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Phinda Mountain Lodge

Safari Lodge
Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

Perched on a hilltop with uninterrupted mountain views, Phinda Mountain Lodge is the ultimate safari destination in the Phinda Private Game Reserve.

Each of the 16 suites, six cottages and one family suite has expansive glass windows and private decks with a plunge pool, offering breathtaking views of the reserve. Swap safari stories with other guests in the main area, enjoy meals in the interactive kitchen or dine al fresco in the traditional stone and reed boma illuminated by candles and lanterns.

Why we like Phinda Mountain Lodge

Phinda Private Nature Reserve comprises 73,800 hectares, traversing seven distinct habitats. The reserve is home to a magnificent diversity of wildlife, but is not limited to the Big Five.

It is best known for its large population of cheetah and black rhino and the sand forest is home to suni and the rare red duiker, two tiny antelope that are rarely found elsewhere. There are also 436 bird species in the reserve. A limited number of vehicles are permitted at each sighting, making for incredible and up close encounters with the Big Five and other rare and iconic wildlife.

Activities

Phinda Private Game Reserve offers twice daily game drives where guests can come face to face with some of South Africa’s most prized wildlife. Alternatively, a guided nature walk through the untamed landscapes of the reserve brings guests closer to the wildlife.

Spend a night under the stars in the heart of the bush on a thrilling night safari adventure. Get involved in conservation experiences such as rhino notching, elephant collaring and pangolin tagging. Outside of the reserve, visit a Zulu village, embark on a night turtle drive or dive deep on a scuba safari.

Sustainability

It was at Phinda Private Nature Reserve that &BEYOND’s Care of the Land, Wildlife and People impact vision was tested and shaped. Here, 29,866 hectares of farming land was reclaimed for wildlife, including 790 hectares of critically endangered ancient sand forest. Cheetah, rhino and pangolin are actively protected, with more than 30 years of pioneering wildlife victories behind them.

Where to Stay

Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.

More luxury accommodation

Africa

Sungulwane Private Game Lodge

Safari Lodge
£££££

Inspired by the Zulu word for “the view of the eye”, Sungulwane Private Game Lodge overlooks the unspoiled wilderness of Zuka Private Game Reserve, providing an exclusive Big Five safari experience.

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South Africa

Thonga Beach Lodge

Wilderness
£££££

Stretching along the azure shores of the Maputuland coast in northern Kwa-Zulu Natal is Thonga Beach Lodge; with no development for over 60 miles up and down the beach, this sanctuary for marine life is unrivalled.

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South Africa

Three Trees Hill Lodge

Wilderness
£££££

Tucked into the side of a rocky hill, overlooking the secluded Spioenkop Game Reserve in the valley below, lies the Three Trees Hill Lodge.

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South Africa

Makakatana Bay Lodge

Wilderness
£££££

Privately owned safari lodge Makakatana Bay Lodge, lies within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site in northern Kwa-Zulu Natal.

AeriAl view, MAkAkAtAnA BAy Lodge, KwAzulu, South AfricA

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Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.

Are you ready to discover extraordinary once again?

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