Overview
Pumba is an eco-friendly Private Game Reserve, located in the heart of the Yarrow region of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It's an hour drive from Port Elizabeth, and 15 minutes from Grahamstown. The Water Lodge overlooks Lake Cariega while the Bush Lodge is set on a floodplain offering spectacular mountain views. The Reserve is home to the Big 5 and more the 300 bird species.Why Go:
- Set in the malaria-free Eastern Cape
- Intimate African safari experience
- Home to Africa’s Big Five
- Delicious African fusion cuisine
- Luxury accommodation
- Relaxing spa treatments
Wildlife
Pumba Private Game Reserve is home to Africa’s Big Five, more than 300 bird species, and other bush animals like the rare white lion, hyena, cheetah and giraffes. All chalets have private viewing decks, and the resort offers game drives and day safaris.
More About the WildlifeScenery
Pumba Private Game Reserve is set against the backdrop of the Eastern Cape's beautiful landscape. Water Lodge offers waterfront chalets overlooking Lake Cariega while Bush Lodge is set on a floodplain with scenic mountain views offering luxury thatch and glass chalets.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pumba Private Game Reserve is from March – May and October – December. Game viewing is excellent all year round.
More About the Best Time to VisitWeather & Climate
The Pumba Private Game Reserve has an average daily maximum that varies from 20°C in July to 28°C and above in February. The region is coldest during July with average night temperatures of 5.6°C. The average rainfall is about 466mm per year.
More About the Weather and ClimateWildlife & Animals
The reserve is home to Africa’s Big Five as well as rare white lion, hippo, hyena, cheetah, giraffes, various antelope and more than 300 bird species. The unique vegetation of the Eastern Cape is favoured by elephants in the dense bushveld environment. Feel the heartbeat of nature as you explore the reserve in custom Landrovers or on guided walking safaris.Elephant
CommonGiraffe
CommonHippo
CommonBuffalo
CommonZebra
CommonWildbeest
CommonWhite Rhino
CommonBlack Rhino
OccasionalLion
CommonLeopard
RareCheetah
RareHyena
CommonWild Dog
Rare
Wildlife highlights
At Pumba Game Reserve, safari guests can view African wildlife in their natural habitat from luxury open 4×4 vehicles, accompanied by experienced rangers or go to a guided walking safari’s that allow guests to explore this beautiful region on foot.Best time for wildlife viewing
Although always good, wildlife viewing is at its best during the drier months of June to September. This is when animals search out permanent water sources and congregate around them. Highly recommended are the months of August and September as temperatures are warmer than in mid-winter.Best Time to Visit
- Best Time to GoMay to September
(Dry season) - High SeasonOctober to March
(It can get a bit busy)
June to September
Little rain
October to March
High season rates
April to September
Excellent time for wildlife viewing
September to April
Warmer nights and mornings
June to August
Very cold nights and mornings
May to September
- Dry Season – WinterOctober to April
- Wet Season – SummerWeather & Climate
The weather during summer seasons can increase to uncomfortable levels. The rainy season can hinder activities and due to thick vegetation, game viewing can be difficult. During the winter dry season, the vegetation shrinks, making it easier to spot animals.Climate Chart
- 370-441M / 1213-1446Ft© chart & park data: SafariBookings. © climate grid data: WorldClim project. All rights reserved.
The dry winter season is from May to September, which is also the best time to visit Pumba Game Reserve.
Wet season
- October to April – SummerOctober to March is the wet summer season and temperatures can increase to uncomfortable levels.
Getting There
Pumba Private Game Reserve is about 110km from Port Elizabeth and 19km from Grahamstown. It’s situated in the beautiful Eastern Cape province of South Africa and you can easily access it from the N2 highway.Getting to Pumba Game Reserve by air
Most visitors to Pumba Game Reserve arrive via O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg or Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town. You may start your tour from either of these destinations by organized safari or by driving yourself.
You could also take a connecting flight to Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) and rent a car there. The distance to the park is just over 110km/69mi on a paved road.
Getting to Pumba Game Reserve by road
From Port Elizabeth:
Travel along the N2 in the direction of Grahamstown for 105 km. Take the Alicedale turn off towards the left and follow the signs to Pumba Private Game Reserve.
Airlines & Ticket Prices
To book your International and local flights, it is best to discuss options with our agents. They will be able to secure best tariffs and match it with your safari dates.
Click on Enquire Now for a free consultation.