Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve
The Oribi Gorge in the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is a true gem and not to be missed when you visit the South Coast. It is absolutely worth the short 21 kilometer scenic drive from Port Shepstone inland to reach this spectacular natural wonder. It is perfect for a day excursion or a weekend getaway.
What makes the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve a must see?
The beauty of this game reserve with its lush greenery offering views of the dramatic Oribi Gorge is unsurpassed. Be prepared to be awed by the size of the Gorge and how small it will make you feel.
Think dramatic sandstone cliffs, lush forests, from easy to difficult hiking trails, rivers, rapids, abundant bird life, leguaan, various species of small antelope, troops of baboon and you might even catch a glimpse of a leopard.
Plenty of viewing sites ensure that you are able to enjoy the breathtaking views from several viewpoints. Viewing sites can be reached on foot, by bike (bring your own) or by car.
For the adventurous who is into extreme sport the Oribi Gorge is the place to be:
You can look forward to Abseiling down a 110 meter cliff face, sliding down a Foefie Slide 165 meters above the tree tops, daring the highest Swing of its type in the world, taking on White Water Rafting or walking over a 83 meter Suspension Bridge. There are also Paintball and Team building activities to suit everyone. Read more …
Quick Facts:
- The Reserve was named after the Oribi antelope that is rarely seen today.
- The Gorge is in actuality a Canyon that runs through the Oribi Flats and have an eastern and western gorge.
- It is approximately 27 kilometres (17 mi) long, 400 metres (1,300 ft) deep, and almost 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) wide at its widest.
WARNING
Do not swim in the rivers!
There is a risk of contracting Bilharzia.
- The Mzimkulwana river cuts through the eastern gorge and the Mzimkulu river through the western gorge.
- The base of the cliffs is part of the Kaapvaal Craton that is over 1000 million years old. The dramatic cliffs are formed from sandstone that is about 365 million old.
- Italian prisoners of war built the road through the Oribi Gorge.
- It was declared as a Nature Reserve in 1950.
The anatomy of the Gorge
The Mzimkulwana river, a tributary of the Mzimkulu river, has carved an awe inspiring canyon/gorge over 25 kilometers long that vary from 180 meter to as much as 300 meters deep through the Oribi Flats.
The sandstone galleries rising from Mzimkulwana river bed have been eroded over millions of years into very dramatic shapes that got names such as The Needle, Baboon’s Castle, Oribi Heads, The Pulpit and Hanging Rock.
The Nature Reserve, that covers an area of about 1800 ha along and around the Gorge, was declared a reserve in 1950.
Oribi Gorge Visitors Map
The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is on the property of the Oribi Gorge Hotel. Drive past the rustic looking Hotel (on the dirt road) and pay the entrance fee at the Kiosk by the entrance gate when entering.
View sites:
- The Overhanging Rock
- The Chimney
- Camel Rock
- The Needle
- Baboon’s Castle
- Lehr’s Waterfall
- The Heads
- Lovers’ Leap
Things to do:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Abseiling
- Wild Swing
- Wild Slide
- Suspension Bridge
- Picnic/Braai
The sights of the Origi Gorge at the top of the Lehr’s Waterfall,
various viewing sites and the Hanging Bridge.
Where is the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve?
GPS: 30.66213, 30.30956
It is a scenic short 21 kilometer drive from Port Shepstone on a well maintained tarred road. The Nature Reserve has only dirt roads but all of the roads are very accessible with any type of car. You will be supplied with a handy map of the Nature Reserve at the entrance that clearly indicates all points of interest.
More places to visit in the Oribi Gorge area:
Coffee Shop
Extreme Adventures
Game Reserve
