Outdoor activities in JB
Getting to JB is now easier than ever – with transport updates like the cross-border grab taxis and the upcoming Automated Passenger Clearance System (APCS) at Tuas Checkpoint – so it’s likely you’re already planning a much-needed trip over. Besides the affordable shopping and grub, there are also plenty of outdoor activities for that vitamin D.
From ATV riding, dirt biking and catching the sunset, here are 9 things outdoor lovers can do in JB:
Table of Contents
1. RUD Karting Centre
874m track, rates from S$24.25
Siri, cue Tokyo Drift from Fast and Furious. You can let loose and zoom around RUD Karting Centre’s original 874m racing track in Medini without getting a speeding ticket.
Here, no driver’s licence is needed to try your hand at speeding around up to 86km/h.
They’ve got basic Stage 1 karts for beginners that run up to 60km/h, Super Stage karts with top speed of 75km/h, as well as pro-level Ultra Stage karts that have you whizzing around at up to 86km/h. For those who prefer company, hop onto the double-seater Super Twin karts that go up to 70km/h. Rates start from RM75 (~S$24.25) for a 10-minute session with the Stage 1 karts.
For a more family-riendly option, you could check out the Basic E karts that have top speeds of 35km/h at their other outlets: RUD Gamuda Cove, Rud Karting Sutera Mall, and RUD Karting Klang. These karts are more affordable at RM39 (~S$12.61) for a 10-minute session.
But if you’re an experienced racer, you could head to RUD Karting Sepang for their international racing track – they have 4T and Rok GP superkarts with top speeds of 95-150km/h. We couldn’t believe that you could go that fast without a driving license – it sounds lowkey scary.
At the Medini outlet, before hopping into your kart, you’ll sit through a safety briefing where the basic dos and don’ts will be shared. There’s a total of 16 turns, and some are pretty curved, so first-timers should slow down around the bend to get a hang of things first. If you happen to crash into the tyres, simply stay put, wave your hand, and wait for the staff to come rescue you.
Once you’ve learnt all the steps and rules to being a pseudo Lewis Hamilton, it’s time for your helmet fitting. It’s compulsory to wear a balaclava underneath it, and if you don’t have one, you can purchase one from the place for RM16.90 (~S$5.46).
When you’re done speeding around the tracks, head over to one of their in-house cafes Gyutea or RUD Cafe & Bistro to get a quick grub or drink. You can also upgrade your experience and book a KTV room from RM100/hour (~S$32.41) to sing some tunes.
Find out more from RUD Karting’s website.
RUD Karting review: “Overall, everything was okay and my first experience was really nice. I enjoyed the go-kart and chose the Stage 1 kart. The ride itself was smooth and fun. However, the front counter staff didn’t really attend to customers. Since it was our first time, we were quite clueless about the registration process. I understand that the instructions are available at the online counter, but it would be better if staff could also assist first-time customers like us.” – Aireen via Google
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2. ATV Park Johor Bahru
Johor’s largest ATV riding park
Think Hot Wheels, but bigger and better. ATV Park Johor Bahru offers one of the largest ATV trails in JB, with experienced guides that’ll teach you the fundamentals of navigating your way on an ATV. No driving license required, except for the 4-seater buggy.
There are 2 locations you can start your ATV ride from: the Ekoflora trail near Tebrau, or the Sungai Lebak trail near Kota Tinggi.
The Ekoflora location offers both day and night rides with 8 different trails of different distances and difficulty, 2 of them for dirtbikes only. The shortest trail is a 20-minute ride suitable for kids, while the longest is a 3-hour ride passing through a sand trail, forest, lake, multiple hills, a tunnel, and a river. Prices start from RM60 (~S$19.44) for a 1-seater ATV or dirtbike, and there are also 2-seater and 4-seater vehicles available.
Walk-ins are accepted here, although it is recommended for bigger groups to make advanced bookings as rides are subject to availability.
Image adapted from: ATV PARK JOHOR via Facebook
Hardcore outdoor enthusiasts can choose the Sungai Lebak location instead, which requires a booking at least 7 days in advance. It has 2 more challenging trails – a 2-hour trail with sand, tight squeezes, hill climbs, and river crosses, as well as a 4 hour trail that includes mountain hiking and a 1 hour free and easy at Tengkil Waterfall.
Do note that there is a minimum requirement of 4 pax or a RM700 (~S$226.84) spend for the 1st trail and 5 pax or a RM1200 (~S$388.87) spend for the 2nd trail. On top of that, you might need to get a forest permit for the 2nd trail which costs RM70/pax for non-Malaysians.
The Sungai Lebak location also offers a Paintball Wargame from RM70/pax (~S$22.68) with a minimum of 6 pax to play.
If you’re not driving to the ATV park, we would recommend the Ekoflora trail because Grab does not send or pick up passengers from the remote Sungai Lebak location.
Before you mount the monstrous vehicle, you’ll first don a hairnet and safety helmet. PCK-style boots are available, but not compulsory – we’d recommend wearing them still as you’ll be going through some muddy terrain. Also, it’s extra protection from the scorching sun.
You’ll begin your journey with 1-2 test runs around the starting point, just so you get the hang of controlling the ATV. After which, you’ll be in for the real deal – mud-caked roads, uphill paths and knee-high wade pools to zoom through.
Don’t worry if you get stuck like me, there’ll be a staff following – and helping – you throughout.
Image credit: Ian Sim
The total route took about an hour with mini pit stops along the way to catch a break. We even came across this open sandy area which gave us Dune vibes, where our guide showed us some sweet tricks.
Find out more by dropping a WhatsApp to +60 12-723 1250 for the Sungai Lebak Trail and +60 19-300 1250 for the Ekoflora Trail.
Atv Park Johor review: “The experience was truly awesome. The guide was very friendly and kept asking us if we wanted to take a break or move forward. They even have food, beverages, and boots of varying sizes. The trail was really safe. We picked the 1.5-hour trek option, and it was really fun and easy to handle. We did end up getting a bit dirty, but this wasn’t a problem because there are washing rooms.” – Garv Bhandari via Google
3. ADM Archery Park
From S$12
This one’s for all our Katniss Everdeen and Hawkeye fans – embody your inner hero and test out your archery skills at ADM Archery.
It is recommended to book a slot via WhatsApp to ensure that there is no clash of timings.
To get to the place, hop on a GrabCar and enter the address – but try not to snooze on your way over as the location is pretty obscure. Our driver unknowingly passed by the entrance twice before recognising the target boards that were near the entrance.
No animals were harmed in this shooting.
Set aside RM35 (~S$11.31) that’ll get you a bow and a round of arrows. You’ll have 1 hour to fire your best shots, and there are different target boards for you to try your hand at.
Newbies need not fumble to figure things out as the staff will coach you on how to manage the bow and arrow, and tips on how to get a bullseye.
Once you’ve mastered the art of archery, check out their in-house store where you can purchase your own set of gear.
Tip: wear long-sleeved attire as the place has quite a few mosquitoes. Or, bring mosquito repellent.
WhatsApp +60 17-722 1304 to book a slot.
4. Tristan Park
Dirt biking 20-min drive from the Causeway
Dirt biking at Tristan Park is another one for the thrill seekers. If you haven’t ridden a motorbike before and have no bike licence, don’t let the dirt bikes here intimidate you as it’s actually beginner-friendly and simple to pick up.
There are 2 dirt bike trails to try: the Semangar trail (from $110/pax) which includes waterfall swimming, and the Plentong trail (from $120/pax). Alternatively, you could do the Semangar trail on an ATV (from $80/pax).
If you’re still not confident of taking on the off-road trails, you could opt for a 3-hour dirt bike clinic ($70/pax) – perhaps you’ll be able to do the trails the next time.
Remember to make a booking in advance as the place does not accept walk-ins. Before you head over to the place, ensure that you’re wearing long-sleeved clothes because things are about to get grimy. But if you don’t want to soil your clothes, there are clothing and gear available for rent too.
Once you’ve suited up, you’ll be led to the dirt path about 10-minutes away. Don’t worry, you won’t be thrown into the deep end immediately as instructors will give a safety briefing and tutorial on how to manoeuvre the bikes.
And once you’ve mastered the theory of riding a bike, you are then free to put your knowledge to the test and drive away on the long, windy and sometimes bumpy roads.
Find out more from Tristan Park’s website.
Tristan Park review: “I took friends to ride this weekend. It was the first time for some of them and it was my third time. The guides were very skilled helping my friends learn how to shift and drive. Regards were also very skilled at choosing trails appropriate for our level. The motorcycles and equipment were well-maintained and functioned well.” – Colin Dailey via Google
5. Hutan Bandar MBJB
Outdoor adventure park with flying fox and children’s pool
With at least 3 separate playgrounds and a myriad of adventure attractions, both families and thrill-seekers can find something for them in Hutan Bandar MBJB, which has just reopened after a RM10.3 million makeover.
Bring your kids to splash around in the children’s pool for just RM5/child (~S$1.62), or let them climb on animal-themed playground structures. The whole fam can even explore a butterfly garden, or simply find a spot to have a picnic.
If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities, there is also a rope course for RM15/adult (~S$4.85), flying fox for RM30/adult (~S$9.70), and bouldering from RM5/pax (~S$1.62). You’ll also find many free facilities like a skatepark, a pump track, and a callisthenics and parkour park. There are also bike and skateboard rentals available. For the cat lovers, you might even spot many friendly cats lounging on the park facilities.
Do note that the children’s pool, rope course, and flying fox are only open on weekends.
6. Nadi Equestrian Centre & Rider’s Resort
Learn to ride a horse in JB
Image credit: @nfrnola via Instagram
If you’ve been binge-watching Bridgerton and have gotten inspired to try your hand at horseback riding, consider experiencing it while in JB. Check out Nadi Equestrian Centre, a horse riding school that’s about 30 minutes away from Woodlands Checkpoint by car.
Image credit: @leeya_liyana via Instagram
Here, you can go on a 45-minute leisure ride with your preferred steed that’ll set you back at RM100 (~S$32.26), or a quick ride where you’ll go on 3 loops around the pen for only RM15 (~S$4.86).
Of course, soon-to-be equestrians can sign up for introductory classes starting from RM690/5 classes (~S$223.71) where you’ll learn to take the reins on riding a horse, and basic horsemanship. All are welcome to join as children above the age of 6 can partake in lessons as well.
For some major badass vibes for the ‘gram, you can also try your hand at horseback archery – another cool activity to spice up your trip. Walk-ins are not accepted – you’ll need to make an appointment.
Find out more on Nadi Equestrian Centre’s Facebook.
Rider’s Resort
Image credit: Rider’s Resort
Trot along to Rider’s Resort where riding sessions are available for both pros and newbies. While the place is about a 1.5-hour drive from the city, it offers groom-led horse rides for RM160/pax (~S$51.88) for 30 minutes and jungle trail rides from RM341/pax (~S$110.56) for 90 minutes.
You’ll be able to admire the surrounding landscape while riding.
Image credit: Rider’s Resort
If you’re invested and want to hone your skills, they also have riding lessons for regulars from RM242/pax (~S$78.46).
Image credit: Riders Resort via Google Maps
The place also has riding camps to further groom your newfound expertise from RM1175/pax (~S$380.96). You can choose from a 2D1N to a 5D4N stay, where you’ll be treated to a well-rounded experience in a colonial-style resort. Grooming and caring for the horse, feeding it and riding sessions are just some of the activities you can expect.
Find out more on Riders Resort website.
Riders Resort review: “Had a 3D2N Full Board stay at Riders Resort and thoroughly enjoyed myself! The staff within the hotel and the stables were super friendly and patient throughout our stay. It’s a little far from the nearby town, so definitely need to drive and having the full board package which includes breakfast, lunch and dinner is great. Very fuss free and staff is very accommodating to the meal timings and preferences.” – Hui Yin Tan via Google
7. Danga Bay
Catch the sunrise & sunset over SG
Image credit: @mahshid.kh1364 via Instagram
Admittedly, you can witness the sun set and rise in any part of the world. But most would agree that catching them by the beach, with the sounds of ocean waves and sand in between your toes, gives it that added oomph and romantic element.
Image credit: @kenlee_jd via Instagram
Just 7 minutes away from the Woodlands checkpoint,Danga Bay is the place to watch the sunrise and sunset with your loved ones. Bring along a picnic mat, some snacks and finger food, and you’ll have the perfect way to start or end your day. There’s also a nearby Starbucks where you can grab a frappe to quench your thirst.
Image credit: @pitefendy via Instagram
When you’re done admiring the view, head over to Beletime Danga Bay. The mall offers plenty of F&B, retail, and lifestyle stores, including Marrybrown, Jeonju Bibimbap, Lost in JB escape room, Womei Cineplex, and AEON Wellness.
Find out more from Beletime Danga Bay’s website.
8. Forest City Water Park
Have a splash at mini water park
Image adapted from: @ha_forestcity via Instagram
Parents who are scratching their heads thinking about where to go for the upcoming school holidays can check outForest City Water Park, where kiddos can splash around a series of water slides, obstacle courses, jungle gyms and even a giant maze.
Image credit: Faiz Sedek via Facebook
It is located about 40-minutes away from Woodlands Checkpoint, and 30-minutes away from Tuas Checkpoint so families can consider driving over on weekends.
Image credit: @oddsy_traveljb via Instagram
It’ll only cost you RM20/person (~S$6.48) to enter the park, so you won’t have to spend a bomb when bringing your family there.
Find out more from Forest City’s Facebook.
Forest City Water Park review: “Our first visit was weekday morning, nice experience we were the only visitor who swam. Second visit was weekend, with more people around, only they’re not ready with cleaned pool beforehand. It was 10:10 yet there was still many leaves on children pool. It got nice view and shades to chill. will be our regular place for water play.” – novie safita via Google
9. Tasik Biru & Seri Alam Blue Lake
Hidden blue lakes in Johor Bahru
Tasik Biru translates to “Blue Lake”.
Nature lovers would’ve probably heard of the extremely blue Tasik Biru, located at the edge of JB city. The IG-famous lake has been visited by many in the past, but when we went up to the area to check it out, we were informed that it was private property.
That said, visitors are not encouraged to attempt the 1-hour hike up to the area as the paths can be muddy and slippery after rainfall. However, it’s pretty cool to know there’s this gorgeous sight hidden in the hills of Kangkar, Pulai.
Image credit: @yindii via Instagram
Another blue lake that you can check out is the Seri Alam Blue Lake, located just a 30-minute drive from CIQ. This one requires an uphill, 2-hour hike before you’re rewarded with picturesque views of the lake.
(Closed) Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park
Closed indefinitely for renovations
Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park is currently closed for renovations, with no time set for its reopening.
Adventure Park
Start off your day at the Adventure Park, which houses more than 50 obstacle courses, 7 routes and several ziplines. But before you panic at the sheer amount of high element courses, know that you’ll always be wearing a safety harness and safety briefings will be given prior to starting – there’s even a mock obstacle course and mini zipline for you to practice at.
While the starting courses might seem like a piece of cake, the difficulty progresses as you carry on, where you’ll end with a 10m-long zipline that has you Tarzan-ing across the park and back to the starting point.
Admission: RM80/entry (S$25.40)
Water Park
When you’re done conquering the high elements, cool off at the Water Park. You’ll find that while there are chill rides like the Wave Pool which has you floating along the moving stream, there are also heart-stopping rides such as the Yellow Wave, with steep open drops where you least expect it.
If you’re travelling with kids, there’s also the tamer Splash World. The pool is shallow enough for them to wade around, and comes complete with child-friendly water slides. Not forgetting the giant bucket, which periodically dumps a ton of water onto unsuspecting guests.
Water Park admission
Above 120cm: RM80/entry (~S$25.81)
Below 120cm: RM70/entry (~S$22.58)
Sports & Leisure Park
End off your day at the Sports & Leisure Park, where you can try your hand at drift karting, ice-skating and trampolining.
If you aren’t familiar, drift karting is essentially go-karting, with the added ability to drift around bends. Sit tight and whiz around the route as this is something you’ll probably – and hopefully – never experience with a car.
Don’t miss out on Jump Street while you’re here, especially if you’ve got an inner child just itching to let loose. Here, you can break out some serious parkour moves as you hop around the endless rows of trampolines. While you’re here, experience the winter season at the skating rink that’s opposite Jump Street, where you can skate away without breaking a sweat.
Drift karting rates: RM25/10mins (~S$8.06)
Jump Street rates: RM25/hour (~S$8.06)
Skating rink rates: RM25/entry (~S$8.06)
Opening hours:
Water Park: 10am-7pm, Daily
Adventure Park: 10am-6pm, Daily
Sports & Leisure Park: 10am-10pm, Daily
Address: No. 71, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Telephone: +60 19-716 3183
Activities in JB for outdoor lovers
There are a ton of reasons why you should switch out your afternoon teatime or shopping sessions for something that involves the great outdoors. For one, you’ll be able to try your hand at things you won’t necessarily get to do back in Singapore, at a cheaper cost.
What’s more, these activities are all conveniently located in and around JB, so there are no plane tickets or long butt-squishing drives needed to get there. The next time you’re crossing the borders and paying the city a visit, bookmark one of these places to spice up your trip.
For more things to do in JB:
Photography by Alvin Wong & Ian Sim.
Originally published on 10th May 2022. Last updated by Ong Rui En on 19th May 2026.