Queens Deck - Phinda Game Reserve

Discover Queens Deck, nestled within South Africa's renowned Phinda Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. This

Location
Phinda Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal Bush & Coast, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-28.066286, 32.332413
Activities
camp

PlnrScore: 34/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

2497 species observed within 20 km, 58 mammals, 323 birds.

  • Nyala (Mammalia, 211 observations)
  • African Red Toad (Amphibia, 157 observations)
  • Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 148 observations)
  • Impala (Mammalia, 140 observations)
  • Southern Giraffe (Mammalia, 137 observations)
  • African Caper (Insecta, 133 observations)
  • White Rhinoceros (Mammalia, 123 observations)
  • African Striped Skink (Reptilia, 122 observations)
  • Common Wildebeest (Mammalia, 118 observations)
  • Tropical House Gecko (Reptilia, 104 observations)

Best Time to Visit Queens Deck

The best months to visit Queens Deck 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

When is the optimal time to visit Queens Deck for the best wildlife viewing experience?

The dry winter months, from May to September, are generally considered ideal for game viewing at Queens Deck, as vegetation is sparse and animals congregate around water sources. However, the 'green season' from October to April offers lush landscapes, migratory birds, and excellent opportunities for seeing newborn animals.

What unique activities or experiences, beyond standard game drives, does Queens Deck offer within Phinda Game Reserve?

Queens Deck provides access to Phinda's diverse offerings, including unique experiences like rhino tracking on foot and specialist photographic safaris. Due to Phinda's proximity to the coast, guests can also arrange ocean safaris, offering opportunities to snorkel with whale sharks or witness turtle nesting in season.

What is typically included in the cost of a stay at Queens Deck, and what additional expenses should I budget for?

A stay at Queens Deck generally includes luxury tented accommodation, all meals, local beverages, and two daily game drives with expert rangers. Guests should budget for premium brand alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, curio shop purchases, gratuities, and any specialized activities like scenic flights or ocean safaris.

What specific safety measures are in place for guests at Queens Deck, given its location in a wildlife-rich area?

Queens Deck prioritizes guest safety with 24-hour security, including armed rangers who accompany all game drives and escort guests to and from their tents after dark. Comprehensive briefings on wildlife protocols are provided upon arrival, and guests are always advised to follow staff instructions for their well-being within the unfenced camp environment.

Beyond the Big Five, what unique wildlife encounters can guests at Queens Deck expect to see in Phinda Game Reserve?

Phinda is particularly renowned for its exceptional cheetah sightings and a strong population of black rhino, offering unique viewing opportunities not always guaranteed elsewhere. Guests at Queens Deck also frequently encounter rare species like the shy suni antelope, diverse birdlife, and can even experience marine safaris to see turtles or dolphins due to the reserve's proximity to the Indian Ocean.

Other Safari Lodges in Phinda Game Reserve

Parks in KwaZulu-Natal Bush & Coast

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa