Orlando Towers

Soweto's decommissioned power station cooling towers, painted with giant murals and turned into a vertical adventure park — the 100m bungee between the towers (R630) is the signature Joburg adrenaline hit. Even if you don't jump, they're the township's most photographed landmark. Note the odd hours: Thursday afternoons and Friday to Sunday only, first come, first served.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How much is the bungee jump at Orlando Towers?

R630 for the 100-metre bungee between the towers, with videos around R170 and photos around R100 extra per activity. There's also a swing and other vertical activities at different price points.

Do I need to book the Orlando Towers bungee in advance?

No — in fact you can't. It runs strictly first come, first served, so arrive early, especially on weekends. Thursday opens at noon; Friday to Sunday from 10:00, running until sunset.

What are the Orlando Towers, originally?

They're the cooling towers of the Orlando Power Station, which supplied electricity (mostly to white Johannesburg, not Soweto itself) from the 1950s until decommissioning in 1998. The adventure operation and murals came later — the history is part of the story your guide will tell.

Can I combine Orlando Towers with other Soweto sights?

Absolutely — it's minutes from Vilakazi Street, Mandela House and the Hector Pieterson Museum. Most Soweto day tours string them together; if you're jumping, do the towers first so the queue doesn't eat your afternoon.

Is Orlando Towers worth visiting if I won't jump?

Yes — the murals on the towers are Soweto's biggest artwork and a genuinely great photo stop, and watching jumpers scream across the gap is free entertainment. There's usually food and drink at the base on operating days.

What days are Orlando Towers open?

Thursday from 12:00 till sunset, and Friday through Sunday from 10:00 till sunset. Closed Monday to Wednesday, so plan your Soweto day accordingly.

Is the area around Orlando Towers safe?

On operating days it's a busy, well-visited attraction with on-site parking, and Orlando is used to tourists. Come by Uber or with a tour, keep normal city awareness, and you'll be fine.

Are there weight or age limits for the bungee?

Yes — jumpers must weigh between 35kg and 110kg, and no child under 12 is allowed up the tower at all. Bring ID if you look young; they do check.

Nearby in Ask Johannesburg

• Chaf PoziRestaurant0.17 km · 2 min walk
• Mandela House on Vilakazi StreetMuseum2.58 km · 32 min walk
• Sakhumzi RestaurantRestaurant2.64 km · 33 min walk
• Hector Pieterson Memorial and MuseumMuseum2.86 km · 36 min walk
• Wandie's PlaceRestaurant4.06 km · 51 min walk