Think South Africa is all about national parks, game reserves and vineyards? True, it has all of these things – but SA is also the perfect adventure playground for adrenaline junkies.
If your idea of an amazing travel experience is a heart-pounding, risk-taking one, read on. We’ve put together some of the best extreme activities to try on your next trip to South Africa…
Bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge
Let’s start with perhaps the scariest thrill ride on our list – leaping off the 216m high Bloukran
s Bridge near Nature’s Valley, Western Cape. But don’t worry, you’ll have a bungee rope to hold you and the Bloukrans bungee company has a 100% safety record.
This famous bridge, which was once the tallest in the world, offers incredible views across mountains and valleys. And of course, you’ll look down a terrifying 200+ metres to the river below.
If you’re looking for the ultimate rush in South Africa, this is very possibly it.
Abseiling down Table Mountain
Conquering Table Mountain is definitely a ‘must-do’ when visiting Cape Town. One of the most exhilarating and memorable ways to experience this iconic mountain is to abseil down its vertical cliff face.
Cable cars take visitors to the top of the mountain. As you can imagine, the views from the top looking down on one of the world’s most beautiful cities are simply stunning. To reach the bottom though, all you have to do is dangle off the cliff top with a rope and a harness!
Tandem sky diving over Cape Town
What’s the best way to see Cape Town in all its glory? From the skies, of course. Don’t bother with a helicopter tour, not when you can fling yourself out of a plane!
You can skydive in many places across South Africa, including just outside Cape Town – a convenient option if you’re staying there. You’ll get spectacular views and a thrilling, unforgettable experience. We’d say it’s once-in-a-lifetime, but you’ll almost certainly want to do it again.
River canyoning in The Crags, Plettenberg Bay
There are lots of places to go ‘kloofing’ (as canyoning is called by the locals) in South Africa, but one of the best spots has to be The Crags in Plettenberg Bay.
Hike your way through atmospheric native forest, before abseiling, rappelling, cliff jumping or zip lining across the beautiful ancient canyon and waterfalls, with experienced instructors on hand to guide your way.
Sandboarding on ‘The Dragon’ in Mossel Bay
One of the most famous, longest and largest sandboard rides in South Africa is the ‘Dragon Dune’ in Mossel Bay. If you’ve never been sandboarding before, don’t worry. There are instructors on hand for beginners, pros and groups, so no experience is needed.
It’s just like snowboarding, and you can go down on your front or standing up if you’re brave (and balanced) enough. It’s a seriously fun day out, and very possibly your new favourite adventure sport.
White-water rafting in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve
Pop some waterproofs on and head an hour out of Cape Town for this exhausting yet exhilarating experience. Together with your team, you’ll tackle ten wild rapids on the Palmiet River, running through the stunning Kogelberg Nature Reserve. You’ll definitely get soaked, but it’s so much fun.
Ready to see the extreme side of South Africa? Start planning your bespoke itinerary with your own Blank Canvas travel expert.