Luxury Safaris in Phinda made for you
Seek out the Big Five, cheetahs and black rhinos across Phinda’s diverse landscapes
KwaZulu-Natal's premier private game reserves
In the northern corner of the KwaZulu Natal’s eastern coast, the Phinda Private Game Reserve is a small and exclusive gem of conservation-based hospitality and authentic African splendor.
The intimate 56,800-acre reserve, restored by the Varty family, is unlike any other in Africa. Chiefly because of its natural and cultural conservation, which is used as a model for reserves all over Africa, it’s also Phinda’s superb game viewing in the way of frequently spotted cheetah, black rhino, the Big Five, and 415 species of bird, that make it so unique.
When you get there, ask about its history and its role in the local community – it’s a fascinating story.
Possessing a plethora of habitats, Phinda is a magnificent tapestry of woodland, grassland, wetland, and rare sand forest interspersed with mountain ranges, river courses, marshes and pans. Furthermore its proximity to the stunning coastal reserves makes this is the perfect place to mix beach and bush.
From our experts
Experiences picked by our South Africa safari specialists
Game drive across seven habitats for the Big Five
Head out on private game drives across Phinda’s seven habitats for standout Big Five viewing and big chances to spot cheetah and black rhino.
Spot white rhino on foot
Track white rhino on foot with an expert guide and tracker, learning to read spoor and listen for bird calls.
Search the sand forest for Phinda's resident leopards
Dip into the sand forest to look for leopard territory, home to a resident population of around 30 adult cats.
Canoe the Mzinene River with fish eagles overhead
Embark on an exclusive riverboat cruise or canoe trip on the Mzinene River and spot birdlife like African fish eagles and malachite kingfishers along the banks.
Dive Sodwana Bay during leatherback turtle nesting season
Explore the nearby Indian Ocean coastline and coral reefs around Sodwana Bay, especially when leatherback and loggerhead turtles come ashore to nest on the Maputaland beaches.
Luxury Phinda safari lodges
There are many incredible places to stay in Phinda. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:
Why book with Jacada?
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Safari expertise
Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.
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Unforgettable guides
We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.
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Positive impact
By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.
Trip inspiration
Get inspired with our Phinda example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure
South Africa Family Safari Explorer
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Epic Landscapes and Wildlife Experiences of South Africa
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The Ultimate Southern Africa Safari
Southern Africa’s superior safari destinations have been handpicked for this private trip, so you can get you up close to some of the most stunning wildlife in…
Explore tripMeet your Africa team
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Angela Thomas
Client Experience Manager for Africa
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Charlie Cottar
Travel Designer
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Chloe Ainscow
Travel designer
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David Drayton
Travel Designer
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Ellie Smith
Travel Designer
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Emily Wallington
Senior Travel Designer
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Jacob Maahs
Senior Travel Designer
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Jamey Lowis
Senior Travel Designer
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Jess Thompson
Travel Designer
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Jody van Merode
Senior Travel Designer
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Kamogelo Dolo
Africa concierge
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Kit Wong
Senior Travel Designer
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Robynne Trueman
Africa Concierge
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Sara Bellemore
Travel Designer
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Tor Saner
Senior Travel Designer
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Your trip, your story
We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.
Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.