Lanner Gorge

Lanner Gorge is a deep sandstone chasm carved through the Limpopo landscape, where the Luvuvhu River winds along the canyon floor. Steep cliffs frame the waterway, creating a dramatic geological formation that rises significantly above the river level.

The sandstone layers within these cliffs date back to the Triassic and Jurassic periods, shaped over millions of years by river erosion. Fossil remains preserved in the rock walls provide evidence of the region's ancient geological past.

The adjacent archeological site of Thulamela reveals the presence of ancient civilizations, while the surrounding Makuleke area contains evidence of human activity from 1.5 million years ago.

Access to this gorge is arranged through private lodges in the Makuleke Reserve, with guided excursions departing from Pafuri Camp. Visitors should plan for guided experiences since independent exploration is not available, and the cooler months offer better conditions for viewing wildlife.

The name comes from the high numbers of lanner falcons nesting within the cliff faces, giving this location a distinctive character shaped by these raptors. These birds of prey coexist with crocodiles, hippos, and leopards in an unusual ecological mix found nowhere else in the region.