I have always loved hiking, but it had been quite a while since my last adventure. That all changed two weeks ago when I joined a few colleagues for a hike at FRIM Kepong in Selangor. The experience was so exhilarating that I regretted not bringing my kids along. It sparked a desire in me to share the joy of hiking with them, leading to the planning of a special trip to the Cape Rachado Lighthouse.
Discovering Cape Rachado
Cape Rachado Lighthouse, also known by locals as Rumah Api Tanjung Tuan, is located in Alor Gajah, Melaka, right next to Port Dickson. It is about a 45-minute drive from our home in Kuala Sawah, Rantau. The journey to the lighthouse involves a walk through Hutan Rekreasi Tanjung Tuan, a recreational forest that offers various attractions and activities. However, given that we were hiking with young explorers, we decided to keep our ambitions modest.
The lighthouse is believed to be the oldest in Malaysia, with a history that dates back to the Portuguese rule of Malacca in the 16th century. The name Cape Rachado translates to ‘Broken Cape’ in Portuguese, a historical tidbit that never fails to thrill me. The idea of visiting a site steeped in such rich history added an extra layer of excitement to our adventure.
The Hike Begins
Our group consisted of five people: A, H, myself, my sister Maryam, and her son, Hn. Upon arriving at the entrance, the lady managing the fees informed us that it was an 800-meter walk to the lighthouse, roughly a 15-minute journey. Although various reviews online had mentioned this, I made sure to prepare my kids for a hike rather than a casual walk. I wanted them to understand that this was an adventure, not a leisurely stroll.
From the lighthouse, there is another trail leading downhill to the shore. This part of the hike is quite steep with some stairs, making it a bit challenging and potentially unsafe for children. However, we managed it without incident, and I was grateful for the experience.
Kids’ Joy
We spent a total of two hours in the forest. Fortunately, we brought enough water and ensured the kids were dressed comfortably with appropriate shoes. I wore my Skechers, despite opting for a flowy long skirt, which attracted some curious looks from other hikers dressed in full sports attire. Despite these minor distractions, the hike turned out to be a bit more challenging than anticipated, but the kids absolutely loved it. They couldn’t stop talking about their adventure, a clear sign of success.
Reflections and Future Plans
This hike was just the beginning. The joy and excitement on my children’s faces were priceless and motivating. These moments captured during our adventure are a promise of many more to come, inshaAllah. The experience not only brought us closer to nature but also strengthened our family bonds. Hiking with kids can be challenging, but the memories we create together are worth every step.
Tips for Hiking with Kids
- Preparation is Key: Ensure the kids know what to expect. Use the word ‘hiking’ to prepare them mentally for the adventure.
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress in comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes. Carry enough water and snacks.
- Safety First: Choose a trail that is safe for children. Be cautious of steep paths and slippery areas.
- Make it Fun: Turn the hike into a learning experience by sharing interesting facts about the location.
- Capture the Moments: Take lots of pictures to capture the joy and excitement of the adventure.
Our hike to Cape Rachado Lighthouse was a memorable family adventure that I am glad we undertook. The blend of history, nature, and family bonding made it an unforgettable experience. I encourage other parents to take their kids on similar adventures. Exploring the great outdoors is not only fun but also educational and beneficial for the whole family.
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