1)
What is inflatable kayaking?
Inflatable kayaks (IK) or duckies, are sporting boats
buoyed by pumped-in air. Compared to rafts, where you
are part of a larger paddling crew, on an IK you can either
be one of a two-person paddling team or run your IK solo.
2)
I've never kayaked before. Is inflatable kayaking
an option for me too?
Yes! Inflatable kayaks are more stable than the conventional
hard-shell kayaks and easier to master. No prior kayaking
experience is necessary. In fact, IK is the perfect river-craft
experienced rafters looking to try the next level of river
running would love to be on.
For one, unlike the heavier rafts,
these boats are nippy and maneuverable. Two, they put
you at eye-level with rapids, adding a whole new perspective
to your trip. You feel the rearing waves up close, everything
seems bigger and more exciting in an IK and the likelihood
of the odd fun swim is higher. Three, you are the captain
of your own ship. You will learn to read river features,
dig forward, back-paddle, rip down the middle or shoot
that easy line on the left; work around rocks, holes and
even surf-the boat is yours to command. The challenge
in pitting your own skills and aggression against foaming
whitewater is truly exhilarating.
Most of our IK trips float an initiation
stretch of river with ample practice time to gain confidence
before we hit the big river rapids. Our experienced guides
will lead the group down the river, giving you continuous
instruction and tips on how to navigate your own kayak
and stay safe. As you start becoming comfortable with
river running technique, we take you through lots of Class
2 and easy Class 3 rapids, turning on the excitement.
Plan on getting soaking wet-you can bet you will! As you
float through pools between the rapids, you may see varieties
of birds, monkeys and maybe, even some other interesting
wildlife. The climax comes when you hit the big rapids.
Here is where the adrenalin really starts pumping. Whether
you power through or take a swim, punching a biggie on
your duckie will be an amazing experience, and the sense
of achievement tremendous. Of course, you always have
the option to walk around it and tackle the next one down
the line.
While day trips are available, we recommend
longer journeys for those who wish to really get out there
and spend a weekend of fun, outdoors and learning. IK
trips are available on the Ganga, Tons, Kali and many
more rivers, depending on your skill level.
