Set deep in the heart of a rare and beautiful dry sand forest, the award-winning Forest Lodge fuses architecture and conservation. The lodge was hand built by local artisans, with a minimal footprint on the forest floor – not one tree was felled during construction. An exquisite contradiction, floor-to-ceiling glass walls invite the forest inside, while the dense tree canopy shelters and provides privacy. Floating on stilts above the forest floor while dainty suni graze below, the 16 Zulu Zen suites blend harmoniously into the dappled shade.
On the edge of the forest, just before a clearing that overlooks a small waterhole, lies the lodge’s rim-flow swimming pool, an ideal respite in between game drives. Expansive decks in the guest area look out onto an open grassy meadow. In the evenings warm firelight welcomes you to the traditional African boma, where you indulge in a lantern-lit feast beneath a canvas of stars.
Phinda offers additional activities at extra cost and need to be booked in advance; such as a specialist walking and tracking safaris, a sleep-out under the stars, an infrared Night Eye drive, and other participative conservation experiences such rhino notching or pangolin tagging. Also on offer outside of the reserve, within easy access of the reserve are Zulu village tours, Africa Foundation community visits, a Maputaland exploration, Maputaland beach trips, night turtle drives (seasonal), scuba safaris, or an ocean safari that offers you a host of marine life sightings.
Specialist safaris with a private guide need to be arranged in advance and focus on special interests such as birding, photographic, family and private safaris. A spa with extensive treatments is also available in camp.
What we at Conservation Safari Company specifically like about Phinda is the variety of activities and habitats it offers; from the unique sand forest to vlei systems and wetlands as well as the opportunity to see species like black rhino and cheetah which are less common in the Kruger area. This makes it the perfect compliment to reserves in the Kruger area but also a fantastic single safari destination. It is also considerably warmer in the winter months and it offers the opportunity to visit a nearby Zulu village to gain insight to one of our most famous local tribes.
Rates are inclusive of all meals, drinks (local brands) and safari activities.
Information
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Your Rooms
1x Double Room
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Zulu
No. Rooms: 16
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Big 5, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Built in perfect harmony with the existing flow of the intensely canopied rare Sand Forest, &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge‘s exquisite suites, seemingly floating between the forest floor and the towering torchwood trees, are set to undergo an extensive refurbishment, bringing new life to the much-loved lodge. Embodying a commitment to minimise the impact on the environment in an effort to continually protect the sensitive habitat, the refurbishment will utilise the existing lodge’s suite structures, while also updating the architectural design and taking care not to detract from the essence of the lodge design and its original ‘Zulu-zen’ concept.
New and exciting design additions include elements of the natural forest and Zulu culture through the use of tactile textures and natural materials such as woven matting, textured grass cloth wallpaper, and hardwood floors, with natural stone tiling in the bathrooms. The suites have been reconfigured within their existing structure, creating a more comfortable space that better utilises the current space, while maximising the connection to the forest through wide open views. Each suite features an ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bath, an indoor shower, and double vanity. The suites have also been upgraded with a new super-king bed, his-and-hers wardrobes, a sitting area, a freestanding personal bar, a coffee and tea station, as well as a refurbished deck ideal for savouring the each suite’s beautiful and natural surrounds.
The family suite comprises of two rooms which can be accessed privately or through a linked passageway. The main suite features an ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bath, an indoor shower, and double vanity. Additionally, it has a super-king bed, his-and-hers wardrobes, a sitting area, a freestanding personal bar, a coffee and tea station, as well as a refurbished outdoor deck. The second bedroom, linked via a small passageway, each with a closable door for privacy, also includes a super-king bed (which can be converted to a twin), and a seperate bathroom with an indoor shower, toilet, and single vanity.
Seamlessly blending aspects of Japanese minimalism with an ode to local culture, and aligned to the lodge’s other suites, the Family Suite celebrates a contemporary design incorporating elements of the natural forest and Zulu culture through the use of tactile textures and natural materials such as woven matting, textured grass cloth wallpaper, and hardwood floors, with natural stone tiling in the bathrooms.
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Pool, Restaurant, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Fridge, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Rhino Tracking, Safaris, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Beach, Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Deep Sea Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Historical Tours, Marine Adventures, Mountain Biking, Rhino Tracking, Scuba Diving, Turtle Tracking, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Cycle through the endangered Sand Forest at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve on a battery power assisted e-bike that gives a boost via a throttle to make pedalling a little easier. There are three well-marked routes available (between 5 and 6 km / 3 and 3.7 mi), ranging in effort, skill and scenery. This experience is at an additional cost, and subject to availability and weather dependent.
Enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives that continue after nightfall. andBeyond's professionally trained guides will ask you about your favourite wildlife and will do their best to ensure that your preferences are met, whether it is tracking a particular species or spending more time enjoying each sighting and getting to know the habits of the animals. They will also tell you about the vegetation of the region and will explain the behaviour of the animals that you come across. In some cases, the guides will be able to identify individual animals and let you know about their history and habits.
andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is renowned for its exceptional sightings of the elusive cheetah and the rare black rhino, as well as the Big Five. There is also a number of resident lion prides and rangers will do their best to provide you with an exceptional sighting of all of these animals.
Accompanied by your ranger, enjoy an interpretive nature walk, around the lodge, where you learn more about the intricacies of the African bush, from discovering fascinating flora and reading animal tracks with your guide to meeting smaller wildlife up-close. Experience the thrill of tracking animals on foot, accompanied by an armed specialist ranger and tracker team. Engage all your sense as you discover a world where each sound, scent and bent blade of grass has a meaning.
The vast sandy beaches of the Maputaland coastline provide a beautiful setting for a half-day beach outing. Soak up the sun, splash in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, relax with a good book, play beach games, take leisurely walks along the shoreline or snorkel alongside Jesser Point, a protected marine reserve.
Recognised as one of the top ten dive sites in the world, Sodwana Bay offers an abundance of fish and marine life throughout the year. The gullies, ledges and pinnacles of the coral reef are home to more than 1 200 fascinating fish species.
Slip on a pair of walking shoes and spend the morning with an expert ranger and tracker to find the rare and endangered black rhino on foot. Follow rhino tracks, recognise rhino middens and scratching posts, and read the signs of the bush in search of your quarry.
For four months during the southern hemisphere summer, the enormous leatherback and loggerhead turtles emerge from the Indian Ocean at Sodwana Bay to lay their precious eggs in the sand. As the moon rises over the ocean, excitement grows as you drive along the deserted coastline in search of fresh turtle tracks that emerge from the ocean and travel along the beach in search of a suitable nesting site. Watch as the female turtle digs her nest and lays her clutch of up to a hundred eggs.
SEASONAL: Available November to February.
Visit a Zulu community just outside andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve and interact with the friendly Zulu people. An expert andBeyond guide will escort you through the community and share interesting insight into the Zulu culture and its fascinating customs, beliefs and traditions. You will be invited into a traditional homestead and given the rare opportunity to witness the daily routines and lifestyle of a rural Zulu family. Learn about the family structures, how the homes are built, why cattle are so highly revered, and much more. Later, you will spend time with the highly respected local sangoma (witch doctor/traditional healer) who will explain the wonders of Zulu ancestry and their spiritual beliefs. The adventure ends with a quick stop at the Mbhedula Craft Market, where the beautiful handiwork of 43 Zulu crafters is showcased. It’s a great place to find that perfect souvenir of your time spent with the Zulu people.
For those looking for an active thrill beyond the excitement of Big Five sightings on a game drive vehicle, andBeyond’s Luxury Walking Safaris offer an opportunity to connect with the African bush, interacting with all its inhabitants, from largest to smallest. Embark on an adventure where your feet tread in the tracks of zebra and buffalo, your nostrils fill with the scent of crushed wild grasses as you push through the bush and all six senses re-awaken as Africa touches you and you touch Africa.
Photographic enthusiasts, from beginners to advanced, can now capture the wondrous landscapes and magical creatures of andBeyond’s Phinda Private Game Reserves, by taking advantage of a fully-equipped photographic safari vehicle. The vehicle has been fitted with state-of-the-art camera mounts and cater for a maximum of four guests, ensuring exclusivity during your safari experience.
Guests can choose from the following two options: 1. Specialist Photographic Safari • Have an expert photographic guide accompany you. Our expert guides will use their extensive experience in wildlife, birding and landscape photography to help you get the shot of a lifetime! • A maximum of four guests. 2. Photographic Safari Vehicle • Book the photographic safari vehicle only – maximum of four guests. • Photographic enthusiasts will be driven and guided by an andBeyond safari guide.
Spend the night sleeping directly beneath the stars in the heart of the bush on this thrilling overnight adventure. As the sun sets at the end of your afternoon game drive, you will arrive at a beautiful clearing in the midst of the bush, where com¬fortable beds with warm duvets and blankets, as well as billowing mosquito nets, are set up for you. Pull your chair up to the blazing campfire and toast the sunset as darkness deepens. Enjoy a delicious meal prepared on the open fire and fall asleep in utter tranquility, surrounded by Africa’s night sounds and kept safe by an armed guard.
Whilst enjoying the exceptional Big Five &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, why not treat yourself to an Ocean Safari that offers a wonderful opportunity to encounter some of South Africa’s beautiful marine life. This exciting adventure, aboard an inflatable vessel and in the company of a certified dive master, offers the prospect of encountering and swimming with wild dolphins, snorkelling amidst flourishing reefs and the chance to view humpback and southern right whales (seasonal).
Be among four groups, of up to eight guests each, who will have the once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve’s elephant conservation project. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness an elephant darting, and assist in the changing of the sleeping pachyderm’s radio collar. Four of the elephant collars utilised in Phinda’s research programme are in need of replacing and guests are being invited to participate in this extraordinary experience.
Available at an additional cost (excluding accommodation), Guests need to be 12 years and older to participate and is subject to the availability of the wildlife veterinarian and helicopter pilot. If less than 6 guests, a private vehicle will need to be booked. Minimum stay of 3 nights' stay required in order to guarantee favourable conditions for darting.
Enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with a rhino at andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve while assisting in the conservation of this rare species. This adventure allows guests to witness the capture and darting of a rhino and assist the veterinary team in notching the sleeping animals ear for research and security monitoring. Ear notches, as well as microchips placed in the horn, enable researchers to correctly identify different rhino on the reserve. Groups of up to eight guests each (sharing the same vehicle) can participate in the entire process, from locating and darting the rhino by helicopter to the never to be repeated opportunity to touch the anaesthetised giant during the notching procedure. Guests will need to spend a minimum of three nights.
Available at an additional cost (excluding accommodation), Guests need to be 12 years and older to participate and is subject to the availability of the wildlife veterinarian and helicopter pilot. If less than 6 guests, a private vehicle will need to be booked. Minimum stay of 3 nights' stay required in order to guarantee favourable conditions for darting.
andBeyond’s WILDchild programme, designed especially for children visiting our safari lodges and camps in Africa, is filled with fun, interactive activities that offer opportunities to learn and discover new experiences and cultures. Deeply rooted in the love for the African bush, it not only creates a series of unforgettable moments for the whole family but forges strong bonds between our young guests, our planet and its people.
With a dedicated game ranger and tracker, as well as a private game drive vehicle, guests have the luxury of tailor-making their own safari experience; choosing their own game drive times and spending as much time as they want at sightings.
You are required to create a personal affirmation to reclaim an unconditional acceptance and love for yourself and reconnect with your soul to release all negative energy from deep within. A unique blend of aromatherapy and plant oils chosen specifically by you, combining deep tissue massage techniques to bring relaxation to tired, aching muscles allowing the body and soul to return to perfect equilibrium. Choose from a blend of aromatherapy oils to either destress, hydrate, relax or detox.
Full body: 90 min Back and Neck only: 30 min
African Shea Butter has been long hailed for its powerful healing and nourishing effects. Relaxing nourishing and energizing this full body massage targets specific areas or tension and muscular discomfort employing deep tissue techniques where pain is dramatically alleviated.
Full Body and Scalp 75min Back, Neck and Scalp 45min
Re-awaken your Soul with a combination of powerful African aromatherapy oils and botanical body balms combining traditional African Calabash and Bamboo tools with human touch and rhythmic movement in this indulgent ritual, the ultimate source of relaxation to bring balance to your mind, body and soul in the heart of Africa, the cradle of mankind, through touch and vibrational sound therapy using ancient sound tools and techniques.
Choose African Potato for its Ancient Healing powers, Marula Neroli for a Sensory Indulgence, Kalahari Melon for its Hydrating Properties, Mongongo Nut to Detox or Cinnamon and Orange to Firm and Tone
Full body and Scalp: 90min Back and Scalp: 60min
Re-awaken your senses through gentle exfoliation and envelope your body with inspirational blends of natural African essential oils and botanicals. We start the treatment with a dry polish followed by a full body polish to alleviate tension and renew skin. We then do the wrap and an indulgent full body massage using our powerful collection of indigenous African oils and balms.
Choose African Potato for its Ancient Healing powers, Marula Neroli for a Sensory Indulgence, Kalahari Melon for its Hydrating Properties, Mongongo Nut to Detox or Cinnamon & Orange to Firm and Tone
90min
Melt away stress and rejuvenate your tired legs with this foot treatment which will leave your feet feeling hydrated, softened and silky smooth, ready to conquer the African bush. Your feet is soaked in an African Joy energizing salt soak, scrubbed with rejuvenating peppermint and eucalyptus scrub and embalmed in African Shea Butter. Relax as you receive a shoulder and scalp massage and finish the treatment with a cooling foot gel to put the final spring in your step
30min 60min
The ultimate hand ritual. Your hands are polished with a pure Peppermint & Aloe Vera polish and cuticles restored with indigenous healing oils. Your hands are then embalmed with African Shea Butter. Relax as you receive a shoulder and scalp massage and finish the treatment with a nourishing Pinotage hand oil massage, leaving your hands feeling soft and rejuvenated.
30min 60min
A WildChild needs pampering too
Soak those tired little feet in Healing Earth’s Lavender and Jasmine bubble bath, followed by a Mango Orange scrub, toe nail grooming and mini foot tickle and rub. To recharge your energy a 15min back, neck and shoulder massage with pure Aloe Vera Gel will guarantee to send our budding rangers off on their next adventure in the African Bush. Finish your treatment with an African Tribal Face Paint and if you choose to, leave with your own Beauties and Buddies Pamper Kit to remember your adventure in the wild and remind you of how important it is to Care for the Land, Wildlife and People of this world.
Treatment 30min Beauties and Buddies Pamper Kit
Healing Earth has embodied the vibrant fusion of colourful beadwork preserving the Zulu culture of the past, present and future within the Shangaan Celebration Journey.
Our Journey starts with a Zulu Foot Ritual, where salt crystals infused with plant extracts are used to cleanse away outside elements, ensuring a positive and continual flow of energy within the client-therapist journey.
The journey continues with a beautiful body cleanse, using a refreshing Healing Earth Tanga-Orange Polish mixed with indigenous oil extracts to thoroughly cleanse the skin. A delightful, relaxation massage therapy follows with our Zulu Body Butter, enriched with African Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and a rich spice blend that leaves your body, mind and soul renewed and invigorated. To end your Journey, we call on the Rain with our Ancient Zulu Thank You Celebration to signify the end of our signature therapy and as a symbol of the Zulu Culture where rain is symbolic as an essential life giving force of new beginnings, prosperity and rejuvenation.
Clients embrace the Zulu Culture and is gifted with a Jewel of Zulu beadwork which has been intuitively chosen thereby holding a lasting memory and deep-rooted connection with the African Soil and its people.
90min
MalaMala Camp | MalaMala Game Reserve
MalaMala Game Reserve consistently produces the most exciting wildlife experience this side of the equator! The Safari Industry's blueprint to the luxury photographic safari, MalaMala has been custodian of this massive thriving tract of land since 1927. MalaMala Game Reserve is the largest private Big Five game reserve in South Africa. Comprising 13 300 ha (33 000 acres), MalaMala shares a 19 km (12 mile) unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park, and lies strategically sandwiched between the National Park and the Sabi Sand Reserve. Every aspect of the Main Camp and Sable Camp is designed to appreciate and enjoy the view of the surrounding wilds. Pathways wind their way along the perimeter of the camp to reveal individual ochre colored units tucked into the greenery which flanks the Sand River. Massive trees and rolling green lawns are filled with birdsong, with the occasional antelope or elephant which seeks the succulence of greenery. The camp is unfenced - an oasis in the middle of the bushveld.
Conservation Safari Company recommends MalaMala for its fantastic game viewing, arguably the best in Southern Africa, and for its sizeable tract of magnificent land where game drives take place. The Main Camp is somewhat large but maintains a convivial atmosphere with that, the recent renovation has brought their hospitality and food up to the standard of their game viewing!
Rates include all meals and safari activities, and locally supplied drinks.
Information
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Restaurants
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Your Rooms
1x Double Room
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, Zulu
No. Rooms: 19
Special Interests: Big 5, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Comfortable luxury rooms, including:
- Free wi fi - 24-hour temperature control - Direct dial telephones - A mini-bar - A mini-safe - Bathroom amenities, insect repellent and hairdryers - Tea and coffee making facilties
- Free wi fi
- 24-hour temperature control
- Direct dial telephones
- A mini-bar
- A mini-safe
- Bathroom amenities, insect repellent and hairdryers
- Tea and coffee making facilties
Expansive units found on the southern section of MalaMala, including:
- Free wi fi - 24-hour temperature control - Direct dial telephones - A mini-bar - A mini-safe - Bathroom amenities, insect repellent and hairdryers - Tea and coffee making facilities
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Disability Services, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Massages, Safaris, Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Game drives are conducted twice a day (early morning, and late afternoon/ evening) in open 4-wheel drive safari vehicles. The rangers are in constant radio communication with one another to keep each other informed about the location of wildlife. Headsets are used for this purpose so as not to interrupt the sounds of the African bush. The 4-wheel drive safari vehicles enable the rangers to leave the road and provide guests with close up game viewing and fantastic photographic opportunities. Night drives, with the aid of powerful spotlights, bring the bush to life at night.
Visitors may head out on foot with their armed ranger. The perspective of the bush is entirely different to that of a vehicle, and guests will learn to read the signs of the wild, and perhaps come into close contact with the different animal species on the reserve.
MalaMala offers a unique destination from which to exchange vows – one that will never be forgotten. For the couple who seeks an intimate destination, without “frills” but with a heart of warm African hospitality, beautiful sunsets, panoramic views and beautiful accommodation – MalaMala is the place for romance.
Following the exhausting wedding preparations and the excitement of the “Big Day”, where better to escape to than a place buried in the wild of Africa. No cell phones, no traffic, no clutter – just pure peace, silence, and unspoiled rugged bushveld.
MalaMala offers equal measures of privacy, romance, good company, romantic sunsets, action-packed game drives and excellent sumptuous cuisine.
Dinners are a traditional affair.
Breakfasts and lunches are served on the deck overlooking the Sand River, or in the air conditioned dining room.
Dinners are served under the stars inside a reed "Boma" and around a fire.
Indoor dining. Each of the 3 camps has indoor and outdoor dining facilities.
Sable Camp has an indoor dining room, deck dining facilities and a boma.
