Extreme Outdoor Activities in Kazakhstan

November 13th, 2009, Posted in Skydiving

Extreme outdoor adventure activities and sports do not come more exotic than those found in the beautiful and largely undiscovered (in terms of tourism) country of Kazakhstan. Comprising a territory of more than 2.7 million square kilometres, Kazakhstan is the world`s ninth largest country and is geographically larger than Western Europe. As might be expected of such a physically vast country, Kazakhstan includes just about every type of landscape imaginable from enormous rocky canyons and snow-capped mountains to flats, deserts and Taigas. Indeed, with a disproportionately small population of around 16.5 million and a relatively relaxed stance on religious freedom, Kazakhstan is a haven for outdoor adventure enthusiasts from all over the world.

One of the key sources of interest for extreme sports and outdoor adventure thrill seekers in Kazakhstan is the Celestial Mountain range, which is home to the 7,000 metres high marble peak of Kan Tengri. Hiking through this vast and magnificent mountain range is not merely a physically demanding experience – it is also of considerable spiritual value and, oddly, it also provides a number of opportunities to meet local people and nomads who live in this wondrous yet harsh terrain. Obviously, any trek through the Celestial Mountain range will require a solid, durable and comfortable pair of hiking boots (bring along an extra pair to be on the safe side). Furthermore, it hikers wish to tackle the Pobeda Peak at just under 7,500 metres, appropriate mountain climbing gear and equipment will be required and adrenaline seekers should expect an ice cold greeting at the snowy summit.

Camping out in the stunning Tyouk Kokpak canyon is also an adventure in itself, as hikers will be surrounded by untamed forests, the expansive Akkol Lake, steep mountain landscapes and variable weather systems. Fortunately for those who prefer to do more jaw-dropping sight-seeing than actual hiking, a helicopter ride will take tourists up to a base camp on South Inylchek Glacier at 4,000 metres. The helicopter ride is an exhilarating experience that transports outdoor adventure enthusiasts to one of the longest glaciers in the world. Indeed, amongst all of the breathtaking natural surroundings lies plenty of opportunities to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor adventure activities.

The mountains of Zailiskiy Alatau and the nearby Bolshoe Almatinskoe lake are also popular among extreme sports fans and outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Water based activities can be enjoyed in many places throughout Kazakhstan and Bolshoe Almatinskoe lake is certainly one of the more inspiring destinations. Nevertheless, the Kolsai Lakes are home to some of the most diverse water activities in Kazakhstan, with various pursuits including swimming, fishing (predominantly for trout) and, during the winter, ice skating available.

Kazakhstan is also of great appeal to those wanting to explore its mausoleums and ancient cities. As with any extreme outdoor adventure holiday, it is important to dress appropriately both in respect to cultural traditions and in order to maintain personal safety. Outdoor adventure enthusiasts should, therefore, buy roxy clothing for less demanding pursuits and proper adventure gear for difficult activities.

The Facts Of Water Jumps With Powered Parachutes

June 25th, 2007, Posted in Skydiving

A water powered parachute jump is primarily executed in emergency situations only. During this jump, the jumper prepares as he might for any other jump. The real difference between this jump and another is that he lands in the water. Water parachute jumping isn’t really something for members of the general public to engage in, as it offers extra dangers that traditional jumping does not. Water parachutes jumping must take place in water of appropriate depths. Landing in water that is too shallow can cause spinal cord injuries and drowning. As a result, typically only emergency personnel and members of the armed services complete water parachute jumping.

In order to engage in a water parachute jump, a member of the military must demonstrate his or her swimming ability both in and out of the uniform. Because water jumping style emergencies will sometimes take place while crew members are wearing their full uniforms, members often practice in full uniform. Members must also go through training that teaches them how to get out from under the parachute once it has collapsed in the water. As with any fabric, the material used to make parachutes gets quite heavy when wet. Because with a water jump there is the added risk of drowning, military service personnel are trained about how to get rid of the parachute to avoid the serious risk of drowning once they hit the water. Jumpers are also trained in the use of flotation devices, which also reduce the risk of drowning once a jumper lands in the water.

The Florida National Guard trains for a water parachute jump on a regular basis. Because Florida is the regular recipient of tropical storms, hurricanes, and other water disasters, guard members must be ready to make a water parachute jump at all times. They must always wait for training, though, until the water levels in their practice drop zones are just right to avoid the dangers of landing in shallow water. Before any jump, they take a refresher type training course. Then they are loaded into a plane, typically a C-23, and they make their jump. These jumps provide service personnel members with confidence in case they are ever required to make an actual water parachute jump in the line of duty.

About the author:

http://www.skydiving-parachuting-guide.com

John Ewing is the author and editor of many reviews published at http://www.skyd iving-parachuting-guide.com . Ewing used to add interesting skydiving equipment articles and powered parachutes reviews. Reach further information on powered parachutes at Ewing’s online magazine.

Written By: John Ewing