What makes Phinda special?

Seven distinct habitats, including rare dry sand forest, create varied Big Five viewing with standout cheetah and black rhino. Its Zululand location also allows an unusual bush and beach pairing on the Indian Ocean coast.

When is the best time to visit Phinda?

May to September is dry with excellent visibility. November to April is green with rich birdlife and warm coastal conditions for ocean add-ons. We tailor pacing to your dates and interests.

What wildlife can I expect?

The Big Five occur, with renowned cheetah viewing and black rhino conservation success. Sand forest specialties include suni and red duiker, while open grasslands and wetlands host classic plains game and raptors.

What experiences can you arrange on safari and coast?

Day and night game drives, guided Bush Walking Safaris, birding and stargazing. On the coast, add scuba or snorkelling at Sodwana Bay and, in season (Nov to Feb), guided turtle nesting outings.

Where should I stay at Phinda?

Choose Phinda Mountain Lodge for sweeping views, Rock Lodge for clifftop drama, Forest Lodge set among sand forest glass suites, or private-use Zuka or The Homestead. We match properties and pacing to your style.

PHINDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Interpretive bush walk in Phinda's sand forest with ranger guidance

Between the Indian Ocean and South Africa’s Zululand’s Lebombo foothills, Phinda weaves seven distinct habitats; sand forest, wetlands, mountain bushveld and open grasslands, into one celebrated Big Five reserve. Expect standout cheetah and black rhino viewing, rich birdlife, and a rare bush-and-beach pairing with easy access to Sodwana Bay.

Explore Experience Inspiration

ebiking through the sand forest at Phinda Forest Lodge, South Africa

QUICK FACTS
28,555 ha reserve
7 habitats
Sand forest
Cheetah hotspot
Black rhino

Guided walking safari with white rhinos at Phinda Private Game Reserve

Private beach setup at Sodwana Bay near Phinda on the Indian Ocean

Sand Forests & Savannahs

Begin with sweeping views at Phinda Mountain Lodge; drop into the clifftop drama of Rock Lodge, then wander beneath ancient sand forest at Forest Lodge. Seek cheetah on the Vlei’s fringes, or choose private-use Zuka or the Homestead for slow, tailored days and starry evenings.

Experiences & Highlights

Build days around Big Five game drives, guided Bush Walking Safaris and night drives; add birding, stargazing and Bush Dining. With the coast nearby, pair safari with scuba or snorkelling at Sodwana Bay, and in season look for turtle nesting. Stay cliff-edge, glass-walled, panoramic or private, Phinda’s lodges fit every safari travel style.