Extreme sports while being wholly synonymous with all things high-risk, most extreme sports actually follow strict safety protocols and use equipment specially engineered to ensure the safety of all involved. It doesn’t, however, take too much of a dip into the world of extreme sports before their adrenaline-fuelled appeal starts to become apparent. In the case of Hong Kong, a city notorious for its demanding lifestyle and high-stress work culture, perhaps trying out these extreme sports will offer a much needed release…
1. Paragliding
With sweeping views of the city’s natural landscapes and a breathtaking bird’s eye view of its many islands, it is both a hair-raising and unforgettable experience for those seeking a refreshing change of scenery.
Where to go: ParaglideHK, Sai Kung
Price: From HK$2,500
Contact: paraglidinghongkong.com
2. Rock Climbing
A challenge that makes even the most physically fit work up a sweat, rock climbing is a full-on activity that dares you to attempt the steep ascents of the city’s rocky hills. For first-time climbers, Tung Lung Chau or Beacon Hill offers up serene landscapes of Hong Kong’s coastal areas as never before.
Where to go: Hong Kong Rock Climbing Adventure
Price: From HK$2,000 per session
Contact: hkrca.com
3. Dirt Biking
High speeds, high jumps and big air time, dirt biking is one sport that will definitely get your heart racing. Motocross, as it is also widely referred to, takes place within an enclosed off-road circuit where riders can speed through a genuinely exhilarating off-road racing experience for a rush of excitement.
Where to go: MX Club, Sheung Shui
Price: From HK$1,000 per hour per person
Contact: mxclub.com.hk
4. Canyoning
Explore the city’s natural wilderness as never before along an upstream adventure off the beaten path. This strenuous activity involves a combination of stream trekking, abseiling, rock climbing, zip lining, and an eventual dive into the streams of many of the areas’ hidden waterfalls, the majority of which are inaccessible by paved trails.
Where to go: Hong Kong Rock Climbing Adventure
Price: From HK$680 per person
Contact: hkrca.com
5. Wakeboarding
If you’re hankering for an exhilarating water sport to enjoy with like-minded adventure seeking friends, the season of junk boats and yacht chartering has arrived just in time. For those already a little unchallenged by the city’s overly calm and tame seas, wakeboarding could be the scintillating alternative you’ve been looking for.
Where to go: Wakeboard Hong Kong, Tai Tam Tuk Village
Price: From HK$850 per hour
Contact: wakeboard.com.hk
6. Parkour
Hong Kong, with its many hard-surfaced recreational facilities, is naturally a great place to try out this extreme workout which combines a range of techniques and disciplines, including gymnastics, climbing and martial arts.
Where to go: Hong Kong Parkour Association
Price: From HK$700
Contact: parkour.hk