bali tourism opening – Harrytinkers travelog

What is river rafting?

Rafting and white-water rafting are recreational outdoor activities which use an inflatable raft to navigate a river or other body of water. This is often done on white-water or different degrees of rough water. Dealing with risk and the need for teamwork is often a part of the experience.

Our Experience

The first place we visited in Ubud was Ayung river for river rafting. Ayung river is the longest river in Bali. We visited Bali in October and the climate was very pleasant and perfect for river rafting. We had pre booked this activity online (www.govoyagin.com) three months prior so it was very reasonable for us.

The service was too good as they contacted us a week before to check our itinerary and there was a pick up and drop-down service included with the package along with the lunch. We had our lunch before the river rafting and that actually gave us lots of energy later for the activity.

As soon as we reached the destination we were introduced to our guide and two more members who would accompany us for the adventure. After the introduction he gave us the safety jackets and the boat peddle

We went in another cab to the starting point from there we walked through some rice fields and through some forest area and finally reached the river bank. Thereafter the guide instructed us the basic rules and some safety instructions for river rafting.

Fortunately, we got the front row to sit and trust us it was super thrilling and if its your first time and you love adventures and some adrenaline rush, definitely prefer the front row.

As the raft took its pace our hearts stated beating fast for the unforeseen adventure ahead. In the beginning the flow of the water was mild and slow but later as soon as we started approaching the slopes the water was wild and fast.

The best part about rafting is the sense of flying in the air for few seconds in the slopes and with the wild waterflow and the strong and extreme current and turbulence in the water makes it very thrilling.

The gushing river water, the luscious forest surroundings, mighty hills, clear sky and sounds of melodious birds , everything seemed so surreal , a paradise in dream. This experience is a must have from Ubud. AS it was our first adventure together Akhil was really too careful about me and we really had a fun time together.

Half the way through the adventure we stopped in to have so refreshments like tender coconut water and the again started to raft. Our guide was very funny and he knew how to keep his guests enthusiastic.

There was a place where we observed numerous small waterfalls from the mountains on either side. And our raft stopped at one of those waterfalls so that we can grt drenched in the cold waters of Ayung river. This was so refreshing. The water looks very deep but was only till our waist level.

It was a one-hour journey in the middle of a white river and the forest which covers the area and we truly had the best time on our first day to Bali.

FAQs

Do you need to know swimming for river rafting?

NO. Everyone on commercial rafting trips wears a coast guard approved ‘life vest’ which is designed to aid in keeping you afloat in the event that you find yourself in the river. Many non-swimmers go on rafting trips, and they have a great time. Your guides will give you an in depth and engaging safety talk before your trip explaining what you should prepare for and do in the event you fall out of the raft.

Your Guide is trained in white-water rescue and will work with the rest of your team to ensure that you are able to feel comfortable with the white-water conditions on your trip. It is advised to all non-swimming folks to inform their guide before the trip.

What to wear during rafting and what to take along?

Wear your swimwear or clothes which are best suited for water sports
(something which absorbs and dry faster)
Take a set of dry clothes and flip-flops to change into after your rafting adventures.
Take a dry pouch to keep tour phone in case if you want to take pictures
A bottle of water because you will feel very exhausted

SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDE?

Yes, please do. Your guide works hard to ensure that you have a fun, yet safe adventure, and they appreciate being tipped. If you feel your guide has done a good job at keeping you entertained and sharing the wonderful river environment with you, feel free to tip them.

Harrytinkers tip

Carry water bottle with you and stay hydrated
As you have to walk as well as do the rafting ensure you wear comfortable footwear
Wear clothes which is water resistant
Don’t worry if you don’t know swimming just hold the side rope tightly and follow the instructions by the guide
Carry a waterproof camera or a mobile cover to protect you phone if you are shooting