Oribi Gorge

Oribi Gorge is set in KwaZulu Natal within the Oribi Gorge N

Oribi Gorge is one of KwaZulu-Natals most spectacular natural settings, the scenic Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve lies some 21 km inland from Port Shepstone. Oribi Gorge is ideal for a weekend getaway or day-excursion

Oribi offers many delightful walks and self-guided trails to scenic spots in the reserve. Details of these walks may be obtained from the Oribi Gorge Camp Manager.
The scenery along the gorge formed by the Umzimkulwana River is a photographers and nature lovers paradise.

There are numerous idyllic picnic spots on the banks of the river. Be advised, though and do not swim or paddle in the river because of the risk of contracting bilharzia.

Besides its magnificent views, Oribi has a wealth of other attractions as well. Wildlife to be seen in the reserve includes mammal species such as bushbuck, common reedbuck, oribi and blue and grey duiker. Leopard occur in the area and with luck, you may join the select band of game viewers to have seen one of these secretive creatures. The bird list numbers 250 and with its diverse habitats bird watching in Oribi is a rewarding experience.

Oribi Gorge is only 21kms from the local beaches so visitors are free to spend the day on the beach, enjoy a meal or a movie at the Shelly Centre or visit any other attraction in the area. Oribi gorge Camp is open on a 24 hour basis so visitors returning from these activities have no time constraints.

Attractions at Oribi Gorge

• Lake Eland Game Reserve
  Well-maintained roads allow you to explore in your own vehicle, although guided drives can be arranged. Experience the diversity of 4 distinct ecosystems Bushveld, Grasslands, Wetlands and Coastal Forest, filled with a host of fauna such as giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, and a range of antelope including eland, mountain reedbuck, and bushbuck.
• Thembela Tours
  This 4-hour tour is an educational adventure that will bring you to the doorstep of true Zulu culture. no rehearsals, no role-play. Step inside and experience the magic of the Sangoma, the remarkable talent of the local crafters and artists, and the simple, yet heart-warming hospitality of the local ladies, as they introduce you to their style of cooking. This is an experience that does not pretend to be any more than it is
• Breathtakingly beautiful views
  Ranging from exhilarating vistas from the top of Oribi Gorge, to those of the inspirational and mighty Umzimkhulu river valley, fringed with lush green forests filled with an abundance of birdlife in the region of 300 recorded species.
• Wild Gorge Swing
  The Wild Gorge swing is an awesome experience that leaves you breathless but exhilarated. Situated at the top of Lehrs falls, it is the highest swing in the world. One steps or jumps off the waterfall to swing into the depths of the gorge in a 100m (33 Storeys) arc. A full body harness is used to allow for a comfortable ride. Fully qualified personnel are on hand to prepare one for this experience.
• Wild Water Rafting
  Wild water rafting on the Umzimkulu River provides a fun filled adventurous day outing. It comprises of two routes, one, a relaxed paddle with three memorable rapids and a second more exciting route which lasts a full day. The full day trip will comprise of rapids from grades 2 to 4, depending on the river conditions. Both trips include refreshments on the river and lunch back at the Hotel afterwards.
• Wild Abseiling
  Wild Abseiling is definitely for the more adventurous. It is presently the highest natural commercial abseil in the world at 110 meters. The first 45m is a cliff abseil where one traditionally abseils with their feet against the cliff while the remaining 65m is a free abseil allowing one to take in the beauty of the gorge from a different angle. Beginners are welcome to abseil and will be given full instruction on the techniques and only when they have satisfied certain requirements will they be lowered over the edge of the 170m waterfall. Qualified trainers are on hand to show one the ropes, so to speak.
• Wild Slide
  The Wildest Foofy Slide of them all For the less brave the Wild slide is ideal. It involves sliding 120m along a steel cable 160m above the ground giving one a unique view of the gorge and Lehrs falls.
• Hiking and Mountain Bike Trails
  Attempt one of the trails varying from 1km to 9kms along the edge of the gorge or hike the foot of the Lehrs Waterfall.
  Four hiking trails range from easy to very difficult. Both the Baboons trail and Camel trail (approx. 1km) are easy walks along the edge of the Gorge. Then Lehrs trail (1-2hrs) to the bottom of the Falls, is of average intensity and suitable for persons 7 years and upwards with no medical complications.
  The new Echo trail (5-7hrs) is a guided hike along one of the tributaries of the Umzimkulwana river. The trail covers some dense, indigenous terrain with a steep climb out of the valley at the end. Oh, and be prepared to get your feet wet. Bookings are essential for the Echo trail, min 6 people required. A three day guided hiking trail is presently being mapped out and should be complete toward the end of the year.
  The trail will include white water rafting, abseiling and a one night stopover in caves in the area. Bookings for this trail will also be essential. There are two mountain bike trails. The easy trail is along the gravel road to the view sites currently used by vehicles. The second trail (intermediate) follows the same route as the Baboons and Camel trails and although slightly tricky in places is the more popular and enjoyable.

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