Kitulgala is the ultimate paradise for watersports lovers and thrill seekers. The Kelani river that flows through the Kitulgala reserve is now the island’s best access to water sports and adventure activities. Many rest houses offer trekking, abseiling, white water rafting, and other adventure sports.
Here are seven tips that I found useful as a first-timer.
- Average Fitness
No you don’t need to be working out your muscles every day at a Gym, to be able to go whitewater rafting. However, an average level of physical fitness is a must, as you will need the strength to steer the raft around. You might need a heavy dose of enthusiasm backed by adrenaline to enjoy the experience to the fullest.
- Choose a Licensed and Professional provider
There are many outlets providing rafting gear in the vicinity, however do your research prior to going there and picking the cheapest option. Safety matters. Read reviews by previous visitors in order to understand the nature of their equipment, the safety standards, and the difficulty levels of rafting. If you are a first-timer, it is best to start in a lower level of difficulty.
- Get the right Protective Gear
Be very specific about your protective gear. Wear a lifejacket or a personal flotation device along with the helmet. Yes, the helmet is a must, as the water currents are unpredictable, and incase you get thrown overboard, you need to make sure that you are not injured. Opt for the proper outerwear, choose quick dry clothes, wet suits if you are planning to spend a while in the water, in order to avoid chills.
- Follow the instructions
Yes, you may quite excited and enthralled to be finally on a boat, but don’t let the adrenaline get the better part of you. Pay attention to your guide. He/She will be giving out instructions from how to hold your oar, to beating the currents and how to act in case you get thrown overboard, Always pay attention to the commands, and be swift with your reactions. There is no need to panic.
- Incase you fall overboard
First things first, do not panic! Panicking is the worst, as it can affect your rationality. Most probably you will be alongside your boat, and if you are grab the boat, or possibly the hand of a mate reaching out to you. Yet, if your boat is nowhere to be seen, no need to panic, as other boats might be out there, and possibly news of your accident is passed onto the lifeguards. Don’t panic, as it may make the rescue all the more harder. Remember that there are two banks on either sides of the river! And that you only need to reach one of those, if all else fails.
- Listen to your guide
The guide will be giving you a comprehensive safety talk, PAY ATTENTION! As it could really provide useful.
- Bring Waterproof gear
You are excited for the trip and to record your experience. Yet, keep in mind that you are going to get extremely wet. Do not take any mobile devices or electronic devices. Take water proof camera gear, as you simply won’t have time to worry about anything else once you hit the water.
If you are an adrenaline junkie, a are planning your latest adventure, Kitulgala is the place to be. Yet, when you are planning to hit the waters for the very first time, or for the first time in a new place you would have a number of unanswered questions. We hope that our list helps you figure out your way in the water.