E-biking* through &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve’s rare Sand Forest offers a unique and immersive experience through one of the region’s most distinctive ecosystems. Easy to ride and good fun, these specialised bicycles are fitted with a battery powered assist that gives a boost via a throttle to make pedalling a little easier. Allowing you to cover more ground at ease, witness the intricate beauty of this captivating space exploring more of the dense vegetation and sandy trails, free from the constraints of roads and vehicles.
As you navigate well-travelled game paths and gravel roads, winding through the towering trees and lush undergrowth, you will encounter a rich array of plant species and, if you are lucky, even a few curious creatures that call the forest home. Keep an eye out for elusive suni or nyala hiding beneath the canopy plus an abundance of bird species that thrive in this remarkable habitat. Accompanied by your knowledgeable ranger, and a specialist biking guide, learn more about the area’s ecology, gaining an insight into the delicate balance required to preserve this exceptional environment. Depending on which cycle route you choose to explore, your ranger will also stop en route to point out various interesting forest wonders, providing an interpretive and engaging experience throughout.
Much like the Sand Forest, this thrilling experience goes beyond appearances. Brought to life in partnership with the nearby Makhasa and Mnqobokazi communities, this e-biking adventure offers a unique community investment opportunity, with the intent to educate, upskill and generate employment. Working closely alongside both communities, &Beyond leases the e-bikes from them. Guests from all &Beyond Phinda lodges can enjoy this e-biking adventure at an additional cost. All proceeds go to the Makhasa and Mnqobokazi communities, providing vital support where needed.
&Beyond Phinda e-biking trails
There are three well-marked trails to choose from, ranging in effort, skill and scenery to ensure your chosen route is well-suited to your cycling expertise and interests.
Blue route
5 km (3.1 mi)
- Effort 1/5
- Skill 4/5
- Scenery 3/5
E-biking through the edge of the forest closest to the lodge, this route requires some skill and starts on a well-worn game path, winding in and around the trees with some tight corners. An enjoyable loop perfect for soaking in the forest’s beauty, spot giant Lebombo wattles, the false tamboti grove, and listen for the scaly-throated honeyguide’s call.
Green route
5 km (3.1 mi)
- Effort 1/5
- Skill 3/5
- Scenery 3/5
Navigate through the heart of the Sand Forest on well-worn game trails. This low-effort route offers glimpses of everything the forest has to offer, from a Phinda button spider web and an old hyena den to the false tamboti grove and a crowned eagle’s nest.
Family route
6 km (3.7 mi)
- Effort 1/5
- Skill 2/5
- Scenery 4/5
Enjoy a relaxing family ride along the main lodge gravel road through the Sand Forest. This easy-going route lets you admire the towering trees without the challenge of single-track riding. Look out for a Phinda button spider web and a crowned eagle’s nest along the way.
*This experience is at an additional cost, and is subject to availability and weather dependent