Set deep in the heart of the rare Dry Sand Forest, the spectacular stilted suites of the award-winning Phinda Forest Lodge are an exemplary exercise in building eco-sensitive structures with a light footprint.
Phinda Forest Lodge offers:
16 spacious, hand-built glass-encased suites
All with air-conditioning
Private viewing decks
Luxurious en suite bathrooms
Sparkling rim-flow swimming pool
Crafts gallery with a range of local Zulu artefacts
Wake up to the sight of graceful nyala and duiker browsing in the foliage of the Sand Forest right outside the glass walls of your private suite.
Inventively designed in what is often called "Zulu-Zen", each suite is a combination of glass, wood and minimalist design incorporating high-gloss wooden floors and crimson Zulu artefacts.
Delicious Pan-African cuisine is served to you on the deck overlooking the grassy plains or in the boma (outdoor dining area) illuminated by dozens of candles and lanterns.
Enjoy adventurous breakfasts and romantic dinners in spectacular African safari locations.
The rate includes:
Accommodation
Three meals daily
Soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers
Teas and coffees
Two game drives daily
Refreshments on game drives
Laundry
VAT
Activities:
At first light set off in an open landrover - possibly for a picnic breakfast at a carefully selected site, or for a morning boat cruise on the Mzinene River.
During the heat of the day, you may choose to relax around the secluded pool - or to walk, discovering the many rare creatures and fascinating array of birds and insects that inhabit the forest.
Those with a spirit of adventure may wish to explore the nearby coastline, snorkeling or diving amongst the southernmost coral reefs in the world.
Late afternoon adventures add to the magical experience. As the shadows lengthen, a stop is made for sundowners.
And, after sumptuous dinner in the boma under the moonlight canopy of towering trees, you will fall asleep to the sounds of the living forest.
How to get there:
By Air:
Federal Air operates a daily flight from Johannesburg International Airport to Phinda Airstrip.
Daily scheduled flights by SA Express from Johannesburg International Airport to Richards Bay Airport.
Transfers from Richards Bay Airport to Phinda are available by road
By Road:
Phinda is accessible by road by two-wheel drive vehicle -- driving time from Johannesburg is six hours and from Durban is three hours.
The turn-off from the N2 is between the towns of Mkuze and Hluhluwe and is clearly sign-posted.
