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