Kwa Zulu Natal
Phinda Mountain Lodge

The central guest area has an al fresco courtyard at its heart, whilst private plunge pools are available for cooling off at your suite.

Open vehicle game drives occur in the morning and evening supplemented with sundowner drinks, snacks, rugs and ponchos. Walking safaris (12 years +), river cruises and canoeing on the Mzinene River are also available. Guests enjoy excellent game viewing including cheetah and the elusive black rhino.

Rhino Notching is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with rhino whilst assisting in the conservation of this endangered species. This adventure allows guests to witness the capture and darting of a black rhino and assist the veterinary team in notching the sleeping animal’s ear for research and security monitoring. Ear notches, as well as microchips placed in the horn, enable researchers to correctly identify different rhino on the reserve. Groups of up to eight guests each (sharing the same vehicle) can participate in the entire process, from locating and darting the rhino by helicopter to the never to be repeated opportunity to touch the anaesthetised giant during the notching procedure. Minimum 3 nights apply, maximum 8 guests and age limit is 16 years & older (Costs vary between white & black rhino notching).

Adding to Phinda’s wildlife charms, the marine diversity of nearby Sodwana Bay on the coast is easily accessible, with scuba diving, fishing and even turtle watching (seasonal)  available as part of a day trip.