andBeyond has reopened Phinda Zuka Lodge following a thoughtful refurbishment that preserves the spirit of one of its most intimate safari properties while subtly elevating it for a new generation of travellers.
Located within South Africa’s Phinda Private Game Reserve, the lodge has long been known for its sense of privacy and shared-home atmosphere, appealing to small groups, multi-generational families and guests marking significant life moments. The refreshed Zuka returns with the same core character, but with warmer interiors, enhanced outdoor living spaces and a renewed focus on sustainability and togetherness.
With just four thatched suites overlooking a private waterhole in the wooded Zuka Hills, the lodge retains its exclusive, sole-use appeal. The redesign introduces richer textures and earthier tones while maintaining the feeling of intimacy that has defined the lodge since its early days as the home of one of the reserve’s founding families.
Kevin Pretorius, managing director of South Africa lodges at andBeyond, says the concept was inspired by the lodge’s name, Zuka, meaning “dawn”. “The redesign celebrates new beginnings while honouring Zuka’s heritage. This is not simply an aesthetic update; it is about creating a space that invites reflection and offers comfort and freedom for guests of all ages.”
Interiors by Hubert Zandberg Interiors draw heavily on African craft traditions, using natural materials such as clay, wood and woven finishes to reflect the surrounding landscape. Each suite now includes a private sala, providing shaded outdoor space for dining or quiet downtime between game drives. A newly introduced Family Suite further strengthens the lodge’s appeal to larger groups travelling together.
Communal areas have also been reimagined. A redesigned boma and firepit now sit more openly beside the landscaped waterhole, encouraging relaxed wildlife viewing and shared evenings under the stars. Throughout the refurbishment, the original structure has been retained wherever possible, reducing material use and environmental impact.
Sustainability remains central to the project. Local sourcing was prioritised across the refurbishment, from building materials to handcrafted elements such as woven screens, supporting regional artisans and aligning with andBeyond’s long-standing conservation ethos.
Experiences at Phinda Zuka Lodge continue to balance classic safari adventure with slower-paced immersion. Guests can enjoy private game drives tracking the Big Five, cheetah and black rhino, or combine their stay with excursions to the nearby Indian Ocean coastline for marine safaris, scuba diving and seasonal turtle nesting. Back at the lodge, afternoons are designed for rest, family-friendly conservation activities or quiet time by the pool or waterhole.
Despite the updates, the essence of Phinda Zuka remains unchanged. Personalised service, a strong sense of place and the feeling of being entirely at home in the bush continue to define the experience.
Rates start from ZAR 15,800 per person per night, including all meals, twice-daily private game drives and guided walks. The lodge is available for exclusive-use bookings with a dedicated vehicle and ranger team. Special offers, including Stay 4, Pay 3 and Fly Me to Phinda, are also available. Further details can be found at andBeyond.com.