If you’re looking for a high-energy activity that combines adventure with some of Bali’s most stunning scenery, the Telaga Waja River rafting tour should be on your list. Priced at just $30 per person, this 3-hour river journey begins in Ubud — a hub of culture and lush landscapes — and takes you through white-water rapids rated 3-4, promising both excitement and beautiful natural vistas. Along with professional guides, you’ll navigate stone cliffs, water falls, and rainforests, all while enjoying some well-deserved breaks for photos or just soaking in the views.
What we especially like about this experience are the well-trained guides who ensure safety and fun, and the scenic diversity — from rice terraces to waterfalls, the landscape keeps your camera busy. Plus, the included buffet lunch and hotel pickup add a layer of convenience that makes this tour feel full and hassle-free.
A possible consideration is the travel time — as one reviewer noted, it took about 2.5 hours from Uluwatu due to Bali’s traffic, so plan your day accordingly. This tour is perfect for beginners and families with children (minimum age 6), offering a balance of adventure and safety. If you’re after a memorable, active day in Bali that combines nature, adrenaline, and comfort, this trip will suit you well.
Key Points
- Balanced Adventure: Suitable for beginners with moderate rapids and professional guides ensuring safety.
- Beautiful Scenery: Expect rainforests, rice terraces, waterfalls, and stone cliffs along the river.
- Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, buffet lunch, safety gear, and insurance coverage.
- Authentic Experience: Guides are well-trained, making sure even children enjoy a safe and fun trip.
- Value for Money: At $30, it offers a memorable, scenic adventure with all essentials covered.
- Consideration: Travel time from Uluwatu can be lengthy; plan your day accordingly.
What Is Included and Why It Matters
This tour, organized by Bali Full Day Tour, provides a comprehensive package that covers almost everything you’d need for a relaxing yet exciting day. The pickup and drop-off service means you don’t have to worry about renting scooters or navigating Bali’s sometimes tricky traffic — a bonus for visitors staying outside Ubud or those unfamiliar with local roads.
Once you arrive at the starting point — Bukit Cilli Rafting (BCR) — you’ll be greeted with coffee or tea, setting a welcoming tone for your adventure. The experience includes professional guides who are trained and safety-certified, and all necessary safety equipment like life jackets and helmets are provided. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll be geared up and ready to tackle the moderate rapids that make this river such a popular choice.
A major highlight is the scenic stops — you’ll pass waterfalls where you might get splashed, adding a bit of thrill and refreshment. During the midway break, you’ll have time to snap photos or relax, making the trip as much about capturing memories as the adrenaline rush.
Post-rafting, a buffet lunch is served, giving you the energy to either continue exploring or head back feeling satisfied and refreshed. The insurance coverage, taxes, and services included in the price deliver peace of mind, making this an accessible and worry-free option.
While in Ubud, here are other experiences we've covered
The Route and What to Expect

The itinerary is straightforward but packed with sights and experiences. Starting at the BCR site, you’ll begin with a short walk to the river, where the guides will fit you with gear and give safety instructions. From there, the real fun begins — navigating class 3-4 rapids that will get your adrenaline pumping without being overly intimidating — perfect for beginners and families.
You’ll paddle through rainforests and rice terraces, which make for spectacular backdrops. The waterfalls, which splash the raft at certain points, add an extra element of fun, especially if you enjoy a little splash of water on a hot day. The guides are known for their knowledge and friendliness, ensuring you feel secure and informed at every twist and turn of the river.
The mid-river break allows for a breather and photo opportunities, which you’ll definitely want to take advantage of, given the stunning scenery. If you don’t bring your camera, no worries — the rafting company offers photography services so you can purchase your adventure shots afterward.
The Scenery and Adventure
The beauty of the Telaga Waja River lies in its diversity. As you paddle, you’ll be surrounded by lush rainforests, towering stone cliffs, and water features like waterfalls that seem to appear unexpectedly, splashing water onto your raft. The waterfalls are not only a visual treat but also add a splash of excitement, especially if you’re lucky enough to get splashed themselves.
The rapids, rated 3-4, strike a balance: enough for an adrenaline rush without feeling dangerous. One reviewer called it “more than enough to boost your adrenalin,” which means it’s thrilling but still accessible for most ages and skill levels.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Dress comfortably in smart casual attire, with quick-drying clothes recommended since you’ll get wet.
- Bring sunscreen and a waterproof camera or phone in the provided water-resistant bag to capture the scenery.
- Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet, and consider bringing a change of clothes for after the trip.
- Arrive prepared for a 2.5-hour transfer if you’re coming from Uluwatu, as noted by a reviewer, so plan your day accordingly.
- Minimum age is 6 years — making it a family-friendly activity — while the maximum age of 60 keeps it accessible for most.
- Vegetarian options are available, so inform the tour provider if needed.
Authentic Experiences and Feedback
One traveler described their experience as “fantastic natural beauty,” emphasizing how prompt and comfortable the transfer was, despite the length. They appreciated the friendly staff, the safety measures, and the short walk to the river, making it easy for all ages.
Another review mentioned how guides made the experience safe and enjoyable, especially highlighting that even children could participate confidently. The scenic backgrounds and water splashes seem to make this tour a memorable highlight for many visitors.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re after a moderate adventure that offers a taste of Bali’s natural beauty with an element of excitement, this tour checks all the boxes. It suits families with children, beginners looking for a safe yet fun experience, and adventure seekers wanting to see more of Bali’s lush landscapes. The inclusion of lunch and transport makes it a convenient day trip, while the professional guides ensure safety and a friendly atmosphere.
The Telaga Waja rafting tour delivers a well-rounded adventure that balances scenic beauty, safety, and excitement. It’s priced affordably, especially considering the all-inclusive nature — from pickup to lunch — that takes the hassle out of organizing your own day. The guides’ expertise enhances the experience, making even nervous first-timers feel comfortable and well-cared-for.
While the travel time from certain parts of Bali might be lengthy, the stunning environment and adrenaline-filled rapids make it worth the effort. It’s a great introduction to Bali’s outdoor adventures, especially if you want to combine physical activity with sightseeing.
If you love nature, fun, and safe adventure, this tour will give you a memorable slice of Bali’s natural charm.
How long does the tour last?
The rafting itself is approximately 3 hours, with additional time for pickup, transfer, and lunch. Expect a full day if you include travel from Uluwatu.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children as young as 6 years old can participate, thanks to the safety measures and controlled rapids suited for beginners.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, quick-drying clothes are best, along with sturdy shoes that can get wet. Sunscreen and a change of clothes are also recommended.
Are there any vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available upon request when you book.
What’s included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off (if booked with transfer), coffee or tea, safety gear, guide, insurance coverage, water-resistant bag, shower facilities, and buffet lunch.
Can I buy photos or videos?
Yes, photos and videos are available for purchase after the trip, though they are not included in the initial price.
What if the weather isn’t good?
The activity requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
Embark on this 3-hour Bali adventure for a thrilling, scenic ride down the Telaga Waja River — a perfect blend of excitement, natural beauty, and cultural ease.
More 3-Hour Experiences in Ubud
More Tour Reviews in Ubud
More Ubud experiences we've covered
- Full-Day in Bali: Private Design-Your-Own Tour
- Rafting Telaga Waja River with Lunch
- Bali Tour Driver
- Private Bali Airport Departure Transfer: Hotel to Airport (Departure)
- Dapur Usada – Jamu Making Experience
- Half-Day Tour: Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance Show
- Authentic Balinese Cooking Class in Ubud
- Customized Tours of Bali
- Hidden Trails Adventure in North Ubud
- Ubud Day Tour – Private Ubud Tour Guide – Best Of Ubud Tour
- Tanah Lot Tour Including Hidden Waterfall
- Bali Private Tour: Ulun danu Temple, Iconic Handara Gate & Tanah lot sunset.
