phinda safari guides

• You are here:
• Countries & Parks
• South Africa Parks

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Best Time To Visit

Weather & climate.

• Getting There
• Malaria & Safety

​Overview – Phinda GR

Philip lives in South Africa and has authored many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Philip lives in South Africa and has authored many Africa guidebooks, including the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Philip is the author of many Africa guidebooks, including the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Philip is author of the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Phinda is Kwazulu Natal's best private game reserve. It is on a par with some of the best reserves in the popular Sabi Sands near Kruger National Park, except that it is fully fenced and thus not part of a greater ecosystem. All of the Big Five are easily spotted. The reserve's flagship species is cheetah and sightings of this gracious cat are unsurpassed.

Pros & Cons

• Excellent wildlife viewing with all of the Big Five present
• Open-vehicle game drives with top guides
• Night drives and walking safaris available
• Several luxury lodges belonging to the &Beyond group
• Birding is superb, especially from Forest Lodge
• Only very expensive, fully inclusive packages available
• Fenced environment less authentic than in large ecosystems

Phinda GR Safari Reviews

• Expert Rating 4.5 /5 – 6 Reviews
• User Rating 4.6 /5 – 27 Reviews

Phinda offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the country. All big safari animals, including the Big Five , are usually spotted on a two-night stay. Aside from the Big Five , there is a major focus on cheetah, as Phinda is renowned for its sightings of this streamlined cat. Both rhino species are present and regularly seen.

• More about Phinda’s wildlife

Four different lodges have been positioned to experience the different habitats within the park. Forest Lodge is set deep in the heart of the rare, dry sand forest, while Mountain Lodge looks out over the reserve from the top of a koppie. Vlei Lodge overlooks the vast wetland, and Rock Lodge sits suspended over a deep valley below.

Phinda Game Reserve has a sub-tropical climate that brings plenty of humidity and rain during the summer period (October to April). February is by far the stickiest month, with the heat and precipitation at their highest. By contrast, winter (May to September) is hot but not sweltering, with things cooling right down at night.

• More about the weather and climate

You can see animals at any time of year at Phinda, but the drier months (May to September) have the best conditions for wildlife watching. There’s little rain, and as a consequence, the undergrowth recedes, so animals are easier to spot. They also make their way to local waterholes and rivers, as other water sources have dried up. That said, the rainy months (October to April) are when you’ll see migrating birds and newborn animals.

• More about the best time to visit

Want To Visit Phinda GR?

Phinda Safaris

• Phinda Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Phinda

Most Helpful Expert Review

Emma is an award-winning travel writer for Rough Guides, National Geographic Traveller, Travel Africa magazine and The Independent.

Much more than just a superb Big Five reserve

If you’ve already ticked off the Big Five, at least once, then the mere fact that Phinda harbours elephants, leopards, lions, buffalo and rhino may not be enough to attract you. But there’s a world of difference between seeing these...

Full Review

Latest User Review

The BEST experience. AMAZING

Safari Tours to Phinda GR

16-Day Tropical Beaches and Big Five Luxury Honeymoon

$10,523 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , Durban (City) , mFulaWozi Wilderness GR, iSimangaliso WP, Phinda GR, Durban Airport (End)

5.0 /5  –  41 Reviews

8-Day Kwazulu Natal Beach and Bush Honeymoon

$4,519 to $4,894 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge

You Visit: Durban (Start) , iSimangaliso WP, Phinda GR, Durban (End)

Discover Africa Safaris

5.0 /5  –  415 Reviews

7-Day Ultimate Big 5 Safari Sabi Sands & Phinda Reserve

$5,601 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Skukuza (Start) , Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Phinda GR, Richards Bay (End)

African Safari Guru

5.0 /5  –  51 Reviews

Phinda Game Reserve | Travel guide

Phinda Private Game Reserve, formerly known as Phinda Resource Reserve, is a 170 km² private game reserve situated in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, between the Mkuze Game Reserve and the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park.

Designated in 1991, Phinda is a Zulu word meaning ‘return’, or more accurately ‘repeat’ and with its seven distinct habitats, Phinda is often described as ‘Seven Worlds of Wonder’.

The reserve is a magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest interspersed with mountain ranges, rivers, marshes and pans.

Another notable feature is its location, in close proximity to the unspoiled beaches and spectacular coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, offering an unmatched combination of bush and beach adventures, including the diving mecca of Sodwana Bay.

Table of Contents

Why visit Phinda Game Reserve?

Phinda game reserve safari.

With this much biodiversity, it’s no wonder that the Big Five and other endangered animals call this home. Visitors are bound to see the world’s fastest land mammal (cheetah) on a safari to Phinda, as well as endangered black rhino and turtles who lay their eggs on these beaches.

The reserve is a superb safari option for malaria-free, family-based travel, as well as couples who want a little more privacy and five-star accommodation.

There are ample child-friendly safari packages available for traveling families. Educate your children about the earth’s natural heritage on guided bush walks, insect hunts, child-friendly game drives, an introduction to basic astronomy and arts and crafts. Babysitting facilities are also available at certain lodges.

The reserve’s population of nyala is the biggest on private land and guests are guaranteed frequent encounters with this stately animal and the rare dry sand forest at Phinda is also home to the shy suni and the rare red duiker, two tiny antelope that are seldom encountered elsewhere.

After a day-long safari, there is no shortage of incredible accommodation options with tented camps and luxury lodges, each offering incredible dining and activities including walking safaris, game drives and much more.

For a South African safari , visitors to the park are for a treat as Phinda is a fully enclosed game reserve. This makes sightings of all flagship species including the Big Five and cheetah very easy.

Both black and white rhino are present and regularly spotted, although the black rhino less often. The beautiful nyala is the most common antelope. Night drives offer an opportunity to see nocturnal species such as porcupine and genet.

Phinda certainly is special in the way that you can see lions and elephants in the morning and can go diving with Whale Sharks in the afternoon.

The reserve is also famous for its quality cheetah sightings. Smaller creatures to look out for are the shy red duiker found scurrying around in the forest undergrowth and, the smallest of all antelope, the tiny suni. A boat trip on the Mzinene River offers close encounters with big Nile crocodiles.

With more than 400 species recorded, Phinda is an excellent birding destination. Migratory birds are present from November to April. A patch of rare sand forest habitat is home to many Zululand specials such as Narina trogon, African broadbill, green twinspot, pink-throated twinspot and Neergaards sunbird.

These species are all seen quite easily in the grounds of Forest Lodge, a favorite with birders. Walking safaris and a boat trip on the river can add lots of extra sightings onto your list.

Other notable birds include the African green pigeon, African swamphen and the Great white pelican.

Phinda is home to rare sand forest, which is home to important endemic plant species, as well as some of South Africa’s rarest animals. Of the remaining 2 000 hectares of sand forest that is being protected in the world, Phinda is home to 520 hectares.

In order to limit damage to this precious area from elephants, an elephant exclusion fence was erected around the largest section of sand forest on the reserve in 2005. One of the first of its kind, other reserves are now utilizing the same method to protect vegetation types that are at risk.

In the evenings, when warm firelight welcomes you to the traditional African boma, wide-eyed bush babies watch inquisitively from the trees above, as guests indulge in a lantern-lit feast beneath a canvas of stars.

Other activities at Phinda Game Reserve

Other activities in South Africa that visitors to Phinda Game Reserve can look forward to on their trip:

• Game drive: Exploring Phinda Game Reserve’s wildlife with spectacular views of 29 and landscapes and exclusive game viewing of the Big Five and other rare and iconic wildlife.
• Bush walks: Walk with professional guides at a peaceful, relaxed pace through the extraordinary Phinda Game Reserve NP where you can see birds, wildlife and beautiful tree species.
• Black Rhino Tracking: Slip on some comfortable walking shoes, grab your binoculars and camera, and spend the morning on foot with a qualified ranger and tracker team in search of the rare and highly endangered black rhinoceros.
• Photo safari: Enthusiasts from beginners to advanced are welcome and can capture the wondrous landscapes and magical creatures on a Phinda safari by taking advantage of a fully-equipped photographic safari vehicle, fitted with state-of-the art camera mounts.
• Ocean Safari: Outside Phinda Game Reserve, treat yourself and encounter some of South Africa’s beautiful marine life aboard an inflatable vessel and in the company of a certified dive master. Swim with wild dolphins, snorkel the incredible reefs and see humpback and southern right whales.
• Maputaland Beach Adventure: Outside Phinda Game Reserve, the vast sandy beaches of the Maputaland coastline provide a beautiful setting for this half-day beach outing by the Indian Ocean or snorkel alongside Jesser Point marine reserve.

How to get to Phinda Game Reserve?

Most safari packages offer a transfer by road from King Shaka International Airport in Durban to the Phinda Private Game Reserve. This journey should take about three hours, while you discover the secrets of Kwazulu Natal’s amazing landscapes.

To get to South Africa , visitors typically fly into one of two airports: Cape Town International (CPT) or Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. A South Africa will likely also be required per the latest entry requirements.

Another alternative is to fly to Richards Bay Airport (RCB) from either Johannesburg or Durban, followed by a road transfer to the lodge. The road transfer takes about 1½ hours.

The most convenient flight is with SA Airlink which operates daily scheduled flights directly from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Phinda‘s private airstrip.

Phinda is located about 300km/180 mi north of Durban. The drive from Durban to Phinda takes about three hours. It is a seven-hour drive from Johannesburg on good roads in a two-wheel drive vehicle.

Carrying a small amount of South Africa rand , the local currency (ZAR) is advised for smaller purchases.

Tariffs & Regulations

Entrance fee.

The Phinda Game Reserve Conservancy fee is R150 (USD $8.70) per person per stay.

This fee is utilized for the maintenance and conservation of the reserve itself.

Regulations

If you keep to park rules, you can stay with the animals as long as they are not disturbed by your presence.

Accommodation at Phinda Game Reserve

Tourists at Phinda Game Reserve can choose from a number of different options when deciding where to sleep with accommodation ranging from luxury safari lodges to lower budget camping.

Phinda is home to 6 superb lodges, each with its own charm and character. The Phinda Mountain Lodge offers uninterrupted mountain views and natural light streaming through expansive glass windows to each of the suites.

Each accommodation option features an outdoor shower, well-stocked personal bars and private plunge pools. In the main area, guests can swap safari stories around the inviting bar and enjoy meals in the interactive kitchen, complete with a pizza oven (ideal fun for the kids to create their own dinner).

A traditional stone and reed boma is illuminated by dozens of candles, and lanterns, and provides the ultimate setting for al fresco dinners.

Alternative lodge options include the fabulous Phinda Vlei Lodge, a secluded plantation-style hideaway on the edge of a rare sand forest. Each lodge contains air-conditioned suites and features including a beautifully designed spacious room with your own personal bar, a luxurious ensuite bathroom and a separate dressing room.

The ensuite bathroom (each equipped with a bath, indoor and outdoor shower) provides a sense of old-world luxury, while the suite’s interiors showcase a mix of curated antiques and collectables inspired by the elegant, turn of the century, plantation-style homesteads of KwaZulu-Natal’s sugarcane and pineapple barons.

The Phinda Homestead is an exclusive, sole-use villa that is ideal for families and small groups. The four spacious suites at The Homestead accommodate eight guests and feature unique sliding panel windows framing the beautiful views, and infuse a contemporary Zulu vernacular on the ambience.

Ensuite bathrooms with separate toilets, twin hand basins, baths, indoor and outdoor showers are available in this luxurious villa.

Bars/restaurants/amenities

Lodges will typically have all meals and drinks included in the lodge package.

Useful information

Phinda Game Reserve occupies a large part on the eastern seaboard of South Africa in an area known as the KwaZulu-Natal, a region known for its beaches, mountains and savannah.

Safaris here are often combined with trips to Kruger National Park , Sabi Sand Game Reserve or Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park .

Phinda Game Reserve, being in the southern hemisphere, has a winter and summer which occur at opposite times as in Europe and North America.

Winter is from May to September and summer from October to April. Phinda’s climate is subtropical and the Wet season occurs during the hot and humid summer months. Winters are dry and characterized by cool nights and pleasantly warm days.

Dry season (May to September)

Although occasional showers can occur due to the coastal proximity of the park, there is very little rain during the winter. The heat is more bearable than during summer time, and the skies are sunny and clear.

As average temperatures cool in May to 14°C/57°F in the morning and 26°C/79°F in the afternoon, the summer comes to an end. Rains decrease, along with the humidity.

Best time to go

Understanding the best time to visit South Africa is important as this will impact accommodation, flight prices, availability and the weather that visitors can expect on their safari vacation. A South Africa visa for entry may also be required.

Phinda safaris offers great wildlife viewing throughout the year, but the best months are during winter (May to September). During this time, animals are more easily spotted while they convene at permanent water sources, and the dry conditions cause the bush to recede.

During the wet summer months, heavy rain can make off-road driving limited which can have an impact on animal sightings.

Phinda is located in a low-risk zone, and antimalarials are not considered necessary. It is still wise nonetheless to cover up and use mosquito repellent (those containing DEET are most effective) in the evenings during those wet months.

Antimalarials and other vaccinations for South Africa are advised, as well as covering up in the evening and using mosquito repellent (those containing DEET are most effective). There is a very small risk of contracting malaria in the wet summer months from September to May in parts of South Africa.

It is recommended to visit a travel clinic before coming to South Africa. Several South Africa vaccinations are recommended and usually administered before your departure.

Where is Phinda Game Reserve located?

Phinda Private Game Reserve is located in KwaZulu-Natal in east South Africa. The reserve can be accessed by flying with SA Airlink, which operates daily scheduled flights directly from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Phinda‘s private airstrip.

What animals will visitors see at Phinda Game Reserve?

Visitors to Phinda Game Reserve will see the Big Five including the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo as well as nyalas, porcupines, genets, red duikers, antelopes, small suni antelopes and Nile crocodiles.

How much is the Phinda Game Reserve entrance fee?

Best Safari Guide In Phinda Private Game Reserve

Go On Safari With This Guide

WHY AND HOW DID YOU BECOME A SAFARI GUIDE?

I've always had a love for the African bush and after completing a degree in Investment Management, I deciding to pursue the fascination with nature and become a guide. I found out about a well regarded training program through family and joined the course a month after graduating.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD SAFARI GUIDE?

A love for people is just as important as a passion for nature when it comes to guiding. A passionate, curious nature coupled with good enthusiastic communication skills helps a lot.

A keen eye for the small details, awareness of his/her surroundings and a good sense of humor are other qualities that I would look for in a guide.

FAVOURITE ANIMAL?

It depends on the moment, the interaction, the guests that I am with and the surroundings. Black rhino, wild dog, cheetah, lion, crowned eagle, leatherback turtle, leopard, African Broadbill...the list is endless.

BEST EXPERIENCE OF YOUR GUIDING CAREER?

This is also a very tough one to answer. Any uninterrupted interaction between species is amazing. It is an amazing privilege to be able to view any animal in its natural habitat without disturbing its behavior.

GUIDING AREA OF SPECIALIZATION?

Guiding guests during a specialist safari allows me to focus on any guest's interest whether it is birding, photography or walking. I enjoy spending time on foot tracking animals and you could not spend time in Maputaland without being enthralled by its diversity of bird species..

Back to the Top / More South Africa Safari Guides

Wildlife & Birds

Phinda Private Game Reserve was once a cultivated tract of land but after extensive efforts over a sustained period of time the area has been restored to its original wilderness state.

The big game that you find here now is similar to what would have been around before man set foot in this wilderness namely African elephant, white & black rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard and cheetah. Rare antelope species like the red duiker and suni can also be seen.

On the bird watching front there are 415 species to be discovered with two notables being the Pel's Fishing Owl and the African Finfoot.

Accommodation

For a reasonably small reserve, it offers many places to stay, all of them of a very high quality.

There are six lodges in total covering the different biomes occurring in the area namely Phinda Forest Lodge, Mountain Lodge, Vlei Lodge, Rock Lodge, Zuka Lodge, and the Homestead.

No fences allow the buildings to immerse in their surroundings and they are designed to ensure privacy and exclusivity for the occupants.

The rainy season in Phinda runs from October to April with the highest average occurring in February of 107 mm (4.2 in). There is rain in the dry winter months but not much as proved by the average rainfall measurement in June of only 18 mm (0.7 in).

Wildlife sightings are good all year round but will probably be a bit better in the dry months as the vegetation is not as dense and the animals stick to areas with water rather than dispersing like they do in the wetter times.

Summer occurs here from October to April with an average maximum temperature of 29 °C (84.2 °F) and an average minimum temperature of 18 °C (64.4 °F). Winters (May to September) can be very cold on early morning game drives so bring warm clothing as average minimum temperatures drop to 12 °C (53 °F) and 25 °C (77 °F) during the day.

Size And Distance

This is a relatively small reserve measuring 23 000 hectares (230 ㎢) but it's more than large enough for all the wonderful wildlife living here.

The longest distance from north to south as the crow flies is 26 km (16 mi) and from east to west is 9.8 km (6.14 mi). The closest city is Richards Bay which lies 125 km (77 mi) away.

And lying only 26 km (16 mi) due west are the warm waters and white beaches of the Indian Ocean and 17 km (11 mi) due south is the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi game reserve.

Phinda Game Reserve is accessible by plane using scheduled or charter flights. International visitors can fly into OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg or Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and then take a connecting flight to the Richards Bay airport (RCB).

There are several airlines that fly the Richards Bay route domestically and once there Federal Air has a daily shuttle service that flies directly to the Phinda airstrip.

Another option is fly to King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban and then drive the 269 km (167 mi) to the reserve in a rented vehicle.

Wild Wings Safaris

Phinda game reserve travel guide.

Phinda Private Game Reserve is not far from the well-known iSimangaliso/Greater St Lucia Wetland Park in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Phinda offers you abundant wildlife, courtesy of its incredibly diverse habitats. There, a handful of private lodges share excellent game sightings in a 23,000-hectare wilderness. Within easy distance of the warm Indian Ocean and its pristine beaches, Phinda makes for an ideal "bush and beach" safari destination.

• Incredibly diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, including Big 5
• Great game viewing, usually daily sightings of cheetah and lion
• Sanctuary for threatened species like black rhino and cheetah
• Offers superb bush and beach safari combinations with nearby coastal lodges
• Unhurried, uncrowded safari experience
• Birder's paradise, 415 species listed
• Stone's throw from warm Indian Ocean and its spectacular coral diving reefs
• Seven distinct habitats provide great diversity of fauna and flora

Phinda Private Reserve has many different habitats which make for incredibly diverse wildlife and vegetation. The area is generally lush and green as it's not far from the coast, with landscapes varying from bushveld savannah and hilly areas to very dense thickets and coastal forests with towering trees.

Great game viewing

You'll have the opportunity to see a surprisingly wide variety of game at Phinda Private Reserve. Cheetah sightings are very rewarding and are often a daily occurrence. Lion are plentiful and you may be lucky to see a few black rhinos, too. Other common game includes zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, kudu, nyala, impala, warthog, grey and red duiker (small antelope). The rivers and lakes are also teeming with crocodile and hippo.

Open safari vehicles and guided bush walks

Phinda offers top class guides and trackers who will go out of their way to find any elusive animals and birds on your wishlist. Knowledgeable, friendly and obliging, they'll make sure you enjoy every minute of your game viewing experience, whether by vehicle or on foot.

Phinda lions on the prowl

World-class diving and snorkelling nearby

Phinda provides easy access to nearby Sodwana Bay, one of the world's top scuba diving hotspots. It also offers fishing, turtle watching and sea-going excursions. The coral reefs offshore provide a wealth of subtropical marine life and the visibility is generally superb.

Best time to visit Phinda Game Reserve

Phinda is definitely an all-year-round destination with each season offering its own unique sightings and spectacles. During the summer months from September to March, the reserve is lush and green and there are young animals in abundance. During the height of winter from June to August, the vegetation is drier and the game is more easily visible.

Getting there

By air - Phinda has its own good quality airstrip and flying in would be the easiest option to get there. Daily flights connect from OR Tambo International, Johannesburg.

By road - Phinda is a good three-hour drive from King Shaka Airport to the north of Durban.

Our take on Phinda Game Reserve

One of the main reasons to visit Phinda would be the cheetah sightings you'd be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. It's also great for a bush and beach safari combo. Phinda Game Reserve is less than a two-hour drive to the pickup point for Thonga Beach Lodge, for example. As part of the andBeyond group, Phinda offers the best of hospitality, service and all-around safari enjoyment. A pleasure to recommend.

Phinda Rock Lodge

Almost like a small-scale exotic castle, Phinda Rock Lodge seems to cling to its steep cliffs, giving you excellent views across the valley. It’s a small, intimate lodge, ideal if you’re looking for a romantic, unhurried safari with excellent game viewing.

Phinda Forest Lodge

Phinda Forest Lodge is located in the northern sector of the 60,000-acre Phinda Private Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Set deep in the heart of a dry sand forest, this award-winning lodge offers 16 luxury suites and superb game viewing. The various habitats ensure a wide variety of game, from the plains-loving cheetah to the shy forest-dwellers and magnificent nyala antelope.

Phinda Homestead

Recently rebuilt after fire damage, this luxurious, sole-use safari villa is perfect for families, corporates and small groups who wish to spend some quality time away from it all and enjoy each other’s uninterrupted company. You’ll be spoilt with your own dedicated ranger/host, tracker, butler and chef. You’ll also have a private open safari vehicle at your disposal to enjoy looking for the Big 5 and a wide variety of birds and wildlife.

Phinda Mountain Lodge

With its prime position on the crest of a mountain, Phinda Mountain Lodge is known for its incredible views out over the scenic and game-rich Phinda Private Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal in north-eastern South Africa. Enjoy 24/7 game watching from the main lodge's viewing decks or your very own private veranda. Plus there's a variety of game activities to make sure you have an unforgettable safari experience.

Phinda Vlei Lodge

andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge is an intimate, romantic and exclusive safari lodge, offering you privacy, peace and quiet. The lodge is set on the edge of a sand forest, overlooking a wetland system; you can watch the daily goings on of a huge variety of visiting wildlife from wherever you are at the lodge: the viewing decks, your bedroom or even your shower.

Phinda Zuka Lodge

Consistently getting rave reviews, Phinda Zuka Lodge is the perfect safari venue for groups and family get-togethers to celebrate special occasions. Zuka can accommodate up to eight guests in exclusive luxury, with your own butler, chef and staff, your own dedicated open safari vehicle, driver and personal guide who’ll happily show you some of the best game viewings in southern Africa.

In pictures

You may also want to look at, 8 day battlefields, bush & beach safari.

Our unique Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari takes in the highlights of South Africa's exciting Kwazulu-Natal Province. From spectacular scenery and the fascinating history of the British/Zulu/Boer wars to unforgettable Big 5 safaris at Phinda Game Reserve and a pristine beach lodge with endless beaches, warm waters, incredible snorkelling and scuba diving, this itinerary includes cultural visits to local tribal villages. Scenery, history, culture, wildlife, sunny beaches, our Battlefields, Bush and Beach has it all in spades.

Phinda Homestead, KwaZulu-Natal

Phinda mountain lodge, northern kwazulu-natal.

This price range is intended as an estimate only. The exact rate will depend on type of room, date of travel, and number of people. Please contact us to secure the best available rate for this property.

Need help with your trip?

Why not chat to one of our safari experts who can answer all your questions and help you design your dream trip to Africa.

• travel guides
• why book with us?
• Tailor-Made
• Accommodations
• Experiences
• Destinations
• the big 5 experience
• eastern cape game reserves
• south africa game reserves
• Enquire Now
• passionate experts
• financial protection
• booking conditions
• why east cape tours?

Accommodation

&beyond phinda private game reserve, luxury lodges.

PHINDA IS HOME TO SIX MAGNIFICENT LODGES, EACH WITH ITS OWN INDIVIDUAL CHARM AND CHARACTER.

Safari Game Drives

DAY AND NIGHT SAFARIS WITH EXPERT GUIDES IN SEARCH OF BIG FIVE AND OTHER RARE ICONIC WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS.

Bush Walking Adventures

EXPLORE WITH THE AFRICAN BUSH AND IT’S QUAINT FAUNA AND FLORA ON FOOT WITH AN EXPERIENCED GUIDE.

Impact Experiences

ASSIST OUR CONSERVATION TEAM WITH A SCHEDULED RHINO, ELEPHANT OR PANGOLIN RESEARCH EXPERIENCE.

Community Experiences

VISIT NEARBY ZULU COMMUNITIES AND GAIN INSIGHT INTO THEIR DAILY LIVES.

&BEYOND Phinda Private Game Reserve encompasses an impressive 28 555 hectares (70 560 acres) of protected wildlife land in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Showcasing one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences, &BEYOND Phinda is home to Africa’s Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), as well as 436 bird species. The reserve is particularly well known for close-up sightings of the elegant yet elusive cheetah, as well as the rare black rhino.

With its seven distinct habitats, Phinda is often described as ‘Seven Worlds of Wonder’, a magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest, interspersed with mountain ranges, rivers, marshes and pans. Home to 1 000 hectares (2471 acres) of Africa’s remaining rare dry sand forest, the reserve is situated in close proximity to the unspoiled beaches and spectacular coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, offering an unmatched combination of bush and beach adventures.

Guests at Phinda experience interpretive game drives, in open 4×4 safari vehicles, led by professionally trained &BEYOND rangers and Zulu trackers, as well as a wide range of optional adventures in the bush and on the beach.

Phinda is home to six magnificent lodges, each with its own individual charm and character: Mountain Lodge, Rock Lodge, Forest Lodge, Vlei Lodge, Zuka Lodge and Phinda Homestead.

Phinda Forest Lodge

Phinda Homestead

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Phinda Rock Lodge

Phinda Vlei Lodge

Phinda Zuka Lodge

Frequently asked questions, why visit phinda private game reserve.

Showcasing one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences, &Beyond Phinda is home to Africa’s Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), as well as 436 bird species. The reserve is particularly well known for close-up sightings of the elegant yet elusive cheetah, as well as the rare black rhino.

How do I get to &BEYOND Phinda Private Game Reserve?

Airlink operates daily scheduled flights directly from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Phinda’s private airstrip. From the reserve, Airlink can connect to many destinations, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Vilanculos and Livingstone. Private charters from anywhere in South Africa can be arranged, and self-drive options from Johannesburg or Durban are also possible.

What are the regulations for families travelling with children to South Africa?

As of November 2019 children travelling on passports of visa-exempt countries will only require a valid passport to enter/exit South African ports of entry (birth certificates will no longer be a requirement for them), as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

What should I pack for my South Africa safari?

Casual, comfortable clothing, binoculars, and your sense of adventure are essential for your safari. For everything else, please speak with your travel consultant.

TOP DESTINATIONS

• Kruger Park
• Okavango Delta
• Serengeti National Park
• Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

• South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

• Beach Holidays
• Family Safaris
• Honeymoon Safaris
• Desert Safaris
• Luxury Rail Safaris
• Multi-Generational Safaris
• Positive Impact Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

• Big Five Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Safaris
• Migration Safaris
• Mobile Camping Safaris
• Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

• Tented Camps
• Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

• Imvelo Safaris
• The Safari Collection
• Desert & Delta

GET TO KNOW US

• Meet The Team
• Pricing Explained
• Traveller Reviews
• Traveller Stories
• Why Book With Us?
• HerdTracker
• Safari Cost Calculator
• South Africa In 360
• Trusted Safari Partners

What are you looking for?

• Safaris & Tours
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Accommodations
• Why book with us?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

• Phinda Game Reserve Safari

The ultimate guide to your next Phinda Game Reserve Safari

Get to know phinda game reserve.

This prestigious 230-square-kilometre private reserve reliably produces good sightings of lion, cheetah, elephant, rhino and other wildlife over the course of a couple of days

Phinda, the largest private reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal, provides an exclusive guided game viewing experience comparable in style and quality to the legendary private reserves bordering the Kruger Park. All the Big Five are present, including the endangered black rhino. Phinda is also home to plentiful white rhino, but the biggest local specialty is cheetah, which tends to be very habituated, allowing for great close-up behavioural viewing. 

Phinda Game Reserve Video

Phinda game reserve.

How it Works

View our recommended safaris for inspiration and get ready to plan your dream safari

Contact us or fill out an enquiry form and one of our travel experts will help you tailor make your perfect safari

Enjoy an authentic African experience, with peace of mind

Why Phinda?

• World-class Big Five viewing
• Probably the most reliable site for cheetah in southern Africa
• More than 400 bird species including several eagerly sought rarities
• Well trained and enthusiastic guides
• Five-star accommodation, wining and dining

Travel with Confidence

With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you choose the perfect african safari for your adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, popular phinda game reserve safaris, these recommended tours for phinda game reserve can be tailor-made to match your budget..

Kwazulu Natal Beach and Bush Honeymoon

Southern Africa South Africa KwaZulu-Natal Phinda

From $ 4650 /USD

1 Phinda Safari to choose from

Stay for 8 - 8 days

Experience our Tailor-made Tours in Phinda Game Reserve

Our recommended tours in phinda game reserve.

A Safari in South and North Luangwa

Zambia South Luangwa

From $ 6700 /USD

Opulent Cape Town and Kruger Safari Holidays

South Africa Cape Town Franschhoek

From $ 13000 /USD

Looking for Something Unique?

Big Cat Safaris in Africa

Big Five Safaris in Africa

Birding Safaris in Africa

Family and Kid-Friendly Safaris in Africa

Walking Safaris in Africa

Photographic Safaris in Africa

Why travel with us?

Recent reviews from travellers who planned and booked their africa trips with discover africa safaris.

Botswana & Victoria Falls Family Getaway

Susan Easterly, United States 25 Jul 2023

Professional and well organised team that provided an excellent safari experience for....

8 Day Timbavati, Sabi Sands & Joburg Holiday Review

Jon, Singapore 29 May 2023

Excellent in all facets.

23 Day South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana Safari Review

Rodney, Australia 17 May 2023

Arusha, Ngorongoro Crater and Northern Serengeti Safari Review

Zhang Yi, China 24 Aug 2022

So helpful.

Tanzanian Safari Review

Elizabeth Horn, United States 22 Dec 2020

Discover africa safaris makes it happen.

Home of the Big Five Safari Review

Rosie Rozain, Malaysia 20 Apr 2018

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari.

Andre Van Kets, Co-founder, Discover Africa

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

Faqs about phinda.

• Most lodges and hotels will have safes for your valuables either in your room or at the reception.
• The local currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). There are numerous currency exchange outlets and the main credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex and Diners) are normally accepted everywhere.
• Most petrol stations and toll roads take credit cards, but always have a small amount of cash on you for tips etc. Numerous ATMs can be found in all the big towns.
• The best time to visit the Phinda Private Game Reserve is during the dry winter months of May to September. These months provide excellent game viewing opportunities as the wildlife congregates around water sources.
• Southern Africa is a hot wildlife destination. There is a world of luxury bush camps, lodges and Eco-friendly tourist establishments in the heart of wildlife heaven.
• Why Phinda Game Reserve

Registered Members of these Organizations

USEFUL LINKS

• African Safaris
• African Safari Tours
• African Safari Lodges
• Why Book with us?
• Content Collaborations
• Safari Cost Estimator Tool
• Wildebeest Migration
• Privacy Policy
• Website Terms of Use

POPULAR COUNTRIES

• View All Countries
• South Africa Safaris
• Botswana Safaris
• Kenya Safaris
• Tanzania Safaris
• Namibia Safaris
• Rwanda Safaris
• Uganda Safaris
• Zambia Safaris
• Zimbabwe Safaris

POPULAR DESTINATIONS

• View All Destinations
• Cape Town Holidays
• Kruger Safaris
• Victoria Falls Safaris
• Masai Mara Safaris
• Serengeti Safaris
• Etosha Safaris
• Chobe Safaris
• Okavango Delta Safaris

TRAVEL BLOGS

• Animal Attacks: How to Stay Safe on Safari
• Travel News Digest, 5 April: FlySafair’s Kruger-Cape Route, Destination Dupes, Increased Biodiversity Focus
• South Africa to Finally Ban Captive Lion Industry
• Cape Agulhas Development Enhances Africa’s Southernmost Experience
• Virgin Atlantic and Kenya Airways improve connectivity to Kenya

DISCOVER AFRICA SAFARIS

2nd floor, Tygervalley Chambers One, 27 Willie van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, Cape Town , 7530

Phinda Private Game Reserve

• Best Time To Visit
• Safaris Available
• Accommodation

Situated in KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, Phinda Private Game Reserve is a wildlife haven where safari-goers can explore almost 29 000 hectares of the most pristine wilderness.

This private reserve is wedged between two other natural wonderlands, the Mkhuze Game Reserve and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Its closeness to the balmy waters of the Indian Ocean to the east of the African continent makes for an unrivalled beach and bush holiday.

Phinda is sometimes referred to as the ‘Seven Worlds of Wonder’ because of the reserve’s seven unique habitats – woodland, grassland, wetland, forest, mountain ranges, rivers, marshes and pans. These ecosystems have provided a haven for a myriad of fauna and flora species. Lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo, various other mammal and bird species are on the must-see list.

Visitors to the reserve should be aware that malaria is endemic to the area so visitors should take the proper precautions. Getting to and from Phinda Private Game Reserve can be done with relative ease, whether by air or road. Durban has an international airport, and there is a regional airport at Richards Bay, as well as an airstrip on the reserve. Driving from Durban will take less than four hours.

• Contact Info

Quick questions

Q when is the best time to visit the reserve.

Phinda Private Game Reserve can be regarded as a year-round safari destination because of the region’s pleasant climate. Temperatures can reach over 30 degrees Celsius in summer while it tends to cool off somewhat in the night during the winter.

Q Is it easy to get to the reserve?

There is a private airstrip at Phinda Private Game Reserve where charter flights can be accommodated while Durban is less than a four-hour drive away.

Rate us and Write a Review

Your Rating for this listing

Your review is recommended to be at least 140 characters long

Visitors to Phinda Private Game Reserve are in for one of the best game viewing experiences on offer. The famous members of the Big Five —which include the lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant—are sure to be spotted. Both rhino species in this part of the African continent, white and black, are found here. The wide-open plains are the ideal hunting terrain for cheetah while the forested areas give shelter to rare antelope species like suni and red duiker. Other species occurring in the reserve include giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, hippo, spotted hyena and more than 430 different bird species.

Phinda Private Game Reserve can most certainly be regarded as a year-round safari destination because of the region’s pleasant climate. Even though temperatures can reach more than 30 degrees Celsius in summer (October-April), a respite from the heat can be expected in the form of rain showers. During the winter months (May-September) it tends to cool off somewhat in the night.

A whole host of incredibly rewarding experiences await safari-goers at Phinda Private Game Reserve. Topping and tailing each day will be a guided game drive. In between experts will lead guests on excursions like photographic and birding safaris, bush walks and cultural experiences. Other must-do activities include a sleep-out under the stars, tracking black rhino on foot, swimming with whale sharks and much more.

There are five distinct lodges from which safari-goers can choose when it comes to overnight accommodation. Their styles change from the serenity and exclusivity at Phinda Forest Lodge and Phinda Rock Lodge to the traditional safari-style at Phinda Vlei Lodge and Phinda Homestead. Family and friends can relax in style at Phinda Mountain Lodge.

Do you have further information? If so, please email us at [email protected]

Opening Hours

• Monday 09:00 - 17:00
• Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00
• Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00
• Thursday 09:00 - 17:00
• Friday 09:00 - 17:00
• Phinda Private Game Reserve, Hluhluwe, South Africa

( Phinda Private Game Reserve )

Claim your wildlife listing.

Please provide your business email which will be use for claim procedure.

Please provide your verification details which will be used for claim procedure.

NEW USER? TO SIGNUP ENTER AN EMAIL

Claim request is processed after verification..

Claim This Listing

Nearby safari parks.

Thanda Safari Privat..

• Be the first one to rate!

Bonamanzi Game Reser..

uMkhuze Game Reserve..

The Luxury Safari Company

WhatsApp or Call Anytime:

+44 1666 880 111 +44 7539 508 880

Email *please check your junk mail for our emails, or provide a phone number so we can confirm you received them*: [email protected]

Phinda Private Reserve

• Phinda Game Reserve

Location: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa No of rooms: Phinda Forest Lodge: 16 Suites. Phinda Mountain Lodge: 25 Suites. Phinda Rock Lodge: Six Suites. Phinda Vlei Lodge: Six Suites. Phinda Zzuka Lodge: Four Suites. The Homestead: Four Suites One Stop Reason to Go: The Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino – are almost guaranteed here!

Phinda Private Game Reserve showcases one of South Africa’s finest gaming experiences, including Africa’s Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), the endangered black rhino and over 400 bird species in an impressive 23 000 hectares (56 800 acres) of prime wilderness land in KwaZulu-Natal.

Phinda is described as the “Seven Worlds of Wonder”, with its seven distinct habitats – a magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland and forest, interspersed with mountain ranges, river courses, marshes and pans waiting to be discovered as well as being home to 1 000 hectares of Africa’s remaining rare dry sand forest. Situated within close proximity of the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, Phinda is also located within easy reach of the iSimangaliso/Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, a lush conservation area that has earned World Heritage Site status. With unspoiled beaches and spectacular reefs nearby, and an abundance of wildlife, Phinda offers guests the perfect bush and beach adventure.

Phinda is made up of six equally unique lodges that have been designed to complement the different habitats perfectly. Forest Lodge enjoys the dappled shade deep in the heart of a rare, dry sand forest, while Mountain Lodge boasts remarkable views out over the Reserve. Vlei Lodge, on the edge of the forest, overlooks the vast wetland, and Rock Lodge sits suspended over a deep valley below.

Phinda is also home to two sole-use safari villas, Zuka Lodge and The Homestead. Luxurious and intimate, these villas are the perfect ‘home away from home’ for families or small groups of friends sharing a safari together.

Phinda Forest Lodge: Set deep in the heart of a rare and beautiful dry sand forest, Phinda’s Forest Lodge is a mass of exquisite contradiction. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls invite the forest inside, while the dense tree canopy shelters and provides privacy. Floating on stilts above the forest floor while tiny duiker graze below, 16 Zulu Zen suites blend into the dappled shade.

Phinda Mountain Lodge: Wraparound views of the ancient Ubombo Mountain range, this one of Phinda’s lodge’s balances majestically above its beautiful surroundings. The 25 suites scattered along the mountainside offer complete privacy and luxury.

Phinda Rock Lodge: Carved into the rocky mountainside facing spectacular Leopard Rock, Phinda’s Rock Lodge offers complete seclusion, suspended in air over the deep valley below. Six stone and adobe suites burrow into the heart of the cliffside, with solid wooden shutters and doors opening up onto a private viewing deck and plunge pool balanced on the very edge of a breathtaking precipice.

Phinda Vlei Lodge: At the edge of the Reserve’s unique wetland or vlei system at the edge of the sand forest, Phinda’s Vlei Lodge offers an intimate safari experience, with elegant and gracious spaces designed for quiet contemplation of the African wilderness. The six elegant thatched suites look out onto an ever-changing parade of animals on the open vlei.

Phinda Zuka Lodge: Cradled in a valley and surrounded by densely wooded hills studded with aloes, sole-use Zuka Lodge embodies cool, coastal bush style. Four thatched en-suite cottages cluster around a central guest area with an open, interactive kitchen, a large wooden dining table for friends and family, and a cosy fireplace for evening gatherings.

The Homestead: In this exclusive private safari villa, the beauty of Africa’s wide open spaces is brought right indoors. Large sliding doors in four luxurious suites let in breathtaking vistas. Personal touches and the warmth of a dedicated team of staff, including a private ranger, tracker, butler and chef, bring renowned African hospitality to life.

Phinda is home to an abundance of wildlife, from the largest mammals to the smallest antelope. However, it is the faster of predators that has a special place here. Having reintroduced cheetah to the area after an absence of over 50 years, Phinda has quickly established a reputation as one of the best places to view and photograph these rare cats. Along with cheetah, lion and leopard are tracked on the reserve on a daily basis and guests have a high likelihood of encountering these magnificent animals.

Another success story at Phinda is that of both the white and the more endangered black rhino. Brought back from the brink of extinction, both the grass-eating white rhino and the shrub-grazing black rhino are thriving at Phinda.

The elegant nyala antelope is a frequent sight, with the Reserve boasting one of the highest densities of the species. With its dark brown coat, yellow legs, shaggy mane and bushy tail, the male nyala is particularly spectacular, while the female contents itself with a less flashy chestnut coat. The rare sand forest in the northern parts of Phinda is the perfect environment for some of the rarer smaller species. The shy red duiker is found grazing on fallen leaves and fruit and the tiny suni, one of the smallest antelope species, may also be seen.

The Phinda Private Game Reserve is one of the best examples of its kind in Africa – a place where dreams come true.

Featured Items

Chimps in Tanzania

Magic in the Bush

Honeymoon Safaris of Note

Specialise in your Passion

Why We're The Best

• White Desert
• Kwa Zulu Natal
• Madikwe & Kruger
• Kruger & Mozambique
• Cape Town Kruger
• Cape Town Kruger Seychelles
• The Dorp Hotel
• Camissa House
• 21 Nettleton
• Bushman’s Kloof
• Retreat On Hove
• Private Yachts
• Mount Nelson
• Ellerman House
• Cape Cadogan
• More Quarters
• The Cape Grace
• The One & Only
• 7 Koppies Farmhouse
• La Cle Country Lodge
• La Cle Des Montagnes
• Babylonstoren
• Grande Roche
• Le Quartier Francais
• Lekkerwater De Hoop
• Morukuru Beach Lodge
• Morukuru Ocean House
• Birkenhead Villa
• Ocean’s Eleven
• Birkenhead House
• The Marine Hotel
• Tsala Treetops
• The Turbine Hotel & Spa
• Lagoon Lodge
• Waterside Lodge
• Africa House
• Cheetah Plains Villas
• Kubili House
• Dulini River Lodge
• Dulini Leadwood
• Silvan Safaris
• Singita Sweni
• Singita Castleton
• Singita Ebony
• Chitwa Chitwa
• Royal Malewane
• Dulini Moya
• Leopard Hills
• Singita Boulders
• Singita Lebombo
• Morukuru River House
• Jamala Madikwe
• Tswalu Tarkuni
• Tswalu Motse
• Madikwe Hills
• Kwandwe Fort House
• Explorers Camp
• Founders Camp
• Marataba Mountain Lodge
• Thonga Beach Lodge
• Fugitive’s Drift
• Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse
• Summerfields
• The Rovos Rail
• Private Houses
• Indian Ocean Beach
• South Africa Map

Maps & Camps

See Our Reviews

• Cookie Settings
• Essential Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features. These must be enabled at all times, so that we can save your preferences.

If you do not enable essential cookies, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Essential Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

• Destinations
• South Africa
• KwaZulu-Natal Safari
• Phinda Private Reserve

Phinda Private Reserve Travel Guide

Phinda - A Big Five, Luxury Private Safari Park

Accommodation, phinda lodges.

• Phinda Forest Lodge
• Phinda Mountain Lodge
• Phinda Rock Lodge
• Phinda Vlei Lodge
• Phinda Zuka Lodge
• The Homestead

The Experience

Useful information.

The best game viewing occurs between March and September however one will enjoy visiting at any time of the year. Phinda is located in a low-risk Malaria area and guests are advised to take precautions prior to their visit.

Children are welcome at the lodges and child carers can be arranged at additional costs. As there are not fences around the accommodation areas in the evenings guests are advised to always inform a guard when wanting to move from their room to the communal areas and back.

Phinda Game Reserve Safari Lodges

Phinda Private Game Reserve Wildlife

• Customer Support
• Tel: +27 21 424 1037
• Fax: +27 21 424 1036
• Contact by Mail
• Business Hours
• Mon - Fri. 08:00 - 17:00
• Saturday. 08:00 - 12:00
• Reservations and Bookings
• Booking Conditions
• Visa and Passport
• About Siyabona Africa (Pty) Ltd
• Africa Safari Holidays
• Kruger Park
• Victoria Falls Holidays
• Kenya Safari
• Zambia Safari
• Botswana Holidays
• Namibia Holidays
• Malawi Holidays
• Mozambique Holidays
• Zimbabwe Safari
• Safari Holiday Places In Africa
• Siyabona Popular Websites
• Safaris Specialist
• Botswana Safari
• Cape Town Hotels
• Kenya Safari Holidays
• Botswana Safari Tours
• Sun City Resort
• South Africa Nature Reserves
• Lodges near Kruger Park
• Hotels in South Africa
• Timbavati Private Game Reserve

andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 402
• Very Good 46
• All languages ( 464 )
• English ( 420 )
• French ( 15 )
• Spanish ( 9 )

" Get as many drives in as you can because you never know what you'll see. "

" We were an all-adults group, but it's important to note this is a very family-friendly lodge. "

" Unbedingt den Shop angucken - very nice stuff. Unbedingt eine Massage bei Thozama buchen. Unbedingt mal ein private dinner machen. "

" Try to also engage with the local staff and communities to experience the beauty of Africa’s people in addition to its wildlife. "

" Some rooms have quite a few steps to walk down to so if you have difficulty with mobility request a room near reception "

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

ANDBEYOND PHINDA MOUNTAIN LODGE - Updated 2024 Reviews (Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa)

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Guide

My South African Safari: Phinda Private Game Reserve

Published: September 6, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Melodee Pugh

• Africa & Middle East
• Plan Your Trip
• South Africa
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Nature Conservation

Introduction

Embarking on a South African safari is a journey that promises unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep appreciation for nature’s wonders. And nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, lies the magnificent Phinda Private Game Reserve, a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Phinda Private Game Reserve is a world-renowned conservation area spanning over 28,000 hectares, boasting an incredible biodiversity and an abundance of iconic African wildlife. From the powerful African lions to the elusive leopards, the graceful herds of elephants to the playful meerkats, the reserve offers an exclusive opportunity to witness these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.

What sets Phinda Private Game Reserve apart is its commitment to sustainable ecotourism practices. By visiting this reserve, not only do you get the chance to discover the untamed beauty of Africa, but you also actively contribute to the preservation of its fragile ecosystems.

Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey as we delve into the wonders of Phinda Private Game Reserve. From the breathtaking landscapes to the thrilling wildlife encounters, and the unforgettable safari experiences to the cultural immersion, this is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on your soul.

Getting to Phinda Private Game Reserve

Located in the northeastern part of South Africa, Phinda Private Game Reserve is easily accessible from major cities such as Durban and Johannesburg. The most common way to reach the reserve is by flying into either King Shaka International Airport in Durban or O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

From Durban, it’s approximately a 3-hour scenic drive to Phinda Private Game Reserve. The route takes you through picturesque landscapes, including the stunning Drakensberg Mountains. Alternatively, you can arrange a charter flight directly to the reserve’s airstrip, offering a convenient and time-efficient way to reach your destination.

If you’re flying from Johannesburg, you can opt to take a domestic flight to King Shaka International Airport in Durban and then follow the route mentioned above. Alternatively, you can take a charter flight directly to Phinda’s airstrip, reducing travel time and maximizing your safari experience.

Once you arrive at Phinda Private Game Reserve, you will be greeted by the warm and hospitable staff who will assist you with your check-in. From there, you will be transported to your chosen accommodation via a 4×4 safari vehicle, providing you with your first taste of the wild beauty that awaits.

It’s important to note that Phinda Private Game Reserve is a private, fenced reserve, ensuring the safety and conservation of its wildlife. This allows for a more controlled and intimate safari experience, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Whether you choose to drive or fly, the journey to Phinda Private Game Reserve is an adventure in itself, offering glimpses of South Africa’s natural splendor along the way.

Accommodation Options

Phinda Private Game Reserve offers a luxurious selection of accommodation options, ensuring a comfortable and immersive safari experience for every type of traveler. From elegant lodges to intimate bush camps, there is something to suit every preference.

1. Phinda Forest Lodge: Nestled in the heart of a rare sand forest, this award-winning lodge epitomizes luxury and serenity. With its glass walls, outdoor showers, and private plunge pools, guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding wilderness. The Forest Lodge offers 16 suites, each designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings.

2. Phinda Mountain Lodge: Perched on the slopes of a mountain, this lodge provides panoramic views of the reserve below. The spacious suites boast their own private verandas and plunge pools, providing the perfect spot to unwind after an exhilarating day of game drives. With 24 suites available, the Mountain Lodge offers an intimate and tranquil retreat.

3. Phinda Rock Lodge: Situated on a rocky cliff face, this lodge offers spectacular views of the sprawling plains. The six individual suites are suspended over the valley, blending modern comforts with natural elements. Guests can enjoy the infinity pool, outdoor showers, and outdoor dining under the stars.

4. Phinda Vlei Lodge: Set on the edge of the rare sand forest and overlooking a grassy vlei (wetland), this lodge provides a unique and picturesque setting. The six thatched suites offer utter privacy and feature outdoor showers, private plunge pools, and expansive decks.

5. Phinda Zuka Lodge: Ideal for families or small groups, this lodge offers exclusive use of the entire property. With only four thatched cottages, guests can enjoy a personalized and secluded experience. Each cottage features a private plunge pool and offers the services of a dedicated ranger and tracker.

Regardless of which accommodation option you choose, you can expect world-class hospitality, luxurious amenities, and a close connection with the pristine African wilderness. Each lodge is designed to provide a harmonious blend of comfort and immersion, ensuring an extraordinary safari experience you will cherish forever.

Wildlife Encounters

Phinda Private Game Reserve is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, offering a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos – as well as a plethora of other captivating species.

Embark on thrilling game drives led by experienced rangers, who have an innate knowledge of the reserve and its inhabitants. Set out in open 4×4 safari vehicles in search of Africa’s iconic wildlife, as your knowledgeable guide provides insightful information about the animals and their behaviors.

Keep your camera ready as you come face-to-face with majestic lions, observe herds of gentle elephants interacting in their natural habitat, witness the stealth and grace of leopards, and marvel at the sheer size and power of African buffalos. Phinda Private Game Reserve is also home to the rare and endangered black rhino, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to their conservation.

The reserve is not only home to land-based wildlife but also hosts a diverse assortment of bird species. Birdwatchers will be captivated by the vibrant plumage and melodious calls of numerous avian species, making it a haven for birding enthusiasts.

In addition to the “Big Five,” Phinda Private Game Reserve offers the chance to encounter cheetahs, hippos, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and an array of antelopes, among other fascinating creatures. The reserve’s varied ecosystems, from lush wetlands to dense forests and open savannahs, support an astonishing variety of life.

Through responsible eco-tourism practices, Phinda Private Game Reserve has successfully restored and conserved natural habitats, allowing its wildlife to thrive. This dedication to conservation ensures that visitors can encounter these magnificent animals in their natural environment while contributing to their continued protection.

Prepare to be awe-struck as you immerse yourself in the diverse and captivating wildlife encounters that Phinda Private Game Reserve has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, the beauty and biodiversity of this reserve will leave a lasting impression on your heart.

Safari Activities

Phinda Private Game Reserve offers a range of exciting safari activities, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable experience for all guests. From exhilarating game drives to walking safaris and unique conservation experiences, there is something to cater to every adventurer’s tastes.

1. Game Drives: Set out in open 4×4 safari vehicles on a guided game drive led by experienced rangers. Explore the vast landscapes of Phinda Private Game Reserve, searching for Africa’s iconic wildlife. Whether it’s an early morning sunrise drive or a thrilling evening safari, each outing offers the chance to witness incredible animal encounters and breathtaking scenery.

2. Walking Safaris: For a more intimate and up-close experience with nature, join a guided walking safari. Accompanied by knowledgeable rangers, you’ll have the opportunity to track wildlife on foot, learning about their behaviors and the smaller intricacies of the African bush. Feel the thrill of being immersed in the wild and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world around you.

3. Bush Tracking: Join experienced trackers as they lead you on an exciting bush tracking adventure. Learn how to identify animal tracks, follow trails, and understand the signs left behind in the wilderness. This activity offers a unique perspective on the intricate balance of nature and allows you to connect with the environment in a profound way.

4. Photographic Safaris: Phinda Private Game Reserve is a photographer’s paradise, providing endless opportunities to capture stunning wildlife images. Join specialized photographic safaris, where expert guides will help you hone your photography skills and capture the perfect shots of Africa’s majestic animals and awe-inspiring landscapes.

5. Conservation Experiences: Phinda Private Game Reserve’s commitment to conservation extends beyond wildlife protection. Guests can participate in various conservation initiatives, such as rhino notching or pangolin conservation. These unique experiences allow you to actively contribute to wildlife conservation efforts and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by these vulnerable species.

6. Bush Dinners and Sundowners: Indulge in a unique dining experience under the African stars. Enjoy a bush dinner amidst the sounds of the wilderness or savor sundowner drinks and snacks while witnessing a stunning sunset. These moments create lasting memories and add to the overall magic of the safari experience.

With a diverse range of safari activities on offer, Phinda Private Game Reserve guarantees an adventure-filled getaway that will captivate your senses and leave you with a profound appreciation for the natural world.

Conservation Efforts

Phinda Private Game Reserve is not only a wildlife sanctuary but also a pioneer in conservation efforts. The reserve is dedicated to preserving the delicate ecosystems and protecting the diverse array of plant and animal species that call it home.

1. Rhino Conservation: Phinda Private Game Reserve is actively involved in rhino conservation, particularly in the fight against rhino poaching. Through partnerships with local authorities and conservation organizations, the reserve implements anti-poaching measures, including ranger training, surveillance technology, and community engagement to ensure the safety of these majestic creatures.

2. Community Empowerment: Phinda Private Game Reserve understands the importance of community involvement in conservation. They work closely with local communities, providing education and employment opportunities, as well as support for sustainable livelihood initiatives. By empowering the local population, the reserve fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for the natural resources in the area.

3. Rehabilitation and Conservation Research: The reserve actively participates in the rehabilitation of injured or orphaned animals, working in collaboration with wildlife rehabilitation centers. They also support vital conservation research programs, contributing to the understanding of key ecological processes and helping to shape effective conservation strategies.

4. Sustainable Practices: Phinda Private Game Reserve is committed to sustainable practices that minimize their impact on the environment. They prioritize clean energy sources, waste management, and water conservation. The reserve also works towards reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly tourism practices.

5. Education and Awareness: Phinda Private Game Reserve places great importance on education and raising awareness about conservation. They offer educational programs to visitors, providing insights into the challenges faced by wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts. By fostering a love and understanding of the natural world, the reserve aims to inspire individuals to become stewards of the environment.

Through their dedicated conservation efforts, Phinda Private Game Reserve serves as a model for sustainable ecotourism and the preservation of Africa’s incredible biodiversity. By visiting the reserve, guests actively contribute to these conservation initiatives, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

Dining and Cuisine

Phinda Private Game Reserve not only offers unforgettable wildlife encounters but also indulges guests with exceptional culinary experiences. From gourmet meals to traditional South African fare, dining at the reserve is a feast for the senses.

1. World-Class Cuisine: The lodges at Phinda Private Game Reserve pride themselves on offering exquisite cuisine prepared by talented chefs. With a focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, meals are a fusion of international flavors and traditional South African influences. Expect a delectable array of dishes that showcase the diversity and richness of the region.

2. Bush Breakfasts and Sundowners: Enhance your safari experience with a bush breakfast amidst the stunning wilderness. Enjoy a delicious spread of fruits, pastries, and cooked-to-order specialties while surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Similarly, savor sundowner drinks and canapés as you witness a breathtaking sunset, creating unforgettable memories.

3. Boma Dinners: Experience the magic of a traditional African boma dinner. Immerse yourself in the warmth of a roaring fire under the starlit sky as you dine on mouthwatering dishes infused with authentic flavors. Engage in lively conversations and storytelling while traditional drumming and singing set the ambiance.

4. Cultural Experiences: Delve deeper into South Africa’s rich cultural heritage through interactive dining experiences. Engage in traditional braais (barbecues), where succulent meats are grilled to perfection. Learn about indigenous cooking techniques and sample local specialties, immersing yourself in the vibrant flavors of the country.

5. Private Dining: For those seeking a more intimate dining experience, Phinda Private Game Reserve offers private dining options. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two under a canopy of stars or a special celebration with friends and family, the reserve can curate a personalized dining experience that caters to your preferences.

At Phinda Private Game Reserve, dining is not only a culinary experience but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of South African culture. The combination of exceptional cuisine, breathtaking settings, and warm hospitality ensures that every meal is a celebration of both flavors and memories.

Cultural Experiences

Phinda Private Game Reserve not only offers thrilling wildlife encounters but also provides opportunities for cultural immersion and meaningful interactions with the local communities. These immersive experiences allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of South Africa.

1. Community Visits: Explore nearby villages and engage with the local communities to learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life. Interact with the residents, visit schools or community projects, and gain insights into their daily routines and challenges. This experience fosters a deeper appreciation for the local culture and promotes cross-cultural exchange.

2. Traditional Performances: Experience the vibrant cultural traditions of South Africa through live performances of traditional music, dance, and storytelling. Local artists showcase their talent, captivating audiences with their rhythmic drumming, energetic dancing, and mesmerizing vocal performances. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region and gain a newfound appreciation for its artistic expressions.

3. Craft Workshops: Engage in hands-on experiences that highlight the craftsmanship and artistic skills of the local communities. Participate in traditional craft workshops, where you can learn how to create traditional beadwork, pottery, weaving, or woodcarving. These activities provide insight into the meticulous techniques and cultural significance behind these art forms.

4. Cooking Demonstrations: Indulge in a culinary journey through South African cuisine by participating in cooking demonstrations and classes. Learn to prepare traditional dishes under the guidance of expert chefs, discovering the unique flavors and ingredients that define the local gastronomy. From mastering the art of braai (barbecue) to creating flavorful stews and breads, these experiences offer a tantalizing window into the country’s culinary heritage.

5. Nature Walks and Cultural Interpretation: Explore the natural surroundings with experienced guides who provide insights into the traditional uses of plants for medicinal and cultural purposes. Learn about the deep-rooted connections between indigenous cultures and the land they inhabit, gaining a holistic understanding of the intricate relationships between humans and nature.

These cultural experiences not only enrich your safari adventure but also contribute to local empowerment and sustainable tourism practices. By engaging with the local communities, you have the opportunity to support their livelihoods and celebrate the diversity of South African culture.

Tips for an Unforgettable Safari Experience

A safari in Phinda Private Game Reserve promises an adventure of a lifetime. To ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Bring the right clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors to blend in with the surroundings. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent to protect yourself from the elements.
• Have a good pair of binoculars: Binoculars are essential for spotting wildlife, especially those in the distance or hiding in the bush. Opt for high-quality binoculars to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
• Listen to your guide: The rangers and guides at Phinda Private Game Reserve are experienced and knowledgeable. Listen to their instructions and follow their advice to ensure your safety and to maximize your wildlife sightings.
• Pack a camera with extra batteries: Capture the incredible moments you witness on safari. Make sure to pack a camera with extra batteries and memory cards to ensure you don’t miss any photo opportunities.
• Be patient and observant: Wildlife sightings take time and sometimes require patience. Keep your eyes and ears open, and enjoy the peacefulness of the reserve while waiting for those unforgettable moments to unfold.
• Respect the wildlife: Keep a safe distance from the animals and remember that you are a guest in their natural habitat. Follow the guidelines of the rangers, avoid loud noises, and refrain from disturbing or feeding the animals.
• Disconnect from technology: Embrace the opportunity to disconnect from the distractions of everyday life. Enjoy the serenity of the reserve and focus on the beauty of your surroundings rather than being glued to your phone or other electronic devices.
• Immerse yourself in nature: Take the time to soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of the African bush. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset, listen to the calls of the birds, and marvel at the starry night sky. Let the natural world captivate your senses.
• Engage with the local culture: Take advantage of the cultural experiences offered at Phinda Private Game Reserve. Interact with the local communities, learn about their traditions, and embrace the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of South African culture.
• Embrace the unexpected: Remember that nature is unpredictable, and not every safari drive will result in close encounters with all the “Big Five.” Embrace the beauty of the entire ecosystem and appreciate the unique moments and encounters that come your way.

By keeping these tips in mind and approaching your safari experience with an open mind and adventurous spirit, you are sure to have an unforgettable and transformative journey through the incredible wilderness of Phinda Private Game Reserve.

Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa is a destination that goes beyond a typical safari experience. It offers an extraordinary blend of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife encounters, luxurious accommodations, cultural immersion, and sustainable conservation efforts.

From the moment you arrive, you will be captivated by the untamed beauty of the reserve. The intimate lodges nestled in the wilderness provide a sanctuary of comfort and luxury. Each day brings new and exciting opportunities to witness Africa’s iconic “Big Five” and countless other remarkable species.

But Phinda Private Game Reserve is more than just a place to spot wildlife. It is a place where conservation is at the forefront, ensuring the protection of fragile ecosystems and the well-being of the animals that call it home. By visiting the reserve, you actively contribute to these conservation efforts, making your safari experience all the more meaningful.

Beyond the fauna, Phinda Private Game Reserve offers a genuine connection with local communities. Through cultural experiences, you can gain a deeper understanding of the people, traditions, and rich heritage of South Africa. It’s an opportunity to engage with the country’s vibrant culture and leave with a greater appreciation for its diversity.

As you venture through the reserve, guided by experienced rangers and immersed in the wonders of nature, you’ll create everlasting memories and forge a deeper connection with the natural world. From game drives to bush walks, every experience will awaken your senses and ignite a sense of awe and wonder.

Phinda Private Game Reserve is a destination that combines luxury, adventure, conservation, and cultural immersion into an unforgettable journey through the heart of South Africa. Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo exploration, this incredible reserve promises an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

So, pack your bags, leave the city behind, and embark on an unforgettable safari experience at Phinda Private Game Reserve. Let the wild beauty of Africa envelop you as you create memories that will last a lifetime.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• From £  670 per person, per night

NEED HELP? REQUEST AGENT 

Phinda Game Reserve Rock Lodge Mountain Lodge Vlei Lodge Forest Lodge Homestead

Request Agent

Need assistance? Our team is here to help you plan

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Ideal for families, Phinda Mountain Lodge is set on a hilltop with wraparound views of the 28,555-hectare Phinda Private Game Reserve located in KwaZulu Natal . Home to seven eco-systems, the African Big 5, a fascinating variety of wildlife and 436 bird species, a safari of a lifetime awaits. Known for close-up sightings of cheetah and rhino, estuaries and lakes where hippo and crocodile reside and a remarkable WILDChild kids safari program, Phinda Mountain Lodge provides a magnificent wildlife experience for the entire family. Nearby beaches are the breeding ground for Leatherback Turtles and offer guests the opportunity to embark on an ocean safari, snorkelling or scuba diving adventure. With limited vehicle access preventing overcrowding and careful off-roading practices, guests are guaranteed remarkable close-up wildlife encounters. Phinda Mountain Lodge offers guests a variety of other activities including cultural tours, conservation projects, an infrared Night Eye Experience, and turtle hatching expedition in season.

Phinda Mountain Lodge caters to a maximum of 50 guests with communal areas including a massage sala, state-of-the-art gym, interactive kitchen with pizza oven, bar and enchanting boma which is lit with shimmering lanterns for cozy dinners under the African skies. Each suite features expansive glass windows and private decks allowing for breath-taking views of wild landscapes surrounding the lodge. To top it all off, enjoy the luxury of your private plunge pool, perfect for cooling down after game drives, without foregoing any glorious bushveld views for even a moment.

In addition to Phinda Mountain Lodge, Phinda Private Game Reserve is home to a family of 5-star lodges, Rock Lodge , Forrest Lodge , Vlei Lodge and Phinda Homestead . All of the lodges offer a unique high standard safari experience in ultimate luxury.

View Gallery

• Game drives
• Walking and Tracking Safaris
• Sleepout under the stars
• Infrared Night Eye drive
• Zulu village tours
• Africa Foundation community visits
• Night turtle drives (seasonal)
• Scuba safaris
• Ocean safaris
• Specialist Safaris
• Swimming pool
• WILD Child Activities
• SPA treatments & gym
• Exceptional Big 5 game drives
• Beach & Bush safari activities
• Close-up wildlife encounters
• Exclusive family accommodation

Closest airport

• King Shaka International Airport (Durban)
• Richards Bay Airport
• Phinda Airstrip

Children policy

Children of all ages welcome. Children under 6 years are not allowed on game drives More Details and children under 16 years are not permitted on walking safaris. Children between 6 and 11 years are allowed on game drives at the discretion of the lodge manager. If paying for a Private Vehicle, children of any age may go on game drive, with access to sightings being at the discretion of the guide, based on the behaviour of both child and animals.

• 0 - 5 years, sharing with 1 or 2 adults stay complimentary
• 6 - 16 years, sharing with 1 or 2 adults, 50% of full adult rate
• 6 – 16 years in own room - 1st child: adult rate 2nd & 3rd child: 50% of adult rate

2 x Game drives per day, guided bushwalks, all meals, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages, and transfers from the lodge airstrip.

Premium brand drinks, cellar wines, reserve conservations & gate fee, additional activities, spa treatments, private-use vehicles, mini-bar and transfers.

Terms & conditions

• Rates displayed are valid to 10 January 2024
• Rates are per person sharing, per night
• Single supplement of 50% applicable 1 May – 31 Oct and 21 Dec – 10 Jan ’21
• A single supplement will be charged when an adult is sharing with an infant.
• Single supplement of 50% applicable only from the third single room per booking  11 Jan – 30 Apr and 1 Nov – 20 Dec

Accommodation Options

Sleeps 2 Adults

Luxurious thatch suites at Phinda Mountain Lodge are a blend of organic materials and contemporary finishes. Each unit boasts a private timber deck and plunge pool with remarkable views over the bushveld. Surrounded by indigenous woodland, Read more suites feature large glass doors and windows and are stylishly fitted with indoor and outdoor showers as well as a bathtub. Further comforts include a well-stocked mini-bar, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, and Wi-Fi. Less

Refer to T&C's above

Price £  662 per person, per night

An opulent combination of rustic materials and modern design make for a luxurious stay in the Mountain Lodge cottages. Private timber decks with plunge pools and lazy chairs make for relaxing afternoons overlooking bush views from your secluded haven. Read more Each unit features indoor and alfresco showers, a bathtub, mini-bar, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and a ceiling fan. Less

Price £  606 per person, per night

Family Cottage

Sleeps 2 Adults, 3 children

With plenty of space to relax, the thatch family cottages host a maximum of 2 adults and 3 children and includes game drives with a ranger in a private safari vehicle. Surrounded by indigenous vegetation, suites feature large glass doors and windows Read more and are elegantly fitted with a bathtub, indoor-, and outdoor showers. Further comforts include a well-stocked mini-bar, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, and Wi-Fi. Less

Price £  2,217 per cottage, per night

Family Suite

Sleeps 8 guests

The family suite hosts a maximum of 8 guests and includes game drives with a ranger in a private safari vehicle. The lodge caters to an extraordinary range of activities for kids, making it a super choice for families. Read more The family suite is a beautiful thatch unit decorated in warm organic tones. Air-conditioning, indoor and outdoor showers, a bathtub, mini-bar, and stylish lounge area make for a gloriously spacious stay with beautiful views from the private deck. Less

Price £  2,648 per suite, per night

Best-price guarantee

Enquire at Phinda Mountain Lodge

The reserve is a 3.5-hour drive from Durban, 2-hour drive from Richards Bay, or a 7-hour drive from Johannesburg with all routes along the N2 highway. The entrance to the reserve is 22km from the highway.

Fly from all major centres in South Africa to Durban’s international airport. Flights on selected airlines are available to Richards Bay. Private charters from any location in South Africa can be arranged to the Phinda airstrip.

Flight Duration

• Cape Town to Durban: 2 hours
• Johannesburg to Durban: 70 minutes

Related Game Reserves

Thanda Tented Camp

Manyoni Leopard Mountain Lodge

Nambiti Plains

Phinda Forest Lodge

Africa Chevron

Zimbabwe Chevron

How African Bush Camps is Taking Safari Guiding to a Whole New Level

By Jesse Ashlock

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

On a wet January morning at Somalisa Camp , in Zimbabwe 's Hwange National Park, a tall, rangy paramedic named Elvis Tavengwa is instructing about three dozen bush guides on the finer points of first aid. “Come on,” he shouts at them, so animated he's almost hovering above the floor. “Your guest is in cardiac arrest. What are you going to do?” The guides, dressed in every imaginable shade of khaki and olive, look at one another, uncertain. “He's dying!” Elvis screams. “Chest compressions! I need chest compressions!” Several guides lurch forward to demonstrate on a dummy.

African Bush Camps founder Beks Ndlovu

Each January during the rainy season, African Bush Camps (ABC) , perhaps the continent's premier Black-owned safari company, closes all of its lodges in Zimbabwe, Zambia , and Botswana , and convenes its guides for a two-week retraining program, the most rigorous in the business. In addition to first aid, this gathering of the Zimbabwe guides will include refresher courses in shooting, tracking, stargazing, photography, and more. During my visit, in addition to Elvis's frantic pedagogy, I witness a workshop on the ABC values (authenticity, empowerment, conservation, collaboration, and care), a candid discussion among leadership about how to encourage more junior “learner” guides to take the steps to earn pro certification, and a team-building exercise during which the guides are given 20 pieces of spaghetti, 10 Band-Aids, a piece of string, and a marshmallow and charged with building a free-standing structure in under 20 minutes.

It's really not so different from a Western corporate retreat. Only instead of taking place in a suburban convention center, it's held in a delightfully classic, very remote tented camp in an acacia grove overlooking a water hole with a resident hippo. And as Elvis demonstrates the proper application of a tourniquet, things are happening out there. A waterbuck bounds by, the white circle on its rump bouncing up and down like a toilet seat that got stuck. Beks Ndlovu, the 47-year-old entrepreneur and former guide who founded ABC 18 years ago, summons me over to point out two lionesses prowling the ridgeline above an ancient dry riverbank.

Lazy lionesses block the vehicle of guide Mariet Mashonganyika

Suddenly, a pack of wild dogs flashes by in hot pursuit of an impala. “You never know what's going to happen,” Beks says as we run off to commandeer a Land Cruiser. We can't find the dogs, only kudu and yellow-billed hornbills. But we do bump into Calvet Nkomo, a veteran guide who has worked at Somalisa since 2013 and is said to know more than anyone about the life histories of the lions in the area. He informs us that the lionesses have made their way into the neighboring Acacia Camp . We exit the Land Cruiser and approach them by foot, watching from behind a fallen log as they loll about, take a few steps, then collapse to the ground again, too stuffed from a recent meal to move. It sure beats a morning coffee break in a drab lobby amid acres of wall-to-wall carpeting.

Beks, a native Zimbabwean, has known this swath of Hwange National Park for more than two decades, since he was guiding for the nearby Makolo Camp and used to sneak guests into the area. After two years of lobbying the Zimbabwean government, he secured the tender and opened Somalisa in 2006 with an emphasis on premium guiding. A few nights earlier, I'd heard Beks tell its origin story to a group of guests at Khwai Lediba, one of ABC's newest camps, on the edge of the Okavango Delta . “You know that thing they say?” he asked. “‘If you build it, they will come’? It isn't true.” But the success of his second camp, Linyanti , in Botswana, helped subsidize Somalisa, and today it is the flagship property of a company that employs around 650 people, including the 60 guides Beks refers to as the company's “superpower.” “We can have the best hideaway, the best design, the shiniest copper bars,” he tells them one morning. “But without you guys and your storytelling, we have nothing.”

Maddalena Fossati

Noo Saro-Wiwa

Watchful leopards at Somalisa

Many of the guides tell me that these training programs, along with the ability to rotate among the ABC properties and learn new skills, are what brought them to ABC. “You work at various camps and you always hear about a certain company,” says Michael Tsoka, who came to Somalisa two years ago. “This was always where I wanted to work.” Paul Hobbs, an archaeologist who'd come to give a talk on the colorful history of Hwange National Park, says that ABC increasingly serves as an incubator for guides who go on to work for other outfitters. “Very few companies in this country understand how important retraining is,” he says, “and ABC has set the bar very high.”

In 2021, the company adopted a new mandate to cultivate women guides, in an industry that has long been resistant to them, through its foundation's new ABCF Female Guides program. Its goal is for a minimum of 25 percent of its guides to be women by 2030. During a subsequent stop on my trip at Thorntree River Lodge , near Victoria Falls in Zambia, I would meet one of ABCF's first students, Zita Hwambe. Many African men “believe that a woman's role is in the kitchen,” she says. “But they're warming up to us, because they know we're here to stay.”

A guide consults a birding handbook

Before I head to Thorntree, however, I go on a last sundowner with the Zimbabwe guides at Somalisa. From a hide, I watch, G&T in hand, as a pair of hyenas scamper past a water hole. It's probably the best happy hour I've ever been to. On our way back to camp, I tell Calvet about seeing the lionesses. He says that they were born to one of the daughters of Cecil, the famous lion who was shot by a trophy hunter just outside of Hwange in 2015, prompting an international outcry. After I process that, I remark on how lucky I felt to be there, with people who know so much about this beautiful land and its difficult history.

“Yes, you are,” he says, with the most serious expression he can muster. Then his face lights up in an enormous smile. “Yes, you are.”

African Bush Camps

Established: 2003

Areas of operation: Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Goals: No plastics on site by 2025; no plastics in the supply chain by 2030; 25% women guides by 2030

Next opening: Atzaró Okavango, Botswana

This article appeared in the April 2024 issue of  Condé Nast Traveler.  Subscribe to the magazine   here .

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Red Square & Moscow City Tour

• Page active

Description

Highlights:.

• Experience medieval Kitay Gorod (China town).
• Wander picturesque Red Square and Alexander Garden.
• Explore grand Christ the Savior Cathedral on our Red Square tour.
• Breathtaking panoramic views from Patriarch bridge.
• Enjoy a hearty lunch on the large open verandah and marvel at the stunning views of the Kremlin.
• Learn about Russian culture from the local through relaxed cultural discussions.

Tour Itinerary:

Red square:.

Russia and Moscow are synonymous with Red Square and the Kremlin and that's hardly surprising as you'll find these places absolutely stunning!

• - Walk-through the Resurrection Gate and don’t forget to flip a coin so you’ll be sure to come back one day!
• - Visit the world's famous Kazan Cathedral .
• - See the State Department Store (GUM), once the Upper Trading Stalls, which were built over a century ago and still operating!
• - Admire the lovely St. Basil's Cathedral! The French diplomat Marquis de Custine commented that it combined "the scales of a golden fish, the enamelled skin of a serpent, the changeful hues of the lizard, the glossy rose and azure of the pigeon's neck" and wondered at "the men who go to worship God in this box of confectionery work".
• - Walk by Lobnoye Mesto (literally meaning "Execution Place", or "Place of Skulls"), once Ivan the Terrible's stage for religious ceremonies, speeches, and important events.
• - Entering the Alexander Garden , you’ll take in spectacular views of Russian architecture from ancient to Soviet times, as well as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with an eternal flame. Watch Changing of the Guard Ceremony every hour in summer and every half an hour in winter.

Kitai-gorod:

Stroll along medieval Kitai-gorod with its strong ancient Russia feel, known for its bohemian lifestyle, markets and arts.

• - Nikolskaya Street. Here you will find the Russia's first publishing house, the second oldest monastery, and Ferryn Pharmacy, known as the number one pharmacy back in Soviet times and famous for its Empire-style architecture.
• - Ilinka Street. The financial street of the Kitaigorod (China Town) district, where you’ll find the Gostiny Dvor (Merchant’s Yard), which is now a showroom for Ferraris and Maseratis. The street was designed in the 1790s by Catherine the Great.
• - Varvarka street. The oldest street in Moscow, which dates back to the 14th century, and still has remnants of early Muscovite architecture, such as the Old English Court and the Palace of the Romanov’s.
• - Kamergersky Lane. Only a small road of about 250 meters, it is home to some of the oldest artifacts of the city, as each building holds a fascinating story. Some of Russia's most famous writers, poets, and composers from as far back as the Golden Age of Russian culture, have lived or worked on this lane.

Historic City Center

Walk the historical old center of Moscow with its cool local vibe, including the main Tverskaya street , and indulge in desserts in the first grocery “Eliseev's store” , housed in an 18th century neoclassical building, famous for its baroque interior and decoration.

From our tour. Impressions of our American tourist:

At 3:30, as energy flagged, lunch was on the agenda at a Ukrainian restaurant.  Just in time!  We asked our guide to order for us.  We all had the same thing....borscht (the Ukrainian version has beans and more tomatoes than the Russian version, which has more beets and includes beef). 

The special high bread served is called galushki.  Our main course was golubtsy...a dish of minced meat rolled in braised cabbage leaves.  Both dishes called for optional sour cream as a topping....of course, yes, please....I recommend it. 

Full, satisfied, and completely refreshed, it was off to Red Square and St. Basil's and GUM department store.  Red Square is not so named because of the color of the brick walls of the Kremlin.  Rather the word for 'red' and the word for 'beautiful' are similar in pronunciation....and, there you have it. 

As we made the turn by the National Museum in front of which is the mounted sculpture of the "Marshall of Victory," Giorgy Zhukov from WWII and caught our first view of St. Basil's, my friend and I simultaneously emitted "Oooohhhhh!"  There it was....the iconic onion domes of St. Basil's!  Hooray....it was open until 7....we had about 30 minutes and were allowed in, AND we could take photos with no flash. 

Now, I can give you a taste of what we saw in the other cathedrals in Cathedral Square.  What we learned is that St. Vasily and St. Basil are one in the same....Russian/English.  He was a common man who wandered Moscow unclothed and barefoot.  But, all, even Ivan the Terrible, heeded his opinions derived from his visions.  Ivan had this cathedral built over his tomb. 

As we exited and took photos up close of the onion domes, Inna presented us with chocolate (how did she know we were ready for another energy boost, and we each got a big piece of chocolate.  The baby's name pictured on the wrapper of this famous Russian chocolate is Alyonka....the Russian Gerber baby, don't you think? 

One could wear out the credit card in GUM's (capitalized because it is actually a government abbreviation), but the 'kitty' and my credit card stayed in my pocket as we strolled through the glass-topped arcade. 

We then strolled through some of Moscow's lovely pedestrian streets; paused to listen as a wonderful quartet performed Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" in an underground passage to cross the busy street (hooray!....we DID have our 'classical concert' experience after all; a request Alina tried in vain to fill because none was scheduled those days), saw the Bolshoi, which means 'big' (my friend has yet to recover that their performance schedule did not coincide with our cruise), saw the Central Telegraph Building, dating from the 1930's, and made our way to the Ritz-Carlton to see the night view of Moscow from the rooftop bar, called O2. 

There were fleece blankets to wrap yourself in....yes, it got that cold when the sun set.  We each ordered something hot to drink...the ginger, mint, lemon tea served to me in a parfait glass (for 600 rubles...about $9....you pay for the view here!) was delightful and hit the spot perfectly.  It was time to call it a night....

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting city tour, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time.

*This Moscow city tour can be modified to meet your requirements.

Write your review

US tourist, 80, killed in attack by ‘aggressive’ bull elephant while on safari in Zambia

A n 80-year-old American woman was killed during a wildlife safari in Zambia after an “aggressive” bull elephant “unexpectedly” charged at the vehicle, the tour operators said.

The incident happened at around 9.30am local time on 30 March at the Kafue National Park in Zambia and the shocking video of the moment was captured and posted on social media.

The video showed the adult male elephant chasing the car which came to a halt as the animal closed in. The elephant then knocked the vehicle over as the guide screamed, “Hey, hey, hey!”

The woman has been identified as Gail Mattson by her family, according to ABC News . Safari operators, Wilderness Destinations, said the elephant “ unexpectedly charged” at the vehicle that was on an excursion with six guests and a guide.

“An aggressive bull elephant charged the vehicle carrying six guests and a guide who were on a game drive from Lufupa Camp,” the company said in a statement to ABC News.

“Our guides are all extremely well trained and experienced, but sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” Wilderness CEO Keith Vincent said.

The group, which was staying at the Lufupa Camp inside the largest game reserve in Africa, had gone out for a photography tour at the time of the attack, the Telegraph reported.

The park dispatched a helicopter to the scene. The woman was airlifted and transferred to a hospital in South Africa after suffering unspecified injuries. She was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Four other people received treatment for minor injuries.

An investigation has been launched into the incident by local police and Zambia’s Department of National Parks.

The local authorities and the US embassy in Lusaka are collaborating to repatriate the woman’s body to her family. African elephants are among the largest land mammals on Earth.

The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking news brand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. We have grown a huge, global readership of independently minded individuals, who value our trusted voice and commitment to positive change. Our mission, making change happen, has never been as important as it is today.

The Comprehensive Guide to Moscow Nightlife

• Posted on April 14, 2018 July 26, 2018
• by Kings of Russia
• 8 minute read

Moscow’s nightlife scene is thriving, and arguably one of the best the world has to offer – top-notch Russian women, coupled with a never-ending list of venues, Moscow has a little bit of something for everyone’s taste. Moscow nightlife is not for the faint of heart – and if you’re coming, you better be ready to go Friday and Saturday night into the early morning.

This comprehensive guide to Moscow nightlife will run you through the nuts and bolts of all you need to know about Moscow’s nightclubs and give you a solid blueprint to operate with during your time in Moscow.

What you need to know before hitting Moscow nightclubs

Prices in moscow nightlife.

Before you head out and start gaming all the sexy Moscow girls , we have to talk money first. Bring plenty because in Moscow you can never bring a big enough bankroll. Remember, you’re the man so making a fuzz of not paying a drink here or there will not go down well.

Luckily most Moscow clubs don’t do cover fees. Some electro clubs will charge 15-20$, depending on their lineup. There’s the odd club with a minimum spend of 20-30$, which you’ll drop on drinks easily. By and large, you can scope out the venues for free, which is a big plus.

Bottle service is a great deal in Moscow. At top-tier clubs, it starts at 1,000$. That’ll go a long way with premium vodka at 250$, especially if you have three or four guys chipping in. Not to mention that it’s a massive status boost for getting girls, especially at high-end clubs.

Without bottle service, you should estimate a budget of 100-150$ per night. That is if you drink a lot and hit the top clubs with the hottest girls. Scale down for less alcohol and more basic places.

Dress code & Face control

Door policy in Moscow is called “face control” and it’s always the guy behind the two gorillas that gives the green light if you’re in or out.

In Moscow nightlife there’s only one rule when it comes to dress codes:

You can never be underdressed.

People dress A LOT sharper than, say, in the US and that goes for both sexes. For high-end clubs, you definitely want to roll with a sharp blazer and a pocket square, not to mention dress shoes in tip-top condition. Those are the minimum requirements to level the playing field vis a vis with other sharply dressed guys that have a lot more money than you do. Unless you plan to hit explicit electro or underground clubs, which have their own dress code, you are always on the money with that style.

Getting in a Moscow club isn’t as hard as it seems: dress sharp, speak English at the door and look like you’re in the mood to spend all that money that you supposedly have (even if you don’t). That will open almost any door in Moscow’s nightlife for you.

Types of Moscow Nightclubs

In Moscow there are four types of clubs with the accompanying female clientele:

High-end clubs:

These are often crossovers between restaurants and clubs with lots of tables and very little space to dance. Heavy accent on bottle service most of the time but you can work the room from the bar as well. The hottest and most expensive girls in Moscow go there. Bring deep pockets and lots of self-confidence and you have a shot at swooping them.

Regular Mid-level clubs:

They probably resemble more what you’re used to in a nightclub: big dancefloors, stages and more space to roam around. Bottle service will make you stand out more but you can also do well without. You can find all types of girls but most will be in the 6-8 range. Your targets should always be the girls drinking and ideally in pairs. It’s impossible not to swoop if your game is at least half-decent.

Basic clubs/dive bars:

Usually spots with very cheap booze and lax face control. If you’re dressed too sharp and speak no Russian, you might attract the wrong type of attention so be vigilant. If you know the local scene you can swoop 6s and 7s almost at will. Usually students and girls from the suburbs.

Electro/underground clubs:

Home of the hipsters and creatives. Parties there don’t mean meeting girls and getting drunk but doing pills and spacing out to the music. Lots of attractive hipster girls if that is your niche. That is its own scene with a different dress code as well.

What time to go out in Moscow

Moscow nightlife starts late. Don’t show up at bars and preparty spots before 11pm because you’ll feel fairly alone. Peak time is between 1am and 3am. That is also the time of Moscow nightlife’s biggest nuisance: concerts by artists you won’t know and who only distract your girls from drinking and being gamed. From 4am to 6am the regular clubs are emptying out but plenty of people, women included, still hit up one of the many afterparty clubs. Those last till well past 10am.

As far as days go: Fridays and Saturdays are peak days. Thursday is an OK day, all other days are fairly weak and you have to know the right venues.

The Ultimate Moscow Nightclub List

Short disclaimer: I didn’t add basic and electro clubs since you’re coming for the girls, not for the music. This list will give you more options than you’ll be able to handle on a weekend.

Preparty – start here at 11PM

Classic restaurant club with lots of tables and a smallish bar and dancefloor. Come here between 11pm and 12am when the concert is over and they start with the actual party. Even early in the night tons of sexy women here, who lean slightly older (25 and up).

The second floor of the Ugolek restaurant is an extra bar with dim lights and house music tunes. Very small and cozy with a slight hipster vibe but generally draws plenty of attractive women too. A bit slower vibe than Valenok.

Very cool, spread-out venue that has a modern library theme. Not always full with people but when it is, it’s brimming with top-tier women. Slow vibe here and better for grabbing contacts and moving on.

High-end: err on the side of being too early rather than too late because of face control.

Secret Room

Probably the top venue at the moment in Moscow . Very small but wildly popular club, which is crammed with tables but always packed. They do parties on Thursdays and Sundays as well. This club has a hip-hop/high-end theme, meaning most girls are gold diggers, IG models, and tattooed hip hop chicks. Very unfavorable logistics because there is almost no room no move inside the club but the party vibe makes it worth it. Strict face control.

Close to Secret Room and with a much more favorable and spacious three-part layout. This place attracts very hot women but also lots of ball busters and fakes that will leave you blue-balled. Come early because after 4am it starts getting empty fast. Electronic music.

A slightly kitsch restaurant club that plays Russian pop and is full of gold diggers, semi-pros, and men from the Caucasus republics. Thursday is the strongest night but that dynamic might be changing since Secret Room opened its doors. You can swoop here but it will be a struggle.

Mid-level: your sweet spot in terms of ease and attractiveness of girls for an average budget.

Started going downwards in 2018 due to lax face control and this might get even worse with the World Cup. In terms of layout one of the best Moscow nightclubs because it’s very big and bottle service gives you a good edge here. Still attracts lots of cute girls with loose morals but plenty of provincial girls (and guys) as well. Swooping is fairly easy here.

I haven’t been at this place in over a year, ever since it started becoming ground zero for drunken teenagers. Similar clientele to Icon but less chic, younger and drunker. Decent mainstream music that attracts plenty of tourists. Girls are easy here as well.

Sort of a Coyote Ugly (the real one in Moscow sucks) with party music and lots of drunken people licking each others’ faces. Very entertaining with the right amount of alcohol and very easy to pull in there. Don’t think about staying sober in here, you’ll hate it.

Artel Bessonitsa/Shakti Terrace

Electronic music club that is sort of a high-end place with an underground clientele and located between the teenager clubs Icon and Gipsy. Very good music but a bit all over the place with their vibe and their branding. You can swoop almost any type of girl here from high-heeled beauty to coked-up hipsters, provided they’re not too sober.

Afterparty: if by 5AM  you haven’t pulled, it’s time to move here.

Best afterparty spot in terms of trying to get girls. Pretty much no one is sober in there and savage gorilla game goes a long way. Lots of very hot and slutty-looking girls but it can be hard to tell apart who is looking for dick and who is just on drugs but not interested. If by 9-10am you haven’t pulled, it is probably better to surrender.

The hipster alternative for afterparties, where even more drugs are in play. Plenty of attractive girls there but you have to know how to work this type of club. A nicer atmosphere and better music but if you’re desperate to pull, you’ll probably go to Miks.

Weekday jokers: if you’re on the hunt for some sexy Russian girls during the week, here are two tips to make your life easier.

Chesterfield

Ladies night on Wednesdays means this place gets pretty packed with smashed teenagers and 6s and 7s. Don’t pull out the three-piece suit in here because it’s a “simpler” crowd. Definitely your best shot on Wednesdays.

If you haven’t pulled at Chesterfield, you can throw a Hail Mary and hit up Garage’s Black Music Wednesdays. Fills up really late but there are some cute Black Music groupies in here. Very small club. Thursday through Saturday they do afterparties and you have an excellent shot and swooping girls that are probably high.

Shishas Sferum

This is pretty much your only shot on Mondays and Tuesdays because they offer free or almost free drinks for women. A fairly low-class club where you should watch your drinks. As always the case in Moscow, there will be cute girls here on any day of the week but it’s nowhere near as good as on the weekend.

In a nutshell, that is all you need to know about where to meet Moscow girls in nightlife. There are tons of options, and it all depends on what best fits your style, based on the type of girls that you’re looking for.

Related Topics

• moscow girls
• moscow nightlife

The Top 3 Cities in Ukraine for First Timers

• Posted on July 7, 2018 August 4, 2019

You May Also Like

• Uncategorized

The Best Expat Blogs for Moscow

• Posted on May 31, 2020 June 1, 2020

Finding a Russian Bride: How and Where to Meet Her

• Posted on August 9, 2019 August 9, 2019

Meeting Women in Moscow: Dating Perspectives on the World’s Most Beautiful Women

• Posted on August 5, 2019 August 9, 2019

Meeting Russian Women: Top 5 Locations

• Posted on August 3, 2019 June 1, 2020

Moscow vs St. Petersburg – Which One to Visit?

• Posted on July 31, 2019 August 3, 2019

Hot Russian Girls – Where to Find & Date Them

• Posted on March 30, 2019 March 30, 2019

A Guide to Teaching English in Russia

• Posted on August 11, 2018 October 9, 2019

How to Attract Russian Girls

• Posted on July 15, 2018 August 4, 2019

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

This solar eclipse simulator on SkySafari will guide you through the eclipse on April 8

Using the app only costs 99 cents.

A new "eclipse simulator" on SkySafari allows you to anticipate what you'll see when the moon blocks the sun in areas of North America on Monday (April 8).

The SkySafari Eclipse Simulation Widget, which you can see below, includes the ability to "watch" an eclipse from any point on Earth. A shadow tracker will let you watch the moon's shadow moving "across continents and oceans, a stunning reminder of the beauty and intricacy of our solar system," developers wrote.

The entry-level version of SkySafari 7 , which features on our best stargazing apps guide, is on a deep discount right now for just $0.99 ahead of the eclipse on Monday (April 8). Because that's  an 80% discount from the usual $4.99, make sure to act quickly; affiliated apps SkySafari Plus and SkySafari Pro are also on sale.

You can also keep up to date with the latest eclipse content on our  eclipse live blog  and  watch all the total eclipse action  live here on Space.com. 

Related: Total solar eclipse 2024: Everything you need to know

SkySafari 7 Basic stargazing app <a href="https://skysafariastronomy.com/Eclipse-Safari.html" data-link-merchant="skysafariastronomy.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> now 80% off .

The 'Basic' version of SkySafari 7 is 80% off until eclipse day. Act fast to access the solar eclipse features ahead of the big day on April 8 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Space.com already gives SkySafari 7 five stars as it lets you track stars, planets, galaxies and more with planetarium and telescope features. But as the eclipse approached, representative Pedro Braganca told Space.com, the small company has been pushing hard to put new features for users on the app.

"As developers and content creators, we often find ourselves lost in the world of coding, debugging, and endless cups of coffee. But every once in a while, a project comes along that reminds us why we fell in love with creating in the first place," Braganca wrote in an email interview, calling the simulator "our latest labor of love."

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Breaking space news, the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more!

"Now, let's get one thing straight — we're not just a bunch of tech and space geeks pushing an app. We're a team of dreamers, adventurers, and stargazers, on a mission to share the wonder of the cosmos with as many people as we can," he added.

The simulator, he emphasized, will take some of the worry off your hands during the big event as you try to make sure your equipment, including solar glasses to view the event safely, is all ready for the precious few moments of totality.

"You're standing on the path of totality, anticipation hanging in the air like a shimmering veil. The countdown to totality is on, and you can feel the excitement building with every passing second. But instead of frantically checking your watch or squinting at a map, you simply glance at your phone and let SkySafari be your guide," he said.

Along with the simulator and shadow tracker, the app has a dynamic eclipse countdown clock and will include "audio prompts to keep you informed and entertained throughout the eclipse." These narrations "guide you through critical contact timings, ensuring that you never miss a beat. It's like having a knowledgeable astronomer by your side, whispering secrets of the cosmos directly into your ear."

Read more: 10 phenomena to see and photograph during April's total solar eclipse

The app's eclipse viewing guide includes detailed safety guidance as well, making sure you know when to put on your glasses and when to take them off. (Once you no longer have need for the glasses, SkySafari suggests you recycle them through its partnership with Astronomers Without Borders , which will allow the glasses to be used in areas with poorer access to these tools.)

A special "Eclipse" button on the main page allows users to access the content with ease. SkySafari 7 also offers "social" stargazing to see what sights others are looking at, tilt-to-slew scope control and augmented reality voice control.

In between finding the best telescope deals , the best binoculars deals and the best solar viewing kits , make sure to get 80% off SkySafari 7 's basic app to get ready for the big solar eclipse day.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Elizabeth Howell (she/her), Ph.D., is a staff writer in the spaceflight channel since 2022 covering diversity, education and gaming as well. She was contributing writer for Space.com for 10 years before joining full-time. Elizabeth's reporting includes multiple exclusives with the White House and Office of the Vice-President of the United States, an exclusive conversation with aspiring space tourist (and NSYNC bassist) Lance Bass, speaking several times with the International Space Station, witnessing five human spaceflight launches on two continents, flying parabolic, working inside a spacesuit, and participating in a simulated Mars mission. Her latest book, " Why Am I Taller ?", is co-written with astronaut Dave Williams. Elizabeth holds a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Space Studies from the University of North Dakota, a Bachelor of Journalism from Canada's Carleton University and a Bachelor of History from Canada's Athabasca University. Elizabeth is also a post-secondary instructor in communications and science at several institutions since 2015; her experience includes developing and teaching an astronomy course at Canada's Algonquin College (with Indigenous content as well) to more than 1,000 students since 2020. Elizabeth first got interested in space after watching the movie Apollo 13 in 1996, and still wants to be an astronaut someday. Mastodon: https://qoto.org/@howellspace

Total solar eclipse 2024: Live updates

Total solar eclipse 2024: Here's the national weather forecast for April 8

I'm driving 6 hours through New York's Adirondacks to see the 2024 total solar eclipse from Potsdam. Here's why.

Most Popular

By Meredith Garofalo April 05, 2024

By Robert Lea April 05, 2024

By Elizabeth Howell April 05, 2024

By Stefanie Waldek April 05, 2024

By Mike Wall April 05, 2024

By Harry Baker April 05, 2024

By Jeff Spry April 05, 2024

By Robert Z. Pearlman April 05, 2024

By Alexander Cox April 05, 2024

• 2 Total solar eclipse 2024: Live updates
• 3 This Week In Space podcast: Episode 105 — Apoc-eclipse 2024!
• 4 Total solar eclipse 2024: Here's the national weather forecast for April 8
• 5 William Shatner is beaming in to see the 2024 total solar eclipse from Indiana (video)

How To Update Safari On Your Mac: A Step-By-Step Guide

It's no secret that Safari is the go-to browser for many Mac users . Sure, other browsers like Google Chrome have their advantages , especially if you're deep into Google's ecosystem, but using third-party browsers other than Safari on your Mac has downsides. Safari is optimized for macOS and integrates seamlessly with your other Apple devices like your iPhone and iPad by using Handoff.

If you've been a part of the Apple ecosystem for a while now, you're probably aware of Handoff, a very convenient Apple feature that allows you to begin a task on one of your devices, and pick up where you left off on another device.

Safari is no exception — Handoff allows you to start reading or watching something on your iPhone or iPad, and pick up where you left off on your Mac. This not only saves you the time of looking for a webpage but also makes jumping from one task to another extremely simple. Like any application, keeping Safari up to date is extremely important. Not only do new Safari updates come with newer features, but Apple also frequently rolls out updates to address security threats.

Now that you know it is a good idea to install Safari updates whenever they're rolled out, the real question is: How do you update Safari? Strangely enough, if your Apple device is updated to macOS Ventura or later , the only way to update Safari is to update your Mac itself.

How to update macOS

While you can't update Safari without updating macOS, you can check which version of Safari you're currently using. To do so, open the Safari app on your Mac and click on Safari from the menu bar. Now, select About Safari from the dropdown menu. Once you do so, a dialogue box will appear. The version of Safari you're currently using should be mentioned below the "Safari" text.

If you'd like to update Safari, follow the steps below to update macOS:

Click the Apple menu in the menu bar and select System Settings from the dropdown menu.

Select General from the sidebar on the left.

Click Software Update and wait for a few seconds.

Now, if a new update is available, click Update Now next to Updates Available.

If a Safari-specific update is available, you can click More Info and select Safari from the "Updates are available for your Mac" section.

To avoid having to update macOS manually to update Safari, we recommend enabling automatic updates. This way, you won't miss out on new features and can rest easy, knowing that Apple has fixed any known security threats . To do so, click the info icon next to Automatic updates and toggle on the switch next to Download new updates when available, Install macOS updates, and Install Security Responses and system files.

Charging elephant kills an American woman on 'bucket list trip' in Zambia

An American woman who was on what she had called her "last big trip" was killed when a charging elephant flipped over the car she was traveling in at a national park in Zambia .

The “aggressive” creature buffeted the vehicle carrying six tourists and a guide, tour operator Wilderness said in a statement Tuesday. It said the 79-year-old victim died after Saturday's incident on a game drive at the Kafue National Park in western Zambia.

The company did not name the victim but Rona Wells, her daughter, identified her as Gail Mattson in a post on Facebook. She said her mother died in a “tragic accident while on her dream adventure.”

A video circulating on social media apparently showing the incident shows a large elephant running toward a car, which slows down as the animal approaches its left side. The elephant then flips the vehicle over and the passengers can be heard gasping as the car rolls over.

NBC News does not know the condition or identity of the person who filmed the video.

Photos shared online of the car, which is emblazoned with the logo of the tour operator, show it tipped onto its side after the incident, with a deep dent in two of its side doors.

Wilderness, which describes itself as a “leading conservation and hospitality company” operating in eight African countries, including Zambia, did not respond to NBC News when asked to confirm the authenticity of the video and the photos.

But the tour operator’s CEO, Keith Vincent, said in the statement that the company’s “guides are all extremely well trained and experienced.”

"Sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” he added.

Another woman was also injured in the incident and taken to a medical facility in South Africa, the Wilderness statement said, adding that four others were treated for minor injuries.

“It’s extremely rare to see an elephant that irate,” Marlon du Toit, a wildlife photographer and safari guide, told the “TODAY” show Thursday. “Across Africa, there are thousands and thousands of guests on safari on a daily basis with no negative consequences.”

The exact cause of Mattson’s death was unclear, but the company said her body would be repatriated to her family in the United States with the support of local Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in the capital, Lusaka.

“This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died,” the statement added.

NBC News has reached out to Mattson's family for further comment.

Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest and oldest national park, according to its website, and spans an area of more than 8,000 square miles. Vast regions of the park remain unexplored and the website says it is home to a variety of untamed wildlife.

A 'bucket list trip'

Mattson spent her winters in Sun City West, Arizona, playing bridge and cards, but during the rest of the year, she "travels all over the world," her friend Brenda Biggs told NBC News. Biggs and her husband, John Longabauth, became friends with Mattson when they moved to the area 6 ½ years ago.

Longabauth said Mattson spoke to the couple about her upcoming safari trip about two weeks ago, and called it "one of her bucket list trips." He said she was very excited for the adventure.

Before she left, she gave the couple concert tickets for a show that would happen while she was traveling, telling them to enjoy the concert and "I'll see you when I get back," Longabauth recalled of the conversation.

Biggs said Mattson, who was almost 80 years old, told her that the African safari was her "my last big trip." She said Mattson was "super excited because it was like the culmination of all the trips that she had gone on."

An avid traveler, Mattson took to trips to Europe and Asia, Longabauth recalled, noting that she might have been to South America, too.

Biggs called her friend "flamboyant," "friendly" and "fabulous" and said she loved bright colors. Mattson had taken over Biggs’ job as the event planner for their 200-member bridge club, she said.

"Gail was one of the more up people you'd ever want to meet," Longabauth said. "She was always up. She was always optimistic. She was always seeing the good side of everybody."

Yuliya Talmazan is a reporter for NBC News Digital, based in London.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.

AndBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge

Enter your dates to check availability at:

Great news, there is availability!

Enter your details below and a travel advisor will get in touch

Phinda Private Game Reserve is a rich and diverse park that encompasses 28 555 hectares of protected wildlife land in KwaZulu-Natal. The reserve is positioned between the Mkuze Game Reserve and the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park (a World Heritage Site), as well as being within easy reach of the Indian Ocean coastline.

• Located in Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
• Experiences: Big 5 game drives, bush walks, bird watching, Zulu village tours, night turtle drives (seasonal), scuba and ocean safaris, black rhino tracking on foot, participative conservation experiences, bush dining, African sunsets

You should know

Child policy.

Children of all ages are welcome at Phinda Mountain Lodge. Child rates will apply.

Children under the age of 6 years are not permitted on game drives unless a private vehicle is pre-booked.

Children on game drives are at the Lodge Manager's discretion, with both the child and animals behavior taken into consideration.

The WILDchild programme is offered to children and child minding is available for a nominal fee.

The landscape is lush with grassy woodlands, and broad, sweeping mountain ranges. It is the home of the famous Big Five .

Situated between two habitats, the sand forest and the grasslands, the glass walls of Phinda Forest Lodge offer a sweeping view of a unique ecosystem and is one of the world’s first eco-designed luxury lodges

The lodge features 18 glass-walled Suites , each raised on stilts between the sandy forest and surrounding trees. The suites feature luxurious en-suite bathrooms with slate hand basins, air conditioning, and viewing decks with comfortable seating and a minibar. It's common to see forest antelope grazing around the suites and hear the sounds of birds in song.

Phinda Forest Lodge is set in a calming atmosphere of Zulu Zen. And there’s no need to worry about the privacy of your retreat - in spite of the floor to ceiling glass walls, the towering torchwood trees and fertile forest floor that surround your suite ensure a sense of seclusion.

Phinda Forest lodge facilities include a sparkling rim-flow swimming pool at the edge of the forest, interactive kitchen, safari shop, traditional boma for open-air dining, WI-FI in the guest area and suites, as well as expansive decks in a spacious seating area where daytime meals are enjoyed whilst looking out onto panoramic views of an open meadow where animals frequently graze.

In the evenings, you are welcomed into a traditional lantern-lit African boma, where you enjoy a sumptuous dinner beneath a canopy of stars.

Adventures at &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge include twice-daily game drives, bush walks, and seasonal river cruises. A host of additional activities can be enjoyed too. These include cultural excursions, scuba safaris and specialist safaris such as birding, photographic, tracking, family and luxury walking safaris.

Phinda Private Game Reserve's unique meeting of riverine and rare sand forest habitats is home to a huge selection of wildlife, including lion, giraffe, white and black rhino, antelope, elephants, leopard, buffalo, cheetah, and wildebeest, as well as 415 bird species.

Phinda Forest Lodge is ideal for solo explorers, couples and families looking for a unique safari experience.

Price includes

Accommodation, three meals daily, soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, teas and coffees, refreshments on game drives, laundry, safari activities, 1-hour nature walks accompanied by experienced armed trackers (subject to availability).

Rate Excludes

Transfer other than from the lodge airstrip, champagne, cognacs, fine wines, premium brand spirits, cigars, gratuities, landing fees, government bed levy, conservation or park fees and all items of a personal nature.

Rates & Pricing

Location and getting there.

Let's start planning

Every detail, we're available 24/7

Meet your travel advisor

What our guests say about Anja

April 3, 2024

Planning was spot on

Planning was spot on. Driver/guides were always waiting as scheduled. Experience in South Africa was great. Anja helped with all the details. Ngala safari exceeded our expectations. Randal our driver/guide in Cape Town was excellent.

March 27, 2024

I have enjoyed working with Safari.com

I have enjoyed working with Safari.com! We are bringing a big group, and they have been amazing coordinating the different changes we have had to make. We will work with them in the future!

January 26, 2024

Very friendly!

They were so patient while we worked through issues with our credit card, trying many different solutions until the payment finally went through. I was booking for 10 people and even with changing dates, etc., and all the coordination required for that many people they were able to get us booked. Can not wait to be there!

Apr 6, 2024

great service

This is to thank Leigh-Ann for her wonderful help with my safari booking. She always answers my questions quickly and provide solutions. Although I finally didn't book the trip because of a few constraints on my side, I'm sure that she is a nice person and it was enjoyable to receive her service.

Apr 4, 2024

Heleen feedback

Heleen was an absolute pleasure to deal with and is the person that has made me pass on Safari as a have to use when booking trips and putting a plan together. Heleen has been super responsive, informative and was more than happy to change things as needed throughout the process. We are a large group so nothing was simple but Heleen ensured we got accommodation together (as much as possible) and provided options for set ups too. It has been a pleasure to deal with Heleen and she is has given the company a fantastic reputation! Thank you so much again Heleen!

Apr 3, 2024

Quick to respond

Quick to respond, even when I changed my booking. Very helpful. Thank you

Apr 2, 2024

Leigh-Ann has been incredible…

Leigh-Ann has been incredible, I would highly recommend. First class service and response rates (even late at night with time difference). Very informative and recommended excellent hotel and tour options to make our trip unforgettable. All information was clear and easy payment links. A great way to help facilitate your trip, especially when there is SO much to choose from. Thank you again Leigh-Ann

I am very happy with the service I got…

I am very happy with the service I got from Safari.com. The booking agent was responsive and efficient, and managed to help us secure exactly the booking that we asked for.

Amazing tip from Jayson

A few years ago we had Jayson deal with a Safari tour we wanted arranged for our parents and so started our first contact with Safari.com and Jayson. Since our parents were so very pleased with their experience, we immediately thought of Jayson when my partner and myself stated planning a trip to Africa. Jayson remembered us from almost 4 years ago, which I think is rather outstanding. We booked a three night stay, on Jaysons recomendation, at the Wallow Lodge, which proved to be a wonerful experience. Apart from the lodge being everything you could possibly imagine, it was the staff that made our stay a wonderful experience. We would most certainly recommend the wallow Lodge should we hear of freinds wishing to visit the Victoria Falls. Thanks gos to safari.com, Jayson for organizing our trip and the wonderful staff of the Wallow Lodge at the Victoria Falls. Kindest Regards, Kristof

Mar 30, 2024

The on line rep I have been communicating with, Shann, is absolutely wonderful, in all respects. I threw many changes at her and she was always responsive, delivering requested information right away, and works long hours to suit clients in different time zones.

Mar 29, 2024

Thank you so much Keith

Thank you so much Keith! You’ve made booking our holiday and the Safari so easy. We look forward to meeting you.

• &BEYOND LODGES
• South Africa
• Flying solo
• With my partner
• With my family
• Adventurous
• Responsible Travel
• Private Travel
• Slow Travel
• TRAVEL TRADE PORTAL
• MANAGE YOUR TRAVEL BOARD

&Beyond Phinda Rock Lodge

Intimate stone suites with dramatic views across the zululand valley.

• Indian Ocean Islands
• South America
• Cape Whale Coast
• Cape Winelands
• Eastern Cape Game Reserves
• Garden Route
• Johannesburg
• Kruger National Park
• KwaZulu-Natal
• Madikwe Game Reserve
• Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
• Tswalu Kalahari
• Phinda Private Game Reserve

PANORAMIC VIEWS

An intimate lodge with only unique intimate suites, each with spectacular views, safari game drives, day and night safaris with expert guides in search of big five and other rare iconic wildlife encounters, bush walking adventures, explore the african bush and it's quaint fauna and flora on foot with an experienced guide, impact experiences, assist our conservation team with a scheduled rhino, elephant or pangolin research experience, community experiences, visit nearby zulu communities and gain insight into their daily lives with africa foundation.

Phinda Private Game Reserve is situated in the lush Zululand region of Northern KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, intimately wedged between Mkuze Game Reserve and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (previously St Lucia Wetland Park), a World Heritage Site. The reserve is also situated in very close proximity to the unspoiled beaches and spectacular coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, offering an unmatched combination of bush and beach adventures at nearby Sodwana Bay.

Getting to Phinda:

• Federal Airoffer daily scheduled flights from Johannesburg to Phinda Private Game Reserve.
• Connect Phinda Private Game Reserve to Johannesburg, Cape Town, Ngala Private Game Reserve, Kirkman’s Kamp, northern Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Londolozi, Ulusaba, Vilanculos and Livingstone. All flights route through either Nelspruit or Skukuza
• Private charters from anywhere in South Africa can be arranged to Phinda Private Game Reserve’s airstrip
• It is a seven-hour drive from Johannesburg on good roads in a two-wheel drive vehicle
• It is a three and a half hour drive from Durban on good roads in a two-wheel drive vehicle
• Self-drive directions to Phinda Rock Lodge can be downloaded at the bottom of this webpage.

LUXURIOUS SUITES

Six cosy air-conditioned suites, each with breathtaking views, personal bar, a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments available in suite, outdoor showers, four of the suites feature refreshing alfresco showers, private plunge pools, all suites boast a private outdoor plunge pool with a view, welcoming child policy, children 12 years and older are welcome, laundry included, complimentary laundry service is available should you need it, swarovski binoculars, state of the art swarovski companions, complimentary for the duration of your stay, wifi available, full wifi coverage in all suites and guests areas throughout the lodge, fitness & wellness, gym-in-a-basket available in your suite as well as in-room massage treatments, al fresco dining, rooftop dining under the skies offers magnificent sunset views, 2024: from zar 20,720 per person per night, welcome to phinda rock lodge, dramatically set into a cliff face, phinda rock lodge’s six intimate and private suites are seemingly suspended over the deep valley below, providing breathtaking views of phinda private game reserve..

Phinda Private Game Reserve showcases one of the continent’s finest Big Five game viewing experiences and displays a magnificent tapestry of seven unique landscapes. Phinda Private Game Reserve is situated in close proximity to the unspoiled beaches and spectacular coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, offering an unmatched combination of bush and beach adventures.

Each romantic suite, constructed from contoured stone, boasts solid wooden shutters and doors, which open onto a private plunge pool and viewing deck. Featuring spacious ensuite bathrooms, four of the suites also offer outdoor showers.

The lodge’s guest areas offer the perfect vantage point for viewing the reserve’s abundant birdlife and the wildlife roaming in the bush below. French doors open onto an extended outdoor deck, the perfect setting for al fresco meals, while a rooftop terrace provides a romantic venue for dining beneath the stars.

Choose from a range of exciting Phinda Adventures such as a specialist walking and tracking safaris, a sleepout under the stars, and other participative conservation experiences such rhino notching or pangolin tagging. Also within easy access of the reserve are Zulu village tours, Africa Foundation community visits, a Maputaland exploration, Maputaland beach trip, night turtle drives (seasonal), scuba safaris, or an incredible ocean safari that offers you a host of marine life sightings. Specialist safaris can be arranged in advance and focus on special interests such as birding, photographic, family and exclusive private safaris.

Why we love it

Impressive game viewing.

29 866 ha (73 800 acres) of private traversing across seven distinct habitats allows for a great diversity of landscapes and exclusive game viewing. Limited number of vehicles at sightings and sensitive off-roading practices affords close-up sightings of Big Five and other rare and iconic wildlife.

ICONIC WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

Phinda is home to a magnificent variety of wildlife, including the Big Five, but is best known for its large population of cheetah and black rhino. The sand forest is home to the shy suni and the rare red duiker, two tiny antelope that are seldom encountered elsewhere.

SPECTACULAR LOCATION

Unwind in this serene and tranquil haven in the heart of the bush. Be entranced by the dramatic views across the valley, heightened by the romance of intimate rooftop dining. Private plunge pools and outdoor showers boast mesmerising panoramas of the lush Phinda landscape.

LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCES

A variety of incredible adventures are available, including twice-daily game drives, nature walks, conservation and community experiences, sleep outs, village tours, specialist safaris, as well as nearby ocean activities.

Rates & Offers

Tailormake your stay, talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake your stay to any of our destinations, experience phinda rock lodge, visiting phinda rock lodge allows access to a range of unique included and excluded experiences, explore phinda sightings, our guides and guests' best safari moments, leaving our world a better place.

It was at Phinda that &Beyond’s Care of the Land, Wildlife and People impact vision was tested and shaped. Here, 29 866 ha (73 800 acres) of farming land was reclaimed for wildlife, including 790 hectares of critically endangered ancient sand forest. Cheetah, rhino and pangolin are actively protected, with more than 30 years of pioneering wildlife victories behind us. Along with Africa Foundation , the reserve works closely with neighbouring communities, employing locally and investing in community education and welfare. Sustainability practices are a daily priority and include the elimination of plastic bottles and a focus on energy-saving initiatives.

Tailormade tours

Stay at phinda rock lodge on one these inspirational journeys, care of the land, wildlife & people, &beyond phinda's impact in conservation & community, frequently asked questions, awards and acknowledgements, feed your wanderlust, travel inspiration from from &beyond connect, download useful documents, keep connected, read more about phinda, phinda’s six unique luxury lodges, leaving our world a better place for years, discover the impact legacy that your travel with &beyond is driving. just as the un’s sustainable development goals have been a touchstone for our vision 2020 group-operation sustainability audits, so they continue to guide and underpin our ambitiously scaled vision 2030 goals., we're sorry but this site doesn't work properly without javascript enabled., please enable it to continue., privacy overview.

'Real Housewives' Star Lauri Peterson's Son Josh Waring Dead at 35

WrestleMania 40 Who'd You Rather?!

Dwayne Johnson Engaged in Clash With WWE Fan at Hall of Fame Ceremony

What's The Big Frigin' Difference?!

Gypsy Rose Blanchard Recovering in First Look After Nose Job

African elephant attack leaves 80-year-old woman dead, safari truck flipped, african safari woman killed in elephant attack ... flips truck on video.

An elderly woman was killed in Africa during a safari trip -- this after an elephant charged her party's vehicle ... and flipped it over, which left her fatally wounded.

The unidentified woman 80-year-old was on a safari Saturday in Zambia at the Kafue National Park -- and at one point in the excursion, a bull elephant charges their truck ... and rams into it head-on, all of which was captured in a dramatic video.

The elephant tips over the vehicle, and you can hear panicked screams from the tour guide as well as the patrons -- including what sounds like the woman who actually died.

A chief executive of a conservation and hospitality company called Wilderness Safaris -- which was heading up this trip -- later confirmed that an American tourist had been killed in the attack ... and that another female guest had been seriously injured, and was flown to a hospital.

Four other guests who were part of this safari were treated on-site for minor injuries, and were provided trauma counseling as well.

In terms of how this happened, Wildness says the guide's route became blocked by the terrain and vegetation as they were driving along -- and that they didn't have enough time to move the vehicle out of the way before the elephant could hit them.

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

They called the incident "extremely tragic" and sent their condolences to the victim's family.

For more shocking viral stories check out TMZ Verified , available on all podcast platforms.

• Share on Facebook

related articles

PETA Wants Doc Antle Investigated Over Chris Brown's Daughter's Elephant Ride

Stanley The Giraffe Seized As Evidence at Malibu Wine Safaris

Old news is old news be first.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.