Pumba Private Game Reserve

Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Star 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

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Value Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Cleanliness Image of the Tripadvisor rating

Traveller rating

  • Excellent (2323)
  • Very good (196)
  • Average (40)
  • Poor (17)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating The most special experience in the most special of places

Sep 12, 2025 Amy H

Pumba is truly a magical place, and we feel so privileged to have spent our honeymoon in this beautiful paradise. From start to finish, we have been made to feel so welcome, and every day spent here has created amazing memories that we will cherish for the rest of our lives. We stayed in one of the large chalets at the water lodge, where… Read more
Pumba is truly a magical place, and we feel so privileged to have spent our honeymoon in this beautiful paradise. From start to finish, we have been made to feel so welcome, and every day spent here has created amazing memories that we will cherish for the rest of our lives. We stayed in one of the large chalets at the water lodge, where everything feels luxury and grounded at the same time. A quality that is difficult to achieve, but ensures that the experience remains authentic in the best way. Our chalet overlooked the nearby lake, where we would watch hippos, baboons, and bushbuck bathe in the glistening sunshine. Monkeys visited often to play & tease, and bring so much joy to our lazy afternoons. The chalet itself is huge, decorated lovingly, and very comfortable. We slept so peacefully, listening to the echoes of wildlife beneath the stars. Food & drink is excellent, with plenty of variety, freshness and flavour. We enjoyed each meal immensely, and adored the inclusion of local ingredients such as meat, fish, cheese, vegetables, and fruits. The staff are fabulous! They are so attentative and personable, and it really feels like they love Pumba, and love to share the experience with guests. The most special of the staff are of course the rangers, who take you on twice daily game drives (in the morning and early evening). We were fortunate enough to have Nathi as our ranger for the entirety of our stay. We will be eternally grateful for the special moments his guidance created. He showed us each of the animals like they were his friends that he visited as often as possible, showing the mutual respect between himself and the wildlife. His knowledge and passion for the animals is inspiring. He truly is a credit to himself and to Pumba. Thank you all for the most special experience in the most special of places. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Reasonable reserve

Sep 9, 2025 Joanna A Singapore, Singapore

It’s only ok not wow wow. Water lodge was certainly better lodge like service and room and staff but no gym. Too far to travel for gym. Should have a gym in both
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Awesome experience from start to finish

Sep 6, 2025 wingchunsifu Droitwich, United Kingdom

We spent 5 nights here and loved every minute and everything about this place. Stayed in lodge 10, Gemsbok water lodge. The lodge is fabulous, everything you could need and a view to die for. Our game drive guide Philip was amazing, extremely knowledgable, caring about conservation, the wildlife and the customer experience. He made our stay. I… Read more
We spent 5 nights here and loved every minute and everything about this place. Stayed in lodge 10, Gemsbok water lodge. The lodge is fabulous, everything you could need and a view to die for. Our game drive guide Philip was amazing, extremely knowledgable, caring about conservation, the wildlife and the customer experience. He made our stay. I cannot recommend this game reserve and Philip enough. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Amazing stay

Sep 5, 2025 a414 Kent, United Kingdom

Lena really made our stay magical with the game drives where we saw so many animals including the lioness and her cubs. Philip was great on the walk. Staff are dedicated to making our stay memorable and took note of all the small details.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Amazing reserve, accommodation and location. Superb wildlife and conservation

Sep 3, 2025 zoeplatts

Pumba's passion and knowledge for conservation alongside luxury accommodation in a beautiful setting with incredible staff made our stay perfect. Would leave 10 star rating if we could! Highly recommend