What You Need To Know Before Trying Rafting In Bali?

Rafting in Bali is one of the most popular adventure activities for travelers who want to experience the thrill of paddling down a challenging river stream. Also known as rafting, this activity allows participants to enjoy a combination of water sports, nature exploration and adrenaline challenge.

Bali has several rivers with diverse characteristics, ranging from leisurely trails to those with challenging rapids. Rafting in Bali is suitable for everyone, including beginners who want to have their first experience on a safe and fun river.

Choosing a River Suitable for Beginners

Bali has three main rivers used for rafting in Bali, namely Ayung River, Telaga Waja River, and Melangit River. Each river has its own characteristics, so it is important to choose a river that suits your level of experience and comfort, especially for beginners.

a. Ayung River

Ayung River is the most popular river for rafting in Bali, especially for beginners and families who want to try this activity with a less extreme level of difficulty.

Location: Ayung River is located in Ubud area, one of the most famous tourist areas in Bali. Besides being famous for its art and culture, Ubud also offers an exciting rafting in Bali experience with beautiful natural scenery.

Difficulty Level: The Ayung River has a difficulty level of Level 2-3, which means the current is challenging enough to add excitement, but still safe for beginners. The rapids are not too big, so participants can enjoy the rafting experience without too much risk.

Attraction: One of the unique features of Ayung River is the artistically carved rock cliffs that can be found along the rafting route. In addition, the lush tropical forest scenery and several small waterfalls make the rafting in Bali trip even more interesting.

Rafting Duration: The trip on the Ayung River lasts about 2 hours with a route length of about 10-12 km. The path is long enough to provide a satisfying experience, but not so long that it makes you tired.

Read More: Rafting In Bali? Here What You Need To Know First!

b. Telaga Waja River

For beginners who want to experience rafting in Bali with a little more challenge, Telaga Waja River in Karangasem could be the right choice.

Location: The river is located in Karangasem, East Bali. Compared to Ubud, this area is quieter than the hustle and bustle of tourists, thus providing a more natural rafting experience away from the crowds.

Difficulty Level: The Telaga Waja River has a Level 3-4 difficulty level, which means that the current is faster and the rapids are more challenging than the Ayung River. Nonetheless, rafting here can still be enjoyed by beginners with guidance from experienced guides.

Attraction: What makes Telaga Waja River appealing is its longer flow and clearer water. One of the most thrilling parts of the trip is the 5-meter drop that participants must pass, giving a stronger adrenaline sensation.

Rafting Duration: The rafting route on Telaga Waja River can reach up to 16 km, making it one of the longest rafting routes in Bali with a duration of about 2.5-3 hours.

Safety Procedures to Know Before Rafting in Bali

Before starting the trip, participants will get a briefing from the guide. Here are some safety procedures that must be considered:

Instruction from the Guide:

• Wearing a helmet and life jacket correctly
• Understand the signals given by the guide, such as “Paddle forward,” “Backward,” and “Ready!”
• Stay calm when encountering large rapids and always paddle as instructed

How to Paddle Properly:

• Hold the paddle tightly with both hands
• Use upper body strength to row, not just the arms
• Synchronize with team members to keep the boat stable

Techniques for Facing Rapids:

• If you fall, don’t panic and stay afloat with your feet facing forward.
• Hold the rope on the side of the boat to maintain balance when going through large rapids
• Do not stand on the boat during rafting

What Happens During a Rafting Trip?

Rafting in Bali usually consists of several stages:

• Participants will receive safety instructions and put on gear.
• The boat starts moving with the current, passing through a calm stream of water before reaching the first rapids.
• Participants will go through rapids of varying difficulty, adding to the excitement of the trip.
• There are usually resting spots to enjoy the scenery or take pictures at small waterfalls.
• The trip ends, participants will change clothes and enjoy the food provided by the operator.

Mistakes Beginners Often Make and How to Avoid Them

Here are some mistakes that beginners often make and how to overcome them:

• Panicking when going through rapids = Stay calm, listen to the guide’s instructions, and let your body follow the flow of the water.
• Not following the guide’s instructions = Always pay attention to instructions before and during the trip.
• Carrying valuables without protection = Store important items in a dry bag or leave them at base camp.
• Wearing inappropriate clothing = Avoid cotton clothing as it is difficult to dry and can feel heavy when wet.

Best Time for Rafting in Bali

Rafting in Bali can be done all year round, but the experience will differ slightly depending on the season:

Dry Season (April – October):

• River currents are more stable, rapids are easier to control, suitable for beginners.
• The scenery is brighter and the weather is more comfortable.

Rainy Season (November – March):

• Higher water discharge, rapids are more intense and challenging.
• Suitable for those who want a more extreme rafting experience.

Friendly Rafting Operator for Beginners: Ayung Dewata Rafting

If you are looking for a beginner-friendly rafting operator, Ayung Dewata Rafting is the right choice. The operator is known for its professional services, experienced instructors, as well as the high safety standards applied in every rafting trip.

Advantages of Ayung Dewata Rafting:

• Using high-quality rafting equipment
• Professional guides who are experienced in handling beginners
• Rafting packages that include meals and bathing facilities after rafting
• Ayung River route is safe and suitable for beginners

By choosing Ayung Dewata Rafting, your first experience of rafting in Bali will be safer, more enjoyable and memorable.

Conclusion

Rafting in Bali is an ideal adventure travel option for beginners who want to experience adrenaline without sacrificing safety. By choosing a river that suits your experience level, preparing the right equipment, and following the instructions of a professional guide, you can enjoy an exciting, fun, and safe experience.

In addition, Bali offers incredible natural scenery, ranging from majestic rocky cliffs, hidden waterfalls, to lush tropical forests, making rafting not only a challenging activity but also a unique way to enjoy the beauty of the Island of the Gods.

If you are looking for a beginner-friendly rafting operator, Ayung Dewata Rafting is ready to provide the best experience with complete facilities, experienced guides, and safe and fun rafting trails.