Whitewater tubing is one of the most exciting and popular river activities in the world. It is another fun way to bathe in the sun, laugh with family and friends and cool off from the heat while braving the river’s waters. Being drifted by the strong current without the control of a paddle sweats out the adventure juices in you.
Destination: Sibulan River
If you are in Davao City and loves this river adventure, well, you are not that far away from this exciting wet and wild outdoor adventure. Whitewater tubing is already in the Davao region and it gives you more than the river escapade you crave for. The Sibulan River in Darong, Sta. Cruz Davao del Sur is known for whitewater tubing and have been a preferable destinations by water sports enthusiasts, local and foreign tourists through the years. Often visited during summer, the place surely makes people wet and wild. Even frequent Davao City tourists come and take a plunge in Sibulan since it is very close to the Davao’s southern boundary.
Going There
Going to Sibulan River from downtown Davao City would be better with someone who knows the direction especially if you do not have a personal transportation service. People who go to Sibulan River the first time should keep his eyes open since no particular highway signage indicates direction towards the river. Stop by at Ayala Agricultural Development Corporation in Brgy. Sibulan. For those who have cars, go right along the bumpy rough road until you reach a copra processing area. It is approximately 100 meters from the national highway. From the processing plant, make a left to the open parking space area. Parking is charged Php 40.00 per vehicle.
Public transportation is also available for those who want extra adventures on their way. One may ride a bus going to Sta. Cruz at the Davao City Transport Terminal beside SM City at Quimpo Blvd. If this is your preferred way of going there, stop by at the Ayala Agricultural Development Corporation and look for an available “habal-habal” or motorcycle and ask to be brought at the whitewater tubing base site. This may cost you Php20- Php 30. The Ayala Canteen is the base site for whitewater tubing.
From the base, you need to walk a more than 100-meter rocky and muddy road, so you have to secure durable sandals or you may have to take it off to avoid slipping. With friends, this trail would be nothing but fun. You may also enjoy the rich vegetation along the way. And once you reach the river, the whitewater tubing fun will begin. You may want to pay for a guide for more security.
Transportation expenses, guide fees and equipment rentals will only cost you no more than Php 400 per head. But the experience is way more than worth it.
The river activity is indeed exciting and at some point, extreme. The splashing current that will bounce you on rocks may cause little scratches and bruises but it would all be fun. Also you may fall from the tube more than once but just hold on, your guide would not let you slip off. Two hours of this and you have completed the Sibulan River whitewater tubing adventure.
Need A Tour Guide?
Should you need a tour guide or a general overview of the place, you may want to contact Engr. Albert Gabriel. Please refer to his website so more information and some photos of the Sibulan River Water Tubing.
View Albert’s Website at http://photocollectionbyalbert.wordpress.com
Photos of White Water Tubing can be viewed here.
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This article on Whitewater Tubing is written by Matt Regis.