Summary
Renowned as one of the best places in KwaZulu-Natal to see the Big Five, Phinda Private Game Reserve is also an important sanctuary for the cheetah and the endangered black rhino. It is home to some of Southern Africa’s most iconic habitats, including the vlei; a unique wetland ecosystem that supports a staggering variety of animal and bird life. Situated between the vlei and the reserve’s remarkable dry sand forest, &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge’s six secluded suites come complete with a private plunge pool and an expansive viewing deck. There are many ways to encounter wildlife at &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge; including twice-daily game drives, river cruises and walking safaris. For those with a little extra time, the lodge also runs a programme of exclusive Phinda Adventures, ranging from whale watching trips to Zulu village tours.
- Wake up to the sight of monkeys, impala or even elephants drinking from your private pool
- Experience the bush at close quarters as you learn how to track black rhino on foot
- Visit a local homestead and discover the richness of Zulu culture
- Explore KwaZulu-Natal’s coastal beauty on a day trip to Sodwana Bay
- Game drives
- Night drives
- Walking safaris
- River cruises
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Phinda Adventure excursions (inc. whale watching, Zulu village tours and turtle safaris)
Situated at the convergence of two unique ecosystems, &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge boasts some of the most dynamic game-viewing that the reserve has to offer. The lodge compliments its stunning location with first-class cuisine, a range of unforgettable activities, and staff that are as friendly as they are knowledgeable.
There are six suites available at &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge, all of which are cleverly integrated into the African bush so as to impact as little as possible on the natural environment. Each suite features a private viewing deck from which to enjoy the dazzling views of the vlei beyond; and a private plunge pool in which to cool off during the heat of the day. Inside, all six suites boast a spacious sitting area, a dressing room, and an en-suite bathroom in addition to a luxurious king-sized bed.
Best Room/Top Tips
&Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge’s six rooms are all the same in terms of layout and amenities. However, Room Six is famous amongst the lodge’s guests for offering the best elephant sightings, with the giant pachyderms frequently appearing from the bush to drink from its private pool.
- Private lap pools
- Butler service
- Expert rangers
- Selection of safari experiences
- Phinda Adventure experiences
- Restaurant
- Bar
Dining
Meals at &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge are served on a dining deck that offers spectacular views of the vlei, so that guests can keep an eye out for passing game even as they enjoy the chef’s mouthwatering homemade fare. Private in-suite dining is also available upon request, as are a variety of exciting dining options including meals served in the bush, or by the roaring fires of the lodge’s traditional open-air boma.
Kids
Children are more than welcome at &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge. Game drives are available to children aged twelve and over, and to children aged between six and twelve at the lodge manager’s discretion. Upon arrival at &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge, all children receive a WILDchild gift bag, complete with a logbook, crayons, pencils and a paw-print tattoo.
