"The Getty-financed Phinda, featuring four camps spread over 23,000 private hectares of the Phinda Private Game Reserve boasts not only the Big Seven – but whales too along the coast. There are seven ‘biomes’ on the property, so the vegetation – and thus the creatures – are extremely varied. Great for a first safari, to see all the game. Rock Lodge is the smallest and most intimate, offering a chance to see both conservation and community in action, as well as go on a slickly-run safari. It’s a small, intimate, and cosy cliff-top camp. Architecture is more Mexican than African, but when you’re on the cliffside, looking from the balcony, it doesn’t matter. The views are gorgeous. Rooms are spacious, comfortable and have all the basics, including a private balcony with plunge pool and outdoor showers which offer one of the best bathroom views anywhere. " - Lisa Grainger