This beautiful and diverse wildlife reserve that we see today began as part of a dream in 1989 and the shared vision of four men as they embarked on a journey to conserve the wilderness they loved. Through the efforts of many and involvement of the surrounding rural communities, Phinda is what it is today.
I had the privilege of visiting Phinda Mountain Lodge with my family in November 2013. Brilliant green landscapes and with a feeling of summer already well on its way! Phinda Mountain Lodge is the perfect place for families or those looking for a relaxed and easy-going safari destination. The lodge has some amazing views from the main areas, with all the rooms dotted on the side of a hill. On this trip, we had some of the best viewings I’ve had on Phinda, large lion pride, various cheetah sightings, elephant, and rhino!
Phinda Private Game Reserve is situated in Maputaland, northern KwaZulu-Natal. The region offers a diversity of habitats and wildlife, and many of the species found here occur no further south. A wonderland of unique sand forest, savanna mosaic and verdant wetlands the reserve has thousands of large mammals including elephant, lion, cheetah, buffalo, and black & white rhino.
There are six different lodges on Phinda all offering something a little bit different! Phinda Forest Lodge – 16 glassed suites on stilts, set in rare sand forest Phinda Mountain Lodge – 25 thatched suites located on mountainside with nice views from main area of surroundings Phinda Rock Lodge – 6 stone suites on side of mountain with wooden shutters opening onto private deck Phinda Vlei Lodge – 6 thatched suites look out onto open Vlei area where you often see game Phinda Zuka Lodge – 4 thatched cottages separate from main guest area which can be booked individually or as a villa, and a waterhole in front of the lodge that often attracts wildlife Phinda Homestead – a luxury villa with 4 bedrooms, perfect for families or friends travelling together, private game drive vehicle, guide and chef.
Phinda offers something for everyone and I can’t wait to return again!