Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve

Game Reserve in Oribi Gorge

Description

One of KwaZulu-Natal's most spectacular natural settings, the scenic Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve lies some 21 km inland from Port Shepstone. Ideal for a weekend getaway or day-excursion. Oribi offers many delightful walks and self-guided trails to scenic spots in the reserve. Details of these walks may be obtained from the Camp Manager. 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. There is a reservoir swimming pool, with a sundeck in the camp for residents. Besides its magnificent views, Oribi has a wealth of other attractions as well. Wildlife to be seen in the reserve includes mammal species such as bushbuck, common reedbuck, oribi and blue and grey duiker. Leopard occur in the area and with luck, you may join the select band of game viewers to have seen one of these secretive creatures. The bird list numbers 250 and with its diverse habitats bird watching in Oribi is a rewarding experience. Oribi Gorge is only 21kms from the local beaches so visitors are free to spend the day on the beach, enjoy a meal or a movie at the Shelly Centre or visit any other attraction in the area. Oribi gorge Camp is open on a 24 hour basis so visitors returning from these activities have no time constraints.

ACCOMMODATION:

The camp is situated at the head of the Umzimkulwana Gorge and commands an impressive view of Oribi Gorge. The camp has electricity and consists of six two-bed huts each with an en-suite shower and toilet. Each hut is equipped with a refrigerator, kettle and toaster. Bedding, cutlery and crockery are provided, but visitors must bring their own food and beverage. A seven-bed, fully equiped self-catering chalet is also available. Barbecue facilities are available next to each hut. There is also a "barbecue boma" in the main camp if you're with a group. The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve lies snugly at the head of a spectacular river gorge lined with dense coastal bush and forests, just inland of Port Shepstone. The breathtaking scenery along the Umzimkulwana River gorge is a photographer's and nature lover's paradise. Oribi Gorge has a wealth of smaller wildlife species and visitors have occasionally seen leopards. Oribi Gorge is a magnificent birding destination with more than 250-recorded species. Self-guided trails descend into the gorge or follow the edge of the gorge providing magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Oribi Gorge Camp is ideal for families and features six two-bed en-suite chalets, each equipped with a refrigerator, kettle, toaster, bedding, cutlery and crockery. A seven-bed self-catering chalet with three bedrooms, bathroom, fully equipped kitchenette, lounge/dining room and barbecue facilities is also available. A "barbecue boma" in the camp is a great venue for groups of people and the communal lounge features satellite television for guests. A reservoir swimming pool with its own sundeck is a unique attraction for camp residents. Here is a great opportunity for a large family or group. A new 10 Bed Rustic Cottage is opening at Oribi Gorge Camp on the 15th of December 2006. This is the old Hospitality Managers House just below the main Oribi Camp. It consists of 10 beds in 4 bedrooms and there are 2 bathrooms. It is fully equipped.

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