Spanning the magnificent Kariega Estuary on its course to meet the warm Indian Ocean, malaria-free Sibuya is South Africa’s only “Big 5” game reserve accessed solely by boat. After arriving at Sibuya’s Reception near the river mouth in Kenton-on-Sea, guests embark on a meandering 45-minute boat cruise to the breathtakingly beautiful Reserve. Leaving behind the wide, golden beaches of the Sunshine Coast, kingfishers, fish eagles, otters, antelope, and other wildlife may be spotted along the way.
With just 4 or 8 luxury tents in each camp and 4 elegant suites in the lodge, our professional guides can offer you personalised game drives, rewarding walks, exclusive boat trips and tasty beach and bush picnics. Swimming, canoeing, and fishing are also on offer, or you might choose to simply relax in a hammock under the trees, book in hand. The ancient floodplains and pristine coastal forest play host to an abundance of wildlife: nearly 400 species of birds and 45 species of game including the “Big 5”.
The sub-tropical vegetation ensures a high density of wildlife and one of the best game-viewing experiences in the country. The Estuary holds its own bounty: crabs, turtles, the occasional small shark, and fish flopping in and out of the water. Additional activities by arrangement include massages, horse riding on the Reserve or beach, golf, deep sea fishing, interactive cooking classes. Under starlit skies the distant roar of the ocean and the soft glow of lanterns create their own magical ambience as guests are served fine fireside fare. The unequalled splendour of the vistas, with the Indian Ocean as their enduring backdrop, will leave you saying - Sibuya, we will return!
In Room Facilities:
All room rates exclude the Rhino Conservation Levy.
Forest Camp and River Camp: Double or twin beds, en-suite bathroom, guest amenities. Towels, fireplace, safe, information booklet, cupboard, suite case rack. Bush Lodge: Double beds only, en-suite bathroom, guest amenities. Towels, fireplace, safe, information booklet, cupboard, suite case rack, air conditioner.
Nel’s Lodge: Sibuya’s new sole-use gem, is a home converted in memoriam to Nel, a founding family member of the reserve. This unique 4-Star hideaway, built with pebbles harvested from the reserve, is perched strategically on a plateau surrounded by dense indigenous forest. It has spectacular views of the riverine plains and the Kariega Estuary in the valley below as it meanders through the reserve to the distant ocean. The Lodge boasts a spacious open plan living area complete with a cozy fireplace, generous decks and heated swimming pool. The spacious air-conditioned master bedroom is en-suite with shower and bath. It is situated upstairs and has a balcony with magnificent views over the reserve. The ample space in this bedroom makes it possible for two children to share with parents. Downstairs includes two bedrooms, one en-suite with bath and shower and the second having a sole-use bathroom with a shower. Both bedrooms have direct access to spacious decks with magnificent views. Suitable for a family or small group, the Lodge can accommodate up to eight people with children sharing. The Lodge is on grid electricity and Wi-Fi is available.
Establishment Facilities:
Sibuya is home to nearly 400 species of birds and 45 species of game including the ‘Big Five’. The lush, sub-tropical vegetation ensures a high density of wildlife and guarantees one of the best game-viewing experiences in the country. The tidal river holds its own bounty: crabs, waders, turtles, the occasional small shark and the sight of fish lazily flopping in and out of the water. Swimming, fishing, bush walking and canoeing are also on offer, or you might choose to simply relax in a hammock under the trees, book in hand. Additional activities by arrangement include: massages in the privacy of your tent or suite; horse riding on the beach.
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 flight from the major cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban.
Big 5 game drives, river cruises, bush walking, fishing, canoeing, swimming, beach and bush picnics Additional activities on request: Horse riding; Spa treatments.
All 4 suites have en-suite bathrooms. Rates include accommodation, all meals, local beverages and camp activities. Children over 12 welcome. Beds: King or queen-sized and sleeper couch for a child sharing. Swimming pool. Wi-Fi. Rhino Levy excluded.
All tents have full en-suite bathrooms Rates include: Accommodation, all meals, local beverages and activities (excludes Rhino levy, premium wines) Adults only camp, children over the age of 12 are welcome Solar powered eco camp Beds: Double or twin.
Private 4-star lodge in Sibuya Game Reserve with stunning views, exclusive experiences, and all comforts for families or small groups. Own private chef; hostess; game drive vehicle with field guide; as well as swimming pool.
All 4 tents have King-sized or twin beds, sleeper couches for children, en-suite bathrooms. Rates include: accommodation, all meals, local beverages and camp activities. Children of all ages welcome. Solar powered. Wi-Fi available. Excludes Rhino Levy.
If cancelling 0 days before arrival, forfeit 100% of the booking total.
If cancelling 7 days before arrival, forfeit 80% of the booking total.
If cancelling 14 days before arrival, forfeit 50% of the booking total.
If cancelling 30 days before arrival, forfeit 25% of the booking total.
On the R72 from Port Elizabeth or East London, turn into the town of Kenton on Sea, onto Kariega road. Follow Kariega Road down to the Kariega River. Turn left just before you get to the river, into Eastbourne road. Reception is at 39 Eastbourne Road, Kenton on Sea. You will check in at Reception and leave your car in secure parking. You will then be transferred up river by boat to the Camps/Reserve. Boat departs once daily at 12h00.
Children welcome.
