Selangor River (Grade I-IV), Kuala Kubu Baru, Selangor (SL/KKBR)

*pictures and animation by Ee Chee Wan
One of the most popular rivers for recreational whitewater rafting since the 90s and reputed to have rapids that meet Olympic standards for whitewater kayaking. Located within 1 hour from Kuala Lumpur, this location continues to provide outdoor enthusiasts an extreme wild whitewater ride until present day.
The implementation of the Selangor Dam construction in the late 90s until 2003 to provide fresh water to Kuala Lumpur required the Temiar tribes living in the jungles by the river to relocate themselves as well as the put a halt to the river sports. Visitors to this area dwindled and so did the ecology and economic conditions in the area.
However, since 2005, whitewater rafting and kayaking in the area saw a revival. Visitors are now flocking back every weekend to visit Kuala Kubu Baru (KKB) town enroute to Frasers Hill or to view the Selangor Dam.
KKB is an old tin mine town built with captivating colonial buildings and terrific greenery. KKB replaced another town that was washed away by floods from a broken dam in the late 19th century. The remnants of the old town(Ampang Pecah) is just a few minutes drive away.

Whitewater action at Selangor river has 2 sections
Upper river (grade II-III)
When the water levels are low, this section provides the run. Tubing and fun inflatable kayak activities are occassionally carried out here.
Lower river (grade II-IV)
This is the ideal section to run as the thrills and spills here is what KKB Whitewater rafting/kayaking is famous for. All 7 kilometers of it!
 

What do I get to do?

Spend a great day out in nature with friends and/or other outdoor people. The fresh air and cold water to re-awaken the senses!
Other activities such as Chilling Waterfall trek, canyoneering/waterfall abseil, Kutu Hill trek (an entire day or overnight activity), camping and teambuilding can be arranged. Frasers Hill which is less than 1 hour drive away from KKB is a world renown destination for bird-watching. We organise birdwatching activities here and other destinations as well.

Adventure Rating and Remarks

3-4 - Whitewater rapids here can be quite unnerving!

Rafting Rates

Itinerary

0930 Meet at Kuala Kubu Baru Post Office. From there the guide will lead you and car to starting point where your passengers get off except the driver who will be led to park car at the end point. The driver will then be driven back to start point (20mins) to commence a comprehensive and fun training session on rafting technique and safety.

1020 - Rafting begins! Due to the large drops here, rafts will stop before each rapid in order for guides to survey the run and to serve as rescue for each raft. There will be a short snack break along the way and you will finish about 1 or 2pm . Lunch time inclusive.

* times mentioned above are approximate only

What does it include?

River guide, training, rafting equipment, safety equipment, 1 lunch/buffet. For RM3, you may also receive action pictures in a CD of your rafting adventure. However, this is not a guarantee and it is subject to the guide bringing his camera. You may bring your own waterproof camera at your own risk.

What does it exclude?

What do I need to bring/wear?

Bring an open mind, patience and a smile. Wear quick dry clothing, change of clothes, towel, insect repellent, sun-block lotion, toiletries, personal medication, strapped sandals/scuba booties/watersports shoes, wear highly breathable clothing.

Best time to visit

This river is highly dependent on the Selangor dam water release. During drought, it is not runnable. Rainy season will result in dam water overflow which is excellent time to raft.

Getting here

By Car From Kuala Lumpur
Take old trunk road North to Ipoh or take the PLUS highway exiting at Rawang (map:www.plus.com.my). You will cut through Rawang town heading north towards Ipoh on the old highway. About 21km out of Rawang town a road sign will indicate a right turn to exit for KKB. You can prepare for this turn when you see a hilly Chinese Cemetary on the right side. This cemetery is located after a SHELL gas station. After right turn, follow the road to the end and you will reach a traffic light intersection. Make a left at the lights then first right, go up a hill into KKB town. The post office should be on the 1st or 2nd lane on the right. If you don't see it, just circle around the little town and you'll find it.

Arrive early and have a hearty breakfast!