Taipei is the capital of Taiwan, a dense and walkable city of night markets, hot springs, temples, and mountain trails set in a basin ringed by green hills. Its skyline is anchored by Taipei 101, while the National Palace Museum holds one of the world's great collections of Chinese imperial art. Taipei pairs an efficient metro, a famously food-obsessed street culture, and easy access to hot springs and tea-growing hills within the city limits.
Top adventure experiences
The most exciting activities Taipei has to offer.
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1
Wulai Nanshi River Kayaking
Guided paddles on the Nanshi River below the Wulai waterfall with local outfitters.
Best season: April-October
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2
Pinglin Beishi River Canoeing
Calm river canoe trips through the Pinglin tea valley near Feitsui Reservoir.
Best season: May-October
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3
Bitan Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
Calm-water SUP lessons on the Xindian River at Bitan.
Best season: April-October
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4
Longdong Rock Climbing
Sea-cliff sport climbing at Longdong Bay with hundreds of routes and guided intro days.
Best season: October-April
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5
Wulai River Tracing
Guided wet-walk upstream through gorges and cascades.
Best season: May-September
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6
Dajia Riverside Cycling Route
Flat riverside path along the Keelung River linking Dajia, Songshan and Rainbow Bridge.
Best season: Year-round
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7
Tamsui River Bikeway to Fisherman's Wharf
Riverside path from Tamsui toward Fisherman's Wharf along the estuary.
Best season: Year-round
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8
Bali Left Bank Riverside Cycling
Flat path with Guanyin Mountain backdrop and ferry access to Tamsui.
Best season: Year-round
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9
Jinshan Surfing
Beach-break surf lessons and rentals on the north coast.
Best season: September-March
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10
Longdong Snorkeling and Diving
Guided coastal dives and snorkeling among reefs at Longdong.
Best season: May-October
Activities by type
Find adventures that match your interests.
Land adventures
Trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking, and overland expeditions through diverse terrain.
Water adventures
Rafting, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and water sports where conditions permit.
Air adventures
Paragliding, skydiving, hot air ballooning, and aerial tours for unique perspectives.
Expedition treks
Multi-day treks and expeditions through remote areas with camping and guide support.
Difficulty levels
No experience needed. Suitable for most fitness levels.
Basic fitness required. Some prior experience helpful.
Good fitness and some experience required.
Significant experience and high fitness essential.
Recommended operators
Vetted companies for safe adventures.
Look for licensed, insured operators with verifiable guide qualifications, recent customer reviews, proper safety equipment, transparent cancellation policies, and reasonable group sizes. Your accommodation can often provide trusted recommendations.
Adventure safety
Stay safe while pushing your limits.
Never go on adventures alone in remote areas. Always use reputable guides for challenging activities.
Get comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers adventure activities and emergency evacuation.
Check weather conditions and be prepared to cancel or postpone. Mountain weather changes rapidly.
Know your limits. Choose activities appropriate for your fitness and experience level.
Acclimatize properly before high-altitude activities. Altitude sickness is serious.
Preparation & gear
Get ready for your adventure.
Essential gear
- Quality hiking boots (broken in)
- Layered clothing system
- Rain gear and sun protection
- First aid kit
- Headlamp and batteries
- Water purification
Physical preparation
- Start training 6-8 weeks before
- Build cardio endurance
- Include strength training
- Practice with loaded backpack
- Get medical clearance if needed