Rainforest Hiking Tips

"For Safe Jungle Trekking"

These helpful rainforest hiking tips give you a starting point for safe trekking. Anytime you head for the jungle, remember to be aware of and assess your surroundings.

Guidebooks cannot tell you when dangerous weather is approaching or if a hiker is becoming exhausted. Everyone in the hiking party is responsible for each other.

Trekking in the tropical jungles of Malaysia is great adventure. Choose a habitat! Hike the cool mossy forests of the highlands, along steep hill forests, wander in the mangroves or just take a pleasant walk, there's enough terrain for everyone.

• Go To Jungle Safety for dealing with wilderness first aid and hazards.
• Go To Malaysia Weather to be aware of tropic rain and sun conditions.
• Go To Hiking With Kids for advice on taking kids outdoors.

Rainforest Hiking Tips: Choosing a Hike

Start Easy And Climb Up

First be honest. Assess your physical condition and experience level to handle whatever pops up on the trail. If unsure, play it safe and choose the less strenuous option. Push your personal limits only when hiking with an experienced group that can offer advice and jungle assistance.

• For newbies, start easy and test out your stamina and skills.
• For families, remember kids get tired after the initial energy blast.
• For everyone, never rely just on trail information; always decide for yourself.

Rainforest Hiking Tips: Decision Factors

Think Ahead Before Setting Afoot

• Return Trail Length - Know how far you have to go to get back to the starting point.
• Heat and Humidity - Tropic heat and humid air zaps your energy quick, so add more time for breaks.
• Elevation - Tackling hill slopes and highlands takes more effort than expected.
• Weather - Wind and rain make for miserable trekking, keep an eye out for sudden changes.
• Time of Day - Start hiking early to avoid late afternoon treks that end in the dark.

Rainforest Hiking Tips For The Trail

Early excitement rubs off as the sun rises. Keep your walking pace relaxed for a long day and enjoy the scenery. Take plenty of mini-breaks to eat, drink and get your pack off.

Tip #2: Breathe Deep

Find a comfortable pace that breaks a sweat without overdoing it. Then use your nose to breathe more than your mouth to avoid drying out too much.

Tip #3: Plan Your Water Supply

Water is survival food. Take enough to replenish lost fluids and use a drinking tube for easy and often access. Use lightweight containers to ease the water weight load.

Tip #4: Prevent Chafing Spots

Hiking all day rubs some people the wrong way. Avoid irritating chafing in arm pits and the crotch by applying powder or gel in strategic spots.

Tip #5: Watch And Treat Your Feet

Good feet for good times. Always treat your feet fast when boots start to rub or blisters spring up. Carry a small roll of athletic or duct tape to ward off these hot spots.

Tip #6: Ditch Your Underwear

Cotton absorbs moisture and holds it in. A swimsuit or pair of board shorts not only repels water and dries quick, but also allows air to circulate to wick off sweat.

Tip #7: Wear Out The Sun

Suntan lotions belong on the beach, not the forest, because they block evaporation. Protect yourself from harsh rays with proper clothes - hat, bandana, lightweight long-sleeved shirt - and stay cool, not toasty.

Tip #8: Day Light, Day Bright

The tropical sun gets nasty at noontime. Start your adventure hike at daylight to avoid burning out in the afternoon, when it's better to break more often.