Gorge swinging is an extreme adventure activity that involves jumping from a platform attached to a cable suspended across a gorge or canyon. The participant swings back and forth on the cable (like a pendulum) before eventually being lowered to the ground.
This swinging adventure with stunning views of Victoria Falls has become a popular activity for thrill-seekers visiting the area. The gorge is 120m high, with the freefall being about 70m and only taking 3 to 4 seconds to cover that distance.
How Did Gorge Swinging Come About at Victoria Falls?
The history of gorge swinging at Victoria Falls dates back to the 1990s when a group of local adventure enthusiasts began experimenting with bungee jumping and other extreme sports. They were looking for new and exciting ways to experience the natural beauty of Victoria Falls and the surrounding Batoka Gorge.
Fast forward four years and a team of engineers and adventurers developed a new activity that involved jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge and swinging over the Batoka Gorge. The activity was initially known as the “Foefie Slide” and involved a simple cable and pulley system.
The “Foefie slide” evolved into what is now known as the gorge swing, where at the time participants would slide across the Batoka Gorge on a cable, similar to a zipline. However, as the activity evolved and safety equipment became more advanced, the cable and pulley system was replaced with a specially designed swing seat that allowed participants to jump off the bridge and swing back and forth over the gorge. This new activity became known as the “Gorge Swing” and has since become a popular adventure activity at Victoria Falls.
The Gorge Swing Looks Scary, Even on Video!
Is the Gorge Swing Still Located at the Bridge?
The gorge swing at Victoria Falls is no longer located at the Victoria Falls Bridge. In the early days of gorge swinging, the activity was conducted from the Victoria Falls Bridge, which spans the Batoka Gorge between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
However, due to safety concerns and regulatory changes, the gorge swing operation was moved a few kilometers downstream from the bridge. It is now located between Victoria Falls Bridge and the famous Lookout Cafe.
The Evolution of Gorge Swinging & Safety
Over the years, the activity evolved, and the equipment became more advanced and safer. Today, gorge swinging at Victoria Falls is a well-established adventure activity that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The equipment used for this activity includes a harness, safety lanyard ropes, and a specially designed body harness. The activity is supervised by trained and experienced guides who ensure the safety of the participants.
Safety procedures include:
- Filling out a medical questionnaire to ensure participants are physically able to participate in the activity.
- Participants fitted with safety equipment, including a full-body harness, helmet and safety lanyards. This is all double checked by experienced staff members.
- Participants being attached to a safety cable at the launch site. This keeps them secure while being given final instructions.
- During the swing, an instructor will remain in close proximity to the participant to monitor their progress and ensure their safety.
- Once the activity is completed, the participant is safely lowered to the ground and the safety equipment is removed.
What Makes Victoria Falls Perfect for Gorge Swinging?
One of the main attractions of gorge swinging at Victoria Falls is the stunning scenery of the Batoka Gorge. The gorge is 120 meters deep, and the Zambezi River flows at the bottom.
Thrill-seekers experience a rush of adrenaline as they swing across the gorge while taking in the spectacular views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
It might be a little hard to take in the views while in full swing, but while you steady yourself, you have plenty of opportunity to capture the beauty of this iconic location. Somehow, the place seems even more captivating while adrenaline is rushing through your system!
Trending Towards Eco-friendly Adventure Activities
In recent years, there has been a trend towards more eco-friendly adventure activities and the Gorge Swing operators lead the way in ensuring that the activity is friendly to the environment.
The Batoka Gorge is home to a variety of bird species that require the cliffs to feed and nest. Not only are regular observations made to ensure that this activity does not disturb the natural behavior of these animals, but extra focus is placed on ensuring the surrounding gorge area is kept safe and free from would be poachers. Many of these birds are sort after on the black market and the Gorge Swing team ensure that vast section of the Gorge are patrolled and nest sites monitored.
Besides this, the gorge swing and many other activities are driven by the conservation and preservation of this World Heritage Site. Most operators contribute significantly into the protection of the Victoria Falls and surrounding areas
Author’s Final Thoughts
In conclusion, gorge swinging at Victoria Falls has come a long way since its inception in the 1990s.
The activity has evolved and become safer, and it continues to attract thousands of adventure-seekers from all over the world every year.
With the stunning scenery of the Batoka Gorge around you, the thundering Zambezi River below you and the rush of adrenaline, it is not hard to see why gorge swinging has become such a popular activity at Victoria Falls.