Sibuya Private Game Reserve

Sibuya is one of South Africa’s most unique Safari destinations. From its Reception near the Ocean, it is unique in that it has more navigable river than any other game reserve in South Africa. Consequently, as a birding destination it is hard to beat: there are nearly 400 different species. This breathtakingly beautiful game reserve is sanctuary to an abundance of diverse wildlife from elephants to otters, and almost everything in between, including the Big Five. Sibuya proudly boasts two luxurious Eco-Destinations – Forest and River Camp – which, both being run almost exclusively on Solar Power do not make allowance for Wi-Fi, air-con, fans, hairdryers etc. Guests are invited to relax and enjoy the simplicity of life without these mod-cons. We highly recommend that guests requiring these extra features choose rather to stay at our secluded and luxurious Bush Lodge which has grid electricity, so caters to these needs.

We pride ourselves on our delicious fresh, healthy buffet-style meals served el fresco or in one of the beautiful lapas.

Sibuya’s main Reception, situated in the holiday village of Kenton-on-Sea in the Eastern Cape Province, is about 130 kms (80 miles) equidistant from Port Elizabeth and East London. A stay at Sibuya is a natural extension to any trip from Cape Town up the Garden Route and is easily accessible from Port Elizabeth which is a short flip from the major cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. Charter flights to Port Alfred are less than a 20min transfer to the Game Reserve.

The unique ‘Sibuya Experience’ starts immediately with a 45 minute boat transfer up the Kariega Estuary to River Camp, Forest Camp or Bush Lodge. Leaving the beach, turtles, dolphins and whales might be seen near the River mouth. All three secluded venues nestle in beautiful indigenous forest and have been constructed in an environmentally conscious manner. Bush Lodge is situated just outside the main Reserve. Guests are hosted and guided by a team of experienced professionals.

As one journalist put it: “Sibuya is a unique must see travel destination for any holiday vacation or safari trip to South Africa!”

About Sibuya Game Reserve

Malaria-free Sibuya Game Reserve is an Eco destination which is positioned on the Sunshine Coast of the Eastern Cape, approximately 130 kms from Port Elizabeth or East London. Guests are welcomed at Sibuya’s Reception which is situated near the Kariega River mouth in the small seaside town of Kenton-on-Sea, where safe parking is provided. The adventure starts with a gentle meandering 11km boat transfer from the River mouth and Kenton’s idyllic Blue Flag beaches, up the stunning Kariega River Estuary to the Reserve, setting the tone for the unique experience to follow – from the Ocean to the Bush.

Guests are either based at one of the two solar-powered, secluded luxury tented Camps tucked away in the forest on the banks of the Kariega River or at stunning Bush Lodge situated just outside the main Reserve in a pristine, densely forested valley.

Sibuya Game Reserve incorporates the unique East Cape Valley Bushveld, Grasslands and Coastal Forests. Antelope abound, including the rare Bontebok and Oribi. Elephants, Giraffe and Zebra silhouetted against an Indian Ocean backdrop complete a truly memorable picture.

The ancient floodplains and pristine coastal forest host an abundance of wildlife: nearly 400 bird species and 45 species of wildlife including the “Big Five”. The lush vegetation ensures a high density of animals and one of the best game-viewing experiences in the country is guaranteed.

The following three Accommodation options are available – each one with its own unique unforgettable ambience: River Camp, Forest Camp and Bush Lodge

RIVER CAMP – ECO-DESTINATION

Learn more about River Camp

The Camp recommended for families with children visiting Sibuya.

A fascinating 11 km’s boat-ride up the Estuary from the seaside village of Kenton-on-Sea brings you to the jetty at River Camp. Only four spacious luxury en-suite tents skillfully hidden in the riverine forest maximize privacy for each tent and ensure an exclusive and personalised experience. Every tent has its own cosy fireplace to ensure a snuggly warm environment on chillier nights. Professional and passionate staff ensure a time to be spoilt and make memories to treasure. These enormous 75 m² tents with sleeper couches that convert to two single beds for children sharing, ensure plenty of space for the whole family.

River Camp is suitable for children of all ages. For guests with children under three years, a baby sitter is highly recommended to allow parents time off to enjoy the game drives.

As this is an Eco-friendly destination, the electricity is supplied by means of Solar Power with gas back-up – when necessary – which means there are limitations – no air-conditioners, fans, hair-dryers, TV etc. and limited cell-phone coverage. Guests are encouraged to truly relax without these mod-cons.

• Four Star Graded by TGCSA
• Highly Recommended by AA Travel
• Multi – Award winner of the SA TOURISM LILIZELA AWARD for SERVICE EXCELLENCE
• Multiple TripAdvisor Awards for Service Excellence

FOREST CAMP – ECO-DESTINATION

Learn more about Forest Camp

Another short boat trip further up-river brings you to Forest Camp, carefully tucked into the thick indigenous forest. This unique luxury tented accommodation connected by meandering wooden walkways will leave you marvelling at the originality of design. In this tranquil setting, the beautiful Nyala antelope wander through as if it is their own piece of paradise!

Only eight luxurious 60 m2, en-suite tents are hidden in the thick forest so guests are ensured of privacy. Each tent has its own fireplace for those chillier evenings and passionate professional staff are on hand to ensure your comfort at all times.

Four tents are equipped with sleeper couches for older children sharing. Forest camp is not suitable for children under 12 years.

• Four Star Graded by TGCSA
• Graded Superior AA Travel
• SA TOURISM LILIZELA AWARD for SERVICE EXCELLENCE WINNER

BUSH LODGE

Learn more about Bush Lodge

Set in a pristine wilderness paradise

Four Star standard

A mixture of game drives and river cruises will enthral those with a desire to fill the day, whilst hammocks in the trees or a fishing line dangling in the water will suit those who wish to take it easy.

Activities & Facilities

For the energetic canoeing, fishing and swimming are all available to young and old. But what makes this a truly memorable experience is the unequalled splendour of the vistas as one views game against the magnificent backdrop of pristine coastal forest and the sea a few kilometres away.

Completing the “under canvas” experience are the tranquil evenings around the campfire listening to the lapping waters in the river and the night calls of the bush while feasting on our superb cuisine. In true bush camp tradition all the distractions are removed as the absence of electricity ensures the experience is not spoilt by the sounds of modern society. Professional guides and an abundance of game and birds will leave you saying “Sibuya” – we will return.

Activities Included in the Package

Activities included in package rates: game drives; river cruises; fishing; fly fishing; canoeing; swimming (in the river and sea); birding; beach walks.

Additional Activities Available

Activities not included but offered as extras and needing to be booked in advance: deep-sea fishing, rock and surf fishing, horse riding, spa treatments’, historical and township tours and guided bird walks.

Clothing & Accessories

A warm jacket is essential for evening boat cruises, even in mid-summer. Long pants are also recommended for evenings. Don’t forget a swimming costume. Suntan lotion (preferably waterproof) and sun block are essential all year.

Health & Climate

The Eastern Cape weather is notoriously variable but the Sunshine Coast is so called as this area boasts the most sunshine hours in South Africa. The temperatures are very mild all year averaging 25º C in summer and 20º C in winter.

GPS location

Latitude: -33.678258332666665
Longitude: 26.677186110444445

Closest airports

East London Airport – 150km
Port Alfred Airport – 25km
Port Elizabeth Airport – 120km

Return to the Eastern Cape Private Reserves HERE