Oribi Gorge is a wonder of the natural world with ancient boulders at the base of cliffs formed from sandstone deposited some 365 million years ago.
Approximately 12 kms from Port Shepstone the Umzimkulwana River has etched a spectacular gorge into the mountains to create a rugged, natural landscape of breathtaking beauty. The gorge, some 27 kms long and one km at its widest point, is the site of the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, a pristine slice of natural bush managed by the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, teeming with wildlife, huge indigenous trees and meandering hiking and mountain bike trails. And slightly further along you will find Lake Eland - the South Coast’s only Game Reserve.
The edge of the gorge has been turned into an extreme adventure hotspot, with the world’s highest gorge swing which requires you to leap off the cliff, an abseil alongside a waterfall, and a slide 160 metres above the gorge floor. It is pretty intimidating stuff, but at least you know you are held by safety equipment of the highest international standards.
White Water rafting through the gorge with challenging grade three rapids to negotiate is offered in the rainy season when the river is full. |
