Buzzin Bizarre

This is the Vanuatu’s World famous land diving ritual, which takes place on the island of Pentecost, the bungee jump with a difference. Men dive from a rickety tower made from logs and bamboo, with just vines tied to their ankles. Only men and boys are allowed to take part in this bizarre ritual, where the head is supposed to hit the ground.

The land divers aim is to bless the soil by skimming the earth with the top of his head, which is supposed to guarantee fertile soil for a bountiful yam harvest.

When a boy is ready for manhood, he has to prove his courage by jumping off the tower in front of his elders, while his mother holds one of his favourite childhood items. Once he has made the jump the item is thrown away to show he is no longer a child.

Before the jump, the men traditionally settle any disputes they may have with friends, family and wives, in case they don’t survive.

The ground below the tower is softened by long sticks before the jumpers begin. Now it is time for the men and boys to hope that the vines have been cut the right length, as only a couple of inches too long and they will hit the ground hard. They also hope that it is a good vine as they have been known to snap sending the diver headlong into the ground at up to 50mph.

It makes the modern day bungee jump look a bit soft but I still think I would prefer our way! Take a look;