Ubud Whitewater Rafting vs. River Tubing: Which Water Adventure Is Right for You?
Planning an adventure in Bali and wondering whether to go whitewater rafting or river tubing in Ubud? Both experiences offer beautiful scenery, fresh water fun, and good times — but they are quite different. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right activity for your Bali itinerary.
📍 Location
- Whitewater Rafting takes place on the Ayung River in Sayan, just a 20-minute drive from Ubud town.
- River Tubing is on the Pakerisan River in Tampaksiring, about 30 minutes from Ubud.
🌿 Scenery
- Ayung River rafting features steep gorges, lush tropical forests, and views of luxury resorts. While the river is clean, the water has a brownish tint.
- Pakerisan River tubing offers a more diverse landscape: waterfalls, rice paddies, and a sacred spring water pool believed by locals to have healing powers. The water here is clear and refreshing.
🌊 Rapids & Water Speed
- Rafting has consistent rapids, making for an exhilarating ride. It’s more intense and requires guidance from trained rafting instructors that share your raft.
- Tubing has rapids in the first half of the river route The second half is calm and allows for a relaxing float downriver.
🚣 Raft vs. Tube
- Rafting: 4–6 people per raft plus a guide. Solo or couple travelers may be grouped with others.
- Tubing: One tube per person, guided by instructors in separate tubes — offering a more intimate and personal experience.
👥 Popularity
- Whitewater Rafting is a long-time favorite in Ubud with well-established operators. Our partner includes a restaurant with rice field views as part of the experience.
- River Tubing is less crowded and less commercialized, ideal for those looking for tranquility and nature immersion or have a lower fitness level.
⏱️ Duration
Both activities take approximately 2 hours, including:
- Transportation to and from start/finish points
- River walk access
- Break stops during the journey
💪 Physical Activity
- Rafting: More physical effort, includes paddling and a 15-minute hike down to the river, followed by a hike up stairs at the end.
- Tubing: Gentler, no paddling required. Only a 5-minute walk to the river, and a scenic 20-minute walk through rice fields at the end.
👶 Recommended Age
- Tubing: Minimum age is 5 years. Kids aged 5–10 can join a parent’s tube.
- Rafting: Minimum age is 6 years, and children will be positioned in the raft according to guide discretion.
✅ Tip: Tubing is more enjoyable for children under 10 years.
💰 Price & Inclusions
- Tubing is generally more affordable than rafting. Child pricing is the same as adult.
- Rafting usually includes lunch, showers, changing rooms, and optional photo/video packages at additional charge. Our partner offers a la carte dining, fresh juices, and great coffee.
- Tubing includes showers and changing rooms, but no meal plus optional photo/video using your phone at small additional charge.
🔗 Booking Options
You can book either activity individually or as part of a combo tour with:
Make it a full day of fun and adventure in Ubud!
Ready to Book Your Bali Adventure?
