The Complete Guide to Ayung River Rafting for Tourists

Ayung River Rafting is one of Bali’s most popular adventure activities, especially for travelers looking for a combination of water sports and natural beauty. Located in the lush green region of Ubud, the Ayung River offers a rafting experience in Bali suitable for both beginners and families. With mild to moderate rapids, this activity is a favorite choice for all ages.

Rafting in Ayung River is not just about adrenaline and challenges. Along the way down the river, participants will be treated to views of majestic rock cliffs, small waterfalls and dense tropical forests. This Bali White Water Rafting is a unique opportunity to enjoy a natural side of Bali that is different from its crowded beaches.

Aside from its natural beauty, the Ayung River Rafting also has a high cultural value. Many stone carvings are found along the river cliffs depicting the epic tales of Ramayana. This adds a spiritual and artistic appeal to the refreshing rafting experience in Bali.

Location and Access to Ayung River

Ayung River is located west of Ubud, about 1.5 hours drive from the main tourist areas such as Kuta or Seminyak. The river stretches for 68.5 kilometers, but the typical rafting route starts from the Payangan area and ends at Kedewatan Village. The course offers a rafting trip in Bali of about 10 kilometers with a duration of about 2 hours.

Access to the Bali White Water Rafting starting point is very easy to reach. Most rafting operators provide shuttle services from hotels, including air-conditioned vehicles and tour guides. The road to the river is generally quite good, although participants will have to climb down stairs to reach the launch point at the bottom of the valley, which is surrounded by shady trees and the sound of gurgling river water.

Read More: Unique Things You Can Only Meet When Bali Ayung Rafting

The Uniqueness of Ayung River Rafting Around Ubud

Here are some of the unique features that make the rafting experience in Ubud, especially on the Ayung River Rafting, so special:

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Tropical forests, steep rock cliffs, and small waterfalls create a spectacular backdrop during rafting activities in Bali. Not only is it an adrenaline rush, but it’s also a feast for the eyes with natural panoramas rarely found elsewhere.
• Epic Rock Carvings on the River Cliffs: The cliffs along the Ayung River are adorned with art carvings depicting Hindu epic stories such as the Ramayana. This gives an unusual cultural and artistic touch to the Bali Rafting Adventure.
• Suitable for Beginners and Families: With class II-III rapids, Ayung River is ideal for new participants in rafting. Children aged 7 years and above can also join in, making it a fun and safe family activity.
• Peaceful Atmosphere of Ubud: After rafting, travelers can enjoy the calm and peaceful atmosphere of Ubud, with a wide selection of spas, restaurants, and art galleries that provide relaxation after an exciting adventure.

Safety Procedures and Pre-Rafting Briefing

Before embarking on the Ayung River adventure, all rafting participants will attend a safety briefing session conducted by professional instructors. The aim is to ensure all participants understand safety procedures, basic paddling techniques, and how to behave in various situations while on the boat. These procedures are an important part of ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort, especially for beginners who are trying rafting activities in Bali for the first time.

Some of the things explained in the briefing include:

• Use of Safety Equipment: Participants will be provided with life jackets, helmets, and paddles. The instructor will ensure that all equipment is worn correctly and in proper size.
• Basic Rowing Techniques: Instructors will teach safe seating positions, how to paddle forwards, backwards, and how to maintain balance when facing rapids.
• Guide Codes and Commands: While on the boat, the guide will give instructions using codes or commands such as “forward”, “back”, “stop”, and “boom” (for ducking). Participants are taught to recognize and respond quickly.
• Procedures in case of falling off the boat: Although it rarely happens, participants should still know what to do if they fall into the river, such as floating with their feet facing downstream and not panicking.
• Simulation Exercise Before Going Down the River: Some operators conduct light simulations on land or calm waters before participants actually start rafting on the main river.

Comparison of Ayung Rafting with Other Rafting in Bali

Bali has several rivers used for rafting, but Ayung River remains one of the most famous. For travelers considering other options, it is important to know how Ayung Rafting compares to other rafting destinations such as Telaga Waja and Melangit.

Here’s a comparison:

• • Ayung River – Ubud: Suitable for beginners and families. The rapids are mild to moderate (class II-III) with beautiful scenery and full of cultural elements such as carvings on the cliffs. The atmosphere is calmer and more relaxed.
  • Telaga Waja – Karangasem: More challenging, with rapids up to class IV. Suitable for adrenaline seekers. The course is longer (up to 14 km), with faster water and many sharp drops, including a mini waterfall drop.
  • Melangit River – Klungkung: A shorter and narrower rafting route, suitable for those who want a different experience with a quieter atmosphere. Class III rapids are suitable for semi-beginners looking for a little extra challenge.
  • Accessibility: Ayung River is easier to reach from Ubud and the southern tourist areas. While Telaga Waja and Melangit require longer travel time, but offer a more wild and remote nature feel.

Ticket Price and What’s Included in the Ayung River Rafting Package

To join the Ayung River Rafting activity, the standard ticket price offered by most rafting operators is around IDR 250,000 per person. This price includes various facilities and services, so participants do not need to worry about bringing a lot of their own equipment. This package is designed so that travelers can enjoy a comfortable and safe rafting experience with no hidden costs.

The following are some of the things included in the Ayung River Rafting package:

• Complete Safety Equipment: Includes quality life jackets, helmets, and paddles that meet international safety standards.
• Professional Instructors: Each boat is accompanied by an experienced rafting guide who will lead the trip and ensure the safety of participants.
• Briefing & Training Session: Before the rafting starts, participants will get a briefing and basic training to be ready for the river rapids.
• Lunch After Rafting: After the activity, participants will be provided with a buffet lunch with delicious local menu, including mineral water and hot tea/coffee.
• Life Insurance During Activity: The package includes insurance coverage during the activity to provide an extra sense of security for participants.
• Changing Room & Shower Facilities: Changing rooms, storage lockers, and showers with warm water are available to clean up after rafting.