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7 adrenaline junkie things to do in South Africa

When you think of South Africa, you usually picture the stunning bush plains where ‘The Big 5’ roam free.

But while going on safari is understandably a highlight of this culturally rich country, there’s a new breed of tourist hitting its shores — the adrenaline junkies.

From throwing yourself off the world’s highest bridge to coming face-to-face with a great white shark, there’s a fix for every thrill seeker and best of all, it’s extremely cheap.

You’ll be amazed at how many adrenaline junkie things there are to do across South Africa. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle
You’ll be amazed at how many adrenaline junkie things there are to do across South Africa. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Bungee jumping – $100

By far the biggest — and bravest — buzz of them all is the Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump, which is a terrifying 216 metres high.

Just walking along to the jumping platform is a huge rush, as the footbridge is made from metal mesh, meaning you can see down to the river below. Yikes!

Lifestyle reporter Bex braved the world’s biggest bridge bungee. Scary stuff. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle
Lifestyle reporter Bex braved the world’s biggest bridge bungee. Scary stuff. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Jumpers will get a euphoric eight second free fall before being hoisted back up, ensuring you’ll get your adrenalin fix.

And for your height-phobic friends or loved ones who can’t bear to take the plunge, the view is pretty awesome too.

You can also check out the Orlando Power Station for another jumping fix if you’re in Johannesburg. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle
You can also check out the Orlando Power Station for another jumping fix if you’re in Johannesburg. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

If you really love bungee’s be sure to add Orlando Power Station to your hit list.

The decommissioned coal-fired power station in Soweto, Johannesburg isn’t quite as high, but its unique backdrop makes it a special experience.

Canyoning – $60

Next level water lovers have to give canyoning a go while in South Africa.

Known locally as kloofing, the activity is a real rush — as you navigate through river shallows using a variety of methods — such as jumping, zip-lining and swimming.

Canyoning, known as kloofing in South Africa, involves abseiling, jumping and zip-lining through river rapids. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle
Canyoning, known as kloofing in South Africa, involves abseiling, jumping and zip-lining through river rapids. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

As well as being very physical, it’s a huge mental challenge too thanks to the freezing water temperatures, huge heights and the inability to turn back.

You’ll find the best one located in Tsitsikamma. Will you dare?

Helicopter over Cape Town – $150

Not all the fun stuff happens on land though, as this adrenaline fuelled helicopter ride proves.

Taking in the incredible sights of Cape Town whilst in a small aircraft that’s hovering over the open ocean, is a real white knuckle ride.

The views from the helicopter over Cape Town are second to none. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle
The views from the helicopter over Cape Town are second to none. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The nerve-wracking buzz isn’t for everyone, but it’s something every thrill seeker will want to do again and again.

Abseil off Table Mountain – $90

If you like heights, the epic abseiling option on Table Mountain is a MUST.

Described by fans as “dope on a rope” you’ll catch an extremely unique vantage point of Cape Town whilst fulfilling all your fear-factor needs.

The panoramic views from the side of Table Mountain are insane. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle
The panoramic views from the side of Table Mountain are insane. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Even if heights aren’t your jam, braving the 1000 metre drop is well worth it for the panoramic views as you go down.

But it’s definitely not for the faint hearted.

Swim with seals – $75

Seeing any wildlife in their natural habitat is a real ‘pinch me’ moment, but with seals it’s extra special because of the major cute factor.

You can get involved in multiple places across South Africa, but Hout Bay is our top pick because it’s home to the local Cape Fur seals.

The country is home to native Cape Fur Seals. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle
The country is home to native Cape Fur Seals. Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

This is an incredible thing to do and will leave you feeling all fuzzy. Sign us up now please.

Shark cage diving – $200

No trip is complete without heading out to sea in Gansbaai to catch some sharks.

We may get them in our own back yard, but the South African’s get them too — in abundance.

Brave adrenalin junkies go shark cage diving in South Africa. Source: Getty
Brave adrenalin junkies go shark cage diving in South Africa. Source: Getty

Plunging yourself into the ocean in a protective cage definitely takes courage (we recommend a shot of tequila before hand) but the experience is a once in a lifetime.

Despite being one of the more expensive activities, it really is a jawsome.

Safari

Of course, no trip would be complete without ticking off safari from your bucket list and checking out ‘The Big Five’.

There’s no bigger thrill than witnessing some of the most dangerous and majestic animals living in the wild.

There’s no bigger thrill than heading to the South African bush to witness some of ‘The Big Five’ living in the wild. Source: Getty
There’s no bigger thrill than heading to the South African bush to witness some of ‘The Big Five’ living in the wild. Source: Getty

Your best shot to see lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards and buffalos is a visit to Kruger National Park, home of the safari.

It really is the experience of a lifetime.

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