That Time I Was Pushed Off a Cliff: Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls Gorge Swing
I will be the first to put my hands up... I was almost too chicken to do a gorge swing over the Victoria Falls. In fact, everyone went one by one while I quite happily designated myself with the helpful role of cameraman. It was only the moment of leaving and, totally overcome with FOMO, I plucked up the courage to step forward and say "Soooooo... I think I want to jump".
I had already done a tandem skydive, but that was different. It was tandem. I was terrified too, but at least there was someone there to pull that cord so you don't have to worry about a thing. It's moments like these where you just go for it and don't look back. Looking back a year, I am really happy I did it. When would I ever get the chance again? Sometimes all you need is a little push in the right direction.
Here are some of my helpful do's and don'ts when doing a gorge swing...
Try not to procrastinate for three hours as to whether or not to do it. Ripping off the band-aid is far easier.
DO watch others pumped up to jump while holding in the butterflies. It will be a source of inspiration.
Assign yourself the helpful role of the cameraman (after all, you still think you're not jumping).
DO give in to peer pressure (sometimes it's worth it ;) )
Get strapped tightly into safety gear.
Follow the instructor's instructions, who politely says that you will be jumping off the ledge after 3.
Get pushed off the ledge on 2.
DO admire the stunning view at the bottom while swinging in one of the wonders of the world.
Victoria Falls Gorge Swing
The strangest part of doing the gorge swing... I couldn't scream while falling. My mouth was wide open, yet everything tensed up; it was the weirdest sensation. Here's a video that was kindly taken while I braced myself. The photos and videos are courtesy of my team during a Rugby in Africa tour.