Soweto Towers
Soweto Towers
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.
Rules and regulations:
Under 18's must have signed consent of a parent or guardian.
Weight limit: 35kg to 110kg
Open times:
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to sunset.
Accommodation Near Soweto Towers
Melville Gap Guest House
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Melville
10.7km from Soweto TowersMellville Gap Guest House is situated a stone's throw from the Bohemian suburb of Melville's famous 7th Street with its vibe atmosphere, pavement cafes, cozy restaurants, antique/vintage stores and cocktail clubs, we are in the perfect location... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
7th Street Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Melville
11.6km from Soweto Towers7th Street Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Melville, Johannesburg. With 13 luxury en suite rooms equipped with DSTV, Wifi internet access, heaters, hairdryers, fans, digital safes, coffee/tea facilities and bar fridges stocked... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Forest Town Guest Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Forest Town
13.9km from Soweto TowersForest Town Guest Cottages situated in Forest Town in Johannesburg. These attractively and comfortably furnished villas are self-contained, separate and private, 1- and 2-bedroom villas to suit families, the business traveller and tourists. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Panhandle Place Cottages
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Johannesburg Area
14.4km from Soweto TowersPanhandle Place Cottages are lovely self-catering units in a beautiful garden setting with views of the Johannesburg city skyline. We are centrally placed in an old Johannesburg suburb with tree-lined streets, safe for walking and jogging. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Apartment at 34 Columbine
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Randpark
14.9km from Soweto TowersThe Apartment is a double story self catering fully equipped with linen and towels. It can sleep 4 persons. Downstairs it boasts an open plan kitchen - equipped with dishwasher, microwave, fridge opening on to the dining room area, a bathroom... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Jack Rose
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Johannesburg Area
15.6km from Soweto TowersThe The Jack Rose offers the perfect Rosebank accommodation for business and leisure travellers. There are 56 huge rooms and apartments, the beds are comfortable, the WiFi is fast & free and the coffee is GOOD! This perfect location makes getting... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Residency Jellicoe
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Johannesburg Area
15.8km from Soweto TowersLocated centrally in the affluent and upmarket area of Rosebank, The Residency Jellicoe offers our valued guests the option of three different apartment types: A hotel room, a one-bedroom apartment, or a two-bedroom apartment, allowing for the... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Greenfields Guesthouse
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Alberton, East Rand
17.6km from Soweto TowersGreenfields Guesthouse offers accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis to visitors to Alberante, Alberton, East Rand. Overlooking the lush green playing fields of the Reading Golf Course in a prestige residential suburb - 2km from Alberton Boulevard. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Littlefields Luxury Self Catering Suite
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Randburg
20.5km from Soweto TowersModern Luxury Self Catering Suite in Olivedale (Non Smoking) with:Separate Entrance. Smoking Section Outside Secure High Wall with Safe Parking. In Safe Boomed off Area. Marble and wooden floors. Combined Lounge Kitchen with Full DSTV... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Grosvenor Inn
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Bryanston, Johannesburg
21.6km from Soweto TowersGrosvenor Inn provides spacious bed and breakfast accommodation in Bryanston, Sandton, Johannesburg. "The most outstanding quality of the Grosvenor Inn is the welcoming and friendly atmosphere created by the management and staff who go to great lengths... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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