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.


Please note: Meal plan inclusions are defined by the hotel and are subject to change at any time without notice.

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
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (2417)
  • Very good (198)
  • Average (43)
  • Poor (18)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Fantastic Experience

Aug 29, 2026 Sunshine806891

We had such a fantastic stay at Pumba Game Reserve. From the moment we arrived, the service was excellent. All of the staff were incredibly kind and friendly, and nothing ever felt like too much trouble. There was never any waiting around for anything. The reserve itself is beautiful, and the communal areas are absolutely stunning. Coming back… Read more
We had such a fantastic stay at Pumba Game Reserve. From the moment we arrived, the service was excellent. All of the staff were incredibly kind and friendly, and nothing ever felt like too much trouble. There was never any waiting around for anything. The reserve itself is beautiful, and the communal areas are absolutely stunning. Coming back from a game drive to see the fires roaring was particularly special and really added to the atmosphere. Our room was very well equipped and was serviced several times throughout the day. The evening turn-down service, including a lit fire and hot water bottles, was such a lovely touch on a chilly evening. The mini bar was also very well stocked and there was everything we needed. The room itself is starting to feel a little tired in places, but the location, facilities, surroundings and level of service more than made up for this. We also used the gym and spa during our stay. I had an amazing treatment at the spa, which was incredibly relaxing and exceptional value for money. I would definitely recommend making use of the spa while you are there. Of course, the main reason for visiting Pumba is the wildlife, and this was absolutely incredible. From the moment you arrive, you are seeing animals everywhere. We saw wildlife from our lodge, during dinner and even heard the animals throughout the night. It was such an amazing experience and something we will never forget. The game drives were a real highlight, and our ranger, Denise, was exceptional. She had an incredible amount of knowledge about the reserve, the animals, plants and birds. She did everything she could to give us the best possible opportunities to see as much as possible, while always making sure we were comfortable and getting the experience we wanted. It was very clear that Denise genuinely loves the animals and understands their behaviour so well. She knew how to approach and observe them safely without disturbing or unsettling them, which made the game drives even more special. Denise added so much to our experience and is a real asset to the ranger team. We will never forget our time at Pumba. A huge thank you to all of the staff for the hard work that goes on around the clock. The effort everyone puts in to go above and beyond really did not go unnoticed. If you are considering booking a safari, we would absolutely recommend Pumba. We had an incredible experience and would love to return one day. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating A Great Family Holiday

Aug 27, 2026 redsi Bury, United Kingdom

We had a great time as a family. The safaris are amazing, but the place is so much more. We stayed at the Water Lodge, we were a group of 7 of mixed ages and it was great. Our Ranger was Wesly and he went above and beyond. On one game drive we managed to see 4 of the big 5. Thanks to all the staff as well who were superb.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating SA&MR AFRICA26

Aug 25, 2026 susan374anderson

Excellent trip, couldn’t ask for more. Very welcoming staff, they couldn’t do enough for you. Witnessed some breathtaking moments with the animals. The rangers obviously know their area and animals.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating FASCINATING

Aug 23, 2026 siobhan b

Pumba game reserve was incredible. Myself and my husband Sean went for our honeymoon. We’re from Ireland and to have the opportunity to see such gorgeous animals such as the rhino, elephant, lion , hippo, buffalo, different species of birds and much more was something else. Staff were excellent especially our ranger Cleo. That man is so… Read more
Pumba game reserve was incredible. Myself and my husband Sean went for our honeymoon. We’re from Ireland and to have the opportunity to see such gorgeous animals such as the rhino, elephant, lion , hippo, buffalo, different species of birds and much more was something else. Staff were excellent especially our ranger Cleo. That man is so intelligent and such good craic. He taught us so much about the animals and his love and passion for the animals is so refreshing and beautiful to see. Accommodation was beautiful and clean, we stayed in the water lodge. We did the archery which was fun even though we weren’t great at it. We got 4 game drives in in total but in the future when we’re back (which will definitely happen) we will stay longer. I cried leaving the place. It surpassed my expectations and Cleo thank you so much for showing us the preservation and beautiful animals of South Africa. From Siobhan & Sean from Wexford , Ireland 🇮🇪 Go raibh míle maith agat Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Absolutely amazing stay

Aug 23, 2026 Discover748517

The service was amazing. The rooms were beautiful and we had the most incredible staff. Would definitely recommend. Lena was an absolutely amazing guide and we really enjoyed all our game drives.