Kayaking in Nigeria-

Jumping into any new sport or hobby can be scary with lots of questions. If you’ve never rowed or paddled before, your first time might come as a surprise especially if you haven’t yet received any kayaking tips.The word “Kayak” sound foreign to any Nigerian living in Nigeria.  Kayaking in Nigeria? What’s kayaking?  Where can I kayak? We have a lot of  fresh and large water bodies so why not Kayaking or Canoeing right here in Nigeria?

So what’s kayaking? And what’s canoeing?

Both are  recreational activities of paddling either a canoe or a kayak. In general, kayaks are considered to be a type of canoe. Though Kayak enthusiasts, will usually refer to paddling a kayak as “kayaking”. Both canoes and kayaks are lightweight boats that can be used on lakes and rivers, and we all know we have rivers and lakes in abundant in Nigeria.

Where to Kayak in Nigeria?

What to Bring-

Take plenty of water, a snack,sunscreen, a hat and extra layers of clothing on your first trip even if it is
just a lesson. Good habits last a lifetime.A dry bag will come in handy if you plan to take your cell phone or
other electronics and is a good asset to have for many different water sports and activities.

THE NECESSARY “6S” KAYAKING

JOIN OUR GROUP KAYAKING ACTIVITIES

Consider signing up for our outdoor group excursion where necessary equipment will be provided as well tips on how to kayak. Safety is very important so we make sure we only kayak at places where safety is guaranteed. So don’t worry much! In Lagos or Abuja and would like to kayak in a group? Kindly contact us 08175437080

KAYAKING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

1. DRESS COMFORTABLE

A light shoe, caps to cover your hair (especially for the women), sunglasses etc,. In a place like Nigeria, our biggest challenge is the hot temperature so staying cool, hydrated, and protected from the sun should be something you prepare for during any outdoor activities. The most simple solution involves using sunglasses and wearing a hat, caps etc and a short or long-sleeved shirt.

2. TAKE ALONG WATER-PROOF STORAGE CASES

Don’t ruin your fun, take along with you water-proofs to keep your phones and other items that can be damaged by water

3. WEAR A LIFE JACKET

It’s doesn’t matter if you can swim or not, you should always have your safety life jacket on you. It will always be provided at the place of event.

4. DON’T PANIC

Panic will only escalate any danger or fear, take a deep breath and ask for help when you need to.

5. DON’T GO KAYAKING ALONE

Always go with a friend or someone you know, don’t go alone,just in case something goes wrong.

6. KNOW PADDLING STYLE-

Learn the paddling technique before you start especially if you haven’t tried it before. There is always a kayak master around that will teach you how to paddle

TECHNIQUES TO MASTER

Hold your paddle in the center with one hand and place it across the kayak a couple of feet in front ofthe seat, where your knees or shinswould be if you were sitting. Place your other hand on top of the seat’sback. Your body should be anchored  perpendicularly to the kayak. Step in first with the foot closest to the seat.Do this at an angle where you can sitdown immediately without having to adjust your feet. Adjusting your feet could rock the kayak.The paddle acts as a handrail and stabilizes the kayak as you step in, so feel free to put weight on both thepaddle and the seat back.

ON THE WATER SIT TIGHT, SIT STRAIGHT

While sitting with your back supported in the kayak, place the balls of your feet in the foot
guides. Some kayaks have pegs,instead. Your toes should be pointed outward and your heels should be
“

PACE YOURSELF

Don’t be a rabbit right out of the dock. Enjoy the scenery, get a feel for how your body rests in the kayak and how you paddle through the water. Focus on technique, not speed. The turtle wins in the end, after all.

STAY ALERT

Rocks and animals can seemingly pop-out of nowhere. Kayaking is no time for your favorite playlist. Take advantage of being outside, and enjoy nature’s playlist.

STAY IN CONTACT WITH OTHERS

Like we’ve said before, if you’re traveling in a group, it’sbest for everyone to stay in contact with one another. Especially if you’re traveling down any white waters.The general rule of thumb is no one should be further than earshot fromeach other.

MOVE WITH YOUR KAYAK, NOT AGAINST IT

If you’ve ever experienced a spin while driving, you know exactly what we’re talking about. Don’t fight the vessel, go with it. If you spin your kayak, follow through with the motion and adjust accordingly. Use the kayak’s kinetic energy to your advantage

Have you kayak with us recently? Drop your review on the comment