Hidden in the forest at James and Ethel Gray Park in Melrose is the aerial wonderland of Acrobranch. The first Acrobranch park established in South Africa, there are now several other Acrobranch obstacle courses across the country, including in Pretoria, on the Garden Route, Stellenbosch and in Cape Town. 

There’s a course here for everyone – from kids as young as three years old (it's also a popular kids party venue) to adrenaline-hungry teens and adults looking for sky-high thrills. Among the options are the Acro-Twigs course for the little ones,  a zipline course to get your heart racing and the High-flyer course for the ultimate adrenaline junkie. 

Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of your booking. It will give you a chance to prepare yourself and get strapped into your safety harness. Your guide will then take you through a 15-minute training course and, after that, you are all set to go. 

The High-flyer course is definitely not for the faint-hearted (so of course we were determined to try it). Expect to use up lots of mental and physical energy as you zipline from one obstacle to the next. Obstacles include clamber nets, rope ladders and bridges, providing quite a workout. You might even feel it in your muscles long after your feet are back on the ground. 

Guides are ever-present, and willing to provide assistance along the course if you start to feel a bit wobbly. It's a huge amount of fun and by the time you reach the end you'll feel able to conquer anything you choose. 

Back on the ground, take some photos of yourself in your best climbing gear as we did and grab a bite to eat at the Tucker Cafe, where you can wind down and discuss your adventures. You are also welcome to bring along your braai stand although you'll want to book ahead to secure a picnic bench.

Walk-ins are welcome, but bookings (which can be made online) are advised to ensure you can embark on your aerial adventure at your requested time. Note that the park is a cash-free zone.  

If you'd like to book a table at the Tucker Cafe email ryan@tucker.co.za or  call +27 72 064 0988.