Pumba Private Game Reserve

Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Virgin rating

Impala chalet at Water Lodge
Gemsbok Chalet at Water Lodge
Kudu Suite at Water Lodge
Water Lodge
Lodge Deck
Bush Lodge
Pool at Bush Lodge
Bush Lodge
Bush Lodge
Bush Lodge Chalet
Bush Lodge Chalet
A video preview image
Impala chalet at Water Lodge
Gemsbok Chalet at Water Lodge
Kudu Suite at Water Lodge
Water Lodge
Lodge Deck
Bush Lodge
Pool at Bush Lodge
Bush Lodge
Bush Lodge
Bush Lodge Chalet
Bush Lodge Chalet

The hotel

Set amidst the striking landscape of the malaria-free Eastern Cape, Pumba Private Game Reserve offers two fantastic luxury lodges, allowing guests to experience the beauty of the African wilderness in style. Pumba offers a rich biodiversity-filled 'Big Five' game viewing experience as well as reintroduction programme for the rare white lion and free-roaming leopard. Pumba is divided between Water Lodge and Bush Lodge, each boasting private timber decks with private plunge pools and outdoor shower. There is also a stunning swimming pool with sun deck to laze on and a thatched restaurant serving magnificent fusion cuisine under the stars with an Eastern Cape Flair, complemented by a fantastic selection of local wines. The kid’s safari program makes this the ideal choice for families too, creating memories for life.

Amenities

  • Safari
  • Bar
  • Fitness Centre/Gym
  • Laundry Service
  • Restaurant
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool

Where is it

In the malaria-free region of the Eastern Cape. Driving time from Port Elizabeth Airport: 1 hour 15 minutes.

Hotel information

Water Lodge – Overlooking the magnificent Lake Cariega, Water Lodge comprises 12 stone-walled thatched waterfront chalets leading off meandering footpaths. The Impala Chalets have private timber game-viewing decks with plunge pool and outdoor shower, underfloor heating, en-suite bathroom with free-standing bathtub, bathrobes, air-conditioning, fireplace, mini-bar, tea/coffee maker, telephone, safe, sleeping maximum 2 adults. 

Bush Lodge – Overlooking a small watering hole on a flood plain, guests can enjoy stunning mountain views at Bush Lodge. 11 exclusive glass-enclosed, thatched Msenge Chalets, each with en-suite bathroom and luxury bedrooms opening onto a private timber deck with private plunge pool and outdoor shower. All chalets have air-conditioning, ceiling fan, fireplace, mini-bar and hospitality tray, telephone, safe and sleep maximum 2 adults. 

All Inclusive of: all meals, tea/coffee, soft drinks, selected local beer, wine and mineral water. Two game-drives per day.

Water Lodge –Gemsbok Chalets are similar to the Impala Chalets and sleep maximum 2 adults and 2 children. The Kudu Suite is a 2 bedroom chalet with separate lounge area, a wraparound deck with private plunge pool and steam room. Both bedrooms have their own bathrooms, perfect for families or small groups, the Kudu Suite sleeps maximum 3 adults and 2 children or 4 adults.

Bush Lodge –  The Family Suite has 2 bedrooms perfect for families and couples travelling together and sleeps maximum 2 adults and 2 children or 4 adults.

Water Lodge and Bush Lodge both have their own restaurant with extensive wine lists, lounge, pool and sun deck and game-viewing deck. Water Lodge also has a waterfront floating pier and sundeck. Msenge Lodge has the Bush Bar, to enjoy a refreshing cocktail whilst game viewing. 'Kids on safari' programme. Soul Spa*. Gym. Gift shops*. Library. Laundry service*. Activities include: walking safaris*, archery, bass fishing, bird watching*, morning and afternoon game-drives. Picnics available on request. Complimentary WiFi.

* Denotes local charge.

Rating summary

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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (2131)
  • Very good (191)
  • Average (37)
  • Poor (16)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating The best holiday ever!

Apr 24, 2024 Hannah S Hawarden, United Kingdom

My husband and I have just returned from 6 nights at Pumba and we had the best time! It was our first ever safari experience and it’s safe to say we were not disappointed! We stayed at the water lodge and it was just breathtaking, the views, the rooms, the food everything was so beautiful. We had 2 game drives a day, we also did a bush walk and… Read more
My husband and I have just returned from 6 nights at Pumba and we had the best time! It was our first ever safari experience and it’s safe to say we were not disappointed! We stayed at the water lodge and it was just breathtaking, the views, the rooms, the food everything was so beautiful. We had 2 game drives a day, we also did a bush walk and a night drive which I would highly recommend. Our ranger Cleo is an absolute credit to Pumba, such a lovely guy, his knowledge was unreal there was not one question he couldn’t answer he knew everything! Each game drive was different and we saw everything possible and seeing all the different interactions was so interesting! We also had a beautiful massage at the spa and lunch at the bush lodge which was lovely to be able to experience both lodges during our stay. Thank you Pumba for making our stay so memorable! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating breathtaking time in nature

Apr 24, 2024 G6795KQdan

As Family with small kids, we felt so comftable and welcomed. The People are so friendly and makes almost everything (except the weather) possible. The rooms are well equiped and you can see from your window the animals.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Amazing.

Apr 21, 2024 Vmam36 Hurstpierpoint, United Kingdom

Just had a two night stay at this amazing resort. We wished firstly that we had booked a longer stay ( next time) our accommodation was beautiful so luxurious the staff without exception were kind helpful and always smiling. Big thank you to our guide Thomas what a guy! Our game drives were simply amazing and he does make rather a good gin and… Read more
Just had a two night stay at this amazing resort. We wished firstly that we had booked a longer stay ( next time) our accommodation was beautiful so luxurious the staff without exception were kind helpful and always smiling. Big thank you to our guide Thomas what a guy! Our game drives were simply amazing and he does make rather a good gin and tonic too. Without a doubt we will be back to this very special place. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Holiday heaven

Apr 16, 2024 Bill G Bury, United Kingdom

Just spent 3 nights here with my wife and I can honestly say it's the best holiday experience I have ever had. The combination of wild animals (6 game drives and saw so much!) the total luxury of the lodge and the quality of all the food and drink was outstanding! All the staff were so friendly, helpful and professional but special shout out… Read more
Just spent 3 nights here with my wife and I can honestly say it's the best holiday experience I have ever had. The combination of wild animals (6 game drives and saw so much!) the total luxury of the lodge and the quality of all the food and drink was outstanding! All the staff were so friendly, helpful and professional but special shout out to our ranger, Pums and maitre d, Mzee who were amazing! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Unforgettable experience. Mzi is a legend!!

Apr 6, 2024 LD29DEV

Unbelievable experience for our honeymoon. Mzi was our guide for all our game drives, his knowledge of all the animals and good humour made our trip unforgettable. The lodge offered a good variety of choice for each meal and the food was of great quality. We received a lovely welcome and some special touches to celebrate our honeymoon 😀. Our… Read more
Unbelievable experience for our honeymoon. Mzi was our guide for all our game drives, his knowledge of all the animals and good humour made our trip unforgettable. The lodge offered a good variety of choice for each meal and the food was of great quality. We received a lovely welcome and some special touches to celebrate our honeymoon 😀. Our room was spacious and well equipped, our only recommendation would be it could use a little modernisation. All staff were welcoming and very attentive. We were treated exceptionally well in Pumba, had the experience of a lifetime and would highly recommend it to anyone. Read less