Top Outdoor Activities to Try in Bali for Adventure Seekers
Bali is more than just beaches, sunsets, and temples—it’s a paradise for adventure seekers. With its diverse landscapes of jungles, rivers, mountains, and coastlines, the island offers a perfect playground for those looking to add adrenaline to their itinerary. Whether you're a solo explorer, a couple looking for thrills, or a group of friends ready to get muddy, outdoor activities in Bali promise unforgettable experiences.
If you’re ready to escape the ordinary and dive into the wild side of the island, here are the top outdoor adventures in Bali that should be on your bucket list—many of which are offered by Bali Mate Activities, your trusted adventure partner.
1. Jungle ATV Riding – Ride Through the Mud and Rice Fields
One of the most thrilling ways to explore Bali's hidden countryside is on a quad bike adventure. With ATV tracks cutting through rice paddies, riverbanks, bamboo forests, and muddy jungle paths, this activity lets you discover areas that are impossible to reach by car or foot.
Depending on your preference and experience, you can choose a single ride or go tandem with a partner. Bali Mate Activities offers routes that are both beginner-friendly and adrenaline-pumping.
What Makes It Epic:
- Full throttle through natural obstacles and steep hills
- Ride through rivers and mud pits
- Stunning views of rural Bali
- Perfect combo of speed and scenery
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned rider, ATV adventures will get your heart racing in the best way possible.
2. White Water Rafting on the Ayung River
The Ayung River is one of the most popular destinations for white water rafting in Bali. Located near Ubud, this river offers class II–III rapids, which are ideal for beginners and intermediate rafters.
Over the course of a two-hour journey, you’ll navigate gentle rapids, pass by waterfalls, and drift through lush jungle corridors flanked by cliffs covered in ancient carvings.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Safe and thrilling for all levels
- Amazing jungle scenery
- Ideal team-building or group activity
- Splashing fun on Bali’s longest river
It’s an experience that blends adventure, nature, and culture, all in one unforgettable ride.
3. River Tubing – Chill Adventure Through Jungle Streams
If rafting sounds too intense but you still want to float down a beautiful river, then Wos River Tubing is the perfect alternative. You get your own inflatable tube and drift down a calm jungle stream, accompanied by guides who ensure safety and add fun along the way.
It’s a slower-paced adventure that still delivers excitement, especially when you pass over light rapids and under hanging vines.
Highlights:
- Great for solo riders
- Surreal jungle atmosphere
- Safe for kids and adults
- Ideal mid-day activity to cool off
Bali Mate Activities offers guided tubing with all equipment provided, making it safe and accessible even for first-timers.
4. Horseback Riding Through Balinese Villages
While not as adrenaline-packed, horse riding offers a different kind of outdoor adventure—calm, scenic, and deeply immersive. Explore Bali’s traditional villages, rice paddies, and forest trails from the back of a well-trained horse.
You can opt for short 30-minute rides or extended 1-hour treks. For something truly special, try a sunrise ride for magical views and cooler temperatures.
Why It’s Adventurous:
- Ride through places cars can't reach
- Feel like a local explorer
- Relaxing pace with beautiful surroundings
- Family and couple-friendly
This activity is perfect for those looking to slow down while still enjoying the great outdoors.
5. Elephant Mud Fun and Jungle Encounters
For a more personal and ethical interaction with wildlife, some parks in Bali offer elephant care activities. One of the most exciting is the Elephant Mud Fun, where you help care for elephants by feeding and bathing them in a large mud pool.
Unlike traditional elephant rides, these encounters focus on interaction, conservation, and education.
What to Expect:
- Splash around in mud and water with the elephants
- Learn about elephant behavior and care
- Great for both kids and adults
- Photo moments you’ll never forget
For adventure seekers who also care about animal welfare, this is a must-try.
6. Zip-lining, High Ropes, and Jungle Parks
In several adventure parks around Bali (like Bedugul and Ubud), you’ll find zip-lines, rope swings, and canopy bridges built into the jungle landscape. These activities are perfect for people who want a mix of challenge and fun while suspended in the trees.
Features:
- Varying levels of difficulty
- Courses for both kids and adults
- Stunning tree-top views
- Safety harnesses and trained staff
This is the closest thing to flying you’ll experience in Bali’s forests.
7. Volcano Sunrise Trekking (Mount Batur)
For the true adventurer, there’s no better challenge than waking up at 2 AM and climbing an active volcano in the dark. Mount Batur, Bali’s most iconic trekking destination, rewards hikers with a sunrise view above the clouds.
The 2-hour hike is moderately challenging but extremely rewarding.
What Makes It a Top Adventure:
- Incredible sunrise above Lake Batur
- View of Mount Agung and even Lombok
- Geothermal steam and volcanic rock
- Optional hot springs afterward
Don’t forget your flashlight and warm clothes—temperatures at the summit can be chilly!
8. Hidden Waterfalls Hike
Adventure isn’t just about speed or height—it’s also about discovering nature’s hidden gems. Bali is home to dozens of secret waterfalls, many of which require a bit of hiking, climbing, or even wading through rivers to reach.
From Tukad Cepung (inside a cave) to Leke Leke, each waterfall offers a unique reward.
Why It’s Worth It:
- Spectacular photo spots
- Remote, crowd-free experiences
- Cool freshwater swimming
- Combine it with a day tour or ATV ride
Let Bali Mate Activities help you create a custom route to explore several waterfalls in one day.
9. Surfing Lessons in Canggu or Seminyak
If you’ve always dreamed of catching your first wave, Bali is the perfect place to try. With beginner-friendly surf schools all over Kuta, Canggu, and Seminyak, you’ll learn the basics in shallow waters with soft boards.
What Makes It Great:
- Ideal wave conditions for beginners
- Professional instructors
- Surfboard and rash guard included
- Fun group or private sessions
It’s not just a sport—it’s a lifestyle, and a Bali classic you can’t skip.
10. Paragliding Over Bali’s Coastline
For a bird’s-eye view of Bali’s beaches, cliffs, and surf below, paragliding is the way to go. Tandem flights are available near Uluwatu or Gunung Payung, where the wind lifts you into the sky for a soaring, scenic experience.
Why It’s Unforgettable:
- Fly high above the ocean
- Incredible aerial photos
- Exhilarating yet peaceful
- No experience needed
This is the kind of adventure that takes your breath away—literally and emotionally.
Safety Tips for Outdoor Adventures in Bali
- Always book with reputable providers like Bali Mate Activities
- Use sunscreen and stay hydrated—Bali’s sun is strong
- Wear the right gear—closed shoes for hiking, swimwear for water activities
- Respect nature and local culture during your explorations
- Follow guide instructions and use safety equipment at all times
Why Book With Bali Mate Activities?
At Bali Mate Activities, we specialize in safe, well-organized, and high-quality outdoor experiences. Our team ensures:
- Trained guides and drivers
- Well-maintained equipment
- Transparent pricing (no hidden fees)
- Family, couple, and group packages available
From river tubing to private ATV rides, horse treks to zoo adventures, we help you discover the real Bali—off the beaten path.
Bali isn’t just a destination for relaxation. It’s a living, breathing adventure filled with opportunities to climb, paddle, gallop, and glide your way through unforgettable moments. Whether you crave muddy trails, white water, jungle views, or sky-high thrills, Bali has it all.
So pack your sense of adventure—and let Bali Mate Activities take you there.
Book now and experience Bali beyond the beach.