If jumping from a bridge for fun is not exciting enough, add an exotic locale, an elite distinction, and world-class hospitality. It all adds up to a mind expanding, toe curling experience of a lifetime.
Bloukrans Bridge, at an astounding height of 709 ft, has certainly earned its ranking as the world’s highest commercially operated bungy jump bridge; according to the Guinness Book of World Records. It’s situated along the Garden Route, just east of Plettenberg Bay, South Africa.
A sensory overload greets thrill seekers at the aptly named, “Face Adrenalin” welcome center. An overwhelming current of fear crackles through the air, as nervous smiles are exchanged, paperwork completed, and details addressed. Once secured in a body harness, you’re escorted to the jump site via the open air, “catwalk,” suspended high above the river, affording panoramic views and magnificent hesitations.
When the platform is reached, jumpers line up according to their size. Heaviest go first, lightest last.
Before you know it, with the help of two brave assistants; you and your new best friend -your bungy cord- are attached; and hopping like a clumsy bunny ever closer toward the edge. A discreetly placed video camera captures every eye-popping blink, terrifying gulp, and unintended curse word uttered. I’m instructed: “Stand here, toes off the edge, arms out like a bird, and just fall; holding your head up like you’re flying.”
The countdown begins – five-four-- High-energy club music blasts from invisible speakers, and at some point, this obnoxious noise becomes strangely hypnotic as fear is replaced with throbs of courage.
..three-two-ONE---Suddenly, stepping off into thin air, there’s no screaming, no terror, just sheer unexplainable joy. Like falling into the lap of God.
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As a side note, I’m usually not a “souvenir T-shirt” kind of girl. However, for this once in a lifetime experience, the urge to hang on to that courageous feeling overwhelmed me. Knowing that I’d really “been there and done that,” I went ahead and “bought the T-shirt.” (emblazoned with, “Fear is temporary, regret is forever.”)
