Top 10 Places To Skydive
Top Places to Skydive
If you've made up your mind and want to take a leap out into the thin, high altitude air, you should head to one of the best skydiving locations in the world.
So, what makes a world-renowned skydive? A beautiful landscape is something to consider, as is the elevation of the jump—in general, the higher you go, the more time you can spend in a free fall. It's also important to find a company with a great safety track record and it's a nice bonus if the location also offers other adventures.
We considered those factors and the local companies in compiling our list. These are the top 10 places to skydive in the world—now all you have to do is make it out the door of the plane.
Namib Desert, Namibia
Trek out, way beyond civilization for this epic skydive in the Namib Desert and experience a 60-second freefall like no other. The ever-shifting orange dunes and rolling waves from the Atlantic Ocean are all you can see during your descent—it's a view and experience frequently described as "surreal." This jump from more than 10,000 feet definitely deserves a spot on any bucket list and after you've landed, there are other desert adventures you should try.
skydiveswakop.com
Mt. Everest, Nepal
The most extreme thrill-seekers with a good chunk of change to spare will find the ultimate skydive in Nepal. Board a helicopter and take off on the highest commercially available skydive in the world—one that only 152 people have ever done solo. With the help of supplementary oxygen, leap from 29,500 feet and take in the views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks as you freefall toward one of the highest drop zones in the world.
everest-skydive.com
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Undoubtedly one of the most popular skydiving sites in the world despite its short commercial history, Dubai is an urban jump with breathtaking views. Skydivers are treated to views of the Palm Jumeirah (the man-made sand archipelago), the Persian Gulf and the city itself.
skydivedubai.ae
Interlaken, Switzerland
For skydivers looking to descend among mountain peaks, Mount Everest isn't your only option. If you can't afford to spend tens of thousands on that experience, travel to Interlaken in Switzerland and freefall toward alpine lakes, glaciers and forest with the backdrop of the Swiss Alps. The city itself is a hub for outdoor adventure and the area looks particularly beautiful from 14,000 feet off the ground. As an added bonus, the Alps are one of the few spots in the world where skydivers ascend via helicopter.
skydiveinterlaken.com
Moab, Utah, U.S.
Set amid beautiful red rock canyons, skydiving in Moab is as exhilarating as it is beautiful. The jump from more than 10,000 feet gives you a bird's eye view of Moab, the Colorado River, Dead Horse State Park and Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
skydivemoab.com
Cairns, Queensland, Australia
Leap from 14,000 feet above Australia's coast and take in the views of the Great Barrier Reef—the only living thing that can be seen from outer space. On your descent, you'll also see tropical rainforest and coastline for miles. Afterward, if you're still up for adventure, see the Great Barrier Reef up close.
skydivecairns.com
Cape Town, South Africa
Sightseeing in Cape Town just doesn't get better than this—from 10,000 feet in the air, you'll be able to spot the infamous Table Mountain, the whole city and a stretch of coastline that is impossibly long. The outfitters at Skydive Cape Town are set just outside of the city itself and have been leading dives in the area since 2002.
skydivecapetown.co
Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.
Skydivers looking to reach new heights should visit Oahu, where Pacific Skydiving Honolulu will soon offer an "extreme skydive" option, allowing jumpers to launch from more than 22,000 feet in the air and freefall at terminal velocity. Those looking for something a little less terrifying can choose the "ultimate skydive," jumping from around 14,000 feet, you can see the whole island from up there.
pacificskydivinghonolulu.com
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia
Extreme thrill seekers will find their place high above the world's largest sheet of falling water—Victoria Falls. The falls, which create a natural barrier between Zimbabwe and Zambia are an incredible sight from above. Starting at Livingstone International Airport in Zambia, enjoy a scenic flight near the falls and then jump with the falls and the Zambezi River as the backdrop.
victoriafallsadventures.com
Fox Glacier, New Zealand
Renowned for jaw-dropping scenery and a location chock-full of top-notch adventure sports, Fox Glacier is undoubtedly one of the best places to skydive in the world. Start with a scenic flight around the Westland National Park and then take the jump from up to 16,500 feet above the breathtaking scenery.
skydivefox.co