Phinda Mountain Lodge Uninterrupted Mountain Views

Nestled on a hilltop with panoramic views of the verdant Lebombo foothills, Phinda Mountain Lodge stands as the quintessential destination for family safaris in the Phinda Private Game Reserve.

Spanning 29,866 hectares (73,800 acres) of protected wildlife land in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

The iconic &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve offers one of Africa’s premier game viewing experiences.

Home to the Big Five and an impressive 436 bird species, it promises unforgettable encounters with nature.

Accommodation

Phinda Mountain Lodge provides a range of luxurious accommodations designed to immerse you in the beauty of the African bush. The lodge features:

• Suites: Sixteen spacious suites perched on the mountain’s edge, each boasting large glass windows that offer breathtaking views of the reserve. Inside, you’ll find elegant en-suite bathrooms with both indoor and outdoor showers, a beautiful bath, and a well-stocked personal bar. Each suite also includes a private deck with a rim-flow plunge pool and outdoor lounge.
• Cottages: Six intimate cottages come with stylish en-suite bathrooms, comfortable sitting areas, and well-stocked personal bars. Spacious decked verandas, private plunge pools, and outdoor showers enhance your stay, with the chance to spot nyala antelope and exquisite birdlife right from your veranda.
• Family Cottages: Three family cottages, interconnected for ease of access, offer accommodations for two adults and up to three children. Each cottage features its own en-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, a private plunge pool, and a dedicated private safari vehicle with a guide for the family’s exclusive use.
• Family Suite: A luxurious suite designed specifically for families, offering ample space and privacy.

What to Eat

The culinary experience at Phinda Mountain Lodge is as exceptional as the game viewing. Guests can indulge in meals at the interactive kitchen, featuring a pizza oven that allows kids to create their own dishes. For a unique dining experience, the traditional stone and reed boma, illuminated by candles and lanterns, offers an enchanting setting for al fresco dinners.

Things to Do

The lodge and its surroundings offer a plethora of activities:

• Game Drives: Enjoy twice-daily game drives to witness Africa’s Big Five and other incredible wildlife.
• Walking Safaris: Embark on specialist walking and tracking safaris for a more intimate wildlife encounter.
• Sleepouts: Experience the thrill of sleeping under the stars.
• Conservation Experiences: Participate in rhino notching, elephant collaring, or pangolin tagging.
• Cultural Tours: Explore Zulu villages, visit the Africa Foundation community, or enjoy a Maputaland beach trip.
• Ocean Safaris: Discover marine life with scuba safaris or ocean safaris.
• Specialist Safaris: Arrange safaris focused on birding, photography, family, or private interests.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Phinda Mountain Lodge is during the dry season, from May to September, when wildlife sightings are at their peak due to the sparse vegetation and animals congregating around water sources. The wet season, from October to April, offers lush landscapes and vibrant birding opportunities but comes with occasional rain showers.

What to Pack

• Clothing: Light, neutral-coloured clothing for safaris, layered for varying temperatures. A light jacket or sweater for early mornings and evenings is advisable.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes and sandals.
• Essentials: Sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a camera with a zoom lens for capturing wildlife.
• Extras: Binoculars for bird watching and a swimsuit for the lodge’s pool.

Currency

The currency used in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and tips, although major credit cards are widely accepted.

Fun Fact

Phinda Private Game Reserve is renowned for its cheetah population, one of the largest in Africa. The reserve’s diverse habitats, from sand forests to wetlands, provide a perfect environment for these swift predators and other rare species.

Phinda Mountain Lodge offers a remarkable blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a top choice for an unforgettable family safari experience.