There are certain species that guests are more likely to encounter on Phinda than on many other reserves. Predators such as cheetah, lion and leopard are tracked on a daily basis, offering guests a high chance of spotting these impressive cats. Phinda is renowned for offering outstanding opportunities to view cheetah. The reserve also boasts one of the highest densities of nyala. Rhino enthusiasts may frequently encounter both the white rhino and the endangered black rhino. Herds of elephant and buffalo move throughout the reserve, and the sand forest is home to some rare smaller species, such as the suni and red duiker, as well as the red tonga squirrel.

The crown jewel of this ecologically diverse region, Phinda is home to a large portion of Africa’s remaining rare dry sand forest. Unmistakable even to the untrained botanist, this magical woodland abounds with massive trees, cacti, orchids, ferns, mosses and creepers. Creating a sheltered ecosystem of its own, this area is home to such species as the tiny suni, which is endemic to the area, the shy red duiker or the tonga red squirrel, as well as dozens of bird species. Phinda also supports three main types of savanna, allowing guests to see and experience a variety of habitats.

Of the two rivers that run through Phinda, the Munyawana is seasonal, reduced to a series of pools during the winter, while the Mzinene flows year-round. The two rivers, and the extensive marsh created at their junction, create even more diverse habitats that add to the variety of Phinda's animal and plant species. The wide floodplains of the Mzinene play host to one of the most easily distinguishable African trees - the fever tree. Known in Zulu as umHlosinga (the tree that shines from afar), this breathtaking tree creates a startling impression with its pale white bark and bright green foliage. Heard in this setting, the haunting call of the fish eagle creates an impression that cannot be easily erased.