Bali Telaga Waja River Rafting Tour – Challenging Rapids & Scenery

Summary

White Water Rafting on Bali’s Telaga Waja: Rapids, Rice Fields & Waterfalls

If you want real adventure in Bali—think wild rapids, hidden waterfalls, and endless green views—Telaga Waja River rafting is for you. You’ll get soaked, laugh a lot, and see a side of Bali most visitors miss.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed as we pulled up to the starting point in Karangasem was the cool mountain air—kind of a relief after the sticky heat down by the coast. Our guide, Made, handed out helmets and life jackets, cracking jokes about “Bali hair” under the helmets. The river itself looked calm at first glance, but you could hear the rush of water just around the bend. It’s not every day you get to paddle 16 kilometers through Bali’s wild side.

We set off with a quick safety rundown (don’t worry, they really make sure you know what you’re doing). The first few minutes were easy enough—just floating past bright green rice terraces and kids waving from the banks. Then things picked up fast. The rapids here are no joke; some stretches hit class IV, so you’ll definitely get splashed (I lost my sunglasses somewhere around kilometer five). There’s this one spot where a waterfall spills right into the river—you can feel the spray on your face as you pass under it. Between rapids, it’s quiet except for birds and the sound of paddles hitting water.

After about two and a half hours—arms tired but grinning—we reached the finish line. There’s a simple changing area and showers (bring dry clothes), plus a buffet lunch waiting: lots of Indonesian dishes like mie goreng and satay. I ended up chatting with another group from Jakarta over sweet iced tea while we compared bruises and swapped stories about who fell in first.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Telaga Waja River Rafting

• Rafting on Telaga Waja River

Top questions

Is this rafting trip suitable for beginners?

If you’re reasonably fit and comfortable in water, you’ll be fine—even if it’s your first time. Guides give clear instructions before each rapid.

What should I bring for the Telaga Waja rafting tour?

Wear quick-dry clothes or swimwear, bring sunscreen, sandals that strap on, and a change of clothes for after. Leave valuables behind or use lockers provided.

Are transfers included from my hotel?

Yes—private round-trip transfers are included from most areas in Bali. Just confirm your pickup location when booking.

Is lunch provided after rafting?

Yep! There’s an Indonesian buffet lunch at the finish point with plenty of options for different tastes.

What’s included

Your rafting gear (helmet, paddle, life jacket) is all sorted and safety-approved. Private car transfers to and from your hotel are included too. Afterward, there’s access to showers and towels so you can freshen up before enjoying an Indonesian buffet lunch—all covered in your tour price. Insurance is also part of the package for peace of mind.