Phinda Game Reserve
Phinda Private Game Reserve in Hluhluwe KZN
Phinda Private Game Reserve, formerly known as Phinda Resource Reserve, is a 170 km² private game reserve situated in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa between the Mkuze Game Reserve and the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park.
With its seven distinct habitats, Phinda Private Game Reserve is often described as ‘Seven Worlds of Wonder’, a magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest, interspersed with mountain ranges, rivers, marshes and pans.
Showcasing one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences, the reserve is home to Africa’s Big Five, as well as 436 bird species.
Fact Sheet
- abundant wildlife, including Africa’s famous Big Five
- Provides a sanctuary for threatened wildlife, such as cheetah and black rhino
- A birder’s paradise, with 436 bird species
- Near to the popular breeding grounds of the highly endangered sea turtles
- Spectacular coral reef diving in the Indian Ocean easily accessible nearby
- Seven distinct habitats allow for much greater diversity in species and landscapes
Best time to travel
Year round. Lush and hot in summer, with an abundance of young animals. The vegetation becomes thinner in the dry winter months and the cooler temperatures allow for the best all-round game viewing.
Traveling with Children
WILD child program brings the wonder of Africa alive for children as young as six. Supervised by expertly trained rangers, each day is packed full of exciting activities that highlight the wonders of each safari destination.
Flying to Phinda Private Game Reserve
Scheduled flights are available directly from Joburg to Phinda on some days of the week. Scheduled domestic flights are available from Joburg to Durban International Airport or Richards Bay Airport. Self-drive is possible from Joburg or Durban.
This was such a great experience that I don’t even know where to start from in order to describe it… The “room” is a gorgeous huge lodge in the middle of the forest, quite hidden from the other ones, with a great veranda, big bed and unbelievable bathroom, with shower and standing bath. The staff is friendly and takes care of everything. Food is good, but if you are lucky you may have the chance to have the bush dinner: at the end of the night game you end up in a small area in the bush, surrounded by big trees and the nature, a big campfire and candle lights, and your dinner ready for you: a wonderful experience. Coming to the game drives, we had a very experienced guide (Barry), who, together with the tracker, was able to spot all the Big 5, plus those animals that we wanted to find. Sometimes you really have the feeling that they are chasing an animal and what a thrill when you finally find it!
Last note, if you plan to stay more than 3 days consider to split your staying into at least 2 of the different areas, like forest and mountain, as they are completely different at the level of accommodation and environment.
Riccardo T
Lausanne, Switzerland
Stayed November 2016, travelled as a couple
Great service, wonderful meals prepared to order. And, of course, all of the amazing animals, some sitting on the deck of your room.
We spent two nights but regretted not staying 4.
Game drives were well organised with knowledgeable driver and ranger.
Missed the Leopard this time but means I have to return
Dinner and drinks were served in sand forest which was good and we were joined by our ranger.
Lots of good food during the day to avail of. Bedroom was very private and waking up to baby impala outside your window is only pleasant distraction.
Naas,
Ireland
Stayed November 2016, traveled as a couple
Wow! And yes, I’m not easily wowed if you’ve read any of my other reviews. This is a gorgeous place, a special location with interesting ecosystems, and fantastic service. The rooms are little houses, totally separate from each other out in the bush, beautifully decorated and appointed, kind of a Japanese zen style, no detail has been missed. I wish I had more time to spend there but we were only at Phinda for 2 days. The game drives were amazing, our driver and guide, Fred, was so knowledgeable and personable, we wanted to take him home with us. We learned so much about the bush and the animals. The food was definitely 5 star, my only complaint was that I ate way too much, just couldn’t resist. Highly recommend this experience, every employee was sweet and lovely, the place is wonderfully done and the game drives were truly something to cherish and remember.
Judy G
Evanston, Illinois
Stayed November 2016, travelled with friends
My experience was 5 star at every step. The employees were amazing, the food was outstanding and the accommodation was uber comfortable! Game drives were out of this world seeing the big five and numerous birds, reptiles and monkeys. I would return in a heartbeat and bring all my family and friends, sharing such an emotional and breath taking journey of SA and what makes it so special. I cannot express how much this safari part of my vacation opened my eyes to the depth and diversity Africa has to offer. I will return with a bigger party of Canadians!!