Kayak in Kuching, Sarawak
Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia and has one of the most diverse eco-systems. Futhermore its home to over 30 indigneous tribes. Kuching , the capital city of Sarawak, offers a majestic kayaking experience for small groups. This well-managed eco-friendly adventure is operated and guided by an architect, Francis Ho. You will encounter first hand the true hospitality of a Sarawakian together with an insightful journey into the pristine riverine and tropical rainforests. The rivers are mild and suitable for families.
What do I get to do?
Apart from soaking in the sun and warmth of the Sarawakians, Francis and his guides will lead you to some of Sarawak's most beautiful and safe rivers. Along the way, he will share with you tales of olden times, the area's ecology, it's people and a whole lot more.
Adventure Rating and Remarks
2 - A stress-free adventure with a little workout regiment.
Cost:
See below
Itinerary 1: Rainforest Kayaking Adventure (SR/KKRK)
A
‘must-do’ experience for nature lovers and the adventurous and outdoor person visiting Kuching.
Kayak through the rainforests on a meandering river in the Bau district, about an hour’s drive from Kuching. You begin your adventure in Krokong village beneath a suspension pedestrian bridge. Shaded by overhanging canopies of trees with the sounds of rustling water and chirpings of insects and birds, you will be transported away on a timeless journey in the magical rainforests.
The river will meander between dolomites hills with strange and wonderful shapes shaped over time by the waters. These truly unique speleological formations are a sight to behold.
The peaceful flat water will be punctuated occasionally by Class 1 to Class 2 rapids for a thrilling water ride.
There will be breaks along the 2 to 3 hour river journey to savour the beauty of the forest flora and to have a swim in the cold refreshing mountain stream.
Bring your camera to capture the beautiful sceneries and this enthralling experience. Don’t forget your spare films and batteries!
The trip ends at the Wind Cave, Bau, where there are public facilities to shower and change. The transport will pick you up here for your return journey back to Kuching.
Note: Depending on the river conditions, our partner may offer this trip at Borneo Highlands instead for an equally (if not more) scenic and memorable river experience! Francis will discuss with you on site.
Borneo Highlands will take you 40 minutes drive away from town into the mist covered hill sides of Borneo Highlands with undulating terrain dotted by small scale pepper farms where you'll alight at Bengoh, a delightful Bidayuh village and staging point for journeys by foot or rivers deep into the interiors.
Here you'll be given brief paddling instructions and safety briefing before proceeding down some steps to a small tributary where your parked kayaks await you for a group photo opportunity before we embark on our kayaking adventure. This shaded stream with overhanging trees, steep banks and a bridge overhead has just enough room for your kayaks to get through and meanders a short distance before opening into the vista of Sg. Sarawak Kiri.
A quarter of the way floating down the river we'll alight at Kg Danu just after the pedestrian only suspension bridge, to stretch our legs and to have a short walk to have a look at this delightful Bidayuh village. You can purchase seasonal fruits there and the most popular being 'the king of fruits' – the durian!
We will then continue our relaxing journey with lush vegetations on both banks and will stop by a sandy bank beneath soaring limestone hills at the half way point but not before getting past an exciting class 2 rapid!
After the swimming and delicious lunch break, you'll be astounded by the ever changing and stunning scenic views as you turn the corner. Just before we reach the end of the journey before the suspension bridge at Kg. Semadang, we'll kayak beneath a huge rock outcrop which turns into an unexpected waterfall on rainy days!
| Duration |
6 hours (including transportation from and back to Kuching) |
| Pick-up Time |
8.00 a.m |
| Fitness Level |
Easy to Moderate |
| Minimum |
2 Persons |
| Price |
RM188 per person |
*Non-swimmer must be accompanied by a guide on the same kayak. We do not allow more than 1 non-swimmers per trip. Life jackets must be worn by all participants at all times while on the waters.
Itinerary 2: River To Sea Kayaking Adventure (SR/KKSK)
Kayak through a pristine mangrove lined river arriving at the river mouth to a beautiful deserted golden sand beach all to yourself! Have a picnic (bring your own or we can arrange lunch at extra cost), swim or sun tan! Relax and feel like Robinson Crusoe and do some beach combing. You would definitely not find any other tourists here!
Ocassional encounters with the local fishermen and sightings of wildlife on the river. After soaking up the sun, paddle back. Get a sun tan as well as a work out!
An experience not to be missed!
| Duration |
5 HOURS |
| Fitness Level |
FIT |
| Minimum |
3 ADULTS |
| Price |
RM168 PER PERSON |
Itinerary 3: Dolphins Spotting Kayaking Adventure (SR/KKDS)
Embark on an unforgettable journey to spot the elusive irrawaddy dolphins in the wild - just inches from your kayak!
The Irrawaddy Dolphins are considered one of the most endangered amongst the dolphins and whales in the world and Sarawak is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to view them. These rare and unusual mammals are known locally as "pesut".
You begin your adventure when picked up from your hotel either in the morning (8am) or in the afternoon (1 to 2 pm) for a short 35 minutes drive to the put-in at a beautiful secluded beach.
The times vary and this trip is not offered on a daily basis. To maximize your chances of spotting these delightful mammals, we time ourselves to their schedule not ours!
This is the most fun, intimate as well as eco-friendly way to spot these wonderful mammals in their natural environments. Although we're at the estuary and not the open seas, sun hats and sun blocks are mandatory for sun protection. Drinking water is also provided for hydration.
Because we leave no trace except wakes in our kayaks; frequently the dolphins would even approach us! And inline with our eco-friendly approach, strict instructions would be given before we set off on how we approach and notify other participants when dolphins are spotted. We'll return you back to your hotel after your dolphins spotting trips with precious memories to treasure about this most unique experience of a fun day out on the waters with dolphins!
| Duration |
4 TO 5 HOURS |
| Fitness Level |
EASY TO MODERATE |
| Participants |
2 PERSONS |
| Price |
RM188 PER PERSON |
* Due to vagaries of wildlife behaviour and weather, we are unable to guarantee the sightings of these elusive mammals and as such no refunds would be entertained.
What does it include?
Return transfer, Kayak equipment, Training, English speaking guide and Picturesque settings.
What does it exclude?
Photography, insurance and lunch.
What do I need to bring/wear?
Change of clothes, lunch/snacks, towel, insect-repellant, pocket money, sun-block lotion, toiletries, personal medication, Wear quick dry clothing & strapped sandals or scuba booties. If needed, bring along eye/sun-glasses sports strap.
Best time to visit
This activity is normally available year round but best to check with us.
Getting here
You just need to find your way to a Kuching accommodation or we can help book an accommodation. Just let us know what level of accommodation you need.