Adventure Sports Taiwan

Adventure Sports in Taiwan

Taiwan is a paradise for adventure seekers, with its lush mountains, rugged coastlines, and tropical climate. From surfing and rock climbing to paragliding and cycling, there’s no shortage of excitement to be had on this tiny island nation.

Surfing

  • Best spots: The east coast, particularly Yilan County and Hualien County, offer world-class surf breaks for all levels.
  • Season: September to February is the best time to catch waves.
  • Rentals and lessons: Many surf schools and rental shops are available in coastal towns.

Rock Climbing

  • Best spots: Taroko National Park, Sun Moon Lake, and Yangmingshan Mountain offer breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
  • Season: The best time for climbing is from November to March when the weather is cooler.
  • Equipment and guides: Rent equipment or hire a certified guide to ensure your safety.

Paragliding

  • Best spots: Yangmingshan Mountain, Sun Moon Lake, and Taiwan’s east coast offer stunning views of the landscape.
  • Season: The best time for paragliding is from April to October when the weather is clear and calm.
  • Certification: Make sure your instructor is certified by a reputable organization.

Cycling

  • Best routes: Explore Taiwan’s scenic countryside on bike, with popular routes including:
    • The Sun Moon Lake cycling path
    • The Taroko Gorge cycling trail
    • The East Coast Cycleway
  • Season: The best time for cycling is from October to April when the weather is cooler.
  • Rentals and maintenance: Many bike rental shops offer high-quality bikes and maintenance services.

Other Adventure Sports

  • Hiking: Taiwan’s many national parks, such as Taroko National Park and Yushan National Park, offer endless hiking trails for all levels.
  • Whitewater rafting: Experience the thrill of navigating Taiwan’s rugged rivers with guided rafting tours.
  • Zip-lining: Fly through the trees on one of Taiwan’s many zip-line courses.

Tips:

  • Always research and book reputable operators to ensure your safety.
  • Respect local culture and environment when engaging in adventure sports.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable clothing for outdoor activities!
  • Learn some basic Mandarin phrases to communicate with locals.