Phinda Vlei Lodge

Phinda Vlei Lodge, Private Game Reserve in Hluhluwe

Description

Sophisticated safari lodge: Fringing Phinda’s unique vlei (wetland) system, this gracious safari lodge is a study of intimacy and integration with the African bush.

Fringing the Reserve’s unique vlei (wetland) system along the edge of the rare sand forest, the sophisticated Vlei Lodge at &Beyond Phinda is intimately integrated into the surrounding African bush.

Gracious and elegant, this charming lodge comprises six thatched suites decorated in a subtle blend of North and West African styles, with hints of Balinese influences. Each suite, complete with luxurious ensuite bathroom, dressing room, private plunge pool and game viewing deck, overlooks the grassy vlei where guests can observe herds of grazing antelope, zebra and a dazzling variety of birdlife.

The atmosphere is exclusive and personal, with a mixture of understated sophistication and sheer luxury. Relax in private plunge pools and watch the drama of the African wilderness unfold, or unwind in the comfortable sitting area in front of a warm and inviting open fireplace. Savour delicious and innovative Pan African meals, served on the expansive game viewing decks or in a beautiful and remote bush setting, creating lifelong memories.

Accommodation

• Six elegant thatched, air-conditioned suites
• Private game-viewing decks and plunge pools
• Dressing room and en suite bathroom
• Dining area overlooking the grassy vlei
• Sitting area with open fireplace

Contact Details Reservations +27 (0)11 809 4300 +27 (0)11 809 4400 Enquire now View Rates View Directions

Attractions

Twice-daily game-drives Enjoy exceptional Big Five game viewing in open 4x4 safari vehicles with experienced rangers and Zulu trackers.

Interpretive Bush Walks Learn more about the traditional uses and the legends surrounding indigenous trees and shrubs, as well as how to identify tracks and see rare birds on walks led by armed rangers and trackers.

Mzinene River Canoeing Catch sight of some of Phinda’s incredible birdlife while paddling along the river - flanked by lush riverine forest with huge fever and sycamore fig trees – in a sturdy canoe.

Mzinene Riverboat Cruise Watch a magnificent sunrise or sunset while enjoying a leisurely cruise along the Mzinene River in Phinda’s riverboat. See some of the 200 or more waterbirds, as well as crocodiles and hippos lazing about.

White Rhino Tracking Set off with your professional armed ranger and tracker in a 4x4 safari vehicle, searching for fresh signs of white rhino activity. When tracks are found, experience the quiet thrill of tracking white rhino on foot.

BEACH AND BUSH ADVENTURES At an additional cost

Flight of the Fish Eagle Experience a breathtaking 60-minute flight over the diverse Maputaland wilderness of scenic pans, coastal lakes, bushveld, densely vegetated dunes and wildlife, and spot whales, whalesharks, dolphins and turtles in the magnificent Indian Ocean.

Scuba Safaris A 15-minute flight and short drive takes you to one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. Diving the reefs of Sodwana Bay allows you to experience a portrait of marine diversity, with approximately 1200 species of fish and spectacular coral formations. (Can be combined with Maputaland Beach Adventures)

Deep-sea Fishing Fly to Sodwana Bay – a fisherman’s paradise inside a Marine Reserve – where a short drive takes you to your 25-foot sport fishing boat rigged for bill (marlin and sailfish), game (barracuda, yellowfin tuna and kingfish) and shark fishing. Phinda supports ‘catch-and-release’ procedures for deep-sea fishing.

Maputaland Beach Adventures A 15-minute flight and a short drive in a specially designed 4x4 beach vehicle takes you to the beautiful beach at Jesser Point. Depending on the tides, you will be driven to a secluded spot where you can enjoy snorkelling, swimming, or simply sunning on the endless beach, as well as a delicious picnic.

Beach Horse Riding A 45-minute drive from Phinda takes you to the beach for an exhilarating one-hour ride followed by a scrumptious picnic snack. (Can be combined with Maputaland Beach Adventures)

False Bay Horse Riding Enjoy the unmatched delight of riding well-schooled horses through False Bay Nature Reserve. A 1.5 hour ride takes you through the rare Dry Sand Forest habitat and along the picturesque False Bay lakeside. After the ride, relax and enjoy a delightful picnic snack while the horses rest at the water’s edge.

Night Turtle Drives (seasonal) A 45-minute drive from Phinda takes you to meet your beach ranger who will show you the wonders of the beach at night. In season, loggerhead turtles and gigantic leatherback turtles make the strenuous trail up the beach to lay their eggs - a humbling experience. Depending on the tides, you will either enjoy snacks, drinks and hot toddies on the beach or a delicious surfside supper.

Isikolethu (“Our Culture”) Community Experience Experience the wonders and diversity of the Zulu culture while exploring the Mduku, Mnqobokazi and Nibela rural communities surrounding the Reserve. Guests will depart after breakfast at 10h00, enjoying visits to Macebo crèche, the Sangoma (witch doctor), Ngubane Homestead and Mdluli Ancestoral Home. After an action-packed morning, guests will return to Phinda in time for a late lunch and their afternoon game-drive.

Accolades

:AA Guides quality assured