Ayung River Rafting in Bali: A guide to a thrilling adventure

Imagine, cruising along a clear river chute down the valley, passing through some magnificent natural wonders of Bali- lush green rainforests, amidst rice paddy fields and carved stone walls and splashing waterfalls and experience the unusual side to Bali’s spectacular panorama. Sounds exciting? Then check out Bali Trip Packages to plan your Adventure activities in Bali.

 All you need to know about Ayung River Rafting

Classified as class II and III in the dry season, the Ayung River Rafting has some rough water, some rocks and small drops but poses no considerable danger. Skill levels here range from basic paddling to some experience in rafting is all that you need to wade through this adventure. In the rainy season, however, when the water level rises, the Ayung is classified as class IV, having medium-large waves and needing better skills to manoeuvre the sharp bends when needed.

The Ayung’s white water rafting trail offers a 10-kilometre route that will need 1.5 – 2 hours to meander through. But you will hardly notice the time because you will be having so much fun in this water sport in Bali

The Ayung River Rafting is considered an excellent place for family and kids as well because the average power of the falls allow you to enjoy an inflatable boat ride in the heart of the jungle. The rapids of most family routes (about 33 rapids) are class II and III. Moreover, the rafting routes offered on this river are open to those aged 5 to 65 years. 

You’ll experience the thrill of navigating through rapids while enjoying the breathtaking views of the lush rainforest that surrounds the river. There are several different routes for white water rafting on Ayung River, ranging from Class I to Class III rapids. Class I rapids are the easiest and perfect for beginners, while Class III rapids are more challenging and require some experience. You can choose the route that’s right for you based on your skill level and preferences. There are also several Day trips arranged by different tour operators in Bali who often have a day’s itinerary planned for this adventure sport in Bali.

Usually, the river rafting journey is a mix of paddling action and steady cruising. Usually, as a group of 4, you ride a rubber raft led by a guide and paddle through foam and dodge boulders and obstacles in between calmer checkpoints. At other times, it can be a total contrast, steadily cruising downstream throughout the whole tour that requires no paddling at all. The route takes you through the valley that is lined with many farming villages and some of the most beautiful boutique luxury resorts in Bali. Several white water rafting operators in cooperation with the local villagers have even added gorgeous features to the sightseeing route, only visible to rafters, such as an episode from the Ramayana epic carved into a rock face.

Suggested Read: Waterfalls in Bali

Other Things to Do in Ayung River

• Kayaking

Kayaking on the Ayung River is a great way to experience the river’s natural beauty. You can paddle through the calm waters and take in the sights and sounds of the rainforest at your own leisurely pace. 

One of the best things about kayaking on the Ayung River is the opportunity to see wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and fish up close. You’ll also be able to explore the river’s hidden caves and waterfalls that are not accessible by other means. Kayaking gives you a great opportunity to experience a peaceful journey amidst nature.

• River Tubing

River tubing is a fun and relaxing activity that is perfect for families with children or those who want a more laid-back adventure. Float downstream on an inflatable tube and soak up the sun while enjoying the beauty of the river much similar to the Lazy River in many water parks, but in real. 

Similar to kayaking, river tubing on the Ayung River provides a unique opportunity to see wildlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. You’ll be able to see the rainforest from a different perspective and take in the sights and sounds of the river.

•  Hiking

If you want to experience adventure in the Ayung River and yet don’t want to venture in the water, you also have the option of hiking trails that allow you to explore the rainforest and its surroundings. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Hiking on the Ayung River is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the rainforest and learn about the local flora and fauna. 

You will be able to see the river from a different angle and take in the stunning views from higher ground. Some of the best hiking trails in Ayung River include the Campuhan Ridge Walk and the Kajeng Rice Fields Walk.

In addition to these activities, Ayung River also has a variety of tour packages that combine different activities that include transportation, meals, and equipment rental. When planning your trip to Ayung River, be sure to book your activities in advance.

Ayung River rafting tours in Bali

Some of the most acclaimed tour operators are

• Sobek Ayung River Rafting
• Bali River Rafting
• Mason Adventures

Essentials for Ayung River Rafting

• A change of clothes – it is hot and humid in Bali and wandering around in wet clothes is no fun. There are usually shower facilities at the end of the tour for you to clean up so carrying an extra pair comes in handy.
• Waterproof suntan lotion – Bali is a tropical island and the sun can get pretty intense and it is always advisable to carry a waterproof sunblock lotion to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun.
• Waterproof bag – it will come in handy to carry your keys, mobile phones, etc while you are rafting in the river.
• Cash– Although most tour operators provide a light meal and other essentials in the package, it is best to carry some cash in case of emergency.
• Running or hiking shoes – flip flops might sound ideal, but if you’re climbing rocks, they have no grip and may come off easily in rapids too. Proper footwear keeps your foot safe and makes your adventure more comfortable and fun. You wouldn’t want to heal a cut for the rest of your Bali adventure.

Some Tips and Advice

• If you have any clothing that dries very quickly, you should wear that while you raft since that will be more comfortable.
• White water rafting is always conducted under the watchful eye of a professional guide, but you still have to steer your raft yourself. You will need to row for a fairly long period and thus, it is always a good idea to be fit enough to withstand the 2 hr long rowing activity. You will also need reasonable reflexes to stay out of trouble in the rapids. It is best to not go rafting if you are suffering from a chronic debilitating health condition or are pregnant. Please follow the advice of your medical practitioner.
• Often travel insurance policies exclude river rafting from its coverage, which means you will have to rely on the tour operator’s insurance. They will have insurance that covers you in the event of injury or accident and they may pay a benefit in the event of any accidents or death. However, these policies will not cover any valuables you bring with you and hence it is advisable not to carry any jewellery or any other valuables.
• If you are carrying your smartphone or camera on the raft with you, make sure you carry them in either a zip lock bag or a waterproof container/bag or stow them away safely.
• One is not required to know how to swim to go white water rafting. This is particularly true in the Ayung river rafting experiences. As long as you follow the instructions below, you will be safe.
• Know Your Difficulty Classification. It would help if you only tackled rapids that are suited to your difficulty level. There is an international scale for the classification of rivers for rafting. They are ranked from Class I to Class VI. Class I is the safest. Class VI should only be tackled by the most experienced of rafters. None of Bali’s rivers are rated at Class V or VI under normal circumstances, but rain can change this rating at a moment’s notice. So it is always good to be informed about the same.
• Use Protective Gear. You must use the protective gear you are supplied with while you are rafting. Ensure you wear your helmet and your life jacket and that they have both been fitted properly.
• Rafting With children is fairly safe in the Ayung River. But, children under the age of 7  are not allowed to raft. However, you must take charge of your children’s safety equipment though and ensure that they are wearing fitting life jackets and helmets. Please make sure they are familiar with any safety rules that are laid down by the professional tour guides. Keep your children safe and well-informed.

Suggested Read: Spas in Bali

How to Get to the Rafting Start Points from Ubud

By Car: It is a bit difficult to rent a car and drive yourself, so most travellers choose to hire a private driver in Bali instead. Private drivers in Bali are hired on a 6-10 hour basis and they will wait for you while you finish activities. You can book a 6-8 hour private driver through the Grab App, but it’s usually cheaper to book a tour with transport included.

By Tour: Booking a tour operator which provides a pick-and-drop service from your hotel, AirBnb, or Resort is a better option since it will likely be cheaper than arranging transportation independently.