First-Time Skydiving? Here’s Exactly What to Expect at Ground Rush Adventures
First-Time Skydiving? Here’s Exactly What to Expect at Ground Rush Adventures
Thinking about your first skydive? Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or somewhere in between, at Ground Rush Adventures in Swakopmund, Namibia, we specialize in transforming nervous first-timers into grinning, high-fiving adrenaline-seekers.
Published on: June 24, 2025
WHETHER YOU’RE CHECKING OFF your bucket list or conquering a lifelong fear, this post will walk you through exactly what to expect, from the moment you arrive to the moment your feet hit the sand again.
Arrival at Swakopmund Airport – The Adventure Begins
Your adventure begins at the drop zone, located at the Swakopmund Airport. Expect sunny skies, crisp ocean air, and a team that’s as relaxed as they are experienced. You’ll instantly feel the laid-back, good-vibes-only energy that makes this place special.
To make things even easier, we offer a courtesy vehicle that can pick you up from your accommodation or previous activity. Just let us know in advance, and we’ll handle the logistics.
Paperwork & Getting Settled
Once you’ve checked in, we’ll guide you through a short bit of paperwork—mainly a safety and indemnity form. After that, you’ll meet one of the instructors who will be jumping with you. They’ll walk you through a detailed safety briefing, explaining what to expect and how to stay safe throughout the experience.
You’ll also have a chance to observe other jumpers landing, which can help settle the nerves and give you a better sense of what’s to come, all while relaxing in a calm and welcoming environment.
Meet Your Instructor & Gear up
One of the best things about Ground Rush? You don’t do this alone. You’ll be introduced to your certified tandem instructor with hundreds (if not thousands) of jumps under their belt.
They’ll explain the whole process again, answer any questions you’ve got, and start getting you geared up. Your instructor will help you into your skydiving harness and make sure everything is snug and secure.
Before boarding, there’s a full safety check. Then a double check. Then a triple check. We take your safety seriously, and we never compromise on that.
Meet “The Angel” – Your Ride to the Sky
Now comes one of our favorite parts: the walk to the plane. You’ll head out to our eye-catching aircraft known as “The Angel.” She’s painted a striking yellow, adorned with a hand-painted phoenix and angel on her belly. With the blue Namibian sky as the background, she makes for an epic photo op.
You’ll climb aboard and settle in for a short flight over one of the world’s most surreal landscapes.
The Ascent – Desert Meets Ocean from Above
As “The Angel” climbs higher, you’ll get panoramic views of the Namib Desert fading into the Atlantic Ocean—a sight unlike anything else on Earth. On most days, you might spot some low-hanging fog or clouds that cast shadows to give the coastline extra depth and drama.
The atmosphere in the plane is electric. You’ll be sharing nervous glances and big, excited smiles with other first-time jumpers. Most importantly, everyone’s in it together.
Nervous? You’re Not Alone (and That’s Okay)
Being nervous is completely normal. In fact, if you weren’t at least a little nervous, we’d be worried!
Even people who’ve skydived multiple times still get butterflies. It’s your body getting ready for something big. The good news? Once that door opens, your brain has no time for fear. It’s replaced by adrenaline, awe, and pure present-moment magic.
Your instructor is there to reassure and guide you through every single second. They’ll help you focus on breathing, posture, and—most importantly—enjoying the ride.
Showtime – The Door Opens and You Jump!
At your chosen altitude, the plane door opens. Wind rushes in, your heart races, and before you know it—you’re diving into the sky.
Here’s what to expect based on jump height:
- 10,000 ft – Approx. 30 seconds of freefall
- 12,000 ft – Approx. 45 seconds of freefall
- 15,000 ft – A full minute of freefall (our most popular!)
And what does it feel like? Not like falling, surprisingly. It’s more like floating on a cushion of air, with the wind rushing past your face and the world unfolding beneath you. Most people say it’s the most alive they’ve ever felt.
And those safety fears? Forget ‘em. Your instructor is in full control of everything, from your jump to your landing.
Parachute Time – The Calm After the Rush
At the perfect altitude, your instructor pulls the chute, and suddenly the world goes quiet. You’re floating peacefully, suspended above Swakopmund with miles of deep blue Ocean and gold desert below.
And here’s the best part: you get to steer! Your instructor will hand over the secondary reins so you can feel what it’s like to turn, glide, and explore the sky like a bird.
Want to do a slow, scenic drift? You got it. Want to spin a little? Say the word. The vibe is yours to choose.
Capture the Moment – Video & Photo Packages
You’ll have the story to tell, but even better would be a video and photos to share and relive the moment. We offer two video packages:
- Basic Package: A skydiver jumps with you, flying around and filming your entire freefall with a high-quality camera. This will provide great external shots of you mid-air, and of you landing with a big grin.
- Deluxe Package: Includes everything in the basic package plus a GoPro attached to your instructor’s wrist, giving you a close-up, personal view from your own perspective. This will closely show your own transition from fear to disbelief to glee as you fall through the sky, as well as the blissful moment of gliding once the parachute is deployed (and even of you steering the parachute!)
Both packages include video and still photos edited and ready to share.
Touchdown and Post-Jump Vibes – Relax, Watch, and Soak It In
As you come in for landing, your instructor guides the parachute gently back to Earth. You’ll be whooping, cheering and possibly shouting, “Let’s go again!”
Cue the high fives, cheers, and big grins all around!
After your jump, head back to our chill club area. Our club area offers the perfect setting to soak in the bliss of your post-jump. Chat to instructors or your fellow first-time jumper, order a drink to celebrate, and share one of our famous pizzas. You can watch others take off in the Angel or land on solid ground, all in view from the outdoor grassy seating area. If your video is ready on the same day, you can relive your moment on-site while others cheer on your bravery.
This isn’t just a thrill—it’s a whole experience. One that stays with you long after you’re back on solid ground.
So, Ready to Fly?
Skydiving isn’t just about experience—it’s about facing fears and embracing a new, brave version of yourself.
At Ground Rush Adventures, we’ve taken thousands of first-timers on their maiden jump, and we never forget how big it is. You’ll feel safe, guided, and—most importantly—alive every step of the way.
So, are you ready? Book online to secure your spot and have a life-changing experience.
Ready to book your first Skydive?
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