Crocodylus Private Sanctuary and Ostrich Farm - Phinda Game Reserve
Crocodylus Private Sanctuary and Ostrich Farm is a camp near Phinda Game Reserve.
- Location
- Phinda Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal Bush & Coast, South Africa, Southern Africa
- Coordinates
- -28.078178, 32.264430
- Elevation
- 87m
- Phone
- +27 72 020 7500
- Activities
- camp
PlnrScore: 38/100
Wildlife Near This Lodge
2099 species observed within 20 km, 54 mammals, 317 birds.
- Nyala (Mammalia, 305 observations)
- White Rhinoceros (Mammalia, 162 observations)
- Impala (Mammalia, 157 observations)
- Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 152 observations)
- Southern Giraffe (Mammalia, 136 observations)
- African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 127 observations)
- African Buffalo (Mammalia, 125 observations)
- Common Warthog (Mammalia, 115 observations)
- African Red Toad (Amphibia, 111 observations)
- African Caper (Insecta, 107 observations)
Monthly Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30.4C | 21.2C | 115.9mm |
| Feb | 29.6C | 21.4C | 168.9mm |
| Mar | 29.4C | 20.4C | 106.4mm |
| Apr | 27C | 18.3C | 92.8mm |
| May | 25.7C | 16.1C | 36.4mm |
| Jun | 23.5C | 13.8C | 43.1mm |
| Jul | 23.7C | 13.2C | 11.4mm |
| Aug | 24.9C | 14.4C | 19.7mm |
| Sep | 26.5C | 16C | 48.9mm |
| Oct | 26.7C | 17.4C | 95.9mm |
| Nov | 28.6C | 19C | 69.5mm |
| Dec | 30.1C | 20.8C | 92.8mm |
Best Time to Visit Crocodylus Private Sanctuary and Ostrich Farm
The best months to visit Crocodylus Private Sanctuary and Ostrich Farm are January, March, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Great, temperature 25.95°C, rainfall 107.3mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 71.4%
- February: Good, temperature 25.48°C, rainfall 140.3mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 75.9%
- March: Great, temperature 24.8°C, rainfall 92.3mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 74%
- April: Good, temperature 22.44°C, rainfall 84.5mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 76.5%
- May: Good, temperature 20.54°C, rainfall 30.9mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 75.1%
- June: Good, temperature 18.11°C, rainfall 41mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 73.1%
- July: Great, temperature 18.02°C, rainfall 7.8mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 67.8%
- August: Great, temperature 19.31°C, rainfall 13.1mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 68.9%
- September: Great, temperature 21.02°C, rainfall 34.7mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 70.7%
- October: Good, temperature 21.98°C, rainfall 78.8mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 72.1%
- November: Good, temperature 23.88°C, rainfall 59.8mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 71.2%
- December: Good, temperature 25.29°C, rainfall 104.2mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 73.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can we expect to see at Crocodylus Private Sanctuary itself, beyond the ostriches?
While the ostriches are certainly a unique draw, we love that Crocodylus offers its own intimate wildlife encounters. We've spotted a variety of smaller game, including warthogs and various antelope species, right on the property. It’s a wonderfully relaxed way to start or end your day before heading into the bigger reserves.
How does staying at Crocodylus Private Sanctuary compare to staying inside Phinda Game Reserve?
Staying at Crocodylus offers a different, more personal experience. We appreciate the quieter atmosphere and the chance to explore the sanctuary's grounds at our own pace. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a more laid-back base with excellent access to Phinda’s renowned game drives, often at a slightly more accessible price point.
What are the best months for a visit to Crocodylus and the surrounding Phinda area?
We find the dry winter months, from May to October, offer the most rewarding game viewing in Phinda. The vegetation thins out, making animals easier to spot, and the weather is pleasantly cool for morning and evening drives. Even during this time, the ostriches at the sanctuary are always a lively sight.
What is the general vibe and accommodation style at Crocodylus Private Sanctuary?
The lodge feels luxurious and timeless, with a comfortable, understated elegance. We love the spacious chalets that offer privacy and beautiful views. It’s the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, making it an ideal retreat after a day of exploring.
Are there any specific safety considerations we should be aware of at Crocodylus, especially with the ostriches?
While ostriches are generally docile, we always advise respecting their space and following your guide's instructions. The sanctuary staff are excellent and ensure all interactions are safe and responsible. Beyond that, standard safari safety precautions apply, but we’ve always felt very secure during our stays.
Other Safari Lodges in Phinda Game Reserve
- African Spirit Game Lodge
- Aloe view rock lodge
- Amorello Bush Golf Lodge
- Backpacker & Camping
- Bayala Lodge
- Bayala Private Safari Lodges
- Bayete Private Lodge
- Campsite 19 & 20
- Campsite 21 & 22
- Campsite 23 & 24
- Dinizulu Lodge
- Dukandlovu Rustic Camp
- Emdoneni Lodge
- eMshopi Campsite
- Executive Camp sites (7-10)
- Ezulwini Game Lodge
- Fazala Game Park and Spa
- Forest Lodge - Phinda
- Gooderson Bushlands Game Lodge
- “Hlangana” camps sites (1-6)
- Hluhluwe River Lodge
- Intibane Lodge
- Lalapanzi Combo units
- Lalapanzi Deluxe Chalets
- Leopard Mountain Lodge
- Leopard Walk Lodge
- Malala Lodge
- Mantuma Camp
- Mapita Bush Lodge
- Mavela Game Lodge
- Mfula
- Mountain Lodge - Phinda
- Mziki Office
- Nhlonhlela Bush Lodge
- Queens Deck
- Rhino River Lodge
- Rhino Sands Lodge
- Rock Lodge - Phinda
- Sand Forest Lodge Camping Hluhluwe
- "The Oval" Executive Camp sites (11-16)
- Treehouse
- Ubizane Zululand Safari Lodge
- Ubizane Zululand Tree Lodge
- uMkhuze Environmental Camp
- uMkumbe Tented Bush Camp
- Vlei Lodge - Phinda
- Zebra Hills Lodge
- Zulu Nyala Game Lodge
- Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge