Continuous Belay vs. Self Belay

Published on: 09/08/23 

Every one of our 36 locations is custom built to consider the safety of all adventurers, our tribe and even the trees our courses are around. 

We are committed to making our experinces as safe and enjoyable as possible so that everyone can enjoy a fantastic day in the outdoors. In fact, this year, we were awarded the RoSPA Gold Award for Health and Safety Practices for the fifth year in a row.

Across each activity we do have different safety systems, Continuous Belay and Self Belay. In this blog you can discover our two safety systems, and which sites and courses use each system. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced adventurer, we've got you covered.

Continuous Belay

Continuous belay at Go Ape means that you are attached to the safety by a safety line and a device called a trolley, that can only be attached and disconnected on the ground. Participants have additional safety lines, which adventurers (or supervising adults) will be responsible for clipping onto the safety system.

All of our Treetop Adventure, Treetop Adventure Plus and Treetop Challenge Xpress courses use continuous belay safety systems. 

Self Belay Courses 

Self-belay at Go Ape uses a safety system where you move around the course clipping and unclipping your safety lines as you go. At least one of the two safety lines on your harness must always remain attached to the safety system as you do this on the course platforms. 

As with all of our activities, if you are supervising a young person under 16 years, you are responsible for making sure that they use their safety equipment correctly. 

Our Zip Line Experiences, Challenge Plus and our Zip Trek adventure uses self belay safety systems.