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 2552 reviews
Rating summary
Location
Sleep Quality
Rooms
Service
Value
Cleanliness
Traveller rating
Excellent (2296)
Very good (195)
Average (39)
Poor (17)
Terrible (6)
Breathtaking
May 31, 2025emmawP6170MN
This place is simply breathtaking, Our whole experience was amazing from the wonderful staff, beautiful water lodge to our amazing ranger Sapho who ensured we saw all the favourites on our list. He never gave up and gave us quite simply the most exhilarating experience of our lives. Never did we think we would get so close to the animals. What a…
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This place is simply breathtaking, Our whole experience was amazing from the wonderful staff, beautiful water lodge to our amazing ranger Sapho who ensured we saw all the favourites on our list. He never gave up and gave us quite simply the most exhilarating experience of our lives. Never did we think we would get so close to the animals. What a truly magical time- thank you all we will most definitely be back
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A magical place!
May 30, 2025Beth12789London, United Kingdom
The highlight of our South Africa trip…
We spent 3 nights at Pumba and didn’t want to leave! Our room at Water Lodge was amazing with a stunning view overlooking the lake, the game drives were incredible with our knowledgable driver Nati, food amazing and the staff are so so friendly. The little extras make it so special, the hot water bottles…
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The highlight of our South Africa trip…
We spent 3 nights at Pumba and didn’t want to leave! Our room at Water Lodge was amazing with a stunning view overlooking the lake, the game drives were incredible with our knowledgable driver Nati, food amazing and the staff are so so friendly. The little extras make it so special, the hot water bottles for your morning drive, stories left on your bed in the evening - they think of everything. 100% recommend!!
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A little piece of Heaven
May 23, 2025ChantelleC109
This place has honestly stolen a little piece of our hearts. Its our down time, a dn everything from food, to service, to game drives and staff are nothing short of impeccable.
Outstanding from A-Z
May 22, 2025stephanruppen
Superb location, a large variety of great animals, you can go for a walking safari and when not on safari, you’ll get excellent service and food
Amazing hospitality
May 21, 2025sbraendli
Priceless to be surprised and joyfully amazed anew every 5 minutes and in so many loving details about the hospitality and wonders of nature.
We went to Pumba for the first time in 2014, fell in love, came back in 2025 with our children and at some point, if we have the opportunity, we'll go back again - our heart's desire!
Breathtaking