Oribi Gorge — KwaZulu-Natal South CoastLoop.
Distance
120 km
Duration
1 day
Climb
600 m
Oribi Gorge — KwaZulu-Natal South Coast Loop.
A relaxed South Coast loop from Port Shepstone into the Oribi Gorge — a 400m-deep canyon of forest and sandstone cliffs carved by the Mzimkulwana River. Cross the swaying suspension bridge at Lake Eland, then drop back to the Hibiscus Coast for the beaches, waterfalls and seafood of Uvongo, Margate and Shelly Beach.
Quick facts
SurfaceMixed
Distance120 km
Days1
Total climb600 m
DifficultyEasy
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The route.
Port ShepstoneStart · Start in Port Shepstone at the mouth of the Mzimkhulu River. Head inland on the R620 toward the gorge.
Oribi Gorge Nature ReserveScenic Point · A 24km canyon 400m deep, carved through sandstone by the Mzimkulwana River. Dense forest, lookout points and the roar of the river below.
Lake Eland Suspension BridgePhoto Spot · An 80m footbridge swaying high over the gorge, plus one of Africa's longest ziplines. The overhang views into the canyon are extraordinary.
Uvongo FallsScenic Point · Back on the coast: the Vungu River plunges 23m into a lagoon behind the beach, framed by milkwood forest and a tidal pool.
MargateRestaurant · The South Coast holiday hub — wide golden beach, seaside cafés and ice cream. Good lunch and swim stop.
Shelly BeachEnd · End at Shelly Beach, launch point for dives on the Protea Banks. A relaxed finish on the Hibiscus Coast.
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