Phinda Vlei Lodge

Phinda Vlei Lodge lies within the 18 000-hectares of Phinda Private Game Reserve, in the Maputaland region of KwaZulu-Natal. Phinda neighbours the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park – a World Heritage Site –- to the east and is only 30km due west of the white-fringed beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Intimate and elegant, this exquisite lodge comprises six thatched suites with en suite bathrooms, dressing rooms, private plunge pools and decks which overlook the vlei (wetland system) where you’re likely to observe herds of grazing antelope, zebra and a dazzling variety of birdlife.

Fringing Phinda’s unique vlei (wetland) system, this gracious safari lodge is a study of intimacy and integration with the African bush.
* Six elegant thatched, air-conditioned suites
* Private game-viewing decks and plunge pools
* Dressing room and en suite bathroom
* Dining area overlooking the grassy vlei
* Sitting area with open fireplace

Watch the drama of South Africa’s wilderness unfold while relaxing in your private plunge pool. The atmosphere is exclusive and personal, a mixture of understated sophistication and sheer luxury.

Delicious Pan-African cuisine is served to you on the game-viewing decks, or in a dramatic bush setting near the lodge. Phinda is renowned for its unforgettable bush banquets in beautiful, remote settings.

Accommodation
Six stilted glass and thatch suites are situated in the rare Dry Sand Forest. Each suite features an en-suite bathroom with twin hand basins, bath, separate shower and separate w.c. All suites have a personal bar on the deck and private plunge pools.

Each suite – decorated in a subtle blend of North and West African styles with hints of Balinese influences – overlooks the grassy vlei, where you’re likely to see a dazzling variety of wildlife including herds of zebra and grazing antelope.

Guest areas
Inviting and stylishly designed sitting and dining areas with fireplaces and expansive viewing decks. Guests are welcome to visit the African crafts shop at Forest Lodge.

Activities
Twice daily game-drives in open 4x4 game viewing vehicles, nature walks and excellent birding on Phinda Private Game Reserve.

Riverboat cruises and canoeing along the Mzinene River.

Optional Phinda Adventures, at an additional cost, include coastal flights, beach excursions including snorkelling and scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, turtle viewing (season Nov/Dec/Jan), horse riding and cultural visits.

How to get there:

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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.