Phinda Forest Lodge

Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa - Premier 5

Phinda Forest Lodge's 16 raised glass-encased chalets have a bedroom, lounge and spacious en-suite bathroom with a bath and separate shower. Outside, wooden decks have been erected around the growing trees. Although surrounded on three sides by glass, the fertile forest floor and towering torchwood trees ensure privacy in each of the chalets. Constructed to minimize impact on the unique Sand Forest, the air-conditioned rooms are raised off the ground to allow smaller animals complete freedom of movement along the forest floor below.

At Phinda Forest Lodge, the glass walls display the sea-green canopy with wide-screen effect. A few short paces outside, birds and animals such as the tiny red duiker, suni antelope and rare red squirrel move quietly through the forest.

The central dining area, lounge and shaded swimming pool of this secluded camp overlook a tranquil open grassy vlei (wetland pan). The elevated lookout deck is a prime bird-watching spot for the approximately 400 species at Phinda. A range of souvenirs in the curio shop at main reception area is worth exploring.