A world-first, hidden deep within Africa’s last remaining dry sand forest

Set in the heart of one of Africa’s most unique and delicate ecosystems, the rare and endangered Sand Forest, Phinda Forest Lodge embodies the rarity of the natural habitat it protects. The iconic &BEYOND Phinda Private Game Reserve encompasses an impressive 29 866 hectares (73 800 acres) of protected wildlife land in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. 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. Located within the reserve is the sand forest, a captivating and distinctive habitat, home to numerous unique plant species and many curious creatures beneath its canopy. Situated within the rare sand forest is Phinda Forest Lodge, one of the world’s first eco-friendly lodges that has been meticulously designed in perfect harmony with the forest’s natural flow, blending seamlessly into its surrounds. In keeping with our core ethos, the Zulu-zen inspired lodge embodies a commitment to minimise the impact on the environment ensuring to continue the legacy in which it was originally built. A real-life example of how development can be both environmentally and socially responsible without compromising luxury and quality. Unwind in absolute tranquillity in one of the lodge’s 16 air-conditioned suites. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls invite the forest inside, while the dense tree canopy shelters, providing the utmost privacy. Floating on stilts above the forest floor while tiny duiker graze below, the suites feel as if they are one with the forest while each suite’s private veranda allow for gentle contemplation with breathtaking forest views. A new family suite completes the lodge offering, ensuring families an intimate and comfortable safari experience. Shared guest areas include an elegant lounge and gallery, a large central Zulu-inspired bar counter, an intimate wine cellar and spacious interactive kitchen. Browse the lodge’s small yet expansive curation of South African art and natural history books or discover the epic work by renowned local artists, Cecil Skotnes retelling the assassination story of King Shaka Zulu. Sip and swirl on your favourite South African varietal or opt for a wine pairing in the cellar to elevate your dining experience. Stay active in the lodge’s state-of-the-art gym, featuring all the necessary fitness equipment and enjoy a relaxing array of Healing Earth treatments in the lodge’s wellness spa. The lodge’s sparkling rim-flow swimming pool and sundeck looks out onto panoramic views of the open vlei where animals frequently graze – the perfect space to while away the afternoon before safari game drives. While the lodge’s uniquely designed central firepit, woven out of invasive wattle to resemble the nest of the dark-backed weaver bird’s home, is the perfect pre-dinner drinks spot to swap stories from your day’s adventure. Choose from a range of exciting Phinda Adventures such as a specialist walking and tracking safaris, a sleepout under the stars, and other participative conservation experiences such rhino notching or pangolin tagging. Also within easy access of the reserve are Zulu village visits, Wild Impact (formerly Africa Foundation) community visits, Maputaland beach trip, night turtle drives (seasonal), scuba safaris, or an incredible ocean safari that offers you a host of marine life sightings. Specialist safaris can be arranged in advance and focus on special interests such as birding, photographic, family, and private safaris.