Phinda Zuka Lodge

About Phinda Zuku Lodge

Surrounded by densely wooded hills and lush valleys, Phinda Zuka Lodge is situated in the western region of Phinda where, fences were dropped after protracted negotiations with neighbours, increasing the Reserve by 3 500 hectares (8 650 acres).

The Lodge

Meaning sixpence in Zulu, Zuka Lodge offers guests a new experience of Phinda’s pristine wilderness. The Lodge's four intimate cottages are set 15 metres (50 feet) apart, featuring verandas overlooking a busy waterhole where a diversity of wildlife is regularly seen. Sitting areas feature built-in sofas which double as beds for parents traveling with children 5 years and younger. Bedrooms have air-conditioning and fans and are en suite, with a circular stone bath chamber, double showers, separate w.c and twin hand basins.

Facilities

The exclusive-use Phinda Zuka Lodge is perfect for families or groups of up to eight people. Guest areas include an interactive café-style kitchen, indoor sitting and dining areas, an intimate library with Internet access and a swimming pool with extended wooden decking overlooking the waterhole. Comfortable cushions and suspended wicker chairs on the veranda allow for contemplation of the beautiful surroundings. Characterised by hues of blue and stone, emphasising shape and texture, the overall effect of the Lodge is that of cool, coastal bush style – the sophistication of simplicity.

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 waterhole's 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 sun bird and pink-throated twin spot 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

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 not only offers thrilling Indian Ocean adventures from scuba diving and deep-sea fishing to spectacular air safaris, but also many bush activities.

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.

Facilities

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)

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