&Beyonds Phinda Private Game Reserve close to Hluhluwe in Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal offers outstanding game viewing.  A Big Five Game Reserve - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and both black and white rhino with regular sightings of cheetah along with diverse antelope and a variety of plains game including giraffe and zebra. The approximate 23,000 ha comprises seven distinct habitats which consequently supports the very wide range  of fauna and flora found at Phinda. The area is particularly good for birding with 415 species having been recorded.

Accommodation in a range of accommodation types and camps which are all fully hosted and catered venues, offering guests the ultimate wildlife Lodge experience. Luxurious chalets, fine dining and open vehicle game drives with knowledgeable rangers tracking the animals in the bush creates once in a lifetime experiences.

One is able to fly directly into the Phinda Airfield. The drive from Durban is approximately 3 hours with that from Johannesburg closer to 6 hours. Arrive mid-day, check into ones luxurious suite, start  the program with lunch, relax and then out on an afternoon game drive after tea and cakes. The animals generally do not associate the vehicles with people / any threat, and one is able to drive very close in order to secure clear sightings of the wildlife, the photographic opportunities are outstanding. As the sun sets the ranger normally stops for sundowners before commencing the night drive, assisted with spotlights, hoping to find elusive nocturnal species.

Dinners are often enjoyed in a variety of venues – my favorite is in the boma, seated around a fire open to the skies. The morning game drives start early before breakfast with a drink, something to snack on  and warmly dressed its out into the bush. The days are full, what with the option for a guided walk with an armed ranger after breakfast or some sun-tanning at the pool.