• View small animals and birds from your suite
• Mix of game drives, boat rides and nature walks
• Inviting infinity pool
• Indoor and outdoor seating areas
• Tranquil forest setting

Phinda Forest Lodge is in a secluded setting, surrounded by nature. The desgin of the main buidling and suites makes the most of this location with its floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can enjoy the views even when you're sitting cosily indoors.

The spacious, air conditioned suites are decorated in subtle shades of cream, and each has a stylish bathroom with a full size bathtub. You'll have a bathrobe and slippers as well as a supply of toiletries. Suites are set on elevated decks and spaced well apart. The full length windows let you enjoy views of the surrounding forest without sacrificing your privacy.

At the heart of the lodge there's a homely lounge with sofas, coffee tables and paintings on the wall. Sliding glass doors open to an outdoor sitting area looking out over the bush where you can often spot zebra and wildebeest, You'll also find a large deck with sun loungers set around a swimming pool, and there's a boma where al fresco meals are served, which is lit by dozens of lanterns after dark.

Activities revolve around game drives which can venture off road, river trips and walking safaris. This variety makes for an excellent all-round safari experience. In addition you can head to the beach for a change of scene, go scuba diving or swimming with whale sharks. If you're interested in culture a guide can take you to a nearby Zulu village. There are also opportunities to track black rhino on foot, and take part in photographic safaris in specially designed vehicles.

Photographs copyright &Beyond