1. Bloukrans Bridge, Storms River – The Highest in South Africa
The Bloudkrans Bridge bungee jump is the highest in South Africa at 216m. It was also known as the highest bungee in the world from a man-made structure, also noted as such in the Guinness Book of Records (maybe not anymore but at the time of writing), the head-first fall from the Bloukrans Bridge is sure to get your adrenal gland pumping. It’s a 216m drop towards the Storms River, so the full body harness goes a long way in making you feel secure. The instructors are qualified professionals, and although they may joke, they won’t let you down.
2. Bungee Mogale, Krugersdorp
At the Kings Kloof Bridge in Krugersdorp / Mogale City, you can have a nerve-tingling experience of bungee jumping 50m toward the undergrowth; and catch the scent of fresh foliage. This bungee area has been open since 2005 and various paraphernalia can be purchased as part of a bungee package, such as branded t-shirts, caps, and even footage of your jump. Other activities available here include a Foofy-Slide and a Bridge Swing. Bookings are only required if you are part of a group with ten or more people; no tandem jumping is allowed.
3. Orlando Towers, Soweto
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The cooling towers in Soweto were converted into the world’s first Vertical Adventure Center and offer many exciting activities from SCAD freefalling to abseiling, and bungee jumping to rappelling down. Naturally, bungee jumping is one of their top sellers. To experience this, you’ll need to take a giant lift up to the rim of the tower, where you can pause to get your breath back and view landscape of Johannesburg spread out below you. From here, you’ll climb onto the walkway between the two towers, 100m above the ground. After a brief lecture by the instructors, you’ll be ready to take the plunge between the colourfully decorated towers.
4. Moses Mashida Stadium Big Swing, Durban
Maybe not technically a standard bungee, this 220m wide swing has you kind of bungee swinging over the Moses Mashinda Stadium in Durban. Bsck in 2011 it was the longest such swing in the world, but whether that is still the case I cannot say. What I can tell you however that it is certainly one of a kind in South Africa and worth a visit if you are in the area.
5. Cable Car, Cape Town (no longer available)
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Table Mountain is one of the new 7 Wonders of Nature, and a landmark in the city of Cape Town. You can experience the thrill of bungee jumping from the cable car – that transports visitors between the bottom of Table Mountain and the plateau. The beautiful nature reserve will spread out below you, and the wind will send chills down your spine as you take that first step into empty air. Check out TravelGround if you’re looking for a place to stay.
[Update] The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company ended all bungee activities
6. Gouritz Bridge, Gouritz
The Gouritz Bridge bungee jump is 65m, and once you’re at the top you’ll be staring down at the swirling, cold waters of the Gouritz river. You’ll have plenty of time to take a deep breath before diving off the edge, and will have a few exhilarating seconds of laughing, crying, or screaming, before the bungee cord snaps you back up. If you’d prefer it, a bridge swing is also available. There are a number of tour operators that offer jumping at the Gourtiz, but be sure to look out for those that offer add-on packages in conjunction with your bungee jump, such as shark cage diving.
Best Time to Go
The best time to go bungee jumping in South Africa is during the summer months, which are from November to March.
Bragging Rights
The Rebellious Child – Finally have a perfect rebuttal to your mom’s “if everyone jumped off a bridge, would you?” question…even if it’s 10 years too late.
Cost
The cost varies from operator to operator, so budget between R300 to R650 for a single jump (approximately $40 – $80).
Insider Tips
- You don’t need to prepare for your jump as no skill is necessary (although heading to the bathroom before you jump is probably a good idea).
- Remove any jewellery and accessories you don’t want to lose.
- The bungee rope is secured very tightly to your ankles, and this can lead to bruising and swelling. Keep an ice-pack and arnica oil handy as you’ll likely need them the next day.
Learn More
- Bungee jumping may have been inspired by a tribe living on the island of Vanuata, who practice what is called naghol – meaning land-diving. Find out more here.
About the Author: Roseanna McBain is the blogger for the South African accommodation booking website, TravelGround.com.
I have never tried bungee jumping. I am afraid of heights. That must have been fun for you guys! 🙂