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AAs tubing is a relatively independent activity, you can do it on your own, but it would be wise to consult locals regarding the safest spots to enter and leave the river and how you will get back to the start.
Although many KwaZulu-Natal establishments on or near rivers offer tubing, they mostly adopt an 'at your own risk' policy, because they cannot police everyone who decides to ride the river. However, many adventure companies offer tubing tours, which usually include tubes and the collection of tubers at the end of their journey downriver.
The best rivers for tubing are the Umkomaas, Mooi, Thukela, Buffalo, Bushman’s, Umzimkulu, Umgeni and Pongola rivers – all flowing from the Drakensberg mountains.
In the Umkomaas River valley there is a host of fun eco-adventure activities on offer. Enjoy a true taste of the African bushveld in this pristine wilderness, which is free of crocodiles and malaria, making tubing an appealing pastime.
Down on the province’s South Coast, the meandering expanse of the Oribi Gorge lures the more adventurous to leap off Lehrs Falls and experience the highest gorge swing in the world. Hundreds of metres below, the river meanders, offering white-water rafting and tubing conditions, depending on water levels.
As it meanders through valleys below the Drakensberg mountains during summer, the Bushman’s River attracts tubing enthusiasts trying to escape the heat. A tube ride here will take you through Moor Park Game Reserve, where plentiful wildlife adds to the enjoyment of the ride.
The Mooi River passes through the rolling hills of the Midlands. The river runs through the Midlands Meander arts and crafts route, via the town of Mooi River. The falls are a sight worth seeing when the river’s in full flow, but on its usual slow meander it's perfect for tubing.
Did You Know?
Travel tips & planning info
Who to contact
KwaZulu-Natal Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)31 366 7500
Email: enquiries@zulu.org.za
How to get here
It will depend on where you chose to go tubing.
Best time to visit
KwaZulu-Natal's rivers are at their fullest between December and March.
Things to do
Trout and bass fishing are popular along many of the province’s rivers, and camping facilities are often close at hand, depending on your choice of location.
What to pack
Wear a costume with shorts and T-shirt over it. A tie-on hat for the sun and trainers for clambering over rocks, plus lots of sunscreen.
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