Viewing Lake Kariba from the sky

Text by Perry Kaande

Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors, parasailing is an activity that is certain to create a unique experience and lasting memories.

Parasailing is also called parascending or parakiting. It is basically a water sport in which a person is towed behind a boat while attached to a parachutelike canopy, the parasail. This is suspended from a harness that is attached to the boat. As the boat moves forward, the parasailer is lifted into the air and glides through the sky.

On Lake Kariba, the water sport offers a unique and exhilarating way to experience the beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscape with the added thrill of flight.

Sunsports Kariba hints that “soaring above the lake at up to 80 metres is the ultimate way to take in the splendour and beauty that Kariba has to offer.”

Meanwhile, Heartveld Adventures African Travel and Tours offer this adventurous form of parasailing using a hydraulic winch. The chute is deployed behind the boat, the parasailer is then attached to the chute via a harness and a hydraulic winch lets them out from a deck at the back of the boat.

“After enjoying your flight and marvelling over the breath-taking views, the winch draws you back onto the deck again alleviating the need for a traditional parasail where you would land in the water,” says the tour operator.

Apart from the adrenaline rush, parasailing opens up the world of aerial scenic views. Also, nothing beats the sense of freedom and weightlessness that comes with being suspended above the water. The activity can also be a fun way to improve physical and mental well-being and social interaction.

Parasailers can do so either solo or in tandem. Tandem parasailing allows two people to be attached to the same parasail and towed at the same time. It is mostly used for couples and friends that want to share the experience.

The activity can be undertaken all year round, but it is more stimulating when the weather is calm and the winds and currents are not too strong. This ensures a safe, comfortable and enjoyable airborne experience.

Parasailing is a recreational activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. It is important to note that there are some physical and medical disorders such as heart and lung conditions and pregnancy that may prevent certain individuals from participating in parasailing.

Flight durations vary and weight is limited to 100 kilogrammes, whilst tandem combined weight is limited to 90 kilogrammes.

Text by Perry Kaande