Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve

Understand

Oribi Gorge nature reserve was named after the Oribi antelope. Approximately 1 km wide, 27 km in length, it is located at the bottom of the Oribi Gorge where the Mzimkulu River and Mximkulwana River meet.

History It was proclaimed as a nature reserve in 1950.

Landscape

Flora and fauna Here in this reserve, you can find bushbuck, reedbuck, duiker (both blue and grey), leopard. About 250 bird species have been listed, including 5 species of kingfisher and 7 species of eagle.

Climate

Getting there

Oribi Gorge nature reserve is a 30-minute drive from Port Shepstone while it is about a 2hr drive when you are getting in from Durban.

See

Hoopoe Falls. 8.2 km long, takes about 3 hr to hike. (updated Jan 2023) Oribi Gorge. 2.4 km long, takes about 43 min to complete. (updated Jan 2023) Mziki trail. 7.6 km long, takes about 3 hr of hiking to complete. (updated Jan 2023)

Do

There are several trails in the reserve that range from easy to difficult where you can choose to hike or walk. These include the Nkonka Trail, Baboon View Trail, Samango River Trail, hoopoe Falls trail, Horseman’s Point.

Hiking. (updated Jan 2023) Trails. (updated Jan 2023) Wild slide. 160 m above the gorge, gives a better view of the gorge and Lehr’s Falls. (updated Jan 2023) Water rafting. Rafting on the Umzimkulu River is led by qualified rafting guides. Bookings are necessary, at least four people per trip are required. (updated Jan 2023)

Drink & nightlife

Leopard rock. A coffee shop, this spot also offers a better view of the Oribi gorge. (updated Jan 2023)

Sleep

Lodging Oribi Gorge Guest Farm. 3 km away from the reserve. R840. (updated Jan 2023) The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa, Lot 15, Pengaan Farm, Oribi Flats, Port Shepstone, ☏ +27 39 687 4000, [email protected]. (updated Jan 2023)

Camping

Backcountry