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 (2353)
  • Very good (196)
  • Average (41)
  • Poor (17)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Absolutely incredible experience

Dec 22, 2025 Matt H

My wife and I spent 4 night at a water lodge at Pumba. It was our first safari and we were not disappointed. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, we were treated amazingly well and the staff couldn’t have done enough for us. The hospitality was exceptional, the food was incredible, the staff were so friendly and our ranger, Wes, was… Read more
My wife and I spent 4 night at a water lodge at Pumba. It was our first safari and we were not disappointed. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, we were treated amazingly well and the staff couldn’t have done enough for us. The hospitality was exceptional, the food was incredible, the staff were so friendly and our ranger, Wes, was amazing. So knowledgeable and made our game drives unforgettable. Do not hesitate to book Pumba if you are thinking about it, you will not be disappointed. I do not have a single bad thing to say. I only wish I could’ve spend more time there and cannot wait to go back one day hopefully! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating 3 Night stay

Dec 20, 2025 oliverwittekind Fritzlar, Germany

It’s absolut amazing there. We want to come back when our child is older. So much better than other Game lodges.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Breathtaking

Dec 5, 2025 tonir396 Surre

No words to describe how stunning this place is! Wonderful people, fabulous service, lovely food, fantastic ranger/game drives. Just perfect!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Fantastic time at Pumba

Nov 21, 2025 DebWNottm Nottingham, United Kingdom

Pumba was recommended to us and it didn’t disappoint. Everything from the moment we checked in was fantastic. We stayed in a Bush Lodge as the Water Lodges were taken but this didn’t disappoint, we saw many animals from our lodge including occasionally elephants and giraffes. Mzi was our ranger and he was great, very easy to get on with and a good… Read more
Pumba was recommended to us and it didn’t disappoint. Everything from the moment we checked in was fantastic. We stayed in a Bush Lodge as the Water Lodges were taken but this didn’t disappoint, we saw many animals from our lodge including occasionally elephants and giraffes. Mzi was our ranger and he was great, very easy to get on with and a good sense of humour, we thoroughly enjoyed being with him. We saw lots of animals and really enjoyed the game drives. Everyone who worked at Pumba welcoming, helpful and friendly. Our lodge was lovely. As the Water Lodges & Bush Lodges are far apart there are separate restaurants so it was nice that it didn’t feel too busy with many people. The food was delicious. We would definitely recommend Pumba. Read less
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