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
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (2369)
  • Very good (196)
  • Average (41)
  • Poor (17)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Pumba

Feb 21, 2026 chrisdonkin

Excellent game reserve , fantastic staff and really interesting game drives. Well worth the visit , enjoy
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Amazing experience!

Feb 21, 2026 Amy F

Mzi our ranger was amazing and was and really made the whole experience truly unforgettable. All the staff were friendly and attentive
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Great experience

Feb 20, 2026 cp720976

Excellent accommodation and culinary experience and above all great game drives with knowledgable rangers. Couldn’t fault it
Image of the Tripadvisor rating White Lions and Cocktails - A fantastic place to stay with the best Game Drives ever.

Feb 19, 2026 Dave B Northallerton, United Kingdom

OH WOW. This was our final destination of our SA tour and did not disappoint. The view from the restaurant/eating area is sensational with views of Hippos and Elephants coming to the waterhole in front. We stayed in Lodge 2 and were plagued by the monkeys. Apparently lodge 1&2 are their favourites and we saw them using our pool everyday hahaha.… Read more
OH WOW. This was our final destination of our SA tour and did not disappoint. The view from the restaurant/eating area is sensational with views of Hippos and Elephants coming to the waterhole in front. We stayed in Lodge 2 and were plagued by the monkeys. Apparently lodge 1&2 are their favourites and we saw them using our pool everyday hahaha. you can't really use the deck area because of them, but we are in Africa and in the wild. the game drives were fantastic. We had Headman (his name) who had a fantastic nack of positioning the vehicle exactly where the animals would walk and we got some fantastic shots of everything. He was fantastic very knowledgable and always did his upmost for us to enjoy our drives. Unfortunately, we had a whinging Dutch couple on our vehicle who did nothing but complain if they didn't get to see what THEY wanted to see, irrespective of the others on the vehicle. Headman dealt with them in a very professional manner, he is a credit to Pumba. Loved the concept of the evening drinks before the end of the drive and also breafast coffee stood next to the vehicle watching Rhino. The whole team were great, warn and welcoming and nothing was any trouble whatsoever ever. 6* at least. The food and wine was absolutely top notch. Would definitely stay here again. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Safari at its best

Feb 17, 2026 Explore628202 Maidstone, United Kingdom

What an amazing few days. All the senses have been exposed to this experience. From the moment we arrived the team have looked after us. Nothing is too much trouble. Food has been amazing, views have been stunning, wildlife on top form! I cannot recommend this place enough. Thank you to John and all the team. Special mention for Lena our guide… Read more
What an amazing few days. All the senses have been exposed to this experience. From the moment we arrived the team have looked after us. Nothing is too much trouble. Food has been amazing, views have been stunning, wildlife on top form! I cannot recommend this place enough. Thank you to John and all the team. Special mention for Lena our guide for 7 drives. So knowledgeable and friendly. Makes an amazing G&T too. Read less