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 (2349)
  • Very good (196)
  • Average (41)
  • Poor (17)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Book it now! You won’t be disappointed.

Nov 19, 2025 dee140183 Norwich, United Kingdom

I honestly don’t know how to explain our experience of Pumba to do it justice. We have just returned and I had high expectations. I can honestly say that it exceeded these. We stayed in the 2 bedroom lodge in water lodge. The lodge is beautiful and they really have thought of everything. Such a comfortable and breath taking stay. Our view of the… Read more
I honestly don’t know how to explain our experience of Pumba to do it justice. We have just returned and I had high expectations. I can honestly say that it exceeded these. We stayed in the 2 bedroom lodge in water lodge. The lodge is beautiful and they really have thought of everything. Such a comfortable and breath taking stay. Our view of the watering hole was fantastic and woke up one morning to see hippos! We did 7 game drives over 4 days and saw 4 of the big 5. Unfortunately no leopard. Each game drive provided a different experience for us and our ranger was so knowledgeable and hospitable. Loved the bush bar - best hot chocolate I have ever had! The food was great, service good and we felt safe at all times. If you are looking for an amazing safari experience then look no further. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Heaven on earth

Nov 19, 2025 metrosfrosts

Pumba was simply amongst the best times of our lives. From start to finish we had an amazing time. All the staff were super friendly, attentive and generally outstanding. The bush lodge was what dreams were made of, if you have ever pictured authentic Safari then this will deliver. The game drives and rangers were excellent, getting super up close… Read more
Pumba was simply amongst the best times of our lives. From start to finish we had an amazing time. All the staff were super friendly, attentive and generally outstanding. The bush lodge was what dreams were made of, if you have ever pictured authentic Safari then this will deliver. The game drives and rangers were excellent, getting super up close with animals and learning so much. Coffee, snacks and drinks each morning and afternoon game drive overlooking the entire area were incredible highlights. We wished we had stayed much longer. We will 100% be back. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Excellent Safaris and Accommodations

Nov 18, 2025 markk752025 Fort Collins, Colorado

We recently stayed at Pumba Water Lodge in an Impala Suite. The room was large, very nice, and well stocked. The decor fit the Game Reserve theme well. The food at the Lodge was very good with good variety and the wine and drink selections were very good as well. We stayed four nights and went on eight safaris. Each safari was entirely different… Read more
We recently stayed at Pumba Water Lodge in an Impala Suite. The room was large, very nice, and well stocked. The decor fit the Game Reserve theme well. The food at the Lodge was very good with good variety and the wine and drink selections were very good as well. We stayed four nights and went on eight safaris. Each safari was entirely different in what animals we saw and where they were found. We even saw the immediate after effects of several lion kills and one kill only about 30 feet away from our Land Rover! Our guide was Lana who was very knowledgeable, an excellent driver, and she answered everyone's questions well. After every safari, we were met with warm towels in the reception office which was a nice touch and a great way to end each safari. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Fantastic experience

Nov 17, 2025 neilsI2497CA

Everything we had hoped for - lovely spacious accommodation with great views of the lake. Great game drives with up close sightings of everything we wanted. The staff were exceptional.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Pumba water fabulous but watch the clwaners they steal from your room when your not there

Nov 11, 2025 C6087WDdavidh Burscough, United Kingdom

The reserve and the drives were fabulous. The staff were mainly superb however the cleaning staff left a very sour taste to our stay. Not once but twice stole cash from our room and the room for our sister in law. The manager was informed after the first incident and it happened the following day as well. The amount taken was not huge to us but… Read more
The reserve and the drives were fabulous. The staff were mainly superb however the cleaning staff left a very sour taste to our stay. Not once but twice stole cash from our room and the room for our sister in law. The manager was informed after the first incident and it happened the following day as well. The amount taken was not huge to us but was a lot to the staff. Managerment were not very interested in sorting this out Read less