Bali: Karangasem -- White Water Rafting at Telaga Waja River

Just months before, I and some friends went to Telaga Waja River in Karangasem, and had such a great time. So when friends from San Diego came to visit, I took them here as well.  

White Water Rafting is another fun activity you can do here in Bali. There are 2 locations you can do this at. The more popular being Agung River in Ubud. This is popular because it's more convenient to get to, being only an hour away from Kuta. However, I've heard that the rafting experience itself is shorter and the river water is quite shallow.

Karangasem is on the central east of the island, about 2 hours from Kuta depending on traffic. Best to leave very early for a smooth drive. There are many tour companies that offer trips with pick-up and lunch included. We went with: Bali Cancer Rafting

Pak Made is the guy that organizes these land trips. We rang him up days before and set a schedule for the rafting, location pick up. Payment is made on the day when we were picked up.

I've used this company twice and found them easy to deal with and professional.

For Rp 250k* per person including transportation and lunch, it was definitely affordable fun! Other bigger tour adventure companies there charged Rp 700 - 1 mil (~$70 - 100) per person!

*Price as of 2012-2013. Update needed.

The experience itself was so much fun. It's 2 hours of non-stop rafting action. 

BOOM BOOM!

First, you suit up: Helmet, Vest, Swim gear -- rashie and booties (if you prefer) and dont forget sunscreen!

our guide giving us instructions

  The guide will then give you some basic instructions on safety and paddling. He will be with you on the boat and doing most of the paddling and maneuvering but doing some work yourself will greatly help the poor guy.

Prepare to work your core and arm muscles! Especially on the shallow parts!

You will be traversing through the rocky river surrounded by beautiful landscapes, caves, and waterfalls. 

After about an hour of strong paddling, you will get some rest by the waterfall. It's such a beautiful sight. The water is fresh you can even drink it!

Towards the end is the fun bit where you'll be asked to lay back and secure yourself as go down a 6 foot drop! 

beautiful countryside

the river. view from the top.

After all that exhilarating fun and endless paddling, it is now time for lunch at the restaurant. But, to get there is we need to climb back to the top of the mountain!

I was so tired that I was breathless after 5 minutes of climbing up the steps. I've lost count of the number of steps. There's just too many. Haha. 

the loooooonng hike up!

he made the climb seem so easy! carrying paddles and all!