Phinda Vlei Lodge

Fringing the Phinda Private Game Reserve, the sophisticated &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge gracefully blends into the surrounding bush. Situated between two habitats, a rare sand forest and grasslands, animals appear in a never-ending wildlife parade. Because the lodge overlooks the reserve’s vlei (wetland), the area is prime for everything from the antics of monkeys, to prolific birdlife, to the herds of zebra or families of warthog ambling along.

Gracious and elegant, this intimate lodge comprises six thatched suites decorated in a subtle blend of North and West African styles, with hints of Balinese influence. Each suite’s deck opens up onto a dazzling view of the clearing beyond. Combine game viewing with a refreshing dip in your private plunge pool, but be prepared to share it with a thirsty elephant or impala.

At Vlei Lodge, immerse yourself in an exclusive atmosphere, and enjoy personalized service that combines unpretentious luxury and pure sophistication. Whether in one of the charming guest areas, or in the seclusion of your spacious suite, you can watch a wondrous ecosystem come to life. This is South Africa in style!

Thatched Luxury Suites

At Phinda Vlei Lodge simply spending time in one of the six spacious suites is like being on safari. Large private lap pools provide the ideal immersion in total relaxation, while the drama of the African wilderness unfolds. Inside, understated sophistication mixes with pure luxury.

• Twin beds, which convert to cozy double bed
• En-suite bathroom with tub and shower
• Dressing room
• Private game viewing deck
• Lap pool

Facilities & Services

• Elegant and serene, the gracious spaces of Phinda Vlei Lodge are designed for quiet contemplation of the African bush.
• Dining deck with views of the waterhole
• Lounge with fireplace
• In-room massage treatments
• Gym in a bag available on request
• Child minding available at an additional charge
• WiFi in rooms and guest areas

&Beyond Bush Cuisine

Delicious and creative meals are served on the expansive outdoor decks or in a beautiful and remote bush setting. Breakfasts and lunches include both international favourites and local delights.
After the evening game drive, where guests sip on sundowners, a mouthwatering dinner is always waiting. On chillier evenings, keep the chill at bay in front of a roaring fire, before retiring to the comfort of a warm bed.
Note that private dining in your suite can be arranged and that the chef is available to prepare meals to cater for early bedtimes. Special food requirements are happily accommodated upon request. Kosher food is available at an extra charge and with advance notice.

Activities

&Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve encompasses an impressive 23,000 hectares of protected wildlife land in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Seven distinct habitats showcase one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences as Phinda is home to Africa’s “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), as well as 415 bird species. The reserve is particularly well known for close-up sightings of the elegant yet elusive cheetah, as well as the rare black rhino.
Guests at Phinda experience tailor-made adventures led by professionally trained rangers and Zulu trackers. You can also note that the lodge is close to popular breeding grounds for highly endangered sea turtles. Spectacular coral reef diving in the Indian Ocean is also easily accessible.

• Twice-daily private game drives in open 4×4 safari vehicles
• Bush walks
• Birding
• River cruises (seasonal)

Activities at an Additional Charge

Phinda Adventures include Zulu village tours, Maputaland beach adventures, night turtle drives, scuba safaris, black rhino tracking on foot, visits to endangered wild cats project and swimming with whale sharks.
Specialist Safaris include birding, photographic, rhino capture and research, tracking, luxury walking, family and private safaris.