WHITE WATER RAFTING AND ATV, need I say more? For the daring ones, this is definitely quite the adventure.

This was easily one of the best packages that we got for the trip and our favourite. Just be sure to set aside a whole day for this though as things may get delayed.

The package that we got from Klook came with a driver who drove us to and fro our resort.

We met in the morning at 10 am, if you’re an early riser, you can also opt for the 8 am pick-up.

We started off with the White Water Rafting before moving on to the ATV ride.

You can opt to leave your belongings in the lockers provided. I decided to bring my phone with a waterproof pouch which I carried with me throughout the trip. If you don’t have a waterproof pouch, you can bring it with you and leave it with your guide in his waterproof bag.

WHITE WATER RAFTING

This experience took place along the Agung River. Thus, we took a lorry which brought us through the streets of Bali and into the more ulu area to get closer to the river. Just take note to hold on tight as there are lots of little bumps on the road!

The first protocol was to vest us with life jackets. We were also given helmets and a paddle. If you’re wearing sunnies or glasses, they provided rubber bands to help tie them to your head. Wouldn’t want to lose them in the river that’s for sure!

Once we were well equipped, we hiked 10 to 15 minutes down some steep steps to get to the riverbank. There were railings but still do be mindful of your steps as the floor can be slippery. Rest assured, you won’t be climbing the same flight of steps upward (Yeah I know, the thought of it sent shudders too).

Once at the side of the river, you’ll then be assigned a raft along with a guide. Our guide was named Bugis. He gave us a quick safety briefing and tutorial before we were well on our way.

“Bom Bom” was definitely the most important sign we learnt as it meant that we should brace ourselves and hold on tight to the ropes at the side of the raft.

Along the way, the highlight of the trip that made it well worth was the majestic waterfall we saw. We alighted from the raft to the shallow waters surrounding the waterfall and took way too many pictures. But don’t forget to also set your phones down to take in this stunning beauty and capture it with your eyes.

Throughout the way, Bugis was quite playful. He will splash you. If he doesn’t, there is bound to be someone else from another raft that would. I saw a few rafts having a competition racing down the river and also constantly splashing each other.

Note: You can and will definitely get wet.

While on the trip, we stopped halfway to take a break and for Bugis to pump more air into the raft. There’s also a rest stop where you can get some drinks and snacks to fuel the rest of your way. You can even get some cup noodles there. Although it is much pricier than usual. If you didn’t bring any money, you can put it on the tab and pay it later at the waiting area.

Throughout the ride, we did get stuck on a few rocks but Bugis was an expert in getting us out of the sticky situation. This was especially important since the river was flowing much faster than usual as we got in a huge thunderstorm halfway through the journey.

Note: As much as White Water Rafting is safe, you should remain vigilant since it is still a sport. Do take note and adhere to the instructions of your guide. They are the experts in charge and will know how best to navigate you out of any unfavourable situation.

After arriving at the endpoint, we climbed back up, this time with some proper steps which weren’t as steep as the ones we came down. Still, it can be challenging so at your own pace. We waited outside a store for the lorry to pick us up and headed back to the waiting area.

Time Taken: 2 – 2.5 hours

LUNCH

Upon your return to the waiting area, you can have a nice warm shower. Warm and Clean Towels are provided. You can have your lunch afterward. They offer a buffet style with some fried mie and cai-fan [mixed rice] style dishes. It is complemented with Ice Sweet tea or teh manis. You can also make your own coffee and tea.

ATV [Alamelu ATV]

A guide will be here after lunch to bring you to your next activity. Again, you’ll head to another lorry but this time it’s just a short 5 minutes away.

A helmet, boots and plastic bags (in place of socks) are provided. The guide will provide you with a quick tutorial on how ATVs work.

Good news for those without a driver’s license, you don’t need one to operate the ATV here!

Tip: The trick to operating the ATV is to lightly tap on the accelerator instead of pressing it too hard. Otherwise, it takes off too quickly, rendering it difficult to control. If you have a driver’s license, it is akin to that, the only difference is that you’re using your thumb instead of your foot. The other tip is to trust yourself and don’t be afraid!

They gave us a few minutes of practice before heading into the trail. Although, the practice ground was pretty muddy and you may get stuck if you’re not careful.

We followed the guide into the trails and begin the journey from there. There were some steep slopes that were not very easy to ascend (especially) if you are not familiar, but after a few tries, it is relatively simple to get the hang of it. If you’re not confident, rest assured that the many guides following you will help you navigate the terrain.

We went up and down hills and went through a shallow river before venturing into the tougher part of the trail. You’ll be able to spot a few waterfalls and go through a tunnel with a width wide enough to fit your ATV. The sound of the ATV going through the tunnels definitely sent my adrenaline pumping.

During the ride, we stopped a few times as our guide explain to us about the rice fields which were ready to be harvested. He even took to show us how the outer layers of the grain were removed to reveal the pearly white rice inside. A very beautiful place for sure.

Again, there was an empty spot in the forest that you can use to practice your ATV riding skills. There were free bottles of water available for you to quench your thirst before continuing the same route back to the starting point.

While at the rest stop, it is the perfect opportunity to take all the photos that you’ll like. The guides, some self-proclaimed photographers, were very nice enough to take photos of us throughout the journey. I must say, they definitely know what they are doing.

Pro tip: Do bring your waterproof covers or you can buy them around SGD 7 at the waiting area.

Note: You can and might get muddy. But back at the starting point, you’ll be able to rinse off with the taps available. Thus, I’ll advise wearing slippers throughout the trip.

Time Taken: 1.5 – 2 hours

CONCLUSION

Both of these activities are highly recommended even for first-timers. You’ll get the hang of it after a while and even if you don’t, the friendly guides around are always there to make it a good one. It is truly an experience that I won’t forget.

Total spent on the trip: SGD 111.59 / person

Location: Surya Bintang Adventures Jl. Raya Payangan, Melinggih Kelod, Kec. Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80572, Indonesia