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

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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (2360)
  • Very good (196)
  • Average (41)
  • Poor (17)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Fabulous Safari

Jan 22, 2026 schevi938736 London, United Kingdom

We have just returned from An amazing stay, this safari is incredible, a truly memorable experience we loved every minute of it
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Outstanding Game Reserve

Jan 22, 2026 claremapp

From arriving at Pumba, our two night stay was wonderful. We arrived at reception, Filled in our forms, had a welcome drink and waited to be taken to water lodge. On our drive there we were lucky enough to see a family of elephants. Our room wasn't quite ready so we had a beautiful lunch overlooking the watering hole where I saw my first Hippo!… Read more
From arriving at Pumba, our two night stay was wonderful. We arrived at reception, Filled in our forms, had a welcome drink and waited to be taken to water lodge. On our drive there we were lucky enough to see a family of elephants. Our room wasn't quite ready so we had a beautiful lunch overlooking the watering hole where I saw my first Hippo! Having done two safaris prior to this and never seeing a Hippo, I was overjoyed! When we had lunch and were taken to our room, it was beautiful, Room 12 a two bedroom suite with plunge pool on the deck overlooking the watering hole. We spent the afternoon there before going on our first drive. Our Ranger Phum was brilliant! Over the course of our two days, we saw lions (many times) giraffes, rhino, elephants, buffalo, monkeys and may different antelopes, had sundowners and morning coffee with Amarula! Everything about this place was nothing short of outstanding and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend and hope to return some day, well done Pumba! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Pumba is a must

Jan 20, 2026 Linda B

We had the most amazing safari experience in Pumba Game Reserve. From the moment we arrived it was magical, seeing wildlife from the moment we entered to the morning we left. The accommodation was beautiful, a thatched lodge, very private, with a plunge pool on the decking and overlooking the large waterhole lake. Our driver and game expert… Read more
We had the most amazing safari experience in Pumba Game Reserve. From the moment we arrived it was magical, seeing wildlife from the moment we entered to the morning we left. The accommodation was beautiful, a thatched lodge, very private, with a plunge pool on the decking and overlooking the large waterhole lake. Our driver and game expert Mabhuti was fabulous, making sure we enjoyed every moment. He was so knowledgeable about the animals and obviously loved his job. From the early morning drive to the afternoon one, he kept us entertained with his stories and expertise. The food was exceptional and all the staff were lovely, nothing was too much trouble. It was a truly magical experience. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Perfect Pumba

Jan 17, 2026 Neil C Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Fabulous from start to finish. Our guide, Wesley appeared to be able to conjure up drama and intrigue at every turn. The food was good and the rooms were well appointed, and everything worked. We were however kept up by a lion roaring right out side our lodge one evening…magic!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Magical

Jan 15, 2026 Claire N London, United Kingdom

Our stay was magical from start to finish. The staff could not do enough to help, the food was lovely and the game drives were quite breath-taking. We can't recommend this place more highly.