Imagine tossing yourself from a bridge not with the comfort or a bungee cord, but nothing more than a simple rope. That is the case when taking part in the event known as a bridge swing in Ecuador.
The activity, which generally takes place near a small town called Banos de Agua Santa, is not for the faint at heart, but can be done by anyone. Basically, a rope is attached from one side of the bridge to a platform on the other side. The participant will then dive, or in some cases jump backwards, off the bridge into the valley. The natural process of the rope being tied under the bridge makes for some serious momentum and literally swings the passenger. Often times, the rope, and person attached to it, are swung within just a few meters of the river or valley floor below. The Ecuadorian bridge swing is a thing of beauty, and not something you forget overnight.
