Atlantic Waves

Have you ever wanted to experience the freedom of soaring above the trees of a forest, or virtually fly across a gorge? If you have (and even if you haven’t) you might want to try zip lining. Zip lining is a form of aerial transport that relies on ropes, pulleys and gravity to carry people quickly across terrain that does not naturally lend itself to speed, such as dense forests and mountains filled with ravines and gorges. Depending on whom you talk to, zip lines originated in either Costa Rica or Hawaii as a practical way to get around. These days, they’ve been adopted by eco- and adventure-tour operators to give holiday makers a thrilling alternative to walking tours and hikes.

South Africa has mountains and forests dotted across its length and breadth, and over the past few years these have been put to good use as internationally acclaimed zip lining destinations.

Tsitsikamma, along the Garden Route (already a favourite of South Africa’s activities), boasts not one but two zip lining opportunities.

The official Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour was the country’s first “eco-wilderness adventure”. You get a two – three hour 30m high aerial tour of the Tsitsikamma rainforest with a guide whose knowledge of the local fauna and flora will astound you.

Then there is the Tsitsikamma Falls Adventure Park where you can indulge your love of heights (or conquer your fears) with a zip line tour across the Kruis River Gorge.

Head towards the Western Cape and find your way to Ceres (famous for its wines and fruit juices). Here, you’ll not only find ample opportunity to quench your thirst but you’ll also find Ceres Zipslide Adventures, which, according to the website, boasts the longest zip line tour in Africa. This is perhaps largely due to its extensions which were planned for 2011.

Ceres’ claim to the longest zip line in Africa title is contested by UNREAL, or the ZIP slide 2000, which you’ll find way up north in Sun City. While the title of the longest zip line may be up for grabs, UNREAL is certain that its slide is the fastest.

Turn east into Mpumalanga and the Sabie River and you’ll find Skyway Trails. Skyway Trails is just outside of Hazyview, which in turn is close to the Kruger National Park, so you can fit in all manner of holiday treats. The tour takes you above the Sabie River and along the valley. It used to be the longest zip line in Africa, until UNREAL and Ceres came along.

KwaZulu Natal’s Midlands Meander also provides some zip lining action. Karkloof Canopy Tours take you on a whirlwind adventure above the Karkloof forest, valley and waterfall. Expect to see some Samago monkeys and be amazed at the varied birdlife.

This list is by no means exhaustive. Contact your travel agent or find an online travel portal for more information on zip line activities in South Africa.

Sandy writes for a number of different sites, including blogs on South Africa’s many activities and other African adventures.

Image courtesy of Trawas.