Plan your visit
Plan Your River Visit
Prepare for a day in the jungle valley. Know the rules, pack the right gear, and time your trip for the best water conditions.
Getting there
Options for reaching the base camps and temples.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Book a tubing package that includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from areas like Ubud, Kuta, or Seminyak. | 30-40 minutes from Ubud; 1.5-2 hours from southern beach towns. | Included in most tubing packages (IDR 250,000 - 550,000). | The most convenient way to visit, as the operator handles all logistics and provides secure lockers at their base camp. |
| Car: Hire a private driver or take a taxi to Tampaksiring to visit the river's temples or tubing base camps independently. | 30-40 minutes from central Ubud. | IDR 400,000 - 600,000 for a half-day private driver. | Ideal if you want to combine the tubing trip with independent visits to nearby Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi temples. |
| Walk: Walk down into the river valley to access the Gunung Kawi temple complex. | 15-20 minutes down (and up) the stairs. | IDR 50,000 temple entrance fee. | Involves over 300 steep stone steps; wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The river is open for tubing year-round. The best time to visit is between April and October. This dry season offers clear water and an optimal current. Avoid peak rainy season if you want the calmest float.
What to bring
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No cameras or phones are allowed on the tubing route.
Leave your devices in the base camp lockers.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules for your visit.
A focused morning trip for the 4.5-kilometer river float.
- Hotel Pick-up
Depart from your hotel in Ubud.
- Base Camp Arrival
Store valuables in lockers and put on your helmet and life jacket.
- Start Tubing
Float down the river for 1.5 hours through Class II+ rapids.
- Shower & Change
Use base camp facilities to dry off.
- Lunch
Eat a traditional Indonesian lunch if included in your package.
Combine independent temple visits with a booked tubing package.
- Tirta Empul
Hire a private driver to visit the sacred water springs early.
- Gunung Kawi
Walk down the 300 steps to see the 11th-century cliff shrines.
- Tubing Base Camp
Head to your booked tubing operator in Tampaksiring.
- River Tubing
Enjoy a 1.5-hour float down the river.
Packing for the River
Wear a swimsuit or quick-drying clothes. Water shoes, river sandals, or old sneakers are highly recommended. Bring a change of dry clothes, a travel towel, and a plastic bag for wet gear. See Packing & Attire for a full list.
Apply sunscreen before you arrive. Bring mosquito repellent for the jungle base camp. You should carry a small amount of cash for tips or purchasing official photos taken by the operators.
Easiest way to do it
Ubud: Pakerisan Jungle River Tubing Adventure with Lunch
2 h to 8 h 4.5 (6)
- River tubing adventure (1.5 hours)
- Note: please select your preferred options during booking!
- Friendly, professional local guide
- Lockers, Towel & shower access
From$20per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can I bring my phone or GoPro?
No. Electronic devices and cameras are strictly prohibited on the tubing trip. This prevents loss or damage in the rapids. Operators provide secure lockers.
How long does the tubing adventure take?
The tubing route covers 4.5 kilometers. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete the water portion. Budget three hours total including briefing, changing, and lunch.
What should I wear for the temples?
If you visit Tirta Empul or Gunung Kawi, you must wear a sarong and a sash. These are usually available to rent or borrow at the temple entrances.