Summary
Set within easy reach of the coast, Phinda Private Game Reserve is known for its spectacular wildlife and magnificent scenery. It provides a sanctuary for some of Africa’s rarest animals, including the endangered black rhino, the shy cheetah, and of course, the famous Big Five. &Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge is one of six luxury accommodation options situated within the boundaries of the reserve, and comprises just six breathtaking suites carved into the ochre walls of Phinda’s dramatic cliffs. These suites provide panoramic views of the park, and therefore compliment their rustic charm with some truly unforgettable wildlife watching opportunities. The lodge offers morning and evening game drives, river cruises and walking safaris, in addition to a range of Phinda Adventures that allows guests to experience all aspects of KwaZulu-Natal’s natural and cultural heritage.
- Marvel at the incredible birdlife of the Mzinene River during a dawn or dusk river cruise
- Spend the morning in the bush, tracking the endangered black rhino on foot
- Visit the Endangered Wild Cats Project to see rehabilitated cheetahs and other cats up close
- Experience life in an authentic Zulu homestead
- Game drives
- Night drives
- Walking safaris
- River cruises
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Phinda Adventure excursions (inc. whale watching, Zulu village tours and turtle safaris)
Because &Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge is so small, those that stay there will soon feel as though they are amongst family; whilst the lodge’s expert rangers and trackers possess a passion for the bush that is quite infectious. Away from the crowds of larger game reserves, Phinda offers the opportunity to truly return to nature and to experience the African bush in all its wild, untamed beauty.
- 1 to 3 night stays include free return flights from Johannesburg to Durban OR Richards Bay (at &Beyond’s discretion) and shared road transfers up to Phinda Game Reserve (T&C's apply)
&Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge comprises six cliff-top suites, all of which are carved directly into the rock face and provide dramatic panoramic views of the reserve spread out below. Each of these magnificent suites includes a private viewing deck and a personal plunge pool situated right on the very edge of the precipice. Inside, the suites feature a luxurious master bedroom and a bathroom whose deep bathtub overlooks the park through wide windows. All suites boast access to the roof via a rustic ladder, therefore enabling the ultimate star-gazing experience; whilst three of them also include an al fresco shower.
Best Room/Top Tips
For the best views of the valley, choose Rooms 1- 3, all of which are situated higher on the hill overlooking the dam. For the best chances of a close encounter with the surrounding wildlife, choose Room 5 or 6. These rooms are positioned downhill from the central lodge, and as a result their private plunge pools double as a makeshift watering hole for opportunistic birds and animals.
- Private plunge pools
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Expert rangers
- Selection of different safari experiences
- Phinda Adventure experiences
Dining
&Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge features a cosy dining room that serves wholesome homemade fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Here, guests can also enjoy a daily afternoon tea that provides sustenance before the evening game drive; whilst dinner is served around a roaring fire that creates the perfect atmosphere for telling tales of the day’s adventures. It is also possible to dine in the privacy of your own suite.
Kids
Due to its remote cliffside location, &Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge is not recommended for guests under 12 years of age.
