The spectacular Oribi Gorge, about 25km inland from Port Shepstone, is one of the Hibiscus Coast's best-known beauty spots. To appreciate the magnificent Oribi Gorge, carved out of sandstone over the millennia by the Mzimkulwana River, it is worthwhile stopping at the Oribi Gorge Hotel and taking a drive around the estate, visiting the different view points.
The Oribi Gorge Hotel is also something of an adventure centre, offering adrenalin junkies a selection of activities ranging from abseiling to white water rafting. After a bird's-eye view of the gorge , it's time to take a closer look at its wealth of natural beauty by visiting the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve. The turnoff to the main camp from the N2 is about 21 km from Port Shepstone and is sign-posted. Continue driving along the road past the main camp and you will begin to descend into the gorge itself. As well as an attractive picnic site, next to the main road where it crossed the river, there are several walking trails of between 1km and 9km in length, offering walkers a chance to explore the gorge's magnificent grassland and forest sections.
The surrounding plateau comprises grasslands with scattered trees, including protea stands. Sheer sandstone cliffs form a backdrop to the natural beauty. With the many different habitats the reserve has to offer, it is not surprising it is considered one of the premier birding spots of southern KwaZulu-Natal. A bird list of 255 species includes forest, woodland, grassland "specials" and the birds of prey that make the cliffs their home.
The rare samango monkey is one of many interesting the gorge. You might also spot baboons, vervets, aardwolf, leopard, caracal, serval, jackal, otter, genet, mongoose, dassies, bushbuck, reed buck and duiker.
Some 21 km along the Harding
road(N2), west of Port Shepstone. The turn-off is marked 'Oribi Gorge Nature
Reserve'.
Contains leopards, baboons, small antelope and a prolific bird life,
including five kingfisher and seven eagle species. Accommodation is
provided in a small, but comfortable hutted camp set in a garden of
indigenous flowers. There are also a number of campsites. To reserve one
of these sites contact the Officer in Charge on (039)679-1644.
For more information make use of the Contact
Oribi Gorge Tourism