Bali Rafting Adventures: Best Routes, Safety Tips & Rafting Top Packages
16 July 2025
If you're craving a splash of adrenaline in the middle of paradise, rafting Bali is the perfect adventure for you! It’s definitely an experience that gets your heart racing and your soul refreshed.
Rafting in Bali is also a fantastic way to explore the island’s natural beauty from a different perspective. For a fun fact, Bali offers some of the best rafting routes in Southeast Asia. Let’s dive into why rafting here is a must, which spots are worth checking out, and how to make the most of your ride!
What Is Rafting?
Rafting is an outdoor adventure activity where you ride an inflatable boat (raft) down a river, using paddles to navigate through currents and rapids.
It’s a mix of fun, teamwork, and adrenaline as you bounce over waves, steer around rocks, and sometimes get splashed (a lot!).
Why Try Rafting in Bali?
Rafting in Bali is where you will rift through emerald green jungle valleys, past secret waterfalls, ancient stone carvings, and towering cliffs that feel like something straight out of a movie.
With the sounds of tropical birds above and the rush of cool river rapids below, it’s a total sensory thrill. Here’s exactly why this should be high on your Bali adventure bucket list.
1. Natural Beauty
Rafting on Bali’s Ayung River means cruising through some seriously stunning views.
Imagine paddling past lush tropical forests, vibrant exotic plants, and maybe even spotting some local wildlife along the way. It’s nature’s own theme park, but way more refreshing!
2. Challenging Currents
Whether you’re new to rafting or a seasoned pro, the Ayung River has just the right vibe for everyone. With currents ranging from class III to class IV, you get a fun mix of excitement and challenge that keeps the adventure real without being too overwhelming.
3. Complete Facilities
Going with Surya Bintang Adventures (SBA) means you’re in safe hands with top-notch service. From the moment you arrive, everything is taken care of with comfort, safety, and fun in mind.
You’ll be fully equipped with top-quality safety gear and guided by licensed river professionals who are certified in CPR and First Aid . This way, you can relax and enjoy every splash, twist, and turn with total peace of mind.
But that’s not all. SBA’s guides are known for being super friendly, full of energy, and always up for a laugh, making sure your adventure is just the right mix of thrilling and unforgettable.
The 12-kilometer route takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and winds through breathtaking jungle scenery, before ending with a well-earned feast at the SBA riverside restaurant. Think crispy duck, sizzling grilled chicken, or classic Indonesian fried rice — a delicious way to wrap up your ride!
You’ll also get access to lockers to keep your stuff safe, towels, soap, shampoo, and even hot showers and changing rooms to freshen up after the ride. It’s all about comfort and safety, so you can focus on having a blast!
Want more adventure? Check out SBA’s combo packages:
Ubud Adventure & Culture Tour Combo
Perfect if you want to mix rafting in Ubud with a cultural cycling tour around Ubud’s beautiful villages and rice paddies.
Ubud Thrill Adventure Tour Combo
For adrenaline lovers, combine rafting with an exciting ATV ride through Bali’s rugged terrain.
Top Rafting Spots in Bali
If you’re ready to dive into some of the best rafting in Bali, you’ve got plenty of exciting rivers to choose from. Each spot offers its own unique thrills, beautiful scenery, and unforgettable experiences. Here are the top rafting spots you should definitely check out:
A. Ayung River
The longest river in Bali, stretching about 62 km, with the best rafting section near Ubud. It’s perfect for beginners and families thanks to its gentle currents.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy waterfalls, green cliffs, and peaceful nature. All while sharing laughs and fun with your crew!
B. Telaga Waja
For those craving more adrenaline, Telaga Waja in East Bali offers a faster, more challenging 16 km rafting route. Expect thrilling rapids and some tricky maneuvers as you paddle through stunning landscapes for around 2.5 hours.
C. Petanu River
Located in Gianyar, Petanu River gives you an exciting ride with moderate currents and rocky spots that add some extra thrills. Ideal for adventure seekers who want a bit more action on the water.
D. Pakerisan River
Great for beginners and those who want a calm experience, this 4.5 km river near Tampak Siring Palace features gentle currents and beautiful valleys. It’s also a popular spot for river tubing if you want to mix things up.
E. Melangit River
Located in Bakas Village, this 7.5 km route is for thrill lovers, with about 30 rapid descents and intense sections. Alongside the excitement, you’ll be surrounded by waterfalls and lush rainforests. This is perfect for a wild, nature-packed rafting trip.
Safety Tips for a Smooth Ride
Before you jump into the fun world of rafting in Bali, it’s super important to keep safety in mind to make sure your adventure goes smoothly and everyone has a great time. Here are some simple and friendly tips to get you ready for the ride:
1. Get Your Body Ready
Make sure you’re feeling healthy and strong before rafting day. It’s a good idea to warm up your muscles a few days ahead, especially your arms, since paddling can be quite the workout.
Remember, you’ll be in the water for a while, so staying fit helps prevent getting cold or feeling tired too soon.
2. Dress for Comfort
Wear comfy clothes like a breathable shirt and shorts. Strappy sandals are the best footwear to keep things easy and safe.
Don’t worry if you forgot your gear. You can easily rent clothes and safety helmets near the Ayung River. It’s usually better to rent helmets and other safety gear unless you already have them.
3. Choose Your Seat Wisely
Remember to sit on the edges of the raft, not in the middle. This is to help keep your balance. Rafts typically hold 6 to 8 people, and you can pick either the left or right side.
Your seat choice also affects how you paddle, so listen carefully to your guide on how to work those paddles without bumping into your teammates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Rafting
Rafting is super fun, but watch out for these common mistakes that can ruin your trip or even put you in danger. Here’s a quick rundown to keep your Bali rafting adventure safe and smooth:
A. Ignoring Safety Briefings
Don’t skip the safety talk! Your guide’s instructions on paddling and avoiding obstacles keep everyone safe. Ignoring them? Big no-no.
B. Standing in the Raft
Stay seated! Standing can make you lose balance and flip the raft. Safety first, always listen to your guide.
C. Skipping Hydration
Rafting can be tiring, so drink plenty of water before and during breaks. Dehydration will drain your energy fast.
D. Wearing the Wrong Clothes
Avoid heavy, water-soaking clothes. They weigh you down and make you cold. Go for quick-dry, light gear instead.
E. No Strap on Glasses
Love your shades? Use a strap! Otherwise, they might fly off into the river when the raft hits rocks.
What to Prepare for Your Rafting Trip
Before you dive into the excitement of rafting in Bali, it’s a good idea to know what to bring along so your trip goes smoothly and you stay comfortable from start to finish. Here’s a quick checklist of essentials to prepare for your rafting adventure:
1. Booking in Advance with Surya Bintang Adventures
The first—and most important—step is to book your trip ahead of time with Surya Bintang Adventures. Why? Because it’s not just about reserving your spot, but also about getting the best experience from the very beginning.
Here’s why early booking with Surya Bintang Adventures is a smart move:
Guaranteed Availability
Rafting trips fill up fast, especially during weekends and holidays. Booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on the action.
Fast & Hassle-Free Check-In
Skip the wait. With a confirmed reservation, your check-in is smooth and efficient, so you can jump straight into adventure mode.
Personalized Service
Advance bookings allow the team to prepare everything you need, from special meal requests (vegetarian or halal options) to organizing group requirements.
Peace of Mind
With over 3,100 reviews and a 4.9 Google rating, you can book with full confidence knowing you’re choosing Bali’s trusted rafting provider. Plus, the warm and friendly service adds a local touch you’ll love.
2. Rafting Attire
Wear comfy, quick-dry clothes like T-shirts, shorts, or swimsuits. Don’t forget river sandals or something that won’t slip off easily. You want to move freely and stay comfy while paddling and splashing around.
3. Change of Clothes
After all that fun, you’ll want a fresh, dry outfit to change into. Pack some comfy clothes so you can relax without feeling soggy or chilly.
4. Sunscreen
Protect your skin with a good sunscreen. Go for something water-resistant and with high SPF since you’ll be outdoors and probably soaking wet a lot.
5. Cash
Bring some cash for snacks, drinks, or even to grab those cool photos and videos photographers snap during your rafting adventure. It’s always nice to have a keepsake from the trip!
Let’s Go Rafting!
Rafting Bali is one of those must-try experiences that combines thrill, nature, and team spirit all in one go. Just remember to gear up properly, listen to your guide, and avoid common mistakes like panicking or not paddling in sync.
If you’re looking for the best spot to experience Bali adventure activities in Ubud, Surya Bintang Adventures is your go-to! We offer complete, top-quality packages that cover everything you need for an epic adventure.
Plus, our guides are fully certified, friendly, and super knowledgeable, making sure your trip is not only fun but also safe and comfortable for everyone. With Surya Bintang Adventures, you can just focus on enjoying the adventure while they take care of the rest!
FAQ
Is rafting worth it in Bali?
Absolutely! Rafting in Bali is a thrilling way to explore nature, get an adrenaline rush, and enjoy stunning river views.
Which river is best for rafting in Bali?
The Ayung River is the most popular for beginners, while Telaga Waja offers a more challenging ride for adventure lovers.
