Skydiving, Flyboarding & More: 9 Destinations in Malaysia perfect for extreme sports

thama 05 Apr 2018 updated the 6 April 2018 à 10:51

1/9
Malacca
Best for: Skydiving

There’s definitely more to Malacca than chicken rice balls, chendol and the Stadhuys especially for the adventurous at heart. If you’re thinking of something cool to do during the weekend and want to embark on a nice road trip as well, consider driving down to Malacca to skydive. Tucked away in a quiet town known as Sungai Rambai is Ace Skydive, an extreme sports centre that specialises in tandem skydiving, static skydiving and freefall jumps among other things. There’s no need to worry about surviving mid-air if you’re a newbie as you will either dive with a world-class instructor or given proper training beforehand. We know you’re going to love this one!
2/9
Selangor
Best For: Bungee jumping

Another jumping activity in the list, we know. But hang in there – this one’s as unique as the other two and hopefully less scary. At Sunway Lagoon’s Theme Park in Subang Jaya, there is a 22-metre elevated platform from which you can jump off. And you know what’s even cooler? You can pick the water touch option! Don’t forget to also head over to the other attractions in their Extreme Park for some more action.
3/9
Kuala Lumpur
Best For: BASE jumping

We wanted to save this for last but couldn’t contain the excitement, so here it goes. KL! This is where all the fun is happening, right? Imagine taking a plunge from the KL Tower and watching the bustling city from above - that is, if you manage to calm down and do some observing. But most of the time, that doesn’t happen because you’re technically freefalling from a 420-metre skyscraper at an insane speed before opening the parachute! That’s why BASE jumping is considered way more dangerous than skydiving. Still, so many adrenaline junkies try it out every year at this location and live to tell the story. Don’t you want to be one of them?
4/9
Perak
Best For: White water rafting

Anyone who has gone to Perak knows well that it is one of the most beautiful states in Malaysia. Apart from being a popular food destination, Perak is also adored for its greenery, limestone hills, caves, and of course, gushing rivers. One place we think you’d absolutely love is Gopeng, well-known for its white water rafting. A mere 2-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur takes you to this quaint, rustic town through which the Kampar River flows. There are many tour companies in this area that offer exciting rafting packages at a reasonable price, namely Riverbug Asia and Radak Adventure. The former also has a branch in the Padas River area in Sabah. If you want to get wild and wet, this is where you should head to during your next getaway!
5/9
Sabah
Best For: Ziplining

Fancy ziplining? Then Sabah is the place for you. In fact, the zipline spot at the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park was once the world’s longest before it was beaten by the current one in Ras al Khaimah, UAE. Stretching up to 250 metres, the Coral Flyer links two pristine islands – Gaya Island and Sapi Island. From a 45-metre a.s.l hill in Gaya Island, you will gradually descend and glide over the clear blue sea at an altitude of merely 8 metres before reaching the other side. This is the reason why this particular zipline destination is so popular – because it offers you such a breathtaking view of Mother Nature. But if you truly want to experience this place in all its glory, then perhaps you should wait until sunset. We promise you won’t regret it.
6/9
Putrajaya
Best For: Flyboarding

Flyboarding has gained popularity over the years despite being a relatively newer form of extreme activity. Even if you’ve not heard of it, we are pretty sure you have seen it before. It involves standing on a board that’s connected to a jet nozzle. This nozzle shoots water under a high pressure which then allows you to hover over the water body with your balancing skills. The good news is you don’t have to go so far to experience this blood-pumping sport as you can find it in Putrajaya, which is just a 5-hour drive away. Remember though that you’ll have to splurge on this - unless you manage to get a cheaper deal because let’s be honest; no one lets you jet above water for free.
7/9
Sarawak
Best For: Kayaking

This state in the Borneo Island is a must-visit for its natural attractions. If Perak and Sabah are famous for white water rafting, then Sarawak promises an unforgettable kayaking experience. Perhaps the most accessible location would be the Semadang river since it is situated in the capital, Kuching. Not only is the river mostly calm, allowing you ample time to admire the scenery along the way, it is also surrounded by rich greenery. Check out the various packages offered by tour operators there.
8/9
Penang Island
Best For: Banana boating

Penang Island’s beautiful beaches are not just sunbathing spots – they are teeming with thrilling watersports like banana boat and paragliding. We suggest that you drive or take a bus ride to the renowned Batu Feringghi beach for some fun times. You will be spoilt for choice because there are so many watersports packages that are being offered here – go for the one that’s most worth it.
9/9
Johor
Best for: Hiking

Johor boasts of many under-explored locations which we think deserve more attention. That’s why we’re suggesting you this one: the Endau-Rompin National Park. Covering a huge area of Johor and its neighbour, Pahang, it is the second largest national park in Peninsular Malaysia (870 km sq.), the largest being Taman Negara Pahang. Still, Endau-Rompin National Park is totally worth a visit for its lush, pristine greenery. You’ll find myriads of flora as well as fauna such as deer, elephants, tapirs and even leopards and tigers. This forest was also home to the Sumatran rhinos which have now unfortunately gone extinct. Other thrilling activities you can experience here are rubber tube rafting and water abseiling.

Adrenaline-junkies and thrill-seekers – this one’s for you.

Did you know that Malaysia is home to a range of extreme sports perfect for those who look for nail-biting, adrenaline-pumping and power-packed activities? Most of us know that our neighbours across the straits make some really good food, but get this: their country is also naturally gifted with different terrains and landscapes that make it a heaven among thrill seekers.

Probably one of the more popular ones you might have already known is hiking – since it is a well-known fact that Malaysia has many gorgeous rainforests and mountains. However, let us tell you that there are many other activities too that you can indulge in. From sky-diving and BASE jumping to flyboarding and bungee jumping, check out these 9 extreme sports destinations in Malaysia for the daredevil in you.

Thamayanthy

Photos: Getty Images

10 Jaw-dropping theme parks in South Korea you have to see to believe

Get Excited: 7 Fun things to do in Genting Highlands

8 Hidden treehouses in Malaysia perfect for your weekend retreat

Can't find a primer to suit all your skin needs? Try...