Kuching is a coastal city in Malaysian Borneo. It is also fast-becoming a major hub for adventure sports fans, including white water rafters and kayakers. Kuching is in the state of Sarawak, a land of tropical forests and mountains. Base yourself in Kuching, and head off from there on an adventure. A Kuching white water rafting trip is definitely something to experience.
There aren’t many operators taking people out on white water rafting trips immediately around Kuching. But the city is surrounded by national parks, where you’ll find rivers and waterfalls through the jungle. There isn’t much in the way of rapids, though: it’s best to stick to kayaking in this area.
Further afield, you will find real white water rapids. The Padas River in the neighbouring state of Sabah is the go-to destination for most, with some exciting and challenging rapids, mostly from class 3-4. The locals have been navigating the river for generations, and their advice and help when doing it yourself is invaluable. It’s also a good way to get to know the local culture. It is a remote area, with no roads: you get there by train through the jungle!
Beginners and families with young children could look at heading instead to the gentle Kiulu River, where the rapids are mostly class 1-2. It’s a more relaxing trip than to Padas, but it’s no less fun – and is ideal if you want to take in your jungle surroundings.
A Kuching white water rafting trip is a fantastic way to get the adrenalin pumping and see some of the more remote parts of Malaysian Borneo. Be warned, though: you might just find it a little bit difficult to leave this part of the world!
