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Pumba Water Lodge, Eastern Cape | Timbuktu Travel
Eastern Cape

Pumba Water Lodge

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About Pumba Water Lodge

Safari ease and Big Five authenticity on a private reserve in the Eastern Cape.
Pumba Private Game Reserve's relative ease of access (it's just an hour's drive from Port Elizabeth) makes it a fabulous safari option for travellers on a time budget, but it's also a great option for those looking for an authentic Big Five experience in a beautiful setting. In the heart of the reserve is Water Lodge, perched on a rise overlooking Lake Cariega with expansive vistas of the rolling thicket and shrub-filled habitat. The network of boardwalks and staircases running between the lodge and the chalets give it the feel of a treehouse-cum-palace and, fittingly, the attentive staff make you feel like royalty.
Port Elizabeth , Eastern Cape , South Africa
From $650 per person/per night
Safari
12 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The massive thatched main area has many peaks and perches and a broad deck to enjoy the outdoors, whilst the umbrella-dotted deck and small pool are ideal for midday relaxing. A long staircase leads down to the water level and a dock from which canoes are launched. The immense space of the main lounge and dining room is made more intimate with separate sitting areas, one of which has a lovely, free-standing fireplace. Mostly private dining takes place indoors or out on the deck, which is strewn with glowing lanterns by night.

The rooms

The 12 stone chalets are strewn on either side of the main area, peering over the lake. Each is a private oasis, with spacious interiors and excellent exteriors that include a large deck, plunge pool and outdoor shower. Eight of the suites sleep two guests in king sized beds and have ensuite bathrooms with a free-standing tub and shower. The Gemsbok Chalet is a tad more luxurious with a sunken lounge, daybed and a bit more space. The two-bedroom Kudu Suite has a shared central lounge and two spacious bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and outside, you'll find the exceptional addition of a steam room.

Activities

This little reserve holds a bounty of remarkable game, varied habitats and activities. Besides conventional game drives, you can enjoy guided walks, bass fishing, archery and night drives to look for lesser-seen species like brown hyena, pangolin and aardwolf. There are several conservation projects on Pumba worth inquiring about, including the white lion and leopard projects. And, if you're in need of some serious relaxation or just in the mood to pamper, the on-site spa has all you need make it happen.
Why we love it

Why we love it

The superb game that includes rhino, elephant, cheetah, lion (including a rare genetic white lion), buffalo, leopard giraffe, hippo, hyena...
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Both the reserve and the lodge have strong sustainability ethics, encompassing everything from water conservation to the rehabilitation of wildlife.
Something to think about

Something to think about

All rooms overlook the lake but rooms furthest from the lodge offer the most privacy and sense of seclusion, doing justice to the stunning surrounds.
Trips

Eastern Cape Tours & Trips

Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch

The Garden Route and a spot of safari in South Africa
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The Garden Route and a spot of safari in South Africa

11 nights from $7.1K per person

Alternative Garden Route
South Africa

Alternative Garden Route

12 nights from $4.3K per person

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How to book Pumba Water Lodge

How do I book Pumba Water Lodge?

Pumba Water Lodge can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Pumba Water Lodge or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Pumba Water Lodge?

Stays at Pumba Water Lodge start from around $650 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Pumba Water Lodge

South Africa

Eastern Cape

A tip top safari destination with a cultural heart within reach of Cape Town and the Garden Route.