andBeyond Phinda Zuka Lodge

Highlights of Phinda Zuka Lodge

•  Phinda Zuka Lodge is a private bush homestead for parties of up to 8
•  Your own ranger and chef makes Zuka an exclusive experience
•  Phinda is the most established private game reserve in KwaZulu Natal
•  Big Five game drives in 7 diverse eco-systems

Phinda Zuka Lodge is situated the southern part of Phinda Game Reserve, a 28,555ha private game reserve to the north of Hluhluwe. Cradled in a valley and surrounded by densely wooded hills studded with aloes, Zuka Lodge is a private homestead which embodies a cool, coastal bush style. With only four suites, it can be easily taken on a sole use basis.

Rich both in game and in stunning scenery, 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, rhino, hippo and an abundance of general game. Phinda is particularly known for good cheetah sightings, and its prolific bird life.

Meaning 'sixpence' in Zulu, Zuka Lodge offers you an intimate and luxury way to enjoy this pristine wilderness. Four thatched ensuite cottages cluster around a central homestead with an open, interactive kitchen, a large wooden dining table for friends and family, and a cosy fireplace for evening gatherings.

Accommodation

The air-conditioned cottages are set 15 metres (50 feet) apart and are extremely stylish with a soft contemporary décor. The bedrooms have a wonderful display of traditional Zulu hats with confident use of vibrant colour. The bathrooms are particularly stylish with much use of stone, as well as a freestanding stone bath, huge circular double shower, separate toilet and twin basins. Each has a private veranda overlooking a busy waterhole where a diversity of game is regularly seen. Outside you can dine on the main deck or at the rimflow pool with its views over the waterhole.

Phinda Zuka Lodge is perfect for groups of friends or a larger family. Older children are welcome though it's best if the children are old enough to sleep in their own chalet. You can tailormake your safari experience after chatting to your ranger and can enjoy game drives, nature walks and river cruises. Given the reserve's proximity to the Indian Ocean, Phinda 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.