Pumba Game Reserve: Safari Day Trip with Lunch & Big Five

Summary

Eastern Cape safari day out with wildlife, white lions, lunch

You’ll ride through Pumba Game Reserve with an expert ranger, spotting elephants, giraffes, rare white lions, and more on your safari day trip from the Eastern Cape. Enjoy a relaxed outdoor lunch surrounded by bushveld sounds before heading back—expect quiet moments, real wildlife encounters, and maybe even a laugh over lunch.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so awake before noon, but the second we rolled through the gates at Pumba Private Game Reserve, something shifted. The air was sharp and earthy — kind of like rain on dry grass — and our ranger, Sipho, handed me a mug of coffee that tasted smokier than I’m used to. He grinned when I tried to pronounce “karoo” properly (I definitely didn’t). There were birds everywhere — flashes of color darting between acacia branches while we waited for everyone to pile into the Land Rover.

The game drive itself was quieter than I thought it’d be at first. You hear stories about roaring lions and stampedes but honestly, it’s mostly this hush broken by insects and the crunch of tires on sand. Sipho pointed out tracks in the dust — elephant here, cheetah there — and then suddenly there they were: giraffes moving like slow dancers through thorn trees. The real shock was seeing a pair of white lions lounging in the shade; their fur almost glowed against the green. I tried to take a photo but my hands were shaking a bit (not sure why). Someone behind me whispered “wow” and that’s about all anyone said for a minute.

Lunch came after — not rushed at all. We sat outside under a canvas awning with cold drinks sweating on the table and plates piled high with food I couldn’t pronounce (the bobotie was sweet and spicy at once). There was this easy laughter from another table where two kids argued about whether they’d seen more antelope or warthogs. By then the sun had shifted and everything looked softer somehow. Leaving felt weirdly hard; you get used to that slow pace fast.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Day Safari at Pumba Reserve

• Arrive and enjoy welcome drink
• Depart on 2-2.5 hour game drive
• Learn about animals and vegetation
• Enjoy a meal and refreshments
• Drive back to transfer point

Top questions

How long is the safari drive at Pumba Game Reserve?

The game drive lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours as part of the day trip.

Is lunch included in the Pumba safari day trip?

Yes, lunch and refreshments are included after your game drive.

What animals can you see on a Pumba safari?

You might spot Africa’s Big Five, white lions, hippos, hyenas, cheetahs, giraffes, antelope species, and many birds.

Are children allowed on the day safari?

The minimum age for guests is 8 years old for this tour.

Do I need to bring anything special for the safari?

Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, warm jacket if needed—and your camera are recommended.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?

Yes—the safari runs in all weather conditions; just dress appropriately for comfort.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

No hotel pickup is standard; airport transfers are available at extra cost if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes a welcome drink on arrival at Pumba’s main gate before setting off on a 2–2.5 hour guided game drive in an open Land Rover. Bottled water and alcoholic beverages are provided during your time in the reserve. After exploring with your ranger guide you’ll sit down for lunch with refreshments before returning to your transfer point.