Learn the meaning of “pumula” at this eco-lodge. The Pumula Lodge is a bed and breakfast named for the African word meaning “rest.” Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature at this quaint eco-lodge.
A perfect paradise for nature-lovers, the owner of Pumula is an avid birder who would love to share their tips on where to find the best birding spots. A home away from home, Pumula offers a unique opportunity to feel at home in nature.
75 kilometers from George Airport, the South African lodge is located in between the town of Knysna and the Knysna Heads. Enjoy breakfast in the trees before stepping out into the pristine nature of South Africa.
Their story
Since 1997 Pieter and Renisa Ellis (pictured above) have hosted guests in their bed and breakfast. The lodge sleeps 12, with each room having a patio overlooking the gardens. This bed and breakfast truly is a place of rest. The Ellis’s have fostered a community of guests who all enjoy the calmness nature provides us.
Share this bed and breakfast experience with the birds, as the Ellises are avid birders. Wake up to bird song. You may even have a feathered friend peck at your breakfast! The spirit of nature is alive and well at Pumula.
The Ellises followed many eco-friendly building techniques to minimize their impact on the planet. All of Pumula’s guest activities center around enjoying nature while recharging the soul. Enjoy forest walks, mountain biking, horse riding, cruises in the lagoon, and fishing. There are also daily excursions to Tzitzikamma National Park, as well as to Oudtshoorn to see Cango Caves, ostrich, and crocodile farms.
Relax and recharge at Pumula lodge, a simple yet cozy B&B. Enjoy the native garden, beautiful birds, and sparkling pool. Read more about them here.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The lodge faces west, exposing the building to the strong South African sun. During the hot summer afternoons, dropline curtains cover the ground and first floor, keeping the building cool and eliminating the need for air-conditioning. Ceiling fans are supplied in the rooms.
- All plantings are native as to comply with the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act of 1983.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Light-colored lead-free paint covers the roof, reflecting heat from the sun and keeping the building cool.
- All the indoor lights are LED. Lighting outdoors is on a timer and consists of LED and CFL lights.
- Geysers are used to generate hot water for guests. The geysers have solar panels to optimize the water in need of heating. Geysers are wrapped in “Geyser Blankets,” which insulate the pipes.
- Showers have low flow devices. Guests are encouraged to conserve water when possible.
Pioneer in waste management
- All water that runs off the building is collected in a cistern. A well provides irrigation on the property. All greywater is used in irrigation or reused in some other fashion.
- All glass, paper, tins, etc. are separated from the normal kitchen garbage and deposited in dedicated plastic bags for collection by the municipality.
- Reusable containers are favored over single-use ones.
- Biodegradable kitchen waste is given to earthworms. The worms create beautiful compost for the gardens.
Aims to have a fully organic and chemical-free operation
- Weeds are removed by hand. No pesticides are needed.
- All soaps are biodegradable.
- The pool is a saltwater pool, no harmful chlorine chemicals are needed.
Actively protects nature and community
- Local vendors are favored and used whenever possible.
- Pumula’s staff is all locals.
- Pumula calculates their carbon footprint. In all of 2018, the resort emitted only 10.9 metric tons of CO2 or about 1.6 per person
Most Popular Activities near Pumula Lodge
- Forest walks
- Mountain bike trails in the forest
- Horse riding
- Fishing in the lagoon or at sea
- Pleasure cruises on the lagoon
- Arts and craft tours in the area
- Daily excursions to Tzitzikamma National Park to see native South African animals
- Daily excursions to Oudtshoorn to visit the Cango Caves, ostrich farms and crocodile farm.
Best time to visit Pumula Lodge
- The weather is pleasent all year around, but the best time to visit is between February and April.
Features
Pricing
per person per night starts from
- $ 53