And what a preview it was! Having visited Shamwari Game Reserve as well as Lalibela in the Garden Route Safari region, we didn’t expect too much from Pumba Private Game Reserve. What first sprang to mind was the cute warthog and his meerkat companion (Timon) from the Lion King.
But life is full of surprises – and Pumba was a pleasant one. Spanning some 6000 hectares, the reserve is home to the Big Five but it is small enough that you are actually likely to spot them. And if you are lucky, you might spot the majestic white lion roaming the bush. And with more warthogs than I could count, Pumba certainly lives up to its name!
First up we visited Msenge Bush Lodge, a quite spectacular collection of chalets that opened out onto the grassy plains. What struck us immediately was the panoramic views from the rooms as they were almost entirely enclosed by glass. A quite unique style juxtaposed against the light colours of the bush. Thoughts of Hemingway, whisky and an antique armchair drifted through my mind – until the other Rhino Africans pulled me away from the plunge pool.
There was no time to tarry and after a short visit to the Spa and conference centre – we need more conferences in places like this – we visited Pumba Water Lodge. Set on the banks of the picturesque Lake Kariega, the expansive wooden deck, lounge and dining area looks out onto the lake as hippos splash around and fish eagles circle the waters. The setting pretty much blew us away and even the most discerning travellers among us could not suppress a smile.
After a short site inspection, we returned to the deck where we were treated to lunch and quenched our thirst with a midday cocktail. It’s hard work being spoilt so afterwards we lounged about in the sun and caught a tan as the African spring sprung forth in its fury.
Sadly it was soon time to move on though we would have loved to stay the night. But with bellies full and skin bronzed, we promised to return to Pumba. Sooner rather than later.
