Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa
&Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge looks out over its own lush valley, like a small private castle, amidst a tangle of wild African sights and sounds. The suites of this intimate and romantic lodge cling dramatically to steep cliffs with views across the valley.
When the sense of freedom has you feeling giddy, retreat to the natural sanctuary of your bedroom or private sitting area, the roughly hewn walls and chunky textures giving you the feeling that you are sheltering within the mountain itself. Freshening up after your morning game drive becomes an experience all in itself, with deep bathtubs encased in wide windows that open up onto a spectacular view of the valley. Three suites offer al fresco showers so deeply sheltered in the leafy growth that you’ll feel you’re bathing in your own private waterfall. The white face of Leopard Rock lies directly across from the lodge, while a watering hole draws wildlife from the deep hollows of the valley below.As your sense of adventure reawakens, one quick leap through an open wooden shutter takes you to a rustic ladder leading to the roof, soon to be stopped in your tracks as you gaze on the unrivalled panorama before you.
When you first set eyes on the ochre walls of &Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge clinging to the cliff face you’ll need a second look to realise you haven’t arrived at a Mexican hacienda. While the rugged adobe-style building wouldn’t be out of place in a desert pueblo, the lush bushveld vegetation and the wildlife dotted on the surrounding slopes leave you in no doubt that you’re in the middle of Africa.
With only six suites carved into the rocky hillside, you’ll feel you’re part of an elite tribe of rock dwellers suspended in a cosy hideout that offers complete seclusion from the world below.Elevated over the valley below, the cliff-top suites provide an intimate, cosy space in a dramatic setting with an eagle’s eye view of the reserve. Snuggled high above the surrounding panorama, your closest neighbour is likely to be an inquisitive spotted genet paying you a friendly visit on the dining deck.
When the sense of freedom has you feeling giddy, retreat to the natural sanctuary of your bedroom or private sitting area, the roughly hewn walls and chunky textures giving you the feeling that you are sheltering within the mountain itself. Freshening up after your morning game drive becomes an experience all in itself, with deep bathtubs encased in wide windows that open up onto a spectacular view of the valley. Three suites offer al fresco showers so deeply sheltered in the leafy growth that you’ll feel you’re bathing in your own private waterfall. The white face of Leopard Rock lies directly across from the lodge, while a watering hole draws wildlife from the deep hollows of the valley below.As your sense of adventure reawakens, one quick leap through an open wooden shutter takes you to a rustic ladder leading to the roof, soon to be stopped in your tracks as you gaze on the unrivalled panorama before you.
When night draws in, retreat to the warm refuge of an intimate gathering around a roaring fire in the guest area. Savour a meal served among friends, both old and new, in the cosy dining room or the haven of your own suite.
| Room type | Description |
|---|
Phinda Private Game Reserve is renowned for its exceptional sightings of the elusive cheetah and the rare black rhino, as well as the Big Five. There is also a number of resident lion prides and rangers will do their best to provide you with an excpetional sighting of all of these animals. This game drive begins in the late afternoon and lasts until after dark, when spotlights are used for a glimpse into the nocturnal bush life. Listen to lions roar in the dark or admire the small nocturnal animals. Enjoy sundowners in a scenic location as the sun slowly sinks beneath the horizon. If you prefer, you may be able to go on a boat cruise or canoe down the Mzinene River, watching the wildlife as they come down to drink.
| Room type | Description |
|---|
| Room type | Description |
|---|
Based on 191 reviews
5
Location
4.8
Sleep Quality
4.8
Rooms
4.7
Service
4.8
Value
4.4
Cleanliness
4.8
Published Sun, Nov 30, 2025
This was the 2nd stop of my 29th African safari. Phinda Rock Lodge checked all the boxes. The reserve is large and features multiple diverse landscapes. We saw 17 unique cheetahs over 6 days...
Published Mon, Oct 31, 2025
Phinda in general is such a great reserve. There is a Phinda spirit that is seen throughout this massive territory and from every single member of the team. Welcoming, happy and experienced in all...
Published Tue, Oct 31, 2025
This was a smaller lodge than Forest Lodge. Although the service was good Forest has set a very high bar for anyone to follow. The staff were very friendly and welcoming and the guide and tracker...
