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Surrounded by densely wooded hills and lush valleys,
Phinda Zuka Lodge is situated in the western region of Phinda where,
fences were dropped after protracted negotiations with neighbours,
increasing the Reserve by 3 500 hectares (8 650 acres).
Lodge
Meaning sixpence in Zulu, Zuka Lodge offers guests
a new experience of Phinda’s pristine wilderness. The Lodge’s
four intimate cottages are set 15 metres (50 feet) apart, featuring verandas
overlooking a busy waterhole where a diversity of wildlife is regularly
seen. Sitting areas feature built-in sofas which double as beds for parents
traveling with children 5 years and younger. Bedrooms have air-conditioning
and fans and are en suite, with a circular stone bath chamber, double
showers, separate w.c and twin hand basins.
Facilities
The exclusive-use Phinda Zuka Lodge is perfect
for families or groups of up to eight people. Guest areas include an
interactive café-style kitchen, indoor sitting and dining areas,
an intimate library with Internet access and a swimming pool with extended
wooden decking overlooking the waterhole. Comfortable cushions and
suspended wicker chairs on the veranda allow for contemplation of the
beautiful surroundings. Characterised by hues of blue and stone, emphasising
shape and texture, the overall effect of the Lodge is that of cool,
coastal bush style – the sophistication of simplicity.
Fauna and Flora
Phinda Private Game Reserve is home to an incredible diversity of mammals.
Predators like cheetah, leopard and lion are tracked on a daily basis
and visitors stand extremely good chances of seeing them. The territorial
white rhino favour waterhole's and wallows. Herds of elephant and buffalo
move throughout the reserve and are easily spotted
An impressive 378 species are recorded. Rudd’s apalis, Neergaard’s
sun bird and pink-throated twin spot are endemic to the Maputaland region.
Lemon-breasted canary, southern banded snake-eagle and grey waxbill are
characteristic of the coastal plain. Among resident birds in the Sand
Forest are Narina trogon, African broadbill and square-tailed drongo.
Activities
Little can compare to Phinda’s exciting
range of safari activities. Apart from the twice-daily game-drives, nature
walks, riverboat cruises and canoe trips along the Mzinene River (available
at no additional cost), Phinda not only offers thrilling Indian Ocean
adventures from scuba diving and deep-sea fishing to spectacular air
safaris, but also many bush activities.
Twice-daily game-drives
Enjoy exceptional Big Five game viewing in open 4x4 safari vehicles with
experienced rangers and Zulu trackers.
Interpretive Bush Walks
Learn more about the traditional uses and the legends surrounding indigenous
trees and shrubs, as well as how to identify tracks and see rare birds
on walks led by armed rangers and trackers.
Mzinene River Canoeing (weather permitting,
and depending on water levels)
Catch sight of some of Phinda’s incredible bird life while paddling
along the river - flanked by lush riverine forest with huge fever and
sycamore fig trees – in a sturdy canoe.
Mzinene Riverboat Cruise (weather
permitting, and depending on water levels)
Watch a magnificent sunrise or sunset while enjoying a leisurely cruise
along the Mzinene River in Phinda’s riverboat. See some of the
200 or more waterbirds, as well as crocodiles and hippos lazing about.
White Rhino Tracking
Set off with your professional armed ranger and tracker in a 4x4 safari
vehicle, searching for fresh signs of white rhino activity. When tracks
are found, experience the quiet thrill of tracking white rhino on foot. |
