Pumba Safari Holidays
Pumba Private Game Reserve is a luxurious safari destination situated in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The reserve spans over 6,000 hectares of pristine wilderness and boasts an impressive collection of wildlife, including the ‘Big 5’ as well as a variety of bird species.
FREEDOM’s South Africa Travel Experts answer your most frequently asked questions about Pumba Private Came Reserve…
What makes Pumba Game Reserve different from other Eastern Cape reserves?
Pumba Game Reserve stands out for its emphasis on exclusivity and intimate safari experiences. With just three lodges accommodating a maximum of 54 guests across the entire 6,000-hectare reserve, you’ll rarely encounter other vehicles on game drives. This means more flexibility to spend time with wildlife sightings and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Is Pumba Game Reserve malaria free?
Yes, Pumba Game Reserve is entirely malaria-free, so there’s no need for antimalarial tablets or preventative medication. This is one of the significant advantages of choosing an Eastern Cape safari over destinations like Kruger National Park or the Masai Mara.
How do I get to Pumba Game Reserve?
Pumba is easily accessible, located approximately one hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth airport. Most guests fly into Port Elizabeth and arrange a road transfer to the reserve, which can be pre-booked by your personal Travel Consultant.
The scenic drive takes you through the Eastern Cape countryside, building anticipation for your safari adventure. Alternatively, if you’re self-driving along the Garden Route, Pumba makes an excellent addition to your itinerary, positioned conveniently between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown.
Which lodge at Pumba is best for Me?
Your ideal Pumba lodge depends on your travel style and group composition.
- Water Lodge, the flagship property, offers a luxury experience with private plunge pools and butler service, perfect for honeymooners and special celebrations.
- Msenge Bush Lodge caters brilliantly to families, with spacious family suites, a swimming pool, and a relaxed atmosphere where children are genuinely welcomed.
- Pumba Safari Lodge provides an intimate retreat for couples or small groups seeking a traditional tented safari experience.
When is the best time to visit Pumba Game Reserve?
Pumba delivers superb game viewing throughout the year, though each season offers something different.
Winter (May to September) is traditionally considered peak safari season, the dry conditions mean animals concentrate around water sources, vegetation is thinner making spotting easier, and comfortable temperatures make for pleasant game drives.
Summer (October to April) brings dramatic landscapes with lush greenery, newborn animals taking their first steps, and occasional, spectacular, afternoon storms. Birdwatchers particularly love summer when migratory species arrive.
Are walking safaris offered at Pumba Game Reserve?
Guided bush walks are one of Pumba’s highlights, offering an entirely different perspective on the African wilderness. Walking safaris allow you to slow down and appreciate the intricate details, such as animal tracks, medicinal plants, insects, and the smaller creatures that you’d miss from a vehicle.
Your expert ranger and tracker will share their extensive bush knowledge whilst ensuring your safety. Walks typically take place in the cooler early morning hours and last around two to three hours.
What is the food like at Pumba Game Reserve?
The cuisine at Pumba is exceptional, with each lodge offering gourmet meals that rival top restaurants. Expect contemporary South African dishes showcasing local ingredients, complemented by excellent Cape wines. Expect bush breakfasts after morning drives, leisurely lunches, afternoon high tea before evening drives, and romantic dinners under the stars or in elegant dining rooms. Dietary requirements are carefully accommodated with advance notice. The bush braai (barbecue) evenings are particularly memorable, combining traditional South African hospitality with delicious flame-grilled cuisine in atmospheric outdoor settings.
Can we book Pumba as part of a longer South African holiday?
Definitely, and this is how most visitors experience Pumba. The reserve fits beautifully into a classic South African itinerary. A typical routing includes Cape Town (3-4 nights), a leisurely drive, or tour, along the Garden Route with stops in wine regions, coastal towns and scenic highlights (4-5 nights), then Pumba Game Reserve for your ‘Big 5’ safari (2-3 nights) before flying home from Port Elizabeth. This creates a wonderfully varied holiday combining culture, scenery, beaches, wine and wildlife.
Next Steps…
If you have any further questions about Pumba Private Game Reserve safaris or would like to book one of our Pumba safaris, please get in touch.
Our Africa Experts have first-hand knowledge of South Africa’s National Parks, reserves and safari lodges and would love to help you plan your adventure.
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