&Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge

Five-star accommodation in a wetland setting, with game and birds galore.

Get close to the animals as they come to drink at the wetland beside which Phinda Vlei Lodge stands. Explore the region with quality guides to see the Big Five and cheetahs in full chase.

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Jonty

Eve

Kristin

4.9 out of 5 stars Average guest rating

About &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge

A vlei is a natural pool of water, and this small and intimate lodge located centrally in the Phinda Private Game Reserve stands on the edge of a wetland. Nearby is a sand forest, an increasingly rare ecosystem. Animal viewing is constant, birding is varied and rewarding (look out for the pretty narina trogon), and the stilted lodge provides pampering comfort, good food, smiley staff, knowledgeable guides and lush accommodation. The wildlife ranges from the largest to the smallest, but the star of the show is definitely cheetah, which were reintroduced to the reserve after an absence of 50-odd years.

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From $1,230 person/night

Lodge

6 Rooms

Phinda, South Africa

What you'll love

It has to be the private pool, where antelope and elephant may just arrive for a drink while you cool off.

Insiders tip

If you're celebrating or just fancy a night 'in', enjoy dinner on your room's private deck, with only the light of lanterns and the sounds of the bush.

Something to think about

Phinda Vlei Lodge typically welcomes children over the age of 12, but younger families can enquire about a stay.

The property

The thatched main area of the lodge is centrally located within the camp on a raised wooden platform. On it, you can settle back in comfortable wicker chairs to admire the constant parade of lion, antelope, elephant, giraffe and more. Inside, the bar and dining area are large and stylish. Eat at private tables or communally, beside the fireplace or under the stars on the deck. Seating areas inside and out invite you to settle back with a book or share your sightings with other guests.

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The rooms

There are just six lovely suites, built of thatch and teak with floor-to-ceiling windows. If privacy is prime, you'll find it here – there's ample space between the rooms. The luxury continues indoors, with huge mosquito-netted beds, air conditioning, gorgeous West Africa-inspired fabrics, and an ingenious bathroom with deep tub, shower and twin basins. Relax on your private wraparound deck or take a dip in your private plunge pool, if no elephants, antelope or baboons have come for a drink!

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Activities

Game Drives

Walking safari

Boat Cruises

Night Drives

Show all activities

Activities here are much the same as those at Phinda's other lodges, but the wetland does bring an added dimension to your safari sightings. There are standard day and evening game drives, bush walks and, at extra cost, walking safaris, tracking and a various beach activities. From your suite, look out for the Big Five and the 200-plus wetland waterbirds, and observe the sand forest (home to shy suni and red duiker antelope). Take a leisurely sunset cruise along the Mzinene River.

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Positive impact

A pioneer in sustainable tourism since 1991, &Beyond aims to expand its impact by 2030. Through partnerships and doubling investment, they have set a target of conserving 40 million acres of key biospheres while offering exclusive travel experiences. By doubling revenue and tripling profit, they seek to leave a positive footprint in Africa, Asia, and South America, empowering communities and preserving wildlife.

Reviews

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NaN out of 5 stars

About Phinda Private Game Reserve

Phinda

A private, sub-tropical sanctuary with only a handful of lodges that’s as diverse as it is beautiful.

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