Surviving a Terrifying Canoe Ride Amid Crocodiles in Chitwan National Park, Nepal
“What?… All seven of us are getting into that sliver-thin canoe?”
My first instinct was to protect my camera equipment in case we capsized.
We boarded single file into the narrow boat. Each person sat down before the next stepped in to maintain balance. Our guide placed a small wooden seat in front for the next passenger.
I preferred to board last, but a group member insisted on special treatment. After ten days with this group, I was wary of trusting them not to tip us over.
Our guide boarded last and warned just before departure, “Keep your balance or we will tip over.”
My muscles tensed as I focused on staying perfectly still—not even retrieving my camera from my bag. This tour would never pass safety standards in the U.S.
As the boat swayed, our guide pointed out wildlife. I struggled to enjoy the scenery, fixated on enduring the ride.
Then my worst fear materialized.
The guide highlighted crocodiles lounging in the surrounding waters. Suddenly, capsizing meant not just wet gear, but a deadly crocodile encounter.
Fellow tourists twisted for better photos of the predators on shore and in the water, rocking the boat wildly.
Finally, I shouted, “Don’t rock the boat!!”
Our guide calmly repeated, “Sit still or we will tip over.”
I willed everyone to freeze—no talking, no moving, not even breathing.
The next 20 minutes blurred by. Docking on the muddy bank, my heartbeat finally slowed.
The ordeal wasn’t over. On shore, our guide gathered us for a briefing before the jungle walk.
“Now, prepare for encounters with rhinos, tigers, or bears.”
“Seriously?! I’d rather get back in the boat!”
Read Part II: Nature Walk from Hell
