Bali Ayung River Rafting: Jungle Lunch & Ubud Tour Options

Summary

Raft Bali’s Ayung River then unwind with jungle lunch and local stories

You’ll paddle down Bali’s Ayung River with a local guide, splash through rapids, drift past hidden carvings, and cool off under jungle waterfalls. Afterward, enjoy a buffet lunch with views over the treetops. Options include hotel pickup or adding an Ubud sightseeing tour or ATV ride for more adventure—just don’t be surprised if you’re still thinking about those river sounds days later.

What’s the experience like?

I was honestly a little nervous when we pulled up to the starting point for white water rafting on the Ayung River — you could hear the river before you saw it, kind of roaring underneath all that green. Our guide, Wayan, handed out helmets with this big grin and told us not to worry, “Bali rivers are friendly if you listen.” I’m not sure I believed him at first. The paddle felt heavier than I expected, but once we pushed off, everything else just faded out except for the sound of water slapping rocks and someone behind me laughing every time we hit a bump.

The best part wasn’t even the rapids — it was drifting under these vines while sunlight flickered through, smelling wet stone and something sweet from the trees (jungle flowers maybe?). Wayan pointed out carvings on the riverbank that I would’ve missed completely; he said they were made by local artists decades ago. There was a spot where we could jump in and swim — freezing at first but after that, it just felt like pure relief. I tried to say thank you in Bahasa Indonesia and totally messed it up; Wayan just laughed and splashed me.

After two hours on the river (give or take — I lost track), we climbed up muddy steps to this open-air restaurant overlooking all that green. Lunch was simple but good: rice, satay skewers, spicy sambal that made my nose run in a good way. We sat there still dripping a bit, watching clouds move over the jungle. Some people in our group added an ATV ride or went on to see Ubud’s Monkey Forest — I kind of wish I’d done that too but honestly just sitting there with tired arms and sticky hair felt perfect right then.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ayung River rafting and lunch

• Pickup from Ubud area
• Shoot down Ayung River in raft
• Paddle along river with guides
• See hidden waterfalls
• Jump in river to cool off
• Enjoy buffet lunch with jungle views
• Drop off at Ubud area

Top questions

How long does Bali white water rafting take?

The rafting itself lasts about 2 hours on the Ayung River.

Is hotel pickup included for Bali rafting tours?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included with most packages except "meet at venue" option.

What should I bring for Ayung River rafting?

You should bring sunscreen, a camera (waterproof if possible), and a change of clothes.

Can beginners join Bali white water rafting?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

Is lunch included after rafting?

Yes, a buffet lunch is included at a local restaurant overlooking the jungle.

Are there combo options with Ubud tours or ATV rides?

Yes, you can add an Ubud sightseeing tour or an ATV ride to your rafting experience.

Where does Bali white water rafting take place?

The rafting takes place on the Ayung River near Ubud in Bali.

Is safety equipment provided?

All safety equipment is included for every participant.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off (unless you choose to meet at the venue), all necessary safety equipment for river rafting on the Ayung River, bottled water during your adventure, insurance coverage throughout the activity, guidance from experienced local guides who know every twist of the river by heart, plus a buffet lunch served with sweeping views of Bali’s jungle before heading back—muddy shoes and all.