Phinda Ocean & Bush Safari
Combine Big Five safari with Indian Ocean beach and marine encounters in KwaZulu-Natal
Tour Overview
Phinda Private Game Reserve is one of South Africa's most ecologically diverse reserves, featuring seven distinct ecosystems from rare dry sand forest to open savannah, palm-studded wetlands, and towering dune forests. The reserve is also adjacent to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the Indian Ocean coast. This unique safari combines Big Five game drives and bush walks at Phinda with beach time, scuba diving on Sodwana Bay's pristine reefs, and turtle nesting beach walks (seasonal). It is one of the only destinations in Africa where you can see the Big Five in the morning and swim with whale sharks in the afternoon.
Your Journey
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Transfer from Durban to Phinda Private Game Reserve. Settle into your luxury lodge in the heart of the rare dry sand forest. Afternoon game drive.
Tonight's Stay
Phinda Luxury Lodge
Pre-dawn and afternoon game drives seeking the Big Five. Phinda is renowned for cheetah and black rhino sightings. Guided bush walk through the rare sand forest ecosystem.
Tonight's Stay
Phinda Luxury Lodge
Transfer to Sodwana Bay on the Indian Ocean coast. Scuba dive or snorkel on pristine coral reefs. Search for whale sharks and dolphins. Beach lunch and relaxation.
Tonight's Stay
Phinda Luxury Lodge
Morning boat cruise on the iSimangaliso Wetland Park for hippos and crocodiles. Afternoon game drive. Evening turtle walk on the beach (seasonal Nov-Mar).
Tonight's Stay
Phinda Luxury Lodge
Final morning game drive or bush walk. Transfer to Durban for your departure flight.
5 Days of Unforgettable Moments
14 curated activities across your journey
Interactive Route Map
What's Included
- All game drives & bush walks
- Reserve fees
- Luxury lodge accommodation
- All meals & drinks
- Scuba diving/snorkelling
- Beach excursion
- Transfers from Durban/airstrip
Not Included
- International flights
- Flights to Durban
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities
- Spa treatments
How to Get There
Fly to Durban (DUR) and charter to Phinda airstrip, or drive (3.5 hours from Durban).
Best Time to Visit
November-March for turtle nesting. Year-round for Big Five. June-November for whale sharks at Sodwana.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting from
$580
per person sharing
No booking fees · Free cancellation up to 30 days
Ideal For
Ready to Book This Safari?
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