TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – Nestled in the heart of Yogyakarta, Sungai Opak offers more than just a scenic view. It presents a one-of-a-kind packrafting experience that blends nature, local culture, and personal mindfulness.
Unlike adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting, packrafting at Sungai Opak is a gentler, more reflective activity suited for those seeking calm and connection with the river’s rhythm.
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Sungai Opak flows gracefully through the Bantul region of Yogyakarta, carrying with it not only water, but centuries of history and heritage. Locals believe the river has long been a silent witness to the development of nearby temples, royal traditions, and agricultural livelihoods.
For many villagers, it is more than a waterway—it is a lifeline and a symbol of cultural identity.
What is Packrafting?
Packrafting combines hiking and rafting in a lightweight, inflatable raft that can be carried in a backpack. However, at Sungai Opak, the focus leans more toward short, guided water journeys rather than trekking.
The rafts are designed for ease of use and stability, making them ideal for beginners and leisure seekers.
Three Unique Trip Packages
Travelers can choose from three thoughtfully curated trip options:
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Long Trip – Rp150,000/person
A 5-kilometer journey lasting around 1.5 to 2 hours. This package includes a break at a scenic rest area, where guests enjoy traditional local cuisine such as klepon, tempe mendoan, and wedang jahe. -
Short Trip – Rp125,000/person
Ideal for a quick escape, this 2-kilometer route includes light paddling and tasty traditional snacks. Perfect for families or visitors with a tighter schedule. -
Educational & Experience Package – Rp250,000/person
A combination of the long trip with added value: a guided explanation of Sungai Opak’s ecosystem, local biodiversity, and cultural significance.
A Culinary Pause in Nature
Midway through the Long Trip, visitors stop at a rest area shaded by bamboo and surrounded by rice paddies. Here, they can enjoy authentic Javanese snacks like gethuk, *klepon*, or a warm cup of *wedang jahe*—a traditional ginger drink. It’s an opportunity to nourish both body and soul.
The third option—Educational & Experience package—is a favorite among students, eco-travelers, and curious minds. In addition to the long journey, guides share insights about local flora, fauna, and river conservation efforts. Participants also learn about how the river has shaped communities along its banks.
Certified and Trained Guides
The professionalism of the guides is a highlight of the experience. Many of them are certified by BNSP (Badan Nasional Sertifikasi Profesi) and affiliated with FAJI (Federasi Arung Jeram Indonesia), ensuring top-tier knowledge and readiness. Training covers everything from basic water safety to environmental education.
Packrafting here is intentionally designed to be inclusive. “Even visitors who aren’t confident in water can still enjoy the experience because it’s not extreme,” says Chandra, one of the certified guides. The team prioritizes safety, with all participants equipped with life vests and briefed before launching.
Cultural Integration
Guests also get to experience cultural elements woven into the trip. From the traditional music that occasionally greets visitors at rest stops to the stories told by guides about royal pilgrimages along the river, the journey becomes a cultural immersion.
Located just a short drive from central Yogyakarta, Sungai Opak is easily accessible for both local and international tourists. Whether you’re staying in the city or coming from nearby towns like Bantul or Sleman, it makes for a perfect half-day or full-day trip.
Suitable for All Ages
From children as young as five to seniors in their seventies, packrafting at Sungai Opak caters to a broad range of ages. With proper supervision and guide support, everyone can feel secure and included.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season, between May and October, offers the most predictable weather and water conditions. Morning trips are often cooler and provide the best lighting for photography. However, light rain doesn’t stop the fun—many visitors enjoy the misty atmosphere.
What to Bring
Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothes, water-resistant sandals, and bring a change of clothes. Sunblock, hats, and waterproof phone pouches are also highly recommended.
Eco-Conscious Choices
The packrafting community promotes using reusable bottles, minimizing plastic waste, and respecting wildlife along the route. There are also educational signboards placed along rest stops to remind guests of their environmental impact.
Trips can be booked online or through local travel agents in Yogyakarta. Walk-ins are also welcome, though advance booking is recommended during weekends and holidays.
Night Rafting? Coming Soon
Organizers are also experimenting with a moonlight packrafting experience, complete with lanterns and soft music. This package is still in the planning stage but promises to offer an unforgettable nighttime river journey of Sungai Opak. (*)
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| Editor | : Khodijah Siti |
| Publisher | : Sholihin Nur |
