“Phinda, described as "Seven Worlds of Wonder" with seven distinct habitats of woodlands, grasslands, wetlands and forests, really offers a diverse game viewing experience for first timers or more experienced safari-goers.”

We recently visited Phinda in Northern Kwazulu-Natal, home to the Big Five and endandered black rhino, in a 23 000 hectare wilderness. Phinda, described as “Seven Worlds of Wonder” with seven distinct habitats of woodlands, grasslands, wetlands and forests, really offers a diverse game viewing experience for first timers or more experienced safari-goers.

Having visited Phinda a few years ago, it was wonderful to return and be equally impressed by the game viewing opportunites. As usual, our time was limited so we only managed to fit in 2 game drives. We were fortunate to be able to see a cheetah kill right in front of our safari vehicle. It was very exciting as we were watching three young cheetah siblings on a little hill when suddenly, the sister cheetah (reliable woman provider !) took down a water buck in the high grasses, right behind our vehicle. We spent the next half hour listening to bones crack as her brothers enjoyed the meal.

We stayed at one of the few lodges, Forest Lodge. We enjoyed the Zen-like individual free standing rooms, offering privacy and romance, scattered around the forest. One really feels like a bird in the trees as you can birdwatch from your bed !

Phinda is suitable for all sorts…families, groups of friends and of course honeymooners…in fact we think we were mistaken as honeymooners as returned to our room finding candles all over the bathroom, a bubble bath and champagne for 2 !

Phinda is an easy drive from the new Durban International Airport which is now located 30km north of the city.