Pumba Private Game Reserve
Game Reserve

Pumba Private Game Reserve

South Africa 60 km² (23 mi²) Est. 2004

About Pumba Private Game Reserve

Pumba Private Game Reserve is a malaria-free Big Five destination in the Eastern Cape, spanning 6,000 hectares of lush valley bushveld around Lake Kariega. The reserve is particularly notable for its rare white lions, a genetic colour variant found at only a handful of reserves worldwide. Pumba offers a unique combination of Big Five game viewing, water-based activities on its large lake, and family-friendly facilities including a kids' programme. The Eastern Cape bushveld habitat supports elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion (including white lion), leopard, hippo, giraffe, and a variety of antelope. With its proximity to Port Elizabeth and the Garden Route, Pumba is a popular add-on to a coastal South Africa itinerary.

0

Safari Tours

3.5

Avg Rating

4/5

Big Five

22

Years Protected

Highlights

  • Malaria-free Big Five reserve
  • Rare white lions — unique viewing opportunity
  • Lake-based activities including boating and fishing
  • Family-friendly with dedicated kids' programme
  • Close to Port Elizabeth and Garden Route

Considerations

  • Relatively small reserve — limited traversing area
  • Wildlife density lower than Kruger-area reserves
  • Premium pricing for a smaller reserve
  • Less wild feel due to Eastern Cape bushveld setting

Wildlife

Big Five Status

🦁

Lion

common

🐆

Leopard

Not present

🐘

Elephant

common

🦬

Buffalo

common

🦏

Rhino

common

Notable Species

Lion

Common

Elephant

Common

Cape Buffalo

Common

White Rhino

Common

Giraffe

Common

Zebra

Common

Hippo

Common

Common Occasional Rare

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal

Climate Overview

Getting There

Pumba is located between Grahamstown (Makhanda) and Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. By road approximately 100 km (1.5 hours) from Port Elizabeth Airport or 60 km from Makhanda. Transfers can be arranged from Port Elizabeth.

Nearest Airport

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport

Nearest City

Makhanda

Drive Time

1.5 hours