Soweto Towers - Orlando East, Soweto, Johannesburg
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100M BUNGEE JUMP - Jump from our suspension bridge with a rubber cord around your feet. © Soweto Towers![]()
Originally built as part of the Orlando Power Station in the 1950s, these cooling towers have been transformed into a vibrant hub of adventure sports and cultural activities. © Kandukuru Nagarjun, License
Soweto Towers - Orlando East, Soweto, Johannesburg
The Soweto Towers, also known as the Orlando Towers, are iconic structures located in the heart of Soweto, Johannesburg. Originally built as part of the Orlando Power Station in the 1950s, these cooling towers have been transformed into a vibrant hub of adventure sports and cultural activities. The towers are easily recognizable due to their colorful murals, which depict various aspects of South African culture and history, making them a popular landmark and tourist attraction.
The Towers are quick becoming a very popular tourist attraction in South Africa. They were established by Skydivers (Pty) Ltd in 2007. The cooling towers were unused and the idea of turning them into a vertical adventure attraction, became a reality. Bob Woods had an idea to offer swinging, bungee jumping, climbing, abseiling and a zip line, to mention only a few, to the Soweto area. After years of negotiation and preparations, Bob worked together with the Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) until the plans were launched in 2005. In 2007 the lease agreement was signed for this extreme adventure. Much work and preparation went into the plans and in July 2008, the Orlando Towers were officially opened.
One of the main attractions at the Soweto Towers is the adrenaline-pumping bungee jump. Standing at 100 meters tall, the towers offer a unique bungee jumping experience that is not for the faint-hearted. Adventurers can also engage in other thrilling activities such as abseiling, zip-lining, and base jumping. These activities provide an exhilarating way to experience the towers and offer breathtaking views of Soweto and Johannesburg.
The Soweto Towers are not just about extreme sports; they also serve as a cultural and social gathering spot. The towers' vibrant murals are the result of collaborative efforts by local artists, showcasing the rich heritage and diverse stories of the Soweto community. The site often hosts cultural events, music festivals, and community gatherings, fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents and visitors alike.
Additionally, the towers play a significant role in promoting tourism and economic development in Soweto. They attract both local and international tourists, providing employment opportunities for locals and contributing to the growth of the area's hospitality and service industries. The Soweto Towers stand as a testament to the community's resilience and creativity, transforming an industrial relic into a symbol of adventure, culture, and progress.
5 Interesting facts about Soweto Towers:
1. Former Power Station: The towers were originally part of the Orlando Power Station, built in the 1950s, and have been repurposed into an adventure sports and cultural venue.
2. Bungee Jumping: The towers are famous for their 100-meter bungee jump, one of the few urban bungee jumping sites in the world.
3. Colorful Murals: The towers are adorned with vibrant murals created by local artists, depicting the cultural heritage and history of Soweto.
4. Adventure Sports Hub: Besides bungee jumping, the towers offer activities like abseiling, zip-lining, and base jumping, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world.
5. Cultural Events: The site regularly hosts cultural events, music festivals, and community gatherings, serving as a social and cultural hub for the Soweto community.
Contact details for Soweto Towers:Location:
Location: Cnr Sheffield Road and Chris Hani, Orlando East, Soweto
Contact: 071 674 4343 (Office hours 9:00 till 17:00)
064 681 8478 (Office hours Wednesday to Sunday)?
Email: see website
Website: https://sowetotowers.co.za
Handy stuff to know:
- WE DO NOT TAKE ANY BOOKINGS, we work on a First come first served basis.
- Discounts for groups of 6 or more.
- Pay for your activity voucher online. Valid for 365 days from date of issue.
- Weight Limits: 35kg to 110kg.
- Under 18’s must have signed parent/guardian consent.
- No children under the age of 12 allowed to go up to the top of the tower.
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