By Palesa Matlala
- Soweto’s Orlando Towers offer bungee jumping and more for thrill-seekers.
- Local youth get skills and jobs through the Vertical Adventure Centre project.
Looking for your next adrenaline rush? Soweto’s famous Orlando Towers have you covered, from bungee jumping to paintball, this place is a thrill-seeker’s dream.
Known as the “twins of Orlando East,” the decommissioned Orlando Power Station is one of the top ten most visited sites in Soweto and a popular hangout for tourists and locals.
Visitors can bungee jump from a 100-metre-high suspended bridge between the two iconic towers, getting a breathtaking view of the township while conquering their fear of heights.
The Vertical Adventure Centre, which runs the activities, is owned by four local men who focus on hiring and training Soweto youth.
They offer hands-on training that builds confidence and communication skills with no experience needed.
“Our main priority is to teach our staff calmness because when they’re calm, clients feel calm too,” said operations manager Lawrance Sithole.
“From the moment you arrive, everything is quick and calm. One minute you’re on the ground, and the next you’re in the air.”
The jump is open to anyone over 12 years old, weighing between 35kg and 110kg. You can even get a DVD or photos to prove you did it.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the team kept all staff employed by rotating duties and focusing on maintenance and social media.
“Our affordable prices and creative marketing attracted more locals, students and even tour operators — who we reward for bringing clients,” said Sithole.
The centre also offers wall climbing, target shooting, scad free-fall, paintball and soon, a brand-new zipline.
Pictured above: Orlando Towers, Soweto.
Image source: Supplied by The Vertical Adventure Centre
