Set within easy reach of the Indian Ocean coastline and the famous iSimangaliso / Greater St Lucia Wetland Park in northern KwaZulu-Natal, Phinda Private Game Reserve is known for its abundant wildlife, diversity of habitats and wide range of safari activities. Thanks to its coastal rainfall pattern, Phinda Private Game Reserve enjoys a lush green environment that contains seven distinct ecosystems. Phinda is often referred to as ‘Seven Worlds of Wonder.’ This fascinating variety of landscape and vegetation shelters an abundance of wildlife, including not only the Big Five but many rarer and less easily spotted species, such as the elusive cheetah or the scarce black rhino.
Phinda Vlei Lodge is an intimate romantic, private safari destination. Overlooking the Reserve’s unique vlei (wetland) system on the edge of the sand forest, its location offers ever-changing game viewing from the comfort of your bed, your shower or your private plunge pool.
At Phinda Vlei Lodge simply spending time in your spacious suite is like being on safari. With each suite carefully positioned for a prime view of the animals coming out to drink and panoramic vistas from even your shower or bathtub, the game viewing never stops!
This charming lodge, which has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment, features just six thatched suites to ensure exclusivity. Phinda Vlei’s fresh new look is inspired by the elegant, turn of the century, plantation-style homesteads of KwaZulu-Natal’s sugarcane and pineapple barons. It boasts a wonderfully eclectic and rich identity that is, at the same time, homely and nostalgic. You can look forward to interiors accented with antique tapestries, fine art, vintage cotton and linens, as well as elegant silver and crystal ware.
Each air-conditioned suite features a spacious room, luxurious ensuite bathroom, and dressing room. The ensuite bathroom provides a sense of old-world luxury, while the suite’s interiors showcase a mix of curated antiques and collectables. You can also take advantage of a private lap pool and game viewing deck that overlooks a grassy meadow, where they can observe antelope grazing nearby, as well as a variety of birdlife.
Unwind in the beautiful surrounds of the main guest area, which also includes a handsome library, and a convivial fire pit setting – perfect for pre-dinner drinks! Mealtimes are a delightful affair, with a variety of settings to indulge in the lodge’s delectable menus; one of which is a spacious, all-weather deck that allows for al fresco dining with spectacular views of the surrounding wetland.