Dumbe Paragliding

Dumbe meaning “Mountain Of Wonders” is the most flyable mountain in Kwazulu Natal due to its geographical shape and surrounding flatlands. Up to date there has been 4 South African Paragliding Provincial Championships held on this site with daily tasks being set to 75km and more. Dumbe is flyable in all wind directions except for a North wind which is very seldom. Dumbe is very well suited for cross country flying as there are beautiful flat lands with plenty trigger points and a few distant mountains towards Vryheid, Wakkerstroom and Pongola just to help set one’s eyesight on the horizon! Recovery is easy as there are plenty of national roads and farm roads, and the folk, mainly German are so friendly that most are even willing to supply a lift back to town. After a day of thermic cross country flying one can enjoy one of the best valley releases in the area. The ridge is 3.5km long so there is enough space for everyone to spread their wings till sunset.

Mountain Data:

Co-ordinates: S27 26.777 E30 50.581

Directions from Durban: Approximately 400km North of Durban. Travel via N3 to Ladysmith and then onto the N11 and then right onto the R621 and again right onto the R68 to Dundee. Follow the road to Vryheid (R33) and then 3km before Vryheid at Stillwater turn left and then left again to rejoin the R33 to Paulpietersburg. 4x2 recommended to drive up the mountain.

Directions from Johannesburg: Approximately 370km Southeast of Johannesburg. Follow the N2 to 2km past Piet Retief turn right onto the R33 to Paulpietersburg. 4x2 recommended to drive up the mountain.

Flying Data:
Average height above landing: 366m
Flyable wind directions: NNE, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW
Site XC Record: Bruce Yelland – September’98 -115km