HB0117

Did You Know?

Oribi Gorge Guest Farm, also known as Siyanda, is located near Port Shepstone in KwaZulu-Natal. The property dates to 1912, when it was established as a farm in the Oribi Gorge area, a region known for its deep, forested gorge carved by the Mzimkhulu River. The farm's historical significance lies in its role as an early 20th-century agricultural settlement in the subtropical coastal hinterland of southern Natal, where sugarcane farming became dominant after the 1850s. The original buildings from that era reflect the vernacular farmstead architecture typical of the period, using local materials such as timber and corrugated iron. Over time, the site transitioned from a working farm into a guest farm, preserving its historical character while serving as a base for visitors exploring the gorge's natural heritage. The name 'Siyanda' is a Zulu word meaning 'we are increasing' or 'we are growing,' reflecting the local cultural context. The gorge itself was proclaimed a nature reserve in 1950, but the guest farm remains a private property, offering insight into the region's colonial farming history and its later adaptation to tourism.

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