There isn’t much more awe inspiring than a large slab of rock growing closer out of the distance, its impressive size towering above you. This was the feeling as we drove into the compound known as Gua Damai Extreme Park – home to base jumping, rock climbing, abseiling and more.
We came here to go rock climbing with the amazing Eddy of MIR Adventures. I had climbed with him before and he is very much into safety, so I felt confident bringing my kids and some of their friends. We had four girls with us, aged 13-14yrs and an 11 year old.
Where is Gua Damai Extreme Park?
Gua Damai Extreme Park is just behind Batu Caves and is quite easy to find via Waze. There is a climbing shop which sells drinks and snacks, though I would bring your own food and drink. Also bring change for the toilet. Sign in the QR code and fill out waiver forms, before you enter as per usual. It’s a flat fee of RM5 per entry. Eddy charged our group RM88 each for equipment and four climbs each. We were a large group though, so do message him at MIR Adventures for tailor made pricing. A guide to the difficulty level at Gua Damai can be found here.
After a safety briefing, equipment briefing and some tips, Eddy and a helper set up the routes for the girls to try. They showed some initial trepidation, but managed the first climb well, after which they were well warmed up and ready for more climbing. They could successfully scale at least three of the four routes, so it was definitely a winning morning for all. Overcoming nerves, listening to the patient instruction and advice coming from the floor, the girls were stupendous.
After the stellar rock climbing, we ventured up the cave to the peak. Though it was a bit tiring after a morning of climbing, it was good fun and adventurous through the dark bits, using the lights in our phones to see.
Safety tips for outdoor rock climbing
- Always wear a helmet.
- Always check your partner out – double checking means double safety.
- Don’t overestimate skill level – go slow and steady – use your legs more than your arms if possible.
- Communicate before ascending (see tips about this taken from this site).
- Watch out for falling rocks and debris.
- Most importantly: have fun!
In conclusion, there are lots of routes of varying difficulties to try – check out these Trip Advisor reviews for more information. If you don’t have experience yet, I do recommend some indoor climbs first at Camp5. They have outlets at EcoCity Bangsar, One Utama, Utropolis Shah Alam, Jumpa Sungei Wang, Paradigm Mall JB and Galleria KL East. Have a look at our review here. There is nothing though like outdoor climbing – especially if you love to be in nature!
