was restocked with lion, rhinoceros, buffalo, elephant, leopard, giraffe and other big game in Operation Phinda Izilwane, meaning 'return of the wild animals'.
Guests can join game drives in open safari vehicles driven by experienced rangers and Zulu trackers, as well as optional activities on the water, in the air and on the beach. The area around Phinda boasts 380 bird species, while the marine diversity off the nearby coast of diving mecca Sodwana rivals Australia's Great Barrier Reef.
The award-winning Phinda Private Game Reserve is rated as one of the most exclusive luxury destinations in the country. It offers 6 lodges designed to capture a the beauty of the surroundings.
Phinda also offers some unique adventures for animal lovers who want to see more than the traditional 'big five', including a night drive to find elusive creatures like aardvark, bush pig and the greater bush baby.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Phinda Private Game Reserve
Tel: +27 (0) 11 809 4300
Email: safaris@&beyond.com
How to get here
Phinda is easily accessible by road and air. There are daily flights from O.R. Tambo International Airport direct to Phinda as well as flights from Johannesburg to Richards Bay Airport followed by a 2-hour chauffeur-driven road transfer or 20-minute light-aircraft transfer. Private planes and charters can be accommodated.
Tours to do
Phinda offers many eco-tourism activities ranging from game-drives and riverboat cruises, to more adventurous activities such as scuba diving and Flight of the Fish Eagle air safaris.
Get around
Once you arrive at Phinda, you will be transported in the reserve's 4X4 vehicles.
What will it cost
Phinda is a luxury reserve and is priced accordingly. Depending on season and which lodge you choose, you could epxect to pay between R4 000 and R7 500.
Length of stay
An absolute minimum would be two days to gain the most from your experience. A few days extra would be even better.
What to pack
Don't forget your costume.
Where to stay
Phinda has 6 lodges to choose from. All are intimate, exclusive and quite stunning.