Phinda Resource Reserve

Phinda encompasses some 15 000 hectares of beautiful, wild country that borders the Mkuze Game Reserve and is just west of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

The name Phinda means 'return to the wild' and the reserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore seven different ecosystems from mountain bush to dense thornveld and rare sand forests. Take in the sights, smells and sounds of the bush on a guided drive or bush walk where visitors go in search of the majestic leopard and elegant giraffe, amongst others, or attempt to spot some of the 350 different bird species found in the park.

There are certain species that you are more likely to encounter on Phinda than on many other reserves. Predators such as cheetah, lion and leopard are tracked on a daily basis, offering guests a high chance of spotting these impressive cats. Phinda is renowned for offering outstanding opportunities to view cheetah. The reserve also boasts one of the highest densities of nyala. Rhino enthusiasts may frequently encounter both the white rhino and the endangered black rhino. Herds of elephant and buffalo move throughout the reserve, and the sand forest is home to some rare smaller species, such as the suni and red duiker, as well as the red tonga squirrel.