Canyoneering

“1-2-3 -Go!” were the instructor’s words as he counted for me to jump off the cliff. It was the biggest jump at 60ft+.

A myriad of thoughts must have run through my head:

How does one run and jump off a cliff? 
How do I protrude my body forward so that I don’t hit any rocks? 
How do I maintain the correct posture while jumping into the water? 
What happens when I hit the water?

I boarded the mini bus and met the other participants of the canyoneering tour. We travelled for some time then went to a place to fit our life jackets, swim wear and helmets. The adventure started with trekking down a jungle trail in our swimwear as we got to know our guides. Soon after, there was a stop point for safety checks then we headed to where I would make my first of many jumps at Kawasan Falls. 

I was in for an epic adventure. With each jump, there was an adrenaline rush. The first few jumps were not difficult, but some cliff jumps required us to remove our helmets. 

As I jumped off cliffs, the feeling was exhilarating and intensifying, and when I went under the water and rose to the surface, I was in a moment of fright and bliss. 

Within the silence of the underwater realm, I heard the sounds of bubbles and leapt for joy when I emerged to the surface.

I was walking through slippery trails of tranquil scenery, jumping off numerous cliffs up to 60ft+, swimming and allowing the instructor to push me with my back towards the water; what an awesome day this was! The guides did a wonderful job at encouraging me. They took many videos and pictures, and captured many moments, including when I swung on the rope and jumped in the turquoise water like Tarzan, or should I say, Tarzan’s girlfriend?

We had lunch together, then took a tuk tuk back before boarding the mini bus. I was a bit shy walking around in a bikini for the entire time, even while having lunch in a restaurant, but I embraced the experience.

Days, if not weeks later, I realized I had cuts and scratches on my feet. I was in such a euphoric and petrified state that I didn’t even feel anything!

This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. Nyus

    Kool stuff! Fun story and beautiful pictures! I wonder what it feels like being Tarzan’s girlfriend? Lol

    1. Shan

      Thanks, Nyus! Well I’d tell you, but I’m not sure if Tarzan would approve of me putting that out there ;-)!

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