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.
Based on 2572 reviews
Rating summary
Location
Sleep Quality
Rooms
Service
Value
Cleanliness
Traveller rating
Excellent (2313)
Very good (196)
Average (39)
Poor (17)
Terrible (6)
Top Class Safari Experince
Aug 10, 2025srplattWatkinsville, Georgia
This is my second safari, but my first time with Pumba. This was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The staff and rangers could not be more accommodating and hospitable. We were a large party of 8, and this did not trouble the staff at all. The quality of the accommodation is phenomenal and the food was delicious each time. The…
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This is my second safari, but my first time with Pumba. This was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The staff and rangers could not be more accommodating and hospitable. We were a large party of 8, and this did not trouble the staff at all. The quality of the accommodation is phenomenal and the food was delicious each time. The surroundings were outstanding with amazing views from our lodge and the restaurant. I really would recommend this place for a great safari experience.
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Honeymoon Dreams
Aug 8, 2025donnakerfoxSaint Francis Bay, South Africa
I highly recommend Pumba, the staff are absolutely out of this world...food was always amazing and the perfect place to escape relax and enjoy the tranquility it has to offer.
Exceptional
Aug 4, 2025RyanMcHendrie
We recently stayed at the sublime Kudu Suite at Pumba Bush Lodge. From the moment we arrived to the moment we checked out we were met with exceptional service.
A fabulous place to stay
Jul 26, 2025Candy4366Bangor, United Kingdom
We were blown away from the moment we arrived.The attention to detail and quality of accommodation is fabulous.
Every member of staff we encountered couldn’t have been more helpful.
The game drives are the highlight. We saw so many animals at such close quarters.
This was a dream end to a fabulous holiday in South Africa.
Pumba, one for the books
Jul 23, 2025lindibothPort Elizabeth, South Africa
A stay we'll never forgot. This was truely a memory to last us a lifetime. Great service from the minute we arrived. 10/10 from us
Top Class Safari Experince