Pumba Water Lodge
African Inspired Safaris – Inspired to take you there
ABOUT
Pumba Water Lodge
Why This
Inspires Us
- Pumba Private Game Reserve is set in a malaria-free corner of the Eastern Cape (a proud member of the Green Leaf Conservation Initiative), and provides an intimate African safari experience – never to be forgotten!
- We love the waterfront chalets that overlook (literally!) Lake Kariega which in fact is home to a pod of hippos! Imagine waking up to the sound of hippos outside the room in the mornings – just so surreal!
- Each chalet boasts an outside deck with simply breathtaking views and a plunge pool (and outside shower) which is the perfect place to relax and enjoy great birding and regular visitors that come down to drink.
- Enjoy winters with the earthenware fireplaces that add warmth to the rooms on chilly nights.
- Have you ever seen white lions!? Here at African Inspired Safaris we love the fact that Pumba Private Game Reserve has been home to a flourishing pride of FREE-ROAMING White & Split Lion since 2006! (How amazing is this!? The fact that there are less than 500 White Lions in the world – makes coming here a bucket list item!

Lodge
Information
In the Pumba Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape, Pumba Water Lodge is a five-star lodge with a view of Lake Kariega, a well-liked watering hole.
From the timber deck of the lodge, guests can observe the wide variety of animals and birds that Lake Kariega attracts. Due to the reserve’s relatively small size, there is a high density of animals, allowing for frequent sightings and even a chance to view the elusive white lion that has made this place its home.
All of the Water Lodge Chalets open onto private viewing decks, boasting stunning views over Lake Kariega. The lake is home to a pod of hippo’s and is also a busy watering hole for the animals on the reserve. Expect some great sightings from the comfort of your chalet!
Suites
Impala Chalets
All 8 standard Impala Chalets are spacious with large comfortable king size beds. The rooms are luxurious yet understated with every attention to detail and quality the key to the décor.
The en-suite dreamy bathrooms boast free standing deep baths, separate showers and heated towel rails.
Gemsbok Chalets
These superior chalets are spacious, individually decorated and include a lounge area recessed from the bedroom with a generous built-in daybed ideal for curling up with a good book whilst listening to the calls of Africa.
Kudu Suite
This stylish chalet has two private en-suite bedrooms with a shared lounge area and wraparound deck with a plunge pool. It boasts a steam room below the deck, completing this picture of ultimate luxury. The deck overlooks Lake Cariega, which is home to a hippo pod and various bird species.
The en-suite dreamy bathrooms have free standing deep baths, separate showers and heated towel rails. All rooms are equipped with a complimentary mini-bar fridge as well as tea and coffee facilities. Earthenware fireplaces add warmth to the rooms on chilly nights.
Dining
Meals can be served in a variety of beautiful and secluded areas on the property due to the face that the lodge is quaint and tiny. Expect African-inspired cordon bleu food and vintage wines from the director’s cellar. You can have a candle-lit bush meal that is served in a private setting if you want to make it a special occasion.
Safari
A term that was originally used by big-game hunters, who deemed the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo the most difficult animals on the African continent to hunt on foot. They are known to be dangerous and it was considered a feat by trophy hunters to bring them home.
Today, these majestic animals are considered a “must-see” on an African safari trip. Pumba Private Game Reserve is the proud home of all 5 species of the Big 5. Encounter the Big 5 in their natural habitat in a free roaming, self-sustaining environment.
Experience the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat while exploring the reserve in an open Land Rover or on a walking safari. Their passionate rangers are committed to providing guests with memorable wildlife encounters, while instilling a deeper appreciation and love for nature.
There are 2 game drives per day included in a stay at Water Lodge, providing guests the opportunity to see various different animals as well as participate in other exciting activities.

Specials and
Rates
African Inspired Safaris offers an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and authentic cultural encounters.
Each package is bespoke, carefully crafted to align with our clients’ preferred dates, desired experiences, and unique safari requirements.
Contact us with your travel dates and destination preferences, and we’ll provide you with a personalised quote – including access to some of our amazing specials.
CHILD POLICY
- No children under 6 years are permitted, unless by special prior arrangement
- For their own safety, children under the age of 6 years are not permitted to go on normal big 5 game drives
- Child Minders are available, by prior arrangement, at an additional cost
- When sharing with two full paying adults, children 3 years and under are accommodated on a Complimentary Basis in either a cot or a stretcher bed
- When sharing with two full paying adults, children between 4 and 11 years will be charged 35% of the adult rate
- When sharing with two full paying adults, children between 12 and 17 years will be charged 45& of the adult rate – (Gemsbok Chalet)
- When sharing with two full paying adults, children of any age, pay the 3rd and 4th person rates in the Kudu 2 Bedroom Unit
- The 2 Bedroom Kudu Suite has a minimum occupancy requirement of 3 guests
Amenities and features
Need to know
General Overview
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Views over Lake Kariega |
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Pumba Game Reserve |
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Non-Malaria Area |
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Big Five Reserve |
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Accessible by Road |
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1h30 from Port Elizabeth |
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Int. : Port Elizabeth International |
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Helicopter Pad (No hanger) |
Activities
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Game Drives (6-7 pax per vehicle) (from 6 yrs) |
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No Off-Roading Allowed |
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No Tracker |
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Stargazing |
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Fishing |
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Archery |
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Walking Safaris (add. cost) |
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Bird Watching (add. cost) |
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Night Drive (add. cost) |
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Photographic Safari (add. cost) |
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Golf (nearby - add. cost) |
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Horse-riding (nearby - add. cost) |
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Coastal Helicopter Flips (nearby - add. cost) |
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Frontier War Tours (nearby - add. cost) |
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Historical Tours (nearby - add. cost) |
Lodge Amenities
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8 Impala, 3 Gemsbok Chalets, 1 Kudu Suite |
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WIFI |
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Mobile Reception |
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Camp Fenced |
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Child Friendly (all ages) |
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Swimming Pool |
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Electricity |
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Pumba Health Spa |
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Steam Room & Gym |
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Curio Shop |
Room Amenities
amenities_Icon | Amenity |
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WIFI |
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Plunge pools |
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Fire Places |
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A/C (hot & cold) |
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Bath (inside) |
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Shower (inside & outside) |
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Mini Bar |
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Tea / Coffee Station |
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Hairdryer |
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Safe |
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International Plug Points |
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Bathroom Amenities |
Additional
Services
Because Safaris can be complicated, we offer other services that you might find useful.
Why not take a look and if you need more information feel free to contact us!