Pumba Private Game Reserve

Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Virgin 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
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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (2172)
  • Very good (194)
  • Average (37)
  • Poor (16)
  • Terrible (6)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Fascinating

Aug 30, 2024 patlarivee2016

Absolutely perfect in every aspect. I enjoyed every moment during my too short stay. I will be back next year for a few days stay.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Blown away by Pumba

Aug 30, 2024 626darrenc Wraysbury, United Kingdom

Couldn't fault a single thing about this visit. From the moment we arrived and were greeted at reception who sorted an issue (caused by the travel agent NOT Pumba) the experience exceeded our expectations. The staff, the accommodation, the main lodge, food, drink were all outstanding. Couldn't do enough for us. Special mention to Thomas our… Read more
Couldn't fault a single thing about this visit. From the moment we arrived and were greeted at reception who sorted an issue (caused by the travel agent NOT Pumba) the experience exceeded our expectations. The staff, the accommodation, the main lodge, food, drink were all outstanding. Couldn't do enough for us. Special mention to Thomas our ranger, outstanding knowledge and just speechless at the animals we were so fortunate to getup close and personal with. Highlight for me was the female Cheetah that we got to within around 20 feet of, just beautiful. Would love to come back one day, fingers crossed... Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating 5 Star Experience in all aspects

Aug 25, 2024 yoredavid Dundalk, Ireland

A completely luxurious experience from start to finish. The small touches are ever present, from the hot water bottles at night to the stove being lit as you're having your dinner. Food was delicious and fresh and all the staff were some of the most pleasant we met during our honeymoon in South Africa. Special mention to Ranger Thomas, and Lena… Read more
A completely luxurious experience from start to finish. The small touches are ever present, from the hot water bottles at night to the stove being lit as you're having your dinner. Food was delicious and fresh and all the staff were some of the most pleasant we met during our honeymoon in South Africa. Special mention to Ranger Thomas, and Lena also, whose knowledge and expertise is unbelievable. A truly magical place. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating The perfect safari!

Aug 25, 2024 HHAustin1991 Birmingham, United Kingdom

This place was incredible, the game drives were amazing. We saw so many incredible animals. We had the same ranger for each drive (which was great as we built a good relationship) and it was only us and one other couple meaning it did not feel overcrowded at all. There is no jostling for best positions with other vehicles to see the animals as the… Read more
This place was incredible, the game drives were amazing. We saw so many incredible animals. We had the same ranger for each drive (which was great as we built a good relationship) and it was only us and one other couple meaning it did not feel overcrowded at all. There is no jostling for best positions with other vehicles to see the animals as the rangers work with one another to ensure this doesn’t happen. The food was delicious, varied and high quality. It really was such a special experience. I would recommend to everyone. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating The most amazing place

Aug 22, 2024 Tour04118873963 Ilford, United Kingdom

Puma water lodge is insane. We stayed during our honeymoon for 3 nights. The rooms, the views, the game drives and restaurant are all 10/10. The staff throughout the lodge are friendly and on hand to help on any way. There is no better place to stay during the honeymoon. Mzee at the lodge was particularly helpful and so friendly. Our game driver… Read more
Puma water lodge is insane. We stayed during our honeymoon for 3 nights. The rooms, the views, the game drives and restaurant are all 10/10. The staff throughout the lodge are friendly and on hand to help on any way. There is no better place to stay during the honeymoon. Mzee at the lodge was particularly helpful and so friendly. Our game driver Denise was incredible. She was super knowledgeable and could spot animals miles away. Overall we had an unforgettable experience here. Thank you to everyone at pumba water lodge for making our honeymoon stay so good. Read less