andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge

•  Phinda is the original and most established private game reserve of Natal
•  Phinda Vlei Lodge offers views of the open wetlands
•  Spacious contemporary suites offer private plunge pools and Zen tranquility
•  Well-trained and knowledgeable rangers
•  Range of additional activities – coastal flights, beach excursions, deep sea fishing

Phinda Game Reserve is a 28,555ha private game reserve to the north of Hluhluwe. Phinda Vlei Lodge is the ultimate romantic lodge at Phinda Game Reserve and is suitably decadent in feel. Overlooking the reserve's unique vlei system (wetlands) at the edge of the sand forest, Phinda Vlei offers an intimate safari experience, with elegant and gracious suites designed for quiet contemplation of the African wilderness.

Phinda Vlei Lodge retains a slightly Eastern feel with uncluttered furnishings, use of wooden shutters and expansive open areas in the public areas and suites. The six thatched suites look out onto an ever-changing parade of animals on the open vlei. Each has a separate sitting room, large bedroom with glass walls overlooking a private deck and large plunge pool with views to the open grasslands beyond.

The bathroom is delectable with double shower, large bath and vanity unit.  As one of the more luxurious of Phinda's lodges, Vlei Lodge has the most experienced rangers and trackers, and its small size ensures intimacy and exclusivity. Meals are served in the stylish dining area, or in the bush under a starlit sky.

Game viewing at Phinda Vlei Lodge

Phinda Game Reserve boasts seven contrasting ecosystems, including sand forest, mountain bushveld and wetlands. This diversity of habitat naturally attracts a variety of game including lion, elephant, cheetah, leopard and the rare suni antelope. The territorial white rhino favour waterholes and wallows. Herds of elephant and buffalo move throughout the reserve and are easily spotted. Phinda is also particularly known for its good cheetah sightings and birding with over 400 recorded species. Rudd's apalis, Neergaard's sunbird and pink-throated twinspot are endemic to the Maputaland region.

Guests at Phinda enjoy game drives, nature walks, as well as tracking black rhino. Given its proximity to the Indian Ocean, Vlei Lodge is able to offer optional extras such as Maputaland beach adventures, night turtle drives (seasonal), scuba safaris, or an incredible ocean safari that offers you a host of marine life sightings.