News:

Phinda Private Game Reserve has been selected as one of 38 companies worldwide by Condé Nast Traveler as a leader in social responsibility, winning the World Savers Award for best in wildlife conservation.

17 judges reviewed 142 applications from the travel industry and rated how they exercise social responsibility in five key areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education, wildlife conservation, and health. 38 finalists were named and the final winners were determined by compiling the judges’ overall rankings.

Just 17 years ago, the land that was to become Phinda Private Game Reserve was largely dilapidated, degraded and bankrupt under agriculture and poor land management. Today it is regarded as one of the country’s most remarkable luxurious ecotourism destinations and conservation successes as it brought together a pioneering partnership between private enterprise, conservation ideals and a rewarding relationship with the neighbouring communities of Makhasa and Mnqobokazi, who are now owners of the land.

“We are honoured to be recognised by Condé Nast Traveler for the positive contributions Phinda has made to wildlife conservation in KwaZulu- Natal and for ensuring the ongoing biodiversity of the Reserve’s 23 000 hectares of prime wilderness land”, said Claire Howse, & Beyond’s Sustainability Director.

“We believe it’s no longer sufficient for travel operators to simply cite employment statistics as their contribution to responsible tourism,” says Howse. “Companies like & Beyond are working hard to show meaningful benefits to conservation and, particularly, local communities. To do this their first responsibility is to provide a desirable product to their market and a viable, successful business model. Thus the ultimate power of Phinda is that we have proved it can be done. Now, as an industry, we can all more confidently pursue our mutual dream to defend and restore our continent’s heritage, so we’re exceptionally proud of the example Phinda has set.”

& Beyond’s Phinda Private Game Reserve is situated in the lush Maputaland region in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Bordering the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park – a World Heritage Site – Phinda comprises 18 500 hectares (45 711 acres) of prime conservation land. Seven distinct habitats shelter an abundance of wildlife including Africa’s Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, black and white rhino, buffalo) and over 380 bird species, while the marine diversity off the nearby coast of Sodwana is said to rival the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Guests can look forward to exciting game-drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles led by experienced rangers and Zulu trackers, as well as thrilling optional activities on the water, in the air and on the beach.

Unique safari accommodation: Phinda's seven splendid safari lodges offer sophistication and style in pristine African bush surrounds.

Phinda Forest Lodge:
Exquisite architectural design meets conservation in these luxurious hand-crafted suites. Set deep in the heart of a rare Dry Sand Forest, the Lodge comprises 16 private stilted suites, a sparkling rim-flow swimming pool, luxurious dining and sitting areas, and an expansive viewing deck with panoramic views of the game-filled plains.

Phinda Mountain Lodge:
Each of the 20 private suites feature spacious en suite bathrooms, sitting areas and spectacular viewing decks. Between exciting game-drives, birdwatch from the pooldeck, or simply relax in the Lodge’s comfortable sitting area with its great vaulted ceiling and enormous fireplace.

Phinda Vlei Lodge:
Intimate and elegant, this exquisite lodge comprises six thatched suites with en suite bathrooms, dressing rooms, private plunge pools and decks which overlook the vlei (wetland system) where you’re likely to observe herds of grazing antelope, zebra and a dazzling variety of birdlife.

Phinda Rock Lodge:
This unique lodge comprises six stone and adobe suites with en suite bathrooms, private sitting areas, decks and plunge pools offering unrivalled views of the valley below.

Phinda Zuka Lodge:
The intimate, exclusive-use Phinda Zuka Lodge comprises just four thatched Zululand bush cottages with verandas overlooking a busy waterhole – perfect for family gatherings and special occasion safaris.

Phinda The Homestead:
Savour the luxury of Africa’s wide open spaces with the sky and savanna theme of The Homestead at &Beyond Phinda. Breathtakingly stylish and sophisticated yet refreshingly simple, The Homestead provides the ideal venue to reconnect with friends and family.