South Africa

Phinda Forest Lodge, Phinda Private Game Reserve

With 16 unique private stilted suites set deep in the heart of a beautiful and rare forest, the designers of the 5 * Phinda Forest Lodge have done an excellent job, fusing cutting-edge architectural design and thoughtful conservation: think eco-sensitive structures and trees still standing. Escape the mid-day heat with a long soak in the pool, and spend the evening sitting on your viewing deck with an eye on the game-filled plains or enjoying dinner at the Boma, an outdoor dining area. Simply spectacular.

Location

Phinda Forest Lodge is inside the 44,000-acre Phinda Private Game Reserve in the Kwa-Zulu Natal region of South Africa. There are daily mini-buses from Durban International Airport, taking just 3 hours, but you might like to enjoy the view from a small plane, that can get you from Durban to the reserve in just 1 hour.

Your room

You will be sleeping in a luxury glass-encased suite, set in amongst the towering torchwood trees, and raised above the ground on stilts. With all this glass, your room will allow you to immerse yourself in one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. The designers branded the suites as ‘Zulu- Zen’ and they are, indeed, little bubbles of African tranquillity. Each suite boasts shiny wooden floors, fabrics you won’t want to stop touching, and fascinating Zulu artifacts while keeping a calm, minimalist feel.

Enjoy a drink from your private bar before turning down for the night in your huge, comfy double bed, and look forward to being woken by the beautiful birdsong outside your glass walls.

Why we like it

Enjoying a peaceful breakfast on the private viewing platform with just the birds and the leaf-filtered light for company – a totally unique experience? We think so.

Other Hotels in South Africa

The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town

Lose yourself to the enchantment of Cape Town at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa. Overlooking the vast Atlantic and backed by the rugged peaks…
View hotel

Saseka Tented Camp, Thornybush Game Reserve

Step into the South African wilderness and watch your very own Attenborough documentary unfold at the otherworldly Saseka Tented Camp. Perched high above the banks…
View hotel

Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek

A trip to South Africa wouldn’t be complete without sampling its world-renowned wine. A picturesque, intimate hotel on a sprawling 100-acre estate, Mont Rochelle is…
View hotel

Dulini Moya, Sabi Sands

Nestled amongst the ancient trees and abundant wildlife of Sabi Sands is the phenomenal Dulini Moya. Intimate and remote, rustic yet luxurious, Dulini is comprised…
View hotel

Leeu House, Franschhoek

Find an oasis of comfort and luxury as you step into Leeu House, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Franschhoek. Surrounded by glorious…
View hotel

“Many companies brag about offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But with Black Tomato it’s not hyperbole”

“Black Tomato are one of the coolest things in the world. Don’t even try and live without them”

“Black Tomato is a super innovative company where the sky is the limit for their clients”

“Black Tomato prides itself on meeting customers every minor need or desires”

“Black Tomato is the choice provider of mind-expanding vacations”