Whitewater rafting in Sabah is available from Level 1 to Level 4. Relatively unknown to locals, we have quite a number of qualified river guides in Sabah. Professional river guides are experienced, and qualified in CPR and first aid techniques.
The difficulty ratings for indicate the degree of difficulty in navigating through the water, and the roughness of the water. Level 1 is suitable for beginners, and the waves are considered easy to paddle through. Level 2 indicates small rapids or waves, that are also easy to paddle through. Level 3 represents moderate rapids, while Level 4 represents difficult rapids or waves.
I guess the foremost question would be “Is it safe?” In terms of the quality and specialization of the tour operator and equipment, yes. The safety measures in practiced leaves you in good hands. The safety orientation is provided to all rafters before you get into the water, this includes the safety measures, as well as the paddle handling techniques.
Equipment Provided
- International standard rafts and boats
- Life Vest
- Helmet
- Paddle
- Lifeline
- Rescue rope
- Dry bag
- First aid kit
Kiulu Whitewater Rafting
Kiulu is one of the villages located in the Tuaran district. The Kiulu river is one of the longest river in Sabah, and the whitewater rapids are rated Level 1 and Level 2. This serve as an excellent introduction to your whitewater rafting adventure. The rafting activities will last for 1 hour 3o minutes, although this may depend on the water level of the river.
Padas Whitewater Rafting
The tour starts with a 2 hours drive from Kota Kinabalu to Beaufort, a ride on the North Borneo Railway train to get to the Padas river. The train ride is an adventure by itself, taking you through the scenic view of the interior of Sabah, and by no means a comfortable ride. Although not as bad as it sounds, and it’s a great way to start your adventure. The Padas river is rated Level 3 and Level 4, so you are in exciting ride.
You will navigate through the Lambada, the Curve, the Head Hunter, the Merry Go Round, Break Point, the Scooby Doo and the Cobra rapids. The names gives you a good indication of what to expect, and it pretty much describes the rapids themselves.
Most tour packages will include:
- Return transportation
- Lunch of local menu
- English speaking Tour/River Guide
- Safety equipment of international standard
Things To Bring
- Extra change of clothes
- Comfortable shoes/slippers
- Towel
- Sun Block
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