Ubud: Ayung River Guided Rafting Adventure with Lunch

If you’re looking to add some adventure to your Bali trip, a guided rafting tour on the Ayung River offers a fantastic way to see the island’s lush landscapes from a different perspective. This tour from Ubud is praised for its professional guides, breathtaking scenery, and affordable price point — just $21 per person for a memorable 2.5-hour journey. While it’s not a full-day expedition, it strikes a good balance between excitement and relaxation, making it especially appealing to families, first-timers, or anyone craving a taste of Bali’s natural beauty.

We particularly love the stunning views of waterfalls and rice fields, along with the friendly, knowledgeable guides who ensure safety while keeping the experience fun. One potential consideration is the moderate physical activity involved, including some stairs at the start and end, which most healthy travelers will find manageable. This tour is best suited for those who want a safe, scenic, and value-packed adventure, without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure at just $21 per person with lunch included.
• Scenic views of waterfalls, gorges, rice fields, and wildlife.
• Expert guides ensure safety while sharing insights about Bali’s landscape.
• Beginner-friendly rapids (Class II and III) suitable for all levels.
• Family-friendly activity, with some physical activity involved.
• Optional hotel pickup available for added convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Rafting Experience

This guided rafting adventure on Bali’s Ayung River is a popular way to combine nature, adrenaline, and cultural sightseeing all in one. While we haven’t personally paddled these waters, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture: this tour delivers authentic natural beauty and a safe, enjoyable ride.

What really stands out are the stunning waterfalls and the chance to spot local wildlife, like kingfishers, along the riverbanks. Plus, the professional guides make sure everyone, regardless of experience level, feels comfortable and well-informed throughout the trip.

That said, it’s worth considering that this tour involves some stairs at the start and finish, and the activity might not be suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or travelers over 70. But if you’re generally active and eager for a scenic adventure, this trip offers excellent value for its price.

If you’re after a fun, safe, and authentic way to explore Ubud’s natural landscapes, this rafting trip might just be your perfect Bali experience.

What To Expect: A Clear Picture of the Tour

Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: The trip begins at Bali Bintang Rafting, with options for hotel pickup from Ubud, Kuta, Canggu, Legian, Denpasar, Sanur, and Nusa Dua. Whether you’re staying centrally in Ubud or nearby, pick-up adds convenience, especially if you want to avoid navigating Bali’s traffic on your own.

Rafting Duration: The core activity lasts 2.5 hours, during which you’ll cover approximately 11 kilometers of river. The trip is designed for beginners — the rapids are Class II and III, providing some excitement without the chaos of advanced white water.

Scenic Highlights: Along the way, you’ll enjoy waterfalls, gorges, and rice paddies. Guides often stop for photos or quick swims in the clear water, giving a refreshing break from paddling. Expect to see wildlife, like kingfishers, and discover a hidden waterfall if luck is on your side.

Safety and Guidance: With professional guides leading the way, your safety is a priority. They will supply all necessary gear — including helmets, life jackets, and paddles — and ensure you’re comfortable throughout the trip.

Post-Rafting Meal: After your adventure, you’ll be treated to a buffet lunch surrounded by Bali’s lush scenery. The menu typically features local flavors and is a thoughtful way to unwind.

The Experience in Practice

Many reviews highlight that stairs at the start and end are no problem for healthy, untrained participants — a plus for those wary of physical hurdles. As Annika notes, “The stairs at the beginning and end are absolutely no problem for ‘normal,’ healthy, but untrained people!” This speaks to the accessibility of the tour.

The wildlife and beautiful views are what truly set this experience apart. You might find yourself stopping to admire a waterfall or simply soaking in the tranquility of floating through rice fields and jungles. The guides’ local knowledge adds a layer of insight that makes the trip more meaningful.

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Additional Details and Practicalities

• The tour includes all gear, safety equipment, and towels.
• Insurance is provided, giving peace of mind.
• Participants are advised to bring change of clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for optional extras like drinks.
• The tour generally operates in all weather conditions, so be prepared accordingly.
• Minimum age is 7 years old, making it suitable for families.
• It’s not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back, heart, or other health issues, or those over 70.

Why It Offers Great Value

At just $21 per person, including lunch and all safety gear, this tour offers excellent bang for your buck. It’s a half-day adventure that combines activity, scenery, and cultural insight at a fraction of what similar experiences might cost elsewhere.

The quality of guides, according to reviews, is a notable highlight. “Fun guide,” and “very knowledgeable,” are common praise. This commitment to safety and education enhances the experience, especially for first-timers or those unfamiliar with rafting.

You also gain insider access to hidden spots like small waterfalls and scenic river views that are tough to see on land. The small group size and professional staff ensure you’re not just a number but a valued guest.

Who Will Love This Tour

This adventure suits a wide range of travelers. Families with children over 7 will enjoy the manageable rapids and scenic stops. Active travelers looking for an authentic outdoor experience will appreciate the natural surroundings and wildlife sightings. Budget-conscious visitors will find the cost/performance ratio hard to beat.

People who prefer a relaxed pace but still want a splash of adventure will find this a perfect fit. It’s also ideal for those who want a memorable way to explore Bali’s rivers without committing to a full-day or high-risk activity.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you want a safe, scenic, and affordable way to see Bali’s lush landscapes from a different vantage point, this guided rafting trip on the Ayung River checks all the boxes. It’s especially good for families, first-time rafters, or anyone eager to combine adventure with natural beauty.

The professional guides, stunning scenery, and well-organized itinerary help make this a memorable outing. The inclusion of lunch adds a nice touch, turning a sporty trip into a full-fledged Bali experience.

While it’s not suitable for pregnant women, seniors over 70, or those with certain health conditions, most active and healthy travelers will find this tour a great value and a highlight of their Bali trip.

If you’re craving a fun, safe, and scenic adventure that gives you a genuine taste of the island’s natural side, this rafting tour is well worth considering.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is available from various locations including Ubud, Kuta, Canggu, Legian, Denpasar, Sanur, and Nusa Dua for added convenience.

What is the minimum age for participating?
Participants must be at least 7 years old.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to safety concerns.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for getting wet, and bring a change of clothes for after the trip.

Are the rapids dangerous?
The rapids are classified as Class II and III, suitable for beginners, and guided by professionals to ensure safety.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers guides, rafting gear, safety equipment, lunch, insurance, towels, and changing rooms if needed.

Can I buy photos of the trip?
Photos are not included in the package, but you might find opportunities to purchase them separately.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children over 7 years old can participate, but always check with the guides if your child has special needs or health concerns.

What weather conditions are acceptable for this tour?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly and be prepared for rain or sun.

How long does the entire experience last?
From pickup to drop-off, plan for approximately 2.5 hours of activity, with some additional time for transport and lunch.

Embark on this scenic raft adventure, and you’ll return with stories of waterfalls, wildlife sightings, and the thrill of navigating Bali’s iconic river — all at an accessible price point and with plenty of safety. Perfect for those seeking a genuine, engaging way to explore Bali’s natural wonders!

You can check availability for your dates here: