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
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (2343)
  • Very good (196)
  • Average (40)
  • Poor (17)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Amazing place!

Nov 7, 2025 Za H Arlon

It wasn't our first experience but we're still amazed. Everything was perfect, from accomodation to food quality and drives with as always a very skilled guide. So it wasn't our last visit either :)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating If I could give more than 5 stars I would

Oct 31, 2025 W1127TDkimm Dun Laoghaire, Ireland

The Pumba Bush lodge was the highlight of our trip to South Africa. The lodges are stunning and we had one with a great view of the watering hole. You can shower and look at the animals there. Out of this world. The staff couldn't be nicer and go out of their way to do anything for you. There is so much to do when not on game drives I would… Read more
The Pumba Bush lodge was the highlight of our trip to South Africa. The lodges are stunning and we had one with a great view of the watering hole. You can shower and look at the animals there. Out of this world. The staff couldn't be nicer and go out of their way to do anything for you. There is so much to do when not on game drives I would advice you to take advantage of everything the lodge has to offer from the SPA to night games drives and the very special trip to Seven Fountains where the local children in the school and creche stole our heart putting on special performances for us. Mabhuse our game driver was exceptional he was so much fun and greeted us with a beaming smile and hot water bottles every morning. We saw so much with him over our 3 days. I was in awe of how close we were able to get to the animals. A life changing experience for an animal lover like myself. The food and wine were really good quality, even with me not eating meat there was always something tasty to have, even on the game drives with the yummy snacks. You definitely won't go hungry and staff will put what you want in the bar in your room. Lovely touch lighting the fire for us in the evening. It was such a special trip and I will definitely return. Well done Pumba. Kim and Ali x Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating An Unforgettable Stay at Pumba Game Reserve

Oct 29, 2025 Ryan N

Our stay at Pumba Private Game Reserve was exceptional. The location is absolutely breathtaking making you feel immersed in nature. It’s a great combination of luxury and wilderness. The accommodation was great and beautifully maintained. The rooms were spacious, comfortable, and offered the most peaceful atmosphere, complete with stunning views… Read more
Our stay at Pumba Private Game Reserve was exceptional. The location is absolutely breathtaking making you feel immersed in nature. It’s a great combination of luxury and wilderness. The accommodation was great and beautifully maintained. The rooms were spacious, comfortable, and offered the most peaceful atmosphere, complete with stunning views over the bush. Cleanliness throughout the lodge was impeccable. The food was delicious, fresh, and beautifully presented. The game drives were amazing. The ranger was knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring that every drive was exciting and informative. We were lucky enough to see an incredible variety of wildlife, including four of the Big Five, and the sundowners in the bush were moments we’ll never forget. The spa experience was equally wonderful — serene, professional, and deeply relaxing. The treatments were top-quality. Every staff member we encountered was friendly. We highly recommend for couples seeking a perfect mix of luxury, adventure, and tranquility. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Pemba Game Reserve was the pinnacle of our holiday in South Africa

Oct 26, 2025 gilliano646

We were met at reception and from that moment onwards the experience, the service from the staff , the accommodation and food was excellent. Nothing was too much trouble. The lodges over-look the lake with each lodge having a plunge pool and outdoor shower on their verandah. The bedroom and lounge area are well accessorised and the bathroom is… Read more
We were met at reception and from that moment onwards the experience, the service from the staff , the accommodation and food was excellent. Nothing was too much trouble. The lodges over-look the lake with each lodge having a plunge pool and outdoor shower on their verandah. The bedroom and lounge area are well accessorised and the bathroom is large and has a view of the lake. The choice of food and wine is varied and tasty. The waiters and waitresses are brilliant - attentive but not intrusive and very helpful. The only issue we had was that both the restaurant and the outside seating area was very smokey from the fires lit at night to heat the rooms. The game drives were amazing. Our ranger was Headman and he was superb - we saw a variety of animals and he explained about their habitats, foods eaten and how they interact with other animals. He also provided an archery class which we enjoyed and a stargazing class. A very talented ranger, a good communicator and a great sense of humour. Headman made our game drives very enjoyable. I had a massage at the spa which again was excellent, but feel if you have a spa area you need to offer a little more than a treatment - would be nice to have a jacuzzi or steam room. Had a fabulous 3 night stay and would definitely visit again. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating SERENITY & EXCITEMENT ALL IN ONE PLACE

Oct 26, 2025 Resort34411557979 Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom

We were retuning guests (first visit March 2019) and prior to Covid. Pumba did not disappoint the second time around in fact, I'd go to say our experience was improved. In particular, our amazing Ranger Cleo clinched it. His local knowledge empathy understanding diligence and his eloquent manner, made for an exceptional stay. The standard of… Read more
We were retuning guests (first visit March 2019) and prior to Covid. Pumba did not disappoint the second time around in fact, I'd go to say our experience was improved. In particular, our amazing Ranger Cleo clinched it. His local knowledge empathy understanding diligence and his eloquent manner, made for an exceptional stay. The standard of the lodges and public areas where, again, spacious whilst cosy and atmospheric, immaculately maintained and clean. We visited Water Lodge during our stay - purely out of curiosity, and was 100% with our Bush Lodge choice, heaven. Read less