Pakamisa Private Game Reserve

Pakamisa Private Game Reserve

52-3 Nongoma Road, Pongola 3170 South Africa
Traveller (227)
Pakamisa Game Reserve
Dining (24)
Pakamisa mountain
Room & Suite (21)

View prices for your travel dates

Contact accommodation for availability.
There are similar hotels available.
View all
Did you already book this hotel?
Avg. R 4,934 /night, 9/18 - 9/19
R 4,987
per night
R 4,952
per night
R 4,917
per night

Sept

Oct

18 Sept
Today

20 Sept

22 Sept

24 Sept

26 Sept

28 Sept

30 Sept

02 Oct

04 Oct

06 Oct

08 Oct

10 Oct

12 Oct

14 Oct

16 Oct

18 Oct
Reflects recent average nightly prices reported by our partners, and may not include estimated taxes or fees. Price at checkout may differ.
Cheaper
Average
Higher

About

5.0
#1 of 6 lodges in Pongola
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Value
Discover the taste of Paradise at this perfect Hide-away! If you are looking for something a little less formal but nonetheless exclusive, then this lodge is for you! Views are inescapable from almost anywhere on the property, not least from your private veranda. The eight suites are huge, lightly Mediterranean in style, with elegant furniture and superb bathrooms. There is so much to do here - archery, clay-target shooting, bushwalking, game drives and riding – of course! At Pakamisa, the superior game-viewing vehicle is a horse! And these divine creatures, trained by the owner Isabella herself, are bred to be more than merely mode of transport. Exciting game viewing is offered on horseback for all riding abilities. To work off the calories, bushwalks and mountain bike trails await. For the more laid-back options, be gobbled up by the beautiful library or enjoy the impressive collection of rare African artifacts and paintings in the enormous, high-ceilinged entrance hall. Otherwise pull up a basket chair, drink in hand, and lap up the lovely big pool and sprawling views beyond. Meals are an occasion; enjoy mouth-watering breakfasts to delicious alfresco lunches on the panoramic veranda of the award-winning El Prado restaurant. Contemporary and international cuisine is beautifully presented, enhancing a traditional dining experience in the elegant dining room or “Out of Africa” style under the stars. The restaurant has an exceptional wine list and offers game specialties.
Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Free breakfast
Hiking
Horseback riding
Babysitting
Books, DVDs, music for children
Secured parking
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Kids' meals
Special diet menus
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Airport transportation
Gift shop
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Private check-in / check-out
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Room service
Safe
Room types
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to TGCSA - Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.
5.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish, German

Location

52-3 Nongoma Road, Pongola 3170 South Africa
241Reviews1Q+A21Room tips
Traveller rating
  • 214
  • 22
  • 3
  • 2
  • 0
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
Selected filters
  • Filter
  • English
Popular mentions
Sort by:
Detailed Reviews
Dara G wrote a review Mar 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Absolutely incredible place to stay. Luxurious room, excellent food, and the equestrian activities are superb. The whole location is pretty remote, a self-contained hillside, with loads of room to take the horses for a trip and spot wildlife. Highly recommended.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2019
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Isabella Stepski, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 09 Jun 2022
Thank you for your kind words, we are happy you enjoyed your stay with us and had great holidays!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stay08473276426 wrote a review Jun 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This hidden gem is absolute paradise. Based on a mountain range the views are spectacular with thriving South African bush in every direction. The lodge is 5 stars, with a huge classy main reception area, restaurant and spacious, private lodge rooms. Your every need is attended to by the incredible team which will feel like family by the end of your stay. The food is the best we've tasted in SA, fresh with huge spreads to choose from - we tried Impala and Ostrich. There is so much to do during your stay, but they do specialize in horse safaris. The stables were immaculate and the horses are well taken care of, the guides are very knowledgable and you will see plenty of animals on horseback. We saw a herd of 16 giraffes and 8-10 Zebras as well as a rare sighting of Jackals. There is NO need to see the big 5 when you can experience these herbivores within meters on horse back in a relaxed and healthy environment. The experience is completely up to you, the team will tailor make your stay to whatever suits you with flexibility and no pressure. We will definitely be returning with Pakamisa having a special place in our hearts.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Take a 4WD as the location is very remote and steep.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mark C wrote a review Mar 2022
Folsom, California
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I had the wonderful pleasure of staying at Pakamisa in March 2022. I found it online when I was searching for horse riding opportunities while traveling through South Africa. I emailed Pakamisa directly the day before I would be in the area to inquire about availability and to confirm that I could ride (weather permitting). Isabella the proprietor promptly responded letting me know there was availability and gave me the details for riding (weight limits, rides per day, etc.). Isabella greeted me at reception and showed me to my spacious room with a million dollar view. I was able to rest for a couple hours before the afternoon ride. There are two young girls that took me down to the stables where we rounded up the horses and saddled up for the ride. While I am no riding expert, I do have some experience from my younger days. They will cater to the experience level of the guest. The girls were very helpful and knowledgeable and we had a great ride seeing many animals including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, ostrich's and many more! Riding horseback allows you to get fairly close to the animals and provides a whole new perspective. I went on 3 rides total and loved every second of it. The rides lasted approximately an hour and a half. Isabella, the proprietor of Pakamisa joined us on two of the rides. She is a very accomplished rider and has extensive knowledge of horses. I also noticed that she is a perfectionist in every sense of the word, which I was so happy to see. I would be remiss if I did not mention the food at Pakamisa. I was in South Africa for a month and ate at many fine establishments but none could compare to the 5 star meals prepared for me here. Pakamisa was a real high light of my SA trip. I hope to return one day!
Read more
Date of stay: March 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Isabella Stepski, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 09 Jun 2022
Many thanks for your detailed report and we appreciate a lot that you took your valuable time to write down your experience. The entire Pakamisa team is grateful for your comments and we will try to keep our service levels as they are. Thank you.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MrtnVgt wrote a review Feb 2020
Voorburg, The Netherlands
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We visited this lovely place with a group of friends. It was a short (too short) but wonderful visit. Pakamisa offers a true lodge experience with amazing views. Best though, is the horse riding. We had 3 friends in our group who had never been on a horse before but it was no problem. They could come along just fine with the easy horses and the guides making sure all was ok. Riding among the wild animals is amazing. You can get so close and just watch and listen to them, never possible with a car.
This was the second time I visited Pakamisa, after having been here with my wife a few years ago. I will be back!
Read more
Date of stay: February 2020Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Isabella Stepski, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 09 Jun 2022
Thank you for your kind words, we are happy you enjoyed your stay with us and had great holidays!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ydesai811822 wrote a review Jan 2021
Johannesburg, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
At worlds end. Yes, standing atop Pakamisa Mountain evoked feelings of being on top of the world.
I loved my stay at this resort. If you looking for that elusive peace and tranquility, you'll find it here.
Plus Friendly Staff and a Host who takes a personal interest in your welfare.
Add beautiful room decor, good food (really good food), Horses (One ambled over to say 'Hi') and all the space you need.
Then it is time well spent.
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Isabella Stepski, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 09 Jun 2022
Thank you for your kind words, taking your time to write a report about your experiences at Pakamisa. We are happy you enjoyed your stay with us and had great holidays!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
K. Kane wrote a review Nov 2020
Portland, Maine
4.0 of 5 bubbles
The lodge is located at the top of a hill within a private game reserve, so animals are all around and there's a great view! They offer game drives (and even though they don't have the Big 5, there were more giraffes than we'd ever seen on a single safari and the whole family enjoyed it!), horse-back riding for all ages, a connection to provider of boat rides on the lake, and other activities on-site. The chef in the lodge's restaurant is the best we've encountered nationwide!!! All dishes were amazing - both the taste and the presentation. It was lovely eating either inside next to the fire or outside on the patio. There's a nice, clean pool and even a fire pit lit up in the evening.

Thanks for a stay that exceeded our expectations!
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2020
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Isabella Stepski, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 09 Jun 2022
Thank you so much for your kind words and taking your valuable time to write down some comments of your stay. We appreciate it and the entire Pakamisa team is here to welcome you back for another stay!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rob Maclean wrote a review Apr 2021
Johannesburg
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We just had an excellent stay here. Wonderful service, stunning views, enjoyable horse rides/ bush walks and in particular truly delicious food from a talented chef and team. Can't recommend highly enough
Read more
Date of stay: April 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Isabella Stepski, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 09 Jun 2022
Thank you for your kind words, we are happy you enjoyed your stay with us and had great holidays!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AnnemarievdVV wrote a review Jan 2023
The Hague, The Netherlands
5.0 of 5 bubbles
With a family of 10, we stayed at Pakamisa for 3 nights. Isabella and her team arranged an unforgettable stay for young and old alike.
The highlight was of course the horse riding through the beautiful nature. The horses are in very good condition and the guidance is very professional and attentive. Very special to encounter zebras, giraffes, wildebeests and ostriches while on a horse! The other activities like bush walks and archery were also fun to do.
It was good to linger by the pool, on the beautiful terrace or in the private spacious cottages. The decor is a bit dated, but everything clean and tidy. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were very tasty! And children were also taken into account, a special request was easily arranged! Many thanks, Paradise Pakamisa!
Read more
Date of stay: December 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Isabella Stepski, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 07 Mar 2023
Dear Annemarie and to your family! Thank you for choosing Pakamisa lodge for your holidays. We appreciate that you are taking time to write your experiences at our little paradise in the African bush. It was a pleasure to show you and your family our nature & wildlife from the back of a trustful horse. Thank you from Isabella & the Pakamisa team.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ev T wrote a review Mar 2022
Durban, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had a wonderful 3 night stay at Pakamisa, which is a hidden gem.
The accommodation and panoramic views are sensational. Isabella and her staff are such a dedicated team, and when we left we felt like we had made new friends. The bush walks, game drives and birding was great, and I would recommend Pakamisa to anyone who needs some quiet in a home away from home.
Added to this was the incredible gourmet food.
We will definitely be back for a longer stay.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: All the rooms are very large with verandahs giving an exceptional panoramic view
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Isabella Stepski, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 20 Mar 2022
Thank you so much for your time to write about your experience at Pakamisa Lodge. We enjoyed your visit and hope to welcome you back soon! Regards, Isabella
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jason Kramer wrote a review Feb 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The Pakamisa Lodge is a top stay and cannot recommend highly enough. The attention to detail that is found blew my mind. The suites are superb. The staff are friendly and very knowledgeable. Game drives are a must and their horse back riding was certainly an enjoyable experience. The food is of top quality and the views found throughout are impressive.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Pakamisa, Owner at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
Responded 14 Feb 2020
Dear Jason, Thank you for your valuable time to write a report. We hope to welcome you back one day. Best regards, Isabella & the entire Pakamisa Team
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Answer from IsaS
Pongola, South Africa49 contributions3 helpful votes
R500 per person for 2017, it is a 1,5 hours outride
Stay08473276426 wrote a tip Jun 2024
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Take a 4WD as the location is very remote and steep. "
Read full review
Ian wrote a tip Jun 2022
Yateley, United Kingdom3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"All rooms are excellent"
Read full review
ETIENNE VAN R wrote a tip May 2022
George, South Africa225 contributions52 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Try to go in September. Best time for game AND cooler weather"
Read full review
Ev T wrote a tip Mar 2022
Durban, South Africa3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"All the rooms are very large with verandahs giving an exceptional panoramic view"
Read full review
ver0nikagr0ss wrote a tip Jan 2018
Griesheim, Germany1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"all rooms identical"
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Pongola area.
PRICE RANGE
R 4,899 - R 4,970 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaKwaZulu-NatalZululandPongola
NUMBER OF ROOMS
8
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Claim Your Listing

PAKAMISA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE - Lodge Reviews & Price Comparison (Pongola, South Africa)

Frequently Asked Questions about Pakamisa Private Game Reserve
What are some of the property amenities at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
What food & drink options are available at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Pakamisa Private Game Reserve?
Conveniently located restaurants include Ntonga Recreation Club, Wimpy, and Debonairs Pizza.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Pakamisa Private Game Reserve have airport transportation?
Yes, Pakamisa Private Game Reserve offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Is Pakamisa Private Game Reserve located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.6 km away from the centre of Pongola.
Are any cleaning services offered at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Pakamisa Private Game Reserve?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and German.
Things to DoRestaurantsFlightsHoliday HomesTravel StoriesCruisesCar Hire