KwaZulu-Natal
Situated on South Africa’s warm Indian Ocean coast, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is a treasure trove of biodiversity, culture and coastal splendour. Stretching from the coral-reefs of Sodwana Bay down past the golden sands of Durban, to the UNESCO-recognized iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KZN’s 750 km of shoreline sits within a network of protected marine reserves. Beneath the waves, divers and snorkellers encounter vibrant coral gardens, schools of tropical fish, loggerhead and leatherback turtles, whale sharks and the spectacular annual sardine run—when dolphins, sharks and gannets converge in a breathtaking marine ballet. Above water, elephant herds roam rolling dune forests, and hippos and crocodiles patrol the waterways of Lake St Lucia.
Phinda
Located in northeastern KwaZulu-Natal, Phinda Private Game Reserve spans 30,000 hectares of pristine wilderness across seven distinct habitats. Best known for its healthy populations of cheetahs and black rhinos, as well as other iconic members of the Big Five, Phinda is also home to over 430 bird species and rare antelope that inhabit the unique 1,000-hectare dry sand forest. Its proximity to the warm Indian Ocean and unspoiled beaches offers guests the opportunity to experience a one-of-a-kind bush and ocean safari combination.
Guests can choose from six luxurious safari camps, each situated in a unique and spectacular location. All camps offer the exceptional hospitality and warmth that are hallmarks of &Beyond lodges. Designed to maximize the natural heritage of their surroundings, the camps also ensure guest privacy and comfort.
Thonga Beach Lodge
Nestled among a rare coastal Milkwood forest and just steps from a magnificent sandy beach and the warm Indian Ocean lies one of South Africa’s most unique wilderness beach lodges. Days can be spent exploring pristine coral reefs easily accessible from the shore, birding in the beautiful forest, or simply relaxing on the soft sandy beach. From November to March, witness the incredible sight of turtles coming ashore at night to lay their eggs. Female turtles return to the very beach where they were born, continuing the remarkable circle of life.
The lodge features 12 eco-sensitive thatched rooms offering either ocean or forest views, each elegantly furnished to ensure maximum privacy. Enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach or the deck overlooking the shore, and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves crashing against the sand.
