Twelve kilometres of white water through a rainforest gorge - gentle enough for first-timers, lively enough to soak you. Carved stone walls, hidden waterfalls, and jungle closing in overhead the whole way down.
The Ayung is Bali's longest river, and the Ubud stretch runs about two hours through class II and III rapids - enough to get your heart going and thoroughly soak you, but safe enough that beginners and kids handle it easily. Between the rapids there are long, calm stretches where you just drift and look up.
Halfway down, the gorge walls open into enormous stone reliefs carved directly into the cliff - Ramayana scenes, metres tall, hand-chiselled by local artists. Waterfalls drop straight into the river beside you, and your guide will steer you underneath one if you want the full shock of cold jungle water.
Helmet, life vest, and paddle are provided, along with a professional river guide in every boat. Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and sandals with a strap. There are showers and lockers at the finish, plus a buffet lunch with a view over the gorge. Minimum age is 7; no swimming ability required.