Phinda Vlei is very exclusive and only caters for 12 guests (6 couples) at any time. The accommodations are faultless with big open glass walls looking out onto the forest. There is a rim flow swimming pool at each chalet which attracts colourful birds and thirsty antelope. The bed is huge and luxurious. Bathroom has all the facilities and more that are required even by the most spoiled guest. Food is top class prepared by Happiness and served by Jake and Michael. Early morning and evening game drives are most pleasurable especially if you are lucky enough to get Dumisani as your ranger as he knows the reserve like the back of his hand. Animals are in abundance and if you take the time, the tiny flowers are like little precious stones. Well worth a visit.

Phinda Vlei was my husband and I's first stop on our very first safari and first trip to South Africa. andBeyond exceed every single expectation by 1000%! All the staff were incredibly kind and helpful. Baby Jake was literally the best server and so fun getting to know. Cebi, the chef, cooked the most delicious food! Justin, the camp manager was so accommodating and even surprised us with a special dinner table setup for our last night to celebrate our anniversary. Dean was our safari guide and Bheki was our tracker. I literally have no words to describe how wonderful they made our experience. They taught us so much about all the conservation efforts and connection to the surrounding communities and people. I wish my brain could retain all of the information and knowledge they shared with us about the wildlife, tracking as well as flora and fauna found on the reserve. Cherry on top was seeing all of the Big 5 (subbing cheetah for leopard) and then some in the 5 days we stayed at this property. The lodge we stayed in itself was also incredible! We made full use out of patio and pool, enjoying watching all the wildlife that would walk right up in front of our cabin. Truly a magical experience - cannot wait to go back someday!

Our first South African safari experience and Phinda Vlei knocked us off our feet with its intimate and personal experience. We spent 4 nights and 7 game drives with our superb ranger Brian B and spotter Chris. The drives were relaxed, yet we were awed by the intimate observations we had of lions and their cub, elephant herds, cheetahs, baboons, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, warthogs…and the birds! Happiness, the chef, delivered her magic with perfectly proportioned delicious dishes, while Jake, our butler, was attentive and unobtrusive. We enjoyed chatting with the camp managers - Justin and Andres, and our fellow guests were friendly and down to earth.

Our ‘room’ was spacious, private and beautifully appointed in an old-world colonial style. The bed provided restful naps and nights. We didn’t use the private plunge pool, but it added to the serene view. If mini bars are your thing, ours got fuller each day, and the selection of spirits, wine, and beer was diverse, with local and global choices.

It rained on two of our days, and the vehicle was equipped with ponchos and blankets to keep the chill away, plus binocs, morning coffee breaks and evening libations.

AndBeyond impresses with its community and conservation actions, which combined with our stay, has created loyal fans who will seek out AndBeyond for future adventures.

Oh, and we highly recommend Brian as your ranger…Everyone is well trained with your safety in mind.