Sibuya River Camp

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.

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. Here is just an overview of the activities available

• Game Drives
• Birding
• River Cruises
• Fishing
• Beach Walks
• Canoeing
• Fly Fishing
• Swimming

Sibuya’s Rangers, some of the most experienced in the business, take pride in organising rewarding bush walks, fishing, personalised game drives and exclusive boat or canoe trips. Their love of the environment and enthusiasm for their work is infectious, and guests will find them to not only be knowledgeable guides but also gracious hosts. Delicious buffet-style meals with an African twist are accompanied by award winning South African wine, served in the boma or under the star-studded sky. For those having a three-day stay, picnics may also be arranged out on the Reserve or at the pristine Blue Flag beach at the nearby village of Kenton-on-Sea.

Arrival Information

Please ensure Check in by 11H30 – Late arrivals will incur the cost of a private transfer charged locally.

Scheduled boat transfers leave from Sibuya’s reception in Kenton-on-Sea, once daily, at 12h00 (noon). Guests are requested to check in at reception (39 Eastbourne Road, Kenton-on-Sea) at least half an hour before the boat departure time (travel times: PE airport allow 80-100 mins – EL airport allow 120mins) For departing guests, scheduled boat transfers return to reception at 11h00 daily to allow for check out and departure by 11h30. Boat transfers at alternative times may be arranged in advance at an additional charge.

Limited Charging Facilities

The camps have limited electrical connectivity. Lighting is provided by a solar system with emergency generator backup. There is one plug point in each camp for charging cell-phone and camera batteries. There is insufficient power for hairdryers and other electrical appliances. For guests’ convenience, each camp keeps most of the commonly used adaptors.

Packing Suggestions

Due to the steps to the jetties and boat transfers to and from the camps, we recommend where possible, guests pack a small travel bag for the duration of their stay and leave large suitcases in their car at reception. A rain jacket, jersey and long trousers are recommended even in summer. A good pair of binoculars is recommended. Sunblock is essential, preferably waterproof for swimming or water-sports. A bathing costume for swimming in the warm Kariega River or in the nearby Indian Ocean.

Sibuya makes every effort to accommodate families with children. However, in the interests of other guests, we reserve the right to place families with young children in River Camp, which is far better suited to children than Forest Camp. Special meals for children are offered, on request, in River Camp only. Camps are not recommended for children under 3 years, due to the raised decks and proximity to the river. Children from 3 years up to 12 years of age may share with adults at 50 % of the adult rate, in River Camp. For guests comfort we recommended no more than 2 children per tent.

Children from 12 years and older, will be charged the full adult rate whether sharing with parents or staying in a separate tent Baby-sitting facilities are offered in River Camp at a nominal extra charge. We strongly recommend that parents with young children make use of this service to allow them time off to enjoy game drives. Standard game drives are not suitable for children under 6 years, due to the 3 hour duration; guests wishing to take young children on a game drive may book a private vehicle at a nominal extra charge.