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Phinda Rock Lodge
Tucked on the edge of a cliff face, Phinda Rock Lodge is set overlooking the magnificent 28,555-hectare private nature reserve. This Big 5 reserve in KwaZulu Natal is known for close-up sightings of cheetah, and rare black rhino, and is home to a spectacular range of wildlife and birds. Estuaries and lakes feature hippo and crocodile populations while nearby beaches are the breeding ground for Leatherback Turtles. Phinda Rock Lodge offers dramatic views over vast landscapes. Game drives are hosted twice daily by remarkable rangers and trackers across the seven ecosystems within the reserve. Specialist Safaris are available for keen birders and photographers, while the proximity to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean allows for excellent scuba safaris and ocean safaris offering breath-taking marine life sightings. With limited vehicle access in the park, overcrowding is prevented and careful off-roading practices by expert rangers allow for thrilling close-up wildlife encounters. Besides Big 5 game drives and bushwalks guests can embark on cultural tours, conservation efforts, sleep-outs under the stars, infrared Night Eye safaris, snorkelling in the ocean, and turtle hatching in season.
The six romantic and secluded suites at Phinda Rock Lodge offers guests a tranquil oasis of natural beauty flowing from the outdoors into the living space. Solid timber shutters and doors open onto a rim-flow plunge pool and private viewing deck boasting unbeatable views. Stylish communal areas are ideal for viewing abundant birdlife and wildlife roaming below and an incredible rooftop terrace makes for romantic dinners surrounded by lanterns under the glistening African skies.
In addition to Phinda Rock Lodge, Phinda Private Game Reserve is home to a family of 5-star lodges, Phinda Homestead, Forrest Lodge, Vlei Lodge and the family-friendly Mountain Lodge. All of the lodges offer a unique high standard safari experience in ultimate luxury.
Wildlife:
- Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino).
- The reserve is particularly well known for close-up sightings of the cheetah, as well as the rare black rhino.
- Other wildlife include but is not limited to giraffe, zebra, varieties of antelope, hippo, warthog, and hyena and more.
- Up to 436 bird species have been recorded in the reserve.
Game Drives:
- Game drives are taken in open 4×4 safari vehicles and are accompanied by a ranger, who will share a wealth of knowledge about the animals with you.
- The game drives are 3 to 4 hours long and take place twice a day in the morning and afternoon.
- Morning game drives are complimented by a coffee stop and a sundowner downer stop in the evening a remote location.
- 9 seater open safari vehicle (Max. 6 guests per vehicle).
Activities & Facilities:
- Game drives
- Guided bushwalks
- Stargazing
- Birdwatching
- Restaurant
- Outdoor dinning
- Spa treatments
- Gym in-a-bag
- Viewing terrace
- Bar & lounge
- Roof top
Highlights:
- A 5-star luxury safari lodge offering an intimate atmosphere and breathtaking views.
- The lodge is dramatically set on a cliff face, suspended over the deep valley below.
- Adorned in hues of oatmeal, grey, and stone, the design combines Malian influences with Pueblo panache.
- 6 exquisite Luxury suites overlook the reserve.
- Each suite features lavish interiors and private decks with plunge pools.
- Exceptional rooftop dinning under the stars.
- Exciting Big-5 game drives with game rangers and trackers.
Location:
- The reserve lies between Mkuze Game Reserve and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in the Zululand region of Northern KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.
- KwaZulu Natal lies on South Africa’s warm east coast.
Getting there:
- Phinda Private Airstrip is the closest airstrip, Federal Air offers daily scheduled flights directly from Nelspruit to the private airstrip.
- The closest commercial airports are Durban (DUR) or Richards Bay (RCB).
- Flight time from Cape Town to Durban: 2 hours
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Durban: 70 minutes
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Richards Bay: 70 minutes
- Phinda Game Reserve is a 3.5-hour drive from Durban, and 2 hours from Richards Bay.
Child Policy:
- Rock Lodge welcome children from 12 years.
Inclusions & Exclusions:
- Included: 2 x Game drives per day, guided bushwalks, all meals, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages.
- Excluded: Premium branded drinks, conservation levies, airport transfers, and anything of personal nature.
Rates:
- The updated rates are displayed for each room category below.
- Rates are charged per person, per night.
- Single supplement of 50% applicable.
- Rates displayed are valid until 10 January 2026.
Special Offers:
- 15% off for +6 nights stays
- 20% off for +8 nights stays
- Long stay discount exclude Jun – Aug
- Honeymoon offer includes 50% off one partners accommodation, plus extras.
- Honeymoon offer is valid for travel within 6 months of date of marriage.
Accommodation Options
Natural tones and organic materials make for 6 luxurious contemporary suites with incredible views from each private deck and rim-flow pool overlooking vast wild plains. Suites feature air-conditioning, ceiling fans, Wi-Fi, a min-bar, Read morebathtubs and 4 of the 6 units offer an outdoor shower for extraordinary bathing experience. This is romantic bushveld luxury at its best. Less
Refer to T&C's above
Price R 21,750 per person, per night
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