Phinda Forest Lodge, South Africa

Built in 1994, Phinda Forest Lodge in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa is a unique, comfortable place to relax or stage a photo safari in the private game reserve. The lodge is 19 miles west of the Indian Ocean and borders the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park. Part of the property is owned by local Zulus, some of whom serve as wildlife trackers and guides.

Phinda takes its name from the surrounding Sand Forest, a unique and threatened habitat that is home to unique species like the red duiker, African wood owl and mamba swordtail butterfly. According to Authentic Ecolodges, "Phinda's comprehensive interpretation programs make it one of South Africa's most rarified safari lodges."