Phinda Vlei Lodge & White Pearl Safari

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.

Pangolins are the most poached mammal on the planet. They are animals in the shadowlands of extinction. Participate in our one-of-its-kind Pangolin conservation experience, and support us in this groundbreaking initiative to re-establish Temminck’s [ground] pangolin in a region where they have gone locally extinct. Intensive monitoring, using VHF and GSM/UHF tracking tags, is a core element of this project. Travel with our specialist conservation team as they locate the animal, replace the GSM/UHF tag, do general health checks, and gather crucial data.

Your Experience:
Participate in this privately guided pangolin research and monitoring experience at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, and you’ll be supporting the conservation of the world’s most trafficked mammal. In this interpretive and exclusive activity, guests will join a researcher as he (or she) locates one of the pangolins that has been reintroduced to the reserve. They will have the rare opportunity to observe the unique features and remarkable adaptations of these gentle creatures first hand as our researcher does a general health check, and downloads critical research data from the UHF tag attached to each pangolin.

This exclusive experience is available at an additional cost and is subject to availability. It will take place in the afternoon or evening in winter, or at night in summer. Guests need to be 16 years or older to participate. If less than 6 guests, a private vehicle needs to be booked. Guests will unfortunately not be allowed to touch or handle the animals.

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 Specialist Walking Safaris offer an opportunity to connect with the African bush, interacting with all its inhabitants, from largest to smallest. Embark on a full day adventure in your private vehicle 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).

Planned especially for you, this exclusive safari allows you to explore the bushveld with your very own dedicated ranger, tracker and vehicle. Game drives can be as long or as short as you wish. Meals can be enjoyed at the lodge, picnic-style outdoors or enjoyed under the shade of the trees. Your specific areas of interest can be covered, from the insect kingdom to great herds of buffalo or prides of lion.

Be among four groups, of up to eight guests each, who will have the once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in andBeyond 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. G

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.

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.

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.

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

Venture by boat to the nearby pinnacle reef for a snorkeling trip, and you could swim with the Bottlenose Dolphins that regularly glide through these waters – a sublime experience you won’t easily forget. From July to November each year, you may encounter the majestic Humpback whales in their natural habitat as they visit us on their annual migration. Whale watching is conducted from the comfort of our snorkeling boat as we observe the whales blowing, breaching, lob tailing and playing. Later in the season, you may encounter their newborns too!

Cost as an add-on: $90 per person, per trip (minimum 4 and maximum 10 guests)

Our resort is home to one of the richest turtle nesting sites in southern Mozambique. Between November and February each year, guests have the opportunity to witness an extraordinary feat of nature first-hand. Loggerhead and Leatherback Turtles head to this stretch of coast to lay their eggs, and, a few weeks later, the hatchlings make their first-ever voyage to the ocean. The resort has partnered with the Southern Mozambique Marine Turtle Nesting Monitoring, Tagging & Conservation Programme to monitor and protect these remarkable creatures.

The perfect outing for the early-morning intrepid adventurer. Meet your Game Ranger in the reading room for early morning coffee & rusks to depart at 05h00. Set out for the Maputo Special Reserve, which forms part of the Lebombo Transfrontier Conservation Area. Here, you may see a variety of African antelope species, rich birdlife and possibly the rare black-backed jackal – and there is a great chance of seeing elephants, of course! A light packed breakfast is to be enjoyed in the reserve, most usually at the lake’s edge and perhaps meet some flamingos!

Cost as an add-on: $90 per person, per trip.

Hop onto one of our thick-wheeled fat bikes and cycle along the shoreline. It’s a wonderful way to explore our secluded bay – and great exercise too!

Feel the azure waters rising up below you as you surf the waves, or delight in the serenity beyond the

breakers as you glide along on a stand-up paddleboard. Kayak as a pair and bond as seafaring adventurers or set off in a solo vessel and challenge your inner Con Tiki spirit. Float in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean and observe the sea life nestled in the shore break reefs.

Explore the nearby bush trail on horseback, weaving through indigenous flora and fauna and enjoy

spectacular views of the ocean from high-up vantage points, or gallop along our pristine beach and explore the beautiful natural surroundings. Guests with no horse-riding experience will need to complete at least one trail ride before riding on the beach. All rides are professionally managed to ensure an enjoyable experience for all ages and levels of experience. A weight restriction of 80kg – 100kg applies to all horse rides.

$ 55.00 per person, per ride

This trail is a sanctuary for over 433 butterfly species, 3 of which are endemic to Mozambique. Traditional local fishing methods using natural resources may be observed on this trail. A variety of different tree and scrub species that act as a habitat for various small species such as small reptiles, amphibians, birds and small mammals and even some inland marine crab species. Commonly seen are the red tree squirrel, banded mongoose, Samango monkey, water monitors, vine snakes, crocodiles, crested hornbill, Livingston Turaco, crested Guineafowl, and indigenous trees such as the jumping bean tree. Note there is an age restriction of 10+. Meet at reception by arrangement with the guide.

$ 10.00 per person, per walk (min. 2 pax)

This experience is for guests who are passionately curious about the little things in life and want to learn more about how animals have adapted to thrive in this constantly changing environment. The activity has a story telling component that engages mythology. Rock exploration footwear is provided at the activities centre, which is the meeting point.

$ 20.00 per person, per trip (min. 2 pax)

An adventure that starts early in the morning. Refreshments and light lunch is served on board. At the end of the day, we wish you to return home with an amazing catch for the Chef to prepare – fresh from the sea. Best of luck!

$800.00 per boat, per trip (max. 6 guests)

White Pearl Resorts offers unique diving experiences at one of the world’s top pinnacle reefs. A variety of dive spots offer something for everyone, from exhilarating shark sightings to multitudes of fish and vibrant corals. A professional, safe and world class interpretive diving experience.

REEF DIVE
Explore our exceptional and classified diving reefs. Includes full dive gear. $ 85.00

REFERRAL DIVE
Divers who have done part of their training elsewhere already, can complete it here with us. Referral paperwork will be required on site for completion of training. Includes full dive gear. For completion of training and certification, an additional certification fee of $ 35 will be payable. $ 95.00

PADI DISCOVER SCUBA COURSE (1 Day)
Please note that this is not a certification course but is a wonderful introduction to the underwater world. Theory, pool session, 1 dive and all equipment hire. $ 185.00