The scenery along the gorge
formed by the Umzimkulwana River
is a photographer's and nature
lover's paradise. There are
numerous idyllic picnic spots
on the banks of the river. Be
advised, though and do not swim
or paddle in the river because
of the risk of contracting bilharzia.[4]
Oribi Gorge is situated along the
spectacular forest-cloaked ravine
of the Mzimkulwana river just west
of Port Shepstone which itself is
120 km south of Durban. Oribi Gorge
is the eastern gorge of two gorges
that cuts through the Oribi Flats
(flat sugarcane farmlands), southern
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The western
gorge was formed by the Mzimkulu river.
At the base of the cliffs of both
gorges there are rocks over 1000 million
years old while the cliffs themselves
are formed from sandstone deposited
about 365 million years ago. Below
the gorges is a large surface mine
producing cement.
[2]
Oribi Gorge
Nature Reserve
Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is situated
in the Oribi Gorge, which is approximately
27 km long, 4 km wide (widest point)
and 400 m deep. In 1950 it was proclaimed
a protected state forest.
[2]
A photographer's paradise,
this little Eden encompasses forests,
rivers, rapids and huge ravines. High
sandstone cliffs dominate this 24km
long gorge carved out by the Umzimkulwana
River. Leopards, troops of baboons,
various small antelope and a prolific
bird life, including five species
of kingfisher and seven species of
eagle inhabit the reserve. There are
several nature trails for the adventurous.
[3]
The Wild Gorge swing
is an awesome experience that leaves
you breathless but exhilarated. Situated
at the top of Lehrs falls, it is the
highest swing in the world. One steps
or jumps off the waterfall to swing
into the depths of the gorge in a
100m (33 Storeys) arc.
