Back to Articles
FEATUREDActivity

Best Places To Go Whitewater Rafting in Sabah

With outdoor recreation set to take the new decade by storm, there’s no better way to welcome the year of 2020 than by venturing out of our comfort zones and rafting down the rapids of Sabah! 

With rivers fed directly by the sacred Mount Kinabalu to rapids that challenge even the most fearless, Sabah boasts some of the best and most popular locations to go white water rafting! Plus, they're only a few hours away from Kota Kinabalu! 

There are three rivers in Sabah that you can go whitewater rafting: Kiulu, Padas, and Kadamaian. Kiulu and Kadamaian are Grade I - II rivers whereas Padas River is a Grade III-IV rapiid, where an old diesel train ride will take you from Beaufort to Pangi, the starting point.

With rapids to suit people of differing abilities and fitness levels, whitewater rafting in Sabah is a great choice for an adventurous weekend getaway!

Kiulu River

The Kiulu Valley is not just picturesque. It’s also home to one of the best beginner rafting experiences in Sabah. 

Don’t be fooled by the size of Kiulu. With only over 2,000 people calling it home, its abundance in natural beauty makes it the perfect launching pad for rafting newbies. With the Kiulu River being only a mild Grade I – II, the river borders right on relaxation and gives just the right action that even families can get onboard with! 

Experience Kiulu Water Rafting with your family now

Kadamaian River

Rafting in Kota Belud may not be the first thing that comes to people’s minds, but Kadamaian River is a hidden rafting gem that is waiting to be explored. 

Starting at the foot of sacred Mount Kinabalu and flowing past the villages of Kota Belud, the Kadamaian River is one of the lesser known rivers in Sabah for white water rafting. However, its scenic views and potential as a rafting destination is surely putting this gem on the map. It’s also a class I – II river and not to mention only 2 or so hours away from the city of Kota Kinabalu, serving as the perfect weekend getaway for families and friends looking for a little adrenaline! 

Book your Kadamaian River Rafting in advance

Padas River

You don't want to miss out rafting on the Padas River when you’re in Sabah. Taking you on a scenic countryside vintage train ride and seven different rapids, this is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. 

Located an hour outside the town of Beaufort, the mighty Grade III - IV Padas River happens to be one of the most popular destinations in Sabah for white water rafting. Its rapids may look mean but it’s also one of the safest rapids to go white water rafting in Sabah! The experience itself is also one you wouldn’t want to miss out on. Hop onboard an old diesel train for 1 ½ hours from Beaufort town to Pangi. And when you’re on the water, raft past tropical rainforests and seven rapids that stay true to its individual names. The Headhunter, Lambada, Cobra, Scooby-Doo; we’re leaving it to you to find out the remaining three. 

Pre-Book this thrilling Padas River Rafting now


Find out more on Popular Water Activities in Kota Kinabalu