The Skydive Tandem Company launched late last year in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and will be launching charters in the near future.
Director, Chris Wilkinson-Pearce, told Tourism Update during Africa’s Travel Indaba 2018 that guests could charter flights to any Zimbabwean destination of their choice, however the company would start flying between Victoria Falls, Hwange and Chobe in just six weeks.
Touching on the skydiving option, Wilkinson-Pearce said they were open from 06h00 to 18h00, seven days a week.
The runway is five kilometres from Victoria Falls town and, according to Wilkinson-Pearce, in the early mornings and evenings it is possible to see wildlife, as guests recently spotted two lions on the runway.
Depending on air traffic, guests freefall from 10 000 feet for an estimated 45 seconds, reaching speeds of up to 200kph, depending on body size and position.
Skydive Tandem Company uses Sigma tandem rigs from United Parachute Technologies (UPT) in the US. All tandem instructors are Sigma rated by official Sigma examiners, and their licences are renewed annually. All equipment is checked on a daily basis and packed by a rigger.
Those opting for the skydiving experience must wear closed shoes, preferably trainers, and a sweater is recommended. Clients are provided with jumpsuits and goggles.
The general weight limit is 95 kilograms, however since the tandem instructors are relatively light, it is possible to accommodate clients of up to 110 kilograms. The final decision is based on fitness levels and will be at the discretion of the qualified instructor.
Cameras are not permitted on the expedition, as UPT requirements state that one must have completed 500 jumps in order to carry a camera.
Those with disabilities will be accommodated, as soon as the company’s specially made harness designed and tested by Tetraplegic, Jezza Williams, arrives this year.
Bookings are made in advance and cost $280, with 20% of the total going to the individual who sells the booking.
