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[LeeulekkerAdmin]

The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, situated about 30 km from Ramsgate and Margate is one of the most spectacular natural settings and scenic attraction in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. The reserve offers delightful walks and hiking trails, and apart from various small antelope, is inhabited by a prolific birdlife, leopards, troops of baboons and different species of eagle and kingfisher. The scenery along the gorge formed by the Umzimkulwana River is a photographer's and nature lover's paradise. There are also numerous trails for adventurous tourists.


Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve
Oribi Gorge is not only scenic but it also offers The Wild 5 activities for the more adventurous visitors. This includes the Wild Swing, Wild Water Rafting, Wild Slide, Wild Abseiling, Hiking and Bike Trails.

Wild Rafting rafting trips are led by qualified guides that operate the entire year. There are two routes, one is a a relaxed paddle with three memorable rapids and the second route offers more excitement, lasting a full day. The full day trip will comprise of rapids from grades 2 to 4, depending on the river conditions.

Definitely for the more adventurous Wild Abseiling 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. Qualified instructors are on hand to show you the ropes, so to speak.


Lehrs Falls
Swinging from the top of the Lehrs Falls The Wild Swing is regarded as one of the most renowned big swings in South Africa and is the highest worldwide. The wild swing ride plunges you into a depth of 100 (equivalent a 33 storey building), giving the most terrifying and addictive experience of a lifetime. You will be assisted by trained personnel and participants wear a full body harness.


Wild Swing
For the less brave there is the Wild slide. Sliding 120m along a steel cable 160m above the ground one has a unique view of the gorge and Lehrs falls.

There are four hiking trails ranging from easy to very difficult. Both the Baboons Trail and Camel Trail are easy walks along the edge of the Gorge while the Lehrs Trail to the bottom of the Falls is of an average intensity. The Echo trail (5-7hrs) is a guided hike along one of the tributaries of the Umzimkulwana river and covers some dense, indigenous terrain with a steep climb out of the valley at the end.

Two mountain bike trails can be explored with an easy trail along the gravel road to the view sites currently used by vehicles. The second trail follows the same route as the Baboons and Camel Trails and, although slightly tricky in places, is the more popular and enjoyable.

Oribi Gorge features five spacious, shady campsites with electric power and there are barbecue facilities with firewood and charcoal for sale. There are also four rustic campsites featuring central washing up facilities set apart from the ablutions. The 2 ablution blocks have hot and cold running water, flush toilets, showers, basins and baths.

Oribi Gorge Camp provides a variety of self-catering chalet accommodation together with a swimming pool and communal lounge with television for the convenience of guests. For more information and bookings: Telephone - (039) 679 1644 Fax - (039) 679 1644.