The award-winning andBeyond Phinda Game Reserve in KwaZulu Natal covers 23 000 hectares of land encompassing seven unique ecosystems. Exciting game viewing offers guests the chance to spot the Big Five as well as marine species like dolphins and turtles and 415 bird species. The reserve is particularly well known for close-up sightings of the elegant yet elusive cheetah, as well as the rare black rhino.
Phinda is home to 6 magnificent luxury lodges including the spectacular Forest Lodge which is set deep in the heart of a rare and beautiful dry sand forest. The eco-sensitive structures of the lodge are inventively designed in Zulu Zen style. Each of the 16 minimalist suites has a viewing deck where guests can awake to the sight of graceful nyala and duiker outside the glass walls.
The lodge also offers a sparkling rim flow swimming pool to unwind in as well as sitting areas with expansive viewing decks affording panoramic views of the game-filled plains.
Spectacular glass houses, in a rare and beautiful sand forest
Specialist walking and tracking safaris and infrared Night Eye drives
Minimalist architectural design and interiors inspired by Zulu culture
One of the worlds first eco-designed luxury safari lodges
At a glance
16 Suites
All Ages
Open All Year
All Inclusive
Scenic
Our sustainable tourism rating
We handpick partners who share our commitment to protecting their environment, conserving wildlife and benefitting local communities.
Environment
Wildlife
Community
INSIDER TIP
"We highly recommend the sleep-under-the-stars experience for one night of your stay. A romantic, magical setting within the bush with comfortable beds draped with mosquito nets, a blazing campfire and twinkling lanterns hanging from the trees."
Indulge your passions
ACTIVITIES
Adventures and activities to ensure lifetime memories are made. From unforgettable thrills to indulgent relaxation, choose those that appeal most.
Big 5 Safari
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Ocean Safari
Conservation Experience
Cultural Experience
Kids Bushcraft
Fly Camping
Photography Safari
Wellness/Spa
Picture yourself here
Gallery
Take a journey through Phinda Forest Lodge to get a flavor of its unique style and character, designed to enchant every guest.
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Sample Itineraries
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From majestic wildlife to out of this world natural wonders, cultural melting pots and enchanting beaches, every bespoke Mahlatini journey is thrilling. Unsure where to visit? Whether it’s a bucket-list adventure, a milestone celebration or simply a much-needed escape, experience the joy with this inspiring selection of favorites.
At Mahlatini, we like to make things easy for you. Browse our website for inspiration or pick up the phone. Whether you’re full of ideas or unsure of where to start, we’re here to help. Serial safari-goer or first-time visitor, we’re ready to create your ultimate tailormade itinerary.
Connect
Call us or inquire online. Share your wish list and we’ll start planning your adventure.
Customize
Your dedicated travel expert will be in touch within 24 hours to start designing your bespoke itinerary.
Confirm
We won’t stop refining your plans until we get the perfect trip at the best price.
Travel
Receive your Mahlatini travel documents, pack your bags and set off on your trip of a lifetime!
We routinely go the extra mile to ensure that you're in good hands at every stage of your journey.
Lee and Alex Broxson, 9th July 2012
Honeymoon to Phinda Forest Lodge
This was AMAZING. We loved Phinda. This was our favourite. It was like having a luxury apartment from a city in the middle of the forest. It was amazing to see all the animals walk by, and even the monkeys got in one day and stole our apples which was quite funny. The experience at Phinda was …
The welcome at Phinda was lovely, the Lodge was superb and very quiet and luxurious while the central area with its bar and restaurant overlooking the waterhole, giraffes, impala and nyala was fantastic. The food was excellent although we could not manage very meal.
The game drives were good but no…
Loved every minute!! Amazing! The cabin was exceptional. They "ran a bubble bath" 3 nights and provided sparklng wine on the last night. T-lights were lit and all was lovely. Thoroughly enjoyed all food and when we came back late from our last dinner in the "wild" the Operations Manager opened th…
+1 347-708-1755
16 Suites
All Ages
Open All Year
All Inclusive
Scenic
Big 5 Safari
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Ocean Safari
Conservation Experience
Cultural Experience
Kids Bushcraft
Fly Camping
Photography Safari
Wellness/Spa
