Ubud: Ayung River Rafting with Waterfall & Buffet Lunch

Summary

Raft Bali’s longest river see jungle cliffs waterfalls & feast

You’ll paddle down Bali’s Ayung River with a local guide, pass ancient cliff carvings and hidden waterfalls near Ubud, then relax with showers and an Indonesian buffet lunch overlooking the valley. Expect laughter, splashes, and moments of quiet beauty along the way — perfect if you want adventure without anything too extreme.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound — not loud, but steady, like someone shaking pebbles in a tin. That was the Ayung River below us in Ubud, half-hidden by vines and banana trees. Our guide, Putu, grinned as he handed out helmets and paddles. He showed us how to sit (I definitely got it wrong at first), then we all slid into the raft together. The water felt cold on my legs and honestly woke me up more than my hotel coffee did.

I’d never tried white water rafting in Bali before this day trip from Ubud, so I was nervous — but the rapids were more playful than scary. There were stretches where we drifted quietly under overhanging branches, sunlight flickering through leaves. At one point Putu pointed out carvings on the rocks — he said some are hundreds of years old, though I barely caught a glimpse before we spun around another bend. The air smelled green (if that makes sense), and every so often you’d get hit by a spray of river water that tasted just a little bit earthy.

We stopped by a waterfall halfway down — you could hear it before you saw it, tucked behind ferns. Some people climbed out for photos; I just sat there for a second and let the mist settle on my skin. After about two hours (felt shorter), we reached the finish and clambered up to the showers. The buffet lunch after rafting tasted better than I expected — maybe because I was starving or maybe because eating with wet hair overlooking that valley just hits different.

I still think about that stretch where everything went quiet except for our paddles dipping in sync. If you’re wondering if this is worth doing while you’re in Ubud… well, I’d do it again just for that feeling alone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — White water rafting and lunch in Ubud

• Arrive at Ayung River in Ubud
• Go white water rafting for two hours
• Enjoy views of jungle, waterfalls, and cliffs
• Follow safety instructions from guides
• Use showers after rafting
• Eat buffet lunch with valley view

Top questions

How long does white water rafting on Ayung River take?

The rafting itself lasts about two hours from start to finish.

Is this Ubud rafting tour suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, it’s designed for families and beginners with easy rapids and trained guides.

Are hotel pickups included in this Bali rafting experience?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included in your booking.

What should I bring for white water rafting in Ubud?

You don’t need much—rafting equipment, towels, shampoo, bath soap, lockers and even a waterproof bag are provided.

Is lunch included after Ayung River rafting?

Yes, an Indonesian buffet lunch is included after your trip.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?

If weather cancels your trip, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Are there age restrictions for this Bali white water rafting tour?

The minimum age is 7 years old for participants.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from your hotel to Ubud’s Ayung River with all fees covered; safety-approved rafting equipment; professional river guide; use of lockers plus shower facilities with towel, shampoo and bath soap; insurance coverage; shared waterproof bag during rafting; and an Indonesian buffet lunch overlooking the valley before heading back.