Ayung River Rafting: Ubud's Ultimate 2-Hour Rafting Challenge
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours (on-river)
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness—be comfortable climbing stairs, paddling intermittently, and sitting for two hours.
Overview
Two hours on the Ayung River delivers jungle canyons, Ramayana carvings on the cliffs, and class II–III rapids that suit fit beginners. This guided run from Ubud pairs cultural sights with a safe, active whitewater experience.
Ayung River Rafting: Ubud's Ultimate 2-Hour Rafting Challenge
Select participants and date
The raft scratches off the launch ramp and the Ayung River takes you in. A cool, green corridor closes over the boat—mossy cliffs, ferns clawing at cracks, and sudden open pockets where sunlight pricks the water. Guides call cadence; paddles find rhythm. The river is not a beast here but an engaged companion, pushing and teasing with class II–III riffles, a few drop sections of up to 4 meters, and enough rock to keep your attention sharp.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Secure footwear
Wear water shoes or sandals with a heel strap; the riverbed is rocky and you’ll climb stairs to launch and exit.
Listen to the guide
Guides control boat stability and choose lines—follow their cadence and paddle calls to stay safe through drops.
Protect electronics
Bring a waterproof phone case or use the supplied waterproof bag to keep valuables dry.
Hydrate before and after
Two hours of paddling under a humid canopy is deceptively tiring—drink water before pickup and after the run.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Long-tailed macaque
- Kingfisher and small river birds
History
Communities along the Ayung have used the river for irrigation for generations; the modern carved reliefs draw on Ramayana narratives popular in Balinese art.
Conservation
Operators work with local rules to protect riverbanks and limit noise; choose companies that participate in river-clean initiatives and avoid single-use plastics.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Ubud
Recommended Gear
Water shoes
Protect feet on rocky approaches and provide grip in the raft.
Quick-dry clothing
Light layers that dry fast keep you comfortable after the run.
Waterproof phone case
Keeps your camera or phone safe for action shots and river-side photos.
Small dry bag or cash
For snacks, small purchases at the finish, or to hold a spare towel.