Kayak Adventure on the Semadang River

I was really looking forward to journeying on a river in Borneo, as my childhood images of this magical land always contained intrepid explorers paddling up a steamy jungle river. So we signed up for a family kayak trip with the young men of Semadang Kayaking.

Planning for a long trip like this means allocating enough of the budget for fun activities - you can attempt to save money by doing things yourself, but outdoor activities in unfamiliar places should probably not be attempted on your own (especially with young kids). 

And it always feels good pumping some cash into the local economy when super guys like Mackenzie, McQueen and Jack (local boys with not so local names) are trying their hardest to run a business looking after your precious cargo. 

We couldn't ask for a better day in all ways - the scenery was spectacular, the weather was amazing and the river had moderated to a perfect level. Mackenzie explained that a few fairly dry months had recently brought the water down too low, only to be followed by last week's heavy rains that caused dangerously high water and strong currents.

After about one hour of paddling we got out of the kayaks to begin a short hike (trudging through heavy muddy sand) to a nearby waterfall. 

Being in Thailand during its dry season meant that we could not visit that country's famous vast collection of waterfalls - so this was our first one. Not that big, but very refreshing in the heat and humidity.

We continued on our way for some more paddling. But I should make it clear that this was easy kayaking. The mild current did most of the work for us, and so we weren't required to expend too much energy. It was perfect for the kids - it kept their spirits high and let them simply enjoy these gorgeous surroundings.

We stopped in a very small and isolated village (only access was via the footbridge in the preceding photo) for a very tasty lunch, consisting of chicken which had been steamed in a piece of bamboo.

After lunch Mackenzie took us for a walking tour through this quaint little settlement, showing us several local fruit trees and herb plants.

Yup - if it can do all that I think that qualifies for the name "Joyweed"

We weren't expecting to spend much time on land during our advertised 'kayak adventure' but we really appreciated catching a glimpse of life in Kampung Padawan.

Took a bit of effort to get Shirley out on the middle of a suspension bridge, but for the sake of a good photo she was willing to put aside her fear of heights.

Time to head back to the kayaks for the afternoon session.

...but not before a quick swim - we may not see a pool or swimmable beach for several weeks, so the kids want to take full advantage of every possible chance to get wild and wet.

A quick detour into a cavern. We didn't see too much in the way of wildlife on our day trip down the river, but we certainly heard a lot - the sounds of birds, monkeys, and insects filled the air at an incredible volume. Our only encounter of the day was with a family of macaque monkeys.

Boys against girls - was there any doubt about who wins this race? I had Owen paddling like a madman in the front of my kayak. I could just lean back and enjoy the ride.

Shirley noticed an interesting phenomenon which Mackenzie said happens quite infrequently, and usually just on overcast days - an beautiful sun ring. We weren't sure if the camera would pick it up but it captured it nicely - it was like a rainbow circling the sun.

A second break allowed Annie and Owen to let off some more steam. Big air competition, Borneo style. 

And we had a chance for a quick family float down the river.

Hmmmm...not sure if this was a good idea. Our moneybelts and cameras are still in the kayaks. Hey guys - throw us a line! Guys?

A perfect end to the day. A big thank you to the boys at Semadang Kayaking for a memorable family experience. As good as I had imagined it would be.