Soweto is South Africa's biggest township and a significant cultural and historical monument. The renowned Soweto Towers (Orlando Towers), once two obtrusive cooling towers, have been transformed into a destination for some of the most thrilling and enjoyable adventure sports in the country.
A coal-fired power plant once stood where the Soweto Towers are now located. The construction of the Orlando Power Station began in 1935, but it took around 20 years to finish as a result of unanticipated delays brought on by World War II. After World War II, the Orlando Power Station was built, and it provided power to Johannesburg for more than 50 years. In 1998, it was shut down, and it remained abandoned and underutilised for another ten years before being changed into the amazing adventure and commercial hub that it is today.
The organisation behind this transformation is called Skyriders. Instead of two dilapidated remnants of a bygone industry, they saw an immense opportunity. The Orlando Towers soon rose to prominence as one of Soweto's most sought-after attractions thanks to a makeover.
The towers in Soweto are among the most recognisable structures in the world, and visitors frequently bungee jump from them. This is where the first bungee leap between cooling towers ever occurred. Additionally, it is the location of the highest SCAD freefall ever recorded. These towers, which stand 33 stories tall, provide an absolutely gut-wrenching adrenaline sensation.
Jumpers must weigh between 35 kg and 115 kg. To engage in any of the activities offered here, children under the age of 18 must have their guardian's permission. A safe and enjoyable excursion is guaranteed thanks to the staff's expertise and training as well as the top-notch equipment they employ.
Bungee jumping in Soweto may be reserved online, but Soweto Towers only accepts first-come, first-served reservations. All activities at Soweto Towers cease when it begins to rain due to safety concerns. The team sets up the essential equipment and is prepared to resume operations as soon as the rain stops. If an alarm sounds while you are getting ready to bungee jump, you will be asked to leave.
Bungee jumping for the first time may be a terrifying endeavour. Your main concerns will be the dread of the unknown, whether the leap is safe, and how your body will respond. However, there are several actions you can take to improve your readiness.
- Examine your condition and any wounds
Consider having a medical checkup beforehand if you want to be entirely prepared for bungee jumping. It is really necessary to make sure your body and mind are in peak shape before you go bungee jumping since it is an incredible sensation.
- Put on comfy clothes and take out any loose stuff
Slip-on shoes should not be worn since they will unfasten. The best attire would be shorts or pants and don't put anything in your pockets. Remove your jewellery, watches, and glasses.
- Tie your hair up
When bungee jumping, untied long hair is not permitted. To lessen the possibility of hair strands getting tangled in the chord, tie it back or up into a bun or ponytail.
There is something for every adventure seeker at the towers, which also includes power and internal swings, abseiling, rap and base jumping, paintballing, and rock climbing. Images of Soweto, including Nelson Mandela and the black Madonna of Regina Mundi, are displayed on the cooling towers. Visit Chaf Pozi after making your heart race and adrenaline pump through your bloodstream. This nearby dining and entertainment establishment is renowned for its delicious food. The menu offers lots of meat meals in addition to vegetarian and halal selections.
Township tours of Soweto, which are bursting with history, culture, tradition, and the people that make up the face of the country, can be planned and reserved by tourists at the Soweto Towers.
Contact the Seeff team if you're looking for the ideal home in Soweto. Our property professionals are area experts with access to a variety of properties in Soweto that are available for sale or rent.
Soweto Cooling Towers Murals by Jay Galvin | Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | https://bit.ly/3yL89zP