A Daredevil’s Guide to Southeast Asia

If you’d rather bungee off a bridge than ride over it in a tour bus, Southeast Asia offers some heart-thumping adventures to keep your adrenaline pumping.

Do organised tours and creature comforts bore you to tears? Then take a look at these daredevil holiday destinations you’ll never forget.

1. Conquer the world’s highest via ferrata in Borneo, Malaysia

So you’re a daredevil are you? We dare you, then, to make the breathtaking ascent up Mt Kinabalu (4095 m). Set on ruggedly beautiful Borneo, the peak is a UNESCO World Heritage gem and the climb takes around two days to complete. While it isn’t regarded as one of the most difficult climbs in the world, for your average Joe it’s tough, so make sure you’re really fit before you attempt it. For those who do, the rewards are bountiful – incredible views, a sense of achievement and (most importantly) bragging rights.

2. Whitewater rafting in Cagayan de Oro, Philippines

Cagayan de Oro in the Philippines is an exciting whitewater playground for rafting enthusiasts. Whether you’re a complete novice or accomplished rapid rider, there’s a course for everyone. Try to take in the lush scenery as you bounce and glide down the river – if your heart’s not thumping completely out of your chest that is.

3. BASE-jumping in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

If you’re into adventure activities, you will know about BASE-jumping. BASE (Buildings, Antennas, Spans and Earth) jumpers leap from a fixed platform then release a parachute to break their freefall – what a thrill! At 421 m high, Menara in Kuala Lumpur is the tallest telecommunications tower in Southeast Asia. Experienced jumpers can enter the annual KL Tower International Jump Malaysia event (in September 2015), or for those who prefer to watch from the safety of solid ground, there are BASE-jumping viewing times.

4. Go deep-water soloing in Railay, Thailand

Deep-water soloing makes rock climbing safer – to a degree – as it’s done along cliff faces above water. Climbers are unencumbered by harnesses, ropes and pulleys, and if you lose your grip you fall into the inviting waters of the Andaman Sea. While you do have the water to break your fall, this activity is not for the faint-hearted – vertigo sufferers need not apply.

5. Drink snake’s blood in Hanoi, Vietnam

Culinary daredevils will love this. Imagine your friends’ responses when you tell them you’ve had a shot of snake’s blood and bile. Sound appetising? In Hanoi’s Snake Village precinct you’ll find snake restaurants, where you can feast on every body part of the snake – even the heart.