There are very few things in life that truly live up to the hype. Tobogganing is definitely one of those things. For those you who are not sure what tobogganing is, it is sledding; something we do not commonly do here in South Africa because of our constant lack of snow.

But as we’ve seen with the Mouille Point Ice Rink, we do not need snow to enjoy fun winter activities out in the sun. Cool-Runnings is Africa’s only tobogganing track and it is one of the coolest things you can do.

tobogganing

Cool-Runnings has a 1.25 km long stainless steel sledding track that you can ride using a toboggan (bobsled), which sits one or two people comfortably. A hook pulls you up a slope and then whoosh! Feel the adrenaline rush throughout your body as you ride the winding track. There is a lever that helps you control your speed, so you can go as fast or slow as you what. Think go-carting meets the best slide ever and you have a vague idea of what to expect from tobogganing.

Here is a video we shot of the track:


If the idea of sledding around a stainless steel track at speeds that can reach 40 km/h seems unsafe to you, rest assured that the folks at Cool-Runnings have ensured that they are up to code when it comes to safety. All of the sleds are safety tested and the track meets international safety standards. The lever that controls the speed of the sled also acts as a brake, and there is an overall brake belt on the entire track that can be used whenever necessary.

On top of this, the whole operation is environmentally friendly. Cool-Runnings has made integration with its surroundings a priority. Preserving land and enjoying it without damaging it is a philosophy shared by Cool-Runnings and their founding company worldwide. The track is not anchored to the ground so it has no lasting effects on the subsoil or ecology of the area. Since it is made from stainless steel, there is no corrosion and the metal is fully recyclable.

tobogganing-2

Kids are not the only ones who can enjoy tobogganing, adults are just as welcome to have a ride, either with their little ones or on their own. One ride around the track lasts about five minutes and you go round more than once. So now all that’s left is for you to head on over to Cool-Runnings and get your toboggan on!

OF NOTE
When Monday to Friday 11 am – 6 pm, weekends and holidays  9 am – 6 pm
Where Cool-Runnings, Off Carl Cronje Drive, Tygervalley
Cost R30 – R350 (click here for full pricing)
Contact +27 21 949 4439, [email protected]www.coolrunnings.capetown

Article written by

We love this place! Cape Town Etc features news, reviews, entertainment and lifestyle in the Mother City.