Phinda Forest Lodge – 4 Stars

WELCOME TO PHINDA FOREST LODGE

OVERVIEW:

 During this period, our timeless Zen-like lodge and suites, inspired by their unique location in the distinct and delicate Sand Forest of Phinda Private Game Reserve, will be completely re-imagined, ensuring that this celebrated destination will be even more memorable. In keeping with our core ethos, the lodge embodies a commitment to minimize the impact on the environment. The iconic rooms were originally built in perfect harmony with the existing flow of the forest, and these existing room structures will be used to redefine the new lodge in a way that will continue the legacy with which it was originally built.

Lodge improvements include the upgrade of all interiors, with some structural changes to the existing suites and main guest area. The lodge’s existing swimming pool is set to be reshaped and tiered, with the addition of an all-new shaded massage sala constructed next to the pool. A new family suite, as well as a library and lounge, plus newly-designed walkways with a central firepit linking the main area to the new library, not to mention significant upgrades to the main dining and bar areas, can also be expected. The new-look Phinda Forest will also feature a well-equipped state-of-the-art gym. With so many new and exciting additions to look forward to, we cannot wait to welcome you back to our new &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge soon. 

ACCOMMODATIONS: 

SUITE 

Built-in perfect harmony with the existing flow of the intensely canopied rare Sand Forest, &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge‘s exquisite suites, seemingly floating between the forest floor and the towering torchwood trees, are set to undergo an extensive refurbishment, bringing new life to the much-loved lodge. Embodying a commitment to minimize the impact on the environment in an effort to continually protect the sensitive habitat, the refurbishment will utilize the existing lodge’s suite structures, while also updating the architectural design and taking care not to detract from the essence of the lodge design and its original ‘Zulu-zen’ concept

New and exciting design additions include elements of the natural forest and Zulu culture through the use of tactile textures and natural materials such as woven matting, textured grasscloth wallpaper, and hardwood floors, with natural stone tiling in the bathrooms. The intention is to mindfully reconfigure the suites within their existing structure, creating a more comfortable space that better utilizes the current space, while maximizing the connection to the forest through wide open views. Each suite will feature an ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bath, an indoor shower, and double vanity. The suites have also been upgraded with a new super-king bed, his-and-hers wardrobes, a sitting area, a freestanding personal bar, a coffee and tea station, as well as a refurbished deck ideal for savoring each suite’s beautiful and natural surrounds.

FAMILY SUITE 

A new and exciting addition to &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge, and forming part of the lodge’s extensive refurbishment, one of the lodge’s existing suites will be transformed into an all-new Family Suite. Due to the sensitivity of the habitat, and to minimize the impact on the environment, the new Family Suite will utilize an existing suite structure and will comprise a decorated standard suite linked to a newly built second bedroom, which can be accessed privately or through an additionally linked passageway. 

The main suite will feature an ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bath, an indoor shower, and double vanity. Additionally, it will be upgraded with a new super-king bed, his-and-hers wardrobes, a sitting area, a freestanding personal bar, a coffee and tea station, as well as a refurbished outdoor deck. The additional bedroom, linked via a small passageway, each with a closable door for privacy, will also include a super-king bed (which can be converted to a twin), and a separate bathroom with an indoor shower, toilet, and single vanity. 

Seamlessly blending aspects of Japanese minimalism with an ode to local culture, and aligned to the lodge’s other suites, the Family Suite celebrates a contemporary design incorporating elements of the natural forest and Zulu culture through the use of tactile textures and natural materials such as woven matting, textured grasscloth wallpaper, and hardwood floors, with natural stone tiling in the bathrooms.

AMENITIES: Swarovski Binoculars, Laundry

ACTIVITIES 

SAFARI ADVENTURES 

An African Safari is an experience of a lifetime, and there is so much on offer at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve – from twice-daily game drives, where you have the opportunity to encounter some of South Africa’s most prized wildlife, to a night safari offering incredible after-dark drives. 

When booking a private vehicle and specialist guide, our safaris can be tailormade to suit a wide range of interests. These specialist safaris ensure an incomparable interpretive wilderness experience and range from private safaris, to birding, photographic, and family safaris, each unique in their offering. 

What’s more, you can even choose to spend the night sleeping directly beneath the stars in the heart of the bush on a thrilling overnight adventure, surrounded by Africa’s night sounds and kept safe by an armed guard. For those interested in exploring beyond the reserve, day trips can be arranged with a guide to take you deep into Maputaland to explore the World Heritage Site of iSimangaliso Wetland Park and its huge array of bird species.

OCEAN ADVENTURES 

Not only is &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve‘s unique location known for its abundant wildlife, diversity of habitats, and wide range of safari activities, but it is also set within easy reach of the Indian Ocean coastline and the famous iSimangaliso / Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. Adding to Phinda’s wildlife charms, the marine diversity of nearby Sodwana Bay is easily accessible, with exceptional scuba diving, fishing, and even turtle watching listed as some of its main attractions. Choose from a variety of seasonal activities to explore the Maputaland region and it’s ocean adventures.

CONSERVATION EXPERIENCES

Beginning with our ground-breaking conservation achievements during the original restocking of Phinda Private Game Reserve, &Beyond has continued to take part in a number of conservation successes. Our approach to the creation of this reserve, from the underlying conservation issues to its interaction with the community, has proven to be the foundation on which all our subsequent projects were to be built. Since then we have embarked on a variety of pioneering conservation initiatives, both in Africa and beyond. &Beyond’s conservation engine is driven by one thing only and that is creating extraordinary experiences for our guests. Without our guests, we simply cannot be successful in extending and sustaining green frontiers. To fund many of the projects that help us to continue our conservation of Phinda’s endangered species, guests are invited to join us in the routine monitoring or research projects that are essential to the survival of the reserve’s’ species’.

CULTURE EXPERIENCE

For &Beyond, our involvement with Africa Foundation and the people in our local communities represents our core tenet of Care of the People. Through our close consultation with them, &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve facilitates insightful community visits and excursions for our guests that help you not only experience and see firsthand the various projects that are being run by the Africa Foundation and &Beyond Phinda, but also for you to see how you can get involved and make a difference. In addition to these community visits, local Zulu villagers offer guests the opportunity to experience their daily lives and routines and to gain a sneak peek into some of their traditional rituals and customs.