Bamboo Rafting in Kuraburi | PHANG NGA – THAILAND (ธารมรกต)

I had done bamboo rafting before several years ago in another area of Thailand, and I have to admit it was pretty unimpressive back then. There were a few reasons why I didn’t enjoy it; a landscape that didn’t really change; painfully slow speed that also didn’t vary at all and finally guides that didn’t seem to care it wasn’t fun.

With that experience behind me and admittedly very low expectations I was hoping that this time in Kuraburi it would be a better time.

It sure was.

Let’s start with the fact that the river that is used for the trip is awesome, lots of variation in scenery as the river narrows to crazy little rapids that have you nervous things are going to end badly, to wide sections where the river slows and allows you to take in the natural magnificence of Phang-nga province at a mellow pace.

The feeling of the water rushing up through the bamboo over your feet and legs as you hit the the rapids is something you don’t experience with any other activity. So much fun!

There is genuine excitement as you turn blind corners not knowing what is coming next.  At one point one of the two guides on our particular raft slipped and he lost his guide bamboo pole, creating even more excitement as the remaining guide negotiated us to safety at the end of the rapid with the shore banks fast approaching.

There were repeated moments that hugged that sweet spot for any adventure activity of “Could we get hurt?” and “This is completely and uninterestingly safe”…. I loved it…

Another aspect I loved was THE COLOUR OF THE WATER!!!

If you are as lucky as we were you will find parts of the river with water a stunning emerald green colour that defies belief. Taking a camera is a must as the pictures you can get with this water are truly beautiful.

There was a stop during the trip to explore a small rock covered bank that they had labelled “Heart Rock Island”. Named for the dozen or so small rock piles had been made around the area with a centre-piece rock balanced on top of each pile that was shaped more or less like a heart. Some a lot more heart-shaped than others! Presumably over time other people on the rafting have added their own heart rock monument… Bee and I certainly did! It was a nice wee stop and a good chance to take a few fun photos.

Another thing that was great was that on a few occasions on the trip we were invited to just jump in the river and float down next to the rafts. These were in the safer areas obviously, but it was a great feeling just bobbing up and down in the lifejackets and cruising down the river with nature all around you. The water was a crisp temperature when we went but it certainly refreshed the body and soul after taking the plunge. Once the water became too shallow or there were rocks ahead you would jump back on to the raft to continue the adventure.

Above: Some shots we took of the group which went before us.

We had a terrible day weather wise for our trip. Torrential rain had been falling all morning and then, although clearing for the first part of the trip, proceeded to pummel us at the midway point. At one point raining so hard we could barely keep our eyes open for the driving raindrops. 

All this only added to the fun… We were already wet from jumping in the river so many times and the rain just added to the excitement and fun of the trip… So if you do end up coming and the weather looks ‘iffy’, don’t worry about it too much, it certainly won’t ruin your time…. In fact I would say it is even BETTER in the rain!

The whole trip lasted about 2 hours (that flew by to be honest) before we were at the end and being picked up by 4WD. We jumped on top of the rafts being transported by trailer and made our way back to home base.

There, we were surprised with an amazing table spread for lunch of local Thai dishes all beautifully presented with intricate palm leaf decorations and flowers. It was a really elegant and charming touch to finish our time there, the food was of course amazing and they even specially prepared a few Vegan options which were delicious.  

One particular spicy local dish caught Bee’s attention and after hearing all her compliments about how amazing it was the kind ladies at Kuraburi rafting went out and got her the local chili paste that they had used so Bee could take some home.

If you are in the area make sure you check these guys out, and if you do let us know your thoughts below!!!

OUR TIPS

• Prepare to get wet, and also prepare to have all items you bring with you get wet.
• Take a GoPro or waterproof camera/phone with you.
• Jump in the water when you get the chance. Live that life out loud remember!!
• Make your own Heart Rock Pile, play a part in making the island even more special.

RECOMMENDED LINKS

Tarn Morakot Rafting
http://www.facebook.com/tarnmorakot

Thailand Tourism Directory (With Opening Hours etc) https://thailandtourismdirectory.go.th/en/info/attraction/detail/itemid/21718

Window on Phuket Article
https://www.windowonphuket.com/features/683/the-natural-beauty-of-kuraburi-local-life-north-of-phuket