
There are two sessions for rafting both rivers, a morning session and an afternoon session. The major differences between the two rivers are distance, popularity and of course, difficulty.
Telaga Waja – Fast and Thrilling
The Telaga Waja is near the Village of Karangasem in northeast Bali and takes a little longer to get there from most tourist locations. The river is not as popular as the closer Ayung River in Ubud, but it is more challenging. It ranges from a class 3 to class 4 depending on rainfall. During the wet rainy season (October – March), expect the rapids to be class 4 and only for intermediate level rafters. During the dry season (May – September), it is usually fine for all levels.
Ayung River – Slow and Peaceful
The Ayung River is for those who want to admire the jungle and enjoy a lazy float down the river with a few fun rapids in between. It’s just outside of Ubud so relatively close to most hotels, which also means that it is more popular and will be more crowded. Both rivers are fine for beginners, but if you’re not sure, try the Ayung first, especially with kids.
How it Works
Your friendly, English-speaking driver will pick you up at your hotel at a designated time and will take you to the river drop off point in our air conditioned van. You’ll then be given a chance to change into your rafting clothes or swim suit, will don your helmet and life vest and receive your safety briefing from your guide.
Due to the nature of the raft, you may be put in a boat with other rafters who are not a part of your group. This is done for safety reasons and for boat efficiency.
You’ll then enter the raft and practice a few maneuvering technics and start your trip down the river where, depending on the river you’ve chosen, will engage large or small rapids for the next several kilometers.
Once you arrive to your destination, you’ll be given a chance to rinse off and change into dry clothes. Meanwhile, we’ll prepare a traditional Indonesian meal for you with coffee, tea and other beverages.
When you’re finished eating, you’ll get a chance to purchase photos of your experience before getting on the van and heading back to your hotel.