Rafting in Bali: where to go for an adrenaline rush

There are three main places for rafting tours in Bali: the Ayung, Telaga Waja and Melangit rivers. Each destination has its own features. Which one should you choose for rafting?

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Rafting on the Ayung River

The Ayung is the longest river in Bali. It is one of the most popular destinations for rafting beginners or family activities with children. The water is calm along most of the river: you will encounter 2-3 rapids during the entire journey. Although weather conditions can, of course, affect the intensity of the water, the rapids are usually no higher than Class II or Class III. This means they are suitable for beginners. Therefore, you can go rafting on this river even without any previous experience.

As you slowly float down the river, you can enjoy the green beauty of Bali. Along the way, you will see rocky cliffs, wonderful waterfalls, lush rice fields and much more. One of the highlights of rafting on the Ayung River is the opportunity to swim near the waterfalls.

The rafting route is approximately 12 kilometres long. The descent takes about 90 minutes. No particular physical fitness is required, but to reach the starting point, you will have to walk down 500 steps! The Ayung is also very close to Ubud, where many people who want to join a rafting tour stay. It is easiest to find tour operators in Ubud.

The main rafting departure points are in the villages of Petang, Payangan and Karangsari in the central part of the island. Public transport does not go there, so the most convenient way to reach them is by rented transport or taxi.

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Rafting on the Telaga Waja River

The waters of the Telaga Waja River, located in eastern Bali, are much rougher than those of the Ayung. This adventure is not for the timid. If you are planning to take this route, you will need river rafting experience. During the trip, you will face drops and turns while passing through the rapids. You will have to go over a drop where the boat descends a four-metre waterfall! This is the climax of the rafting route and adds extra excitement.

The entire route is about 16 kilometres long and takes 2.5 hours. The finishing point is near the village of Sidemen, a picturesque place worth visiting to experience traditional Balinese life. The rapids on this section of the Telaga Waja River are generally rated from Class III to Class IV, which means an intermediate level. The descent is safe. A guide accompanies participants throughout the journey.

The starting point of the route is the village of Muncan. Tours usually begin here, although there are other rafting locations along the river. If you simply want to see the river, it will be enough to travel to the southeastern coast of Semarapura.

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Rafting on the Melangit River

The Melangit is even more difficult than the Telaga Waja. It is the most challenging rafting route in Bali. The river is literally full of rapids, and you will have to remain alert at all times. The rapids here are usually rated Class IV. The section of the Melangit River used for rafting tours is about 7.5 kilometres long. The trip takes 1.5 hours. Although the route is not very long, it includes 37 drops! The highest is about 3 metres.

The Melangit River is located in the village of Bakas. The drive from Ubud takes about 50 minutes. When you book a rafting tour on the Melangit River, return transfers are usually included in the price. However, if you plan to visit other attractions after rafting, such as Bali Safar Marine Park or Bali Bird Park, you may need private transport. You can rent a car with a driver or a scooter for this purpose.

What should you take with you for rafting?

• A change of clothes. Bali can be hot and quite humid, and walking around in wet clothes is unpleasant. There are usually equipped areas at the end of the tour where you can take a shower.
• Water-resistant sunscreen so that you do not get sunburnt during the descent.
• A waterproof bag. It can hold only a few items, but it will be useful if you want to take something with you on the raft. For example, it can protect your phone.
• Money. You do not need to pay for rafting equipment or guide services if you have booked and paid for the tour. However, you may need food or drinks after the adventure.
• Hiking footwear. You will have to cross slippery rocks. Flip-flops are not an option. Ideally, use special canyoning shoes.

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What about insurance?

A standard travel insurance policy does not cover rafting. This means that you will have to rely on the tour operator's insurance. Their insurance provides coverage in the event of injury or an accident, so you can expect compensation. However, if you drop your phone or camera into the river, do not expect compensation. When booking a tour, you can also ask the manager to arrange insurance covering sports activities before you arrive in Bali.

Best time for rafting in Bali

The water level in the rivers depends on the season:

• The wet season in Bali lasts from December to March and brings more rainfall. During this period, rivers such as the Telaga Waja and Ayung carry more water, creating better conditions for thrill seekers.
• The dry season in Bali lasts from May to August. During this period, the water level is lower and the rapids become calmer. You can enjoy a leisurely journey along the river while admiring the picturesque banks and the stunning beauty of Bali's nature. The dry season also brings more sunshine and clear skies.

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Preparing for rafting: tips

• There are no lockers for storing belongings at the departure points, so you will have to carry all personal items in a waterproof bag. It is usually provided by the tour operator. However, take a zip-lock bag for valuables and a change of clothes just in case.
• While in the kayak, you must use the protective equipment provided to you: wear a helmet and a life jacket. They must be properly fitted. If you fall out of the kayak, you will remain afloat.
• Before booking a rafting tour, make sure that you will receive a refund if your plans change.

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How much does rafting in Bali cost?

It depends on the size of the group you want to join, the experience of the organisers, the river chosen for rafting and other factors. Group excursions cost from 30 dollars per person.

Rafting in Bali is an exciting adventure, and you can choose either the calm Ayung or the rougher Telaga Waja River. However, remember that the difficulty of the descent depends on weather conditions, and during heavy rain the rapids can become "aggressive".

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