About Phinda Vlei Lodge
Fringing Phinda Private Game Reserve's wildlife-rich wetland system, situated along the edge of the rare sand forest, the sophisticated Phinda Vlei Lodge is intimately integrated into the surrounding bush.
Gracious and elegant, this charming lodge comprises six thatched suites decorated in a subtle blend of North and West African styles, with hints of a Balinese influence.
Each suite, which features a luxurious ensuite bathroom, dressing room, private plunge pool and game viewing deck, overlooks a grassy meadow where guests can observe herds of grazing antelope and zebra, as well as a variety of birdlife.
The atmosphere is exclusive and personal, with a mixture of understated sophistication and pure luxury. Large private lap pools provide the ideal place to relax and enjoy the drama of the African wilderness unfold, while warm and inviting open fireplaces make the comfortable guest sitting area the ideal place to unwind on a cool afternoon.
Delicious and innovative cuisine is served on the expansive outdoor decks or in a beautiful and remote bush setting, creating lifelong memories. .
Facilities
- Bar
- Communal Dining
- 24-hour Security
- Eco Friendly
- Internet Access (Complimentary)
- Kiddies Club
- Laundry Service (Complimentary)
- Mobile Connectivity
- Pool
- Private Vehicle Available
- Restaurant
- Secure Parking
Cuisine
Delicious Pan-African cuisine is served to you on the deck overlooking the grassy plains or in the boma (outdoor dining area) illuminated by dozens of candles and lanterns. Enjoy adventurous breakfasts and romantic dinners in spectacular African safari locations.
Fauna and Flora
Phinda Private Game Reserve is home to an incredible diversity of mammals. Predators like cheetah, leopard and lion are tracked on a daily basis and visitors stand extremely good chances of seeing them. The territorial white rhino favour waterholes and wallows. Herds of elephant and buffalo move throughout the reserve and are easily spotted
An impressive 378 species are recorded. Rudd’s apalis, Neergaard’s sunbird and pink-throated twinspot are endemic to the Maputaland region. Lemon-breasted canary, southern banded snake-eagle and grey waxbill are characteristic of the coastal plain. Among resident birds in the Sand Forest are Narina trogon, African broadbill and square-tailed drongo.
Activities and Services
Little can compare to Phinda’s exciting range of safari activities. Apart from the twice-daily game-drives, nature walks, riverboat cruises and canoe trips along the Mzinene River (available at no additional cost), Phinda also offers thrilling Indian Ocean adventures from scuba diving and deep-sea fishing to spectacular air safaris as well as many bush activities ( Price available on request)
- Big 5
- Bird Watching
- Game Drives
- Game Viewing
- Game Walks
- Walks (Guided)
- High Tea
- Massages
- Night Drives
- Rhino Tracking
- Safaris
Services
- Airport Shuttle (Available)
- Babysitting Service
- Credit Card
- Room Service (24 hours
Twice-daily game-drives
Enjoy exceptional Big Five game viewing in open 4x4 safari vehicles with experienced rangers and Zulu trackers.
Interpretive Bush Walks
Learn more about the traditional uses and the legends surrounding indigenous trees and shrubs, as well as how to identify tracks and see rare birds on walks led by armed rangers and trackers.
Mzinene River Canoeing
(weather permitting, and depending on water levels)
Catch sight of some of Phinda’s incredible bird life while paddling along the river - flanked by lush riverine forest with huge fever and sycamore fig trees – in a sturdy canoe.
Mzinene Riverboat Cruise
(weather permitting, and depending on water levels)
Watch a magnificent sunrise or sunset while enjoying a leisurely cruise along the Mzinene River in Phinda’s riverboat. See some of the 200 or more waterbirds, as well as crocodiles and hippos lazing about.
White Rhino Tracking
Set off with your professional armed ranger and tracker in a 4x4 safari vehicle, searching for fresh signs of white rhino activity. When tracks are found, experience the quiet thrill of tracking white rhino on foot
Safari Options
- Beach
- Big 5
- Bird Watching
- Child Friendly Activities
- Cultural Tours
- Game Drives
Facilities at a glance
- Game Viewing
- Game Walks
- Historical Tours
- Horse Riding
- Marine Adventures
- Massages
Facilities at a glance
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling
- Turtle Tracking
- Walks (Guided)
- Whale Watching
- Wildlife Tours