Karkloof nature reserve and the Karkloof falls are situated on the east side of the Midlands Meander. The first white settlers found this beautiful area virtually empty...abandoned first by the ancient San hunter-gatherers in response to encroaching black tribes, then by these same black tribes as King Shaka carved out and expanded his Zulu Empire. During the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, a church built 16 years earlier served as a fort and remains surrounded by settler graves.
Karkloof Canopy Tours on the Midlands Meander
Situated in the tranquil Natal Midlands, the Karkloof Canopy Tour offers an unequaled experience gliding along steal cables between 8 canopy level platforms built high within the Karkloof forest. Safely harnessed in state of the art climbing gear and under close supervision of a professional team of guides prepare yourself for a 3 hour adventure that will take you above the birds and the monkeys, trees and plants of this magnificent forest. The slides are up to 175m long and provide unforgettable rides and spectacular views over the forest canopy
The Karkloof Canopy Tour is a unique eco-wilderness adventure taking place in the magnificent Karkloof indigenous forest of South Africa. The second of its kind in South Africa, the canopy tour involves traversing from one platform to another along a steel cable suspended up to 30 meters above the forest floor. The scenery and bird life is spectacular and professional guides provide interesting facts about the forest ecology during the three-hour tour.
The tour begins with a detailed safety briefing followed by a 'kitting up' session where full body harness, pulleys and climbing equipment is put on and checked. A short drive into the Karkloof forest and it is time to monkey around!
From the start on the launch platform a new world unfolds as one gently glides on a steel cable to the first tree platform. All groups are escorted through the forest canopy by a lead guide and a follow guide to ensure your safety as you slide from tree to tree. The platforms provide an unbelievable view of this enchanting new world - any fear of heights is soon lost as you gather in your new surroundings...
Spend a couple of minutes relaxing while your guides enthusiastically explain the ecology of the forest. The Karkloof Canopy Tour consists of eight platforms and nine 'fufi' slides, the longest of which is over 170m!
About three hours later you exit the forest, having undertaken the journey of a lifetime. You have contributed to the creation of new jobs and are helping the forest regeneration project.
