Imagine floating down Bali’s most famous river, surrounded by lush greenery, dramatic waterfalls, and the thrill of gentle rapids. For just $45 per person, you can spend about two hours navigating the Grade II-III rapids of the Ayung River, a signature Bali activity. With pickup and drop-off included, this tour makes it easy to enjoy without fuss—especially if you’re staying near Ubud or South Bali.

What we really love about this experience is the combination of adventure and comfort. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, ensuring you feel safe while teasing out fun moments. Plus, after the ride, you’ll be treated to a buffet lunch and a hot shower, which makes the whole day both exhilarating and relaxing. That said, be aware that walking down many stairs is part of the journey, so it’s not perfect for those with limited mobility.

This trip is ideal for families, first-timers, and anyone wanting a taste of Bali’s natural beauty without overdoing it. It’s especially suited for groups who appreciate value for money and authentic experiences—and who don’t mind getting a little wet and muddy in the process.

Key Points

Convenient Pickup: Early morning pickup from Ubud, Keramas, and South Bali simplifies logistics.
Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides make the ride fun, safe, and informative.
Beautiful Scenery: Expect waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic canyon views.
Inclusive Facilities: Equipment, towels, showers, and a buffet lunch are included for a smooth day.
Family Friendly: Suitable for ages 7-60, with safety equipment and manageable rapids.
Value for Money: At $45, you get a full experience with transportation, guides, and food.

An In-depth Look at the Ayung River Rafting Tour

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The Location and Itinerary

This Ayung River tour begins near Ubud, about 49 km from Ngurah Rai International Airport, with a drive time of approximately 1.5 hours. The start point is at Br. Begawan, Desa Melinggih Kelod, Payangan, set amidst Bali’s beautiful rice terraces and jungle. The first thing we loved is how easy it is to reach the site with the included air-conditioned transport—no need to worry about haggling or organizing separate rides.

Once you arrive, the briefing takes place before you don your safety gear—helmet, life jacket, waterproof bag—and meet your rafting guide. The guides are praised for their friendly demeanor and professionalism, with reviewers noting Nyoman, Gede, and Franky as guides who take safety seriously but also keep the mood light and fun.

The Rafting Experience

The river length is about 12 km, with 2-3 class rapids, making it an ideal choice for beginners and families. The rapids are described as “tame” yet exciting enough to get your adrenaline going, perfect for first-time rafters or those who prefer a more relaxed adventure. Several reviewers highlight the scenic beauty, including waterfalls, deep canyon views, and lush greenery.

The actual raft ride lasts roughly 2 hours, and you can expect to splish-splash through gentle but playful rapids, with moments to take photos and enjoy nature’s tranquility. One reviewer mentioned “splashed and went under a waterfall”, which captures the fun spirit of this adventure.

The Walk Down and Finish Point

A common theme in reviews is the walk down many flights of stairs to reach the river—an unavoidable part of the experience. While some found it a bit strenuous, most agreed it’s worth the effort. The finish point is at Red Paddle Bali Adventures, where you’ll be greeted with refreshing towels and the hot shower facilities—a much-appreciated luxury after the dip in the river.

The Lunch and Facilities

Post-raft, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch that several reviewers describe as “surprisingly good”. Expect a selection of local dishes served in a relaxing setting, perfect for refueling. The tour also includes changing rooms and shower facilities, making it convenient to freshen up before heading home.

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Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for families, beginners, or those wanting a scenic yet manageable adventure. The staff’s friendly approach and safe environment make it perfect for kids as young as 7 (with adult supervision) and adults looking for a fun, none-too-intense activity. Couples and groups will find it a great bonding experience, especially given the excellent value.

The Real Reviews

Multiple reviewers praise the guides’ professionalism and humor—one called a guide “fun and helpful,” another remarked “guides are friendly and have a great sense of humor.” The scenery gets high marks with one saying, “such a lovely way to see Bali’s waterfalls and lush landscapes.” The food also receives positive mentions, with some saying “buffet was superb,” adding to the overall value.

Considerations and Drawbacks

The primary drawback is the stairs involved in reaching the river—if mobility is an issue, this might be challenging. Also, some reviews mention the river being more relaxed than expected, with one reviewer noting “not much white water most of the time.” This makes it less suitable if you’re seeking extreme rapids or a more challenging ride.

Lastly, while the price of $45 is competitive, some comments indicate additional costs like drinks or photographs are not included. You might want to bring extra cash for these extras if desired.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re a family with kids, a first-time rafter, or someone looking for an authentic yet relaxed adventure in Bali, this tour hits the spot. It’s also ideal for those who value good food and comfortable facilities after their ride. Those interested in stunning scenery without the adrenaline overload will find this a memorable half-day outing.

Travelers who prefer more challenging rapids or extreme adventure might want to consider other options like Telaga Waja River, but for safe, scenic fun, this is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip air-conditioned transport from Ubud, Keramas, and South Bali is included, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What is the age limit?
The tour is suitable for ages 7 to 60, with safety equipment provided. Kids under 7 are not recommended, but most reviews mention children as young as 7 having a great time.

What should I bring?
Bring dry clothes for after the ride, and cash if you’d like to purchase drinks or photographs. Towels, changing rooms, and showers are provided.

How difficult is the river?
Rated Grade II-III rapids, it’s suitable for beginners and families, with a relaxed pace. Some review mention more tame rapids, but the scenery makes up for it.

Is the tour worth the price?
At $45, including transport, equipment, guides, and lunch, most travelers find this excellent value for a full day of fun and scenic beauty.

Can I book this tour for a large group?
Yes, the tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, so it’s perfect for small groups or families.

What if it rains?
Rafting is generally safe in rain, as it can make the rapids more lively, but check the weather forecast beforehand. The experience is still enjoyable even in wet weather.

The Bottom Line

In essence, Ayung River rafting with this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and comfort. The guides are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, ensuring safety without sacrificing fun. The scenic views of waterfalls and lush valleys make it worth every penny, especially with the included lunch and facilities.

The tour is best suited for families, first-timers, and those who want a memorable day on the water without demanding extreme physical effort. The value for money makes it an attractive option for travelers looking to tick off a Bali must-do without overpaying.

If your idea of fun involves gentle rapids, beautiful Bali landscapes, and good company, this rafting trip hits all the right notes. Just be prepared for some stairs and perhaps bring extra cash for souvenirs or drinks.

To sum it up, this tour is an excellent introduction to Bali’s natural beauty and adventure. It combines scenic views, friendly guides, comfortable facilities, and good food at a reasonable price. Whether you’re visiting Bali for the first time or are a seasoned traveler wanting a relaxed yet memorable activity, Ayung River rafting offers a genuine, enjoyable experience worth considering.