Best Bali Adventure Tours for Adrenaline-Junkies

The Bucket List Mermaid contains affiliate links from trusted travel partners. When you purchase through a link on this site, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See  Privacy Policy for more information.

When most people think of Bali, they picture tranquil beaches, luxury resorts, and smoothie bowls with a side of yoga. 

But let’s be real—Bali is also an adrenaline junkie’s playground, packed with adventure that goes way beyond the typical tourist itinerary. 

If your idea of a perfect trip includes white-water rapids, off-road jungle trails, or even jumping out of a plane, you’re in the right place.

The problem? With so many Bali adventure tours to choose from, it’s easy to end up on a standard sightseeing trip instead of an actual heart-pounding experience. 

That’s where I come in. As someone who has explored every corner of Bali searching for the most thrilling activities, I’ve done the legwork to find the best, most exhilarating adventure tours in Bali—the ones that will leave you breathless, soaked, covered in dirt, and grinning from ear to ear.

My goal is to cut through the noise and highlights only the most epic adventure in Bali. 

So, if you’re ready to ditch the ordinary and take on Bali’s wild side, let’s dive in! 

Why Adventure in Bali?

There are a wide variety of Bali adventure tours.

Imagine lush jungles, cascading waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and world-class beaches, all packed into one island.

But what truly sets Bali apart from other adventure destinations? The price!

In most places, an epic day of adventure could easily set you back hundreds of dollars. In Bali? You can do it all for a fraction of the cost! 

Beyond affordability, the island offers year-round adventure-friendly weather, making it the perfect playground no matter when you visit.

Plus, the warm hospitality, mouthwatering local food, and stunning scenery make every adventure even more unforgettable.

If you’re craving adrenaline without the wallet pain, Bali is the place to be!

My Top 3 Picks of The Best Adventure Tours in Bali

Drive Through Lava Fields & Mount Batur

This offers a unique adventure that combines the stunning sunrise views over Bali’s Mount Batur with a thrilling ride across the island’s volcanic landscape, culminating in a relaxing dip in natural hot springs.

Why I Love This Tour

• Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Mount Batur, offering panoramic views of Bali’s volcanic landscape.
• Unique volcanic experience—explore Bali’s rugged terrain, including its lava fields and volcanic craters, for a true off-the-beaten-path experience.
• It offers adventure and relaxation (my favorite combo!) – you get to experience a natural hot springs!
• Comfort and convenience—enjoy the ride in a comfortable, open-air 4×4 jeep, allowing you to take in the incredible surroundings.
• Most people hike Mount Batur, but this is a highly rated and unique adventure experience that’s a little different!

Hiking Mount Batur

If you want a more physical challenge, sunrise hiking Mount Batur is very popular! I mean, how often do you get to hike a volcano in Bali?

Below is a popular hiking tour that includes some gear, breakfast (that’s cooked in some volcanic fissure steam), water, and a guide👇

Just for you’re enjoyment, here’s a picture of me wrapped in a Cars blanket at the top of Mount Batur 😂

Go Scuba Diving in Nusa Penida

This is you on an exhilarating underwater adventure, where you’ll explore pristine dive sites rich with marine life, including manta rays and vibrant coral reefs.

This is a must-do experience for anyone wanting to discover Bali’s underwater world.

Why I Love This Tour:

• Incredible dive sites (Manta Point & East Penida)—explore two stunning dive locations, perfect for experiencing Bali’s underwater diversity.
• One of the highlights is the chance to dive with manta rays, sea turtles, eagle rays, and even a mola mola (oceanic sunfish).
• Professional dive guides—experienced instructors ensure a safe, thrilling, and educational experience.
• Ideal for underwater photography—capture the vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and beautiful clear waters.
• Perfect for certified divers—this tour caters to those with an open water dive certification (or equivalent) to enjoy the depth of Nusa Penida’s underwater landscape.

Not a Certified Diver?

If you are not a certified diver, don’t panic! They have “try-dives” for non-certified adventurers.

They do everything for you and hold your hand every step of the way.

I would recommend this to adventurers who aren’t diver certified, hesitant to dive on their own, or want to try it out before diving into a certification course.

Snorkeling Tours

If diving is not your thing, they also offer some highly rated snorkelling trips.

As someone who went snorkeling and freediving with wild manta rays in the Komodo Islands, I will say that it is harder to get closer to the manta rays, especially if you aren’t comfortable in the water.

So, although it is doable, I would opt for diving/freediving if you have a choice.

FreeDiving Tours

If you don’t want to dive but want to get a closer look at the marine life, I would 100% recommend trying out freediving!

As a mermaid, freediving is most of what I do. Although it can be intimidating at first, it is extremely rewarding.

Plus, Nusa Penida is the ultimate environment to learn👇

Cliff Jumping and Sliding Down Waterfalls in Bali

This adventurous waterfall tour takes you on an exciting journey through multiple stunning waterfalls in Bali, where you’ll enjoy cliff jumping and natural water slides—perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Waterfalls include Aling-Aling Waterfalls, Sambangan Secret Garden, Kroya Waterfall, Kembar Waterfall, and Pucuk Waterfall.

Why I Love This Tour:

• Cliff jumping and natural slides make this tour a high-adrenaline adventure—a great way to challenge yourself!
• On the way you will also get views of the rice field and taste Balinese fruit.
• Perfect for adventure seekers who want to experience Bali’s natural beauty up close with a healthy dose of adrenaline.
• Experienced guides ensure safety while giving you the chance to push your limits and have fun.

White Water Rafting in Bali

This Ayung River white-water rafting experience is the perfect mix of adrenaline-pumping rapids, lush jungle scenery, and fun river twists—all while being beginner-friendly!

Why I Love This Tour

• Exciting white-water rafting on the Ayung River, offering both thrill and scenic beauty.
• You get to enjoy the longest river in Bali!
• Option for two adventures in one day (rafting and ATV)—perfect for adrenaline junkies who want to maximize their time in Bali.
• ATV ride through lush landscapes and past unique landmarks like the Gorilla Face rock formation—one of Bali’s hidden gems.
• Buffet lunch included, featuring Balinese cuisine—great way to recharge after your adventure!

Telaga Waja River Option

For a lesser known and more intense rapid experience, why not try out Telaga Waja River?

The rapids span from Class III to Class IV.

Explore Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon and More

This unique and scenic adventure takes you to the secretly stunning Hidden Canyon in Bali’s jungle, where you’ll explore beautiful rock formations, wade through crystal-clear streams, and experience Bali’s natural wonders in a way few others do.

Why I Love This Tour

• Explore stunning natural spots in Bali, including Beji Guwang, Goa Gajah, Tegenungan Waterfall, and more.
• You’ll be climbing over rocks, wading through water, and scrambling through narrow canyon passages. It is a true adventure tour!
• Incredible photo opportunities—the canyon’s dramatic landscapes make for perfect Instagram shots.
• Guide-led tour with safety support, ensuring a safe and fun experience even in the canyon’s trickier spots.
• This tour is ridiculously cheap for what you get!

Find Secret Waterfalls in Bali

Waterfalls are everywhere in Bali – but this tour offers the chance to find some secret ones!

This is a private hidden gem adventure to untouched, serene waterfalls where you can experience the natural beauty of Bali, yet still go off-the-beaten-path!

Some waterfalls include: Munduk Waterfall, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, Leke Leke Waterfall, and Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall

Why I Love This Tour

• Discover secret, less-visited waterfalls for a more peaceful and authentic experience away from the crowds.
• Enjoy lush jungles, crystal-clear water, and vibrant landscapes.
• The tour strikes the perfect balance between adventurous waterfall hikes and tranquil moments in nature.
• Ideal for photography—capture stunning shots of hidden waterfalls, jungles, and Bali’s natural beauty.
• Experience a bit of Bali’s culture with guides who know the area and share interesting stories.

Learn How to Surf

Bali is an incredible surfing destination! If you are an experienced surfer or are interested in learning, Bali is the place to be.

Luckily, finding a surfing tour is as easy as pie and it’s cheap too!

Funny story: I previously had ear surgery in Vietnam and bandaged my entire ear up with gauze and band-aids just to go on this tour in Bali…

Why I Love This Tour:

• This lesson is designed for beginners and experienced surfers, with an instructor who tailors the experience to your needs.
• Lessons are given with an instructor:student ratio of 1:3 and private lessons are available.
• Get photos with a Nikon Camera DX 55-300m.
• Surf at one of Bali’s most popular beach spots (Pullman Bali Legian Beach), known for its beginner-friendly waves.
• After ride those waves, you have an optional full body massage!

Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon

The Bali Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon tour takes you to one of Bali’s most famous snorkeling spots—Blue Lagoon.

This half-day adventure lets you explore vibrant underwater worlds, complete with a delicious lunch and smooth transport transfer.

Why I Love This Tour:

• Blue Lagoon is a top snorkeling destination—its clear waters and diverse marine life make for an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
• This tour covers your transport, snorkeling gear, and lunch, so all you need to do is show up and enjoy!
• Beautiful, calm waters—ideal for both beginner and intermediate snorkelers, the Blue Lagoon offers crystal-clear waters with an abundance of fish and coral.
• You have the option to add two additional waterfall stops to your tour – Tibumana Waterfall & Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Off-Road Through Tunnel and Waterfalls

If you want to do some off-roading, this tour is a thrilling adventure that takes you through lush landscapes, tunnels, and past stunning waterfalls—perfect for adrenaline junkies looking to explore Bali’s hidden treasures.

Why I Love This Tour

• It’s not just a scenic drive; you’ll be conquering rugged trails, tunnels, and slippery paths that give a true adrenaline rush.
• The tiny tunnel is wild!
• You’ll pass through rice fields, lush jungle, and beautiful waterfalls, all from the comfort of your ATV.
• Suitable for beginners and experienced riders—whether you’ve never been on an ATV or you’re a seasoned pro, this tour can be tailored to your experience level.

Please note that I was strongly going between this tour and this one with higher ratings and better photography opportunities.

Ultimately, the above tour won just because of the unique and tight tunnel, but you might have other priorities ☺️

Swing on the Infamous Jungle Swing & Explore Ubud

This popular (and highly rated) tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through Bali’s lush landscapes, including iconic sights like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, sacred temples, and a thrilling jungle swing experience for those looking to get their adrenaline pumping.

Why I Love This Tour:

• This is one of the highest rated Bali adventure tours in Bali.
• It’s not just the jungle swing! You also explore the beauty of Ubud with stops at famous locations like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Ubud Monkey Forest, Saraswati Temple, and more!
• This is an all day event – clocking in at approximately 10 hours!
• Perfect for nature lovers and photographers—Ubud’s lush greenery and traditional Balinese culture make it an ideal place to capture amazing photos.

Go Ziplining Through the Jungle

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like Tarzan swinging through the jungle—but with way less effort and way more epic views—ziplining in Bali is for you!

Imagine soaring above lush rainforests, rushing rivers, and deep canyons, all while feeling the tropical breeze on your face.

Note that this also includes the jungle swing, so that’s an added bonus!

Why I Love This Tour:

• Double adrenaline rush—ziplining through the jungle followed by soaring on a swing for one of Bali’s most iconic experiences.
• Fly above the treetops with panoramic views of Bali’s rich greenery and rice terraces.
• This tour is designed for thrill-seekers of all levels.
• Convenient and time-efficient—this half-day adventure is perfect for those looking for a quick yet exciting escape into nature.
• You have the option to soak in a natural jungle pool.
• Option to taste local coffee and herbal drinks.
• Photo ops galore—with the jungle swing being Instagram-famous, you’re sure to capture some stunning shots.

Go Paragliding Over Uluwatu

Experience the thrill of paragliding over the stunning Uluwatu coastline with this exciting tour!

This is a perfect opportunity to get a different perspective over Bali – and get some incredible footage and photos to go along with it!

Why I Love This Tour

• Soar high above Uluwatu’s crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Bali’s beauty.
• You reach heights of up to 490 feet (150 m) depending on winds.
• Professional photos and videos of your paragliding adventure are included, so you can relive the experience and share it with friends and family.
• Paragliding is a must-do for adrenaline junkies looking for an exciting and unique way to see Bali.
• Family-friendly—whether you’re an individual adventurer or looking to share the experience with loved ones, this tour is great for both solo travelers and families.

Tubing in Bali’s Hidden River Caves

Want to float your way through paradise while still getting a dose of adventure?

Bali’s Ubud River Cave Tubing is the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement, taking you through stunning hidden caves, lush jungle landscapes, and gentle rapids that add just the right amount of thrill.

It’s like Mother Nature designed a lazy river—but way cooler.

Why I Love This Tour

• Drift through mystical river caves that feel straight out of an Indiana Jones movie.
• Enjoy the serenity of the jungle but still get some adrenaline from small rapids.
• No experience needed – Just sit back, hold on, and let the river do its thing.
• Absolutely stunning scenery – Towering cliffs, tropical greenery, and crystal-clear water make this a photographer’s dream.
• Super budget-friendly – An epic adventure at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere in the world.
• You can add on pictures, videos, or an optional quad ATV ride.

How to Choose the Best Adventure Tour in Bali

Bali is an adventure playground, but not every thrill is right for every traveler.

1. Consider Your Thrill Level

Not all Bali adventure tours are created equal—some push the limits of adrenaline, while others offer a more controlled dose of excitement. Ask yourself:

• Mild Thrills (Great for beginners or families)
  • Snorkeling
  • Jungle swings
  • Waterfall hunting
  • Tubing
• Moderate Thrills (Active adventurers who love a challenge)
  • White-water rafting
  • Paragliding over Uluwatu
  • ATV rides through the jungle
  • Ziplining
  • Sunrise trekking/driving Mount Batur
  • Surfing
• Extreme Thrills (For serious adrenaline junkies)
  • Scuba diving
  • Cliff jumping/sliding
  • Canyoning through hidden waterfalls

2. Know the Fitness & Skill Level Required

Some Bali adventure tours require strength, endurance, or technical skills. Consider:

• Beginner-friendly: Snorkeling, ATV rides, and rafting (Ayung River)
• Moderate fitness needed: Surfing, jungle trekking, and volcano jeep tours
• High fitness & skill required: Advanced canyoning, scuba diving, and dirt biking

3. Budget vs. Luxury Bali Adventure Tours

Bali adventure tours cater to all budgets:

• Budget-Friendly:
  • Shared white-water rafting trips ($30–$50 per person)
  • Group sunrise hikes to Mount Batur ($40–$60)
  • Standard ATV tours ($50–$80)
• Luxury & Private Experiences:
  • Private manta ray diving with a premium dive school ($150+)
  • Helicopter tours over Bali’s volcanoes ($400+)
  • VIP skydiving experiences ($500+)

4. Safety Considerations: Why Booking with a Reputable Tour Operator Matters

Adventure tourism is thrilling—but safety should always come first.

And, unfortunately, there are some sketchy tour operators in Bali.

Choose a provider that:

• ✔️ Has licensed guides and proper safety gear
• ✔️ Offers travel insurance or accident coverage
• ✔️ Has excellent reviews (Check TripAdvisor, Google, or forums)
• ✔️ Uses certified equipment (especially for scuba diving, skydiving, and canyoning)

Before booking, read reviews, compare companies, and ask about safety protocols.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Bali Adventure

Bali is an adventure-packed paradise, but the right timing, gear, and planning can make or break your experience.

1. Best Time of Year for Specific Adventures

Bali’s tropical climate means dry season (April–October) is the best for most outdoor adventures, while rainy season (November–March) can still be great for water-based thrills.

Peak season is generally from July to August and December to February.

Best Adventures by Season:

• Dry Season (April – October) → Best for:
  • Mount Batur sunrise trek (clear skies for epic views)
  • Paragliding over Uluwatu (stable winds)
  • Scuba diving & snorkeling (better visibility)
  • Rock climbing & mountain biking (less slippery trails)
• Rainy Season (November – March) → Best for:
  • White-water rafting (higher, faster river levels!)
  • Canyoning (more dramatic waterfalls)
  • Surfing (beginner-friendly waves) at Canggu & Seminyak

⚠️ Some extreme activities may get canceled due to unpredictable weather during the rainy season.

2. Packing Must-Haves for Adrenaline-Fueled Tours

Adventure in Bali means getting wet, dirty, and sweaty—so pack wisely!

Clothing & Footwear:

• Moisture-wicking activewear (quick-dry for water-based activities)
• Hiking shoes or sturdy sandals (Teva, Merrell, or Keens for grip)
• Reef-safe sunscreen (a must for diving & snorkeling!)
• Swimwear (for spontaneous waterfall jumps & rafting)

Gear & Essentials:

• GoPro or waterproof camera (capture those bucket list moments!)
  • My favorite action camera is the Insta360 (Use my code: INRSPAY for a free accessory)
• Dry bag (protect valuables on rafting/canyoning trips)
• Gloves (for ATV rides & canyoning)
• Bug spray (essential for jungle treks)
• Electrolyte packets (stay hydrated in Bali’s humidity)

Extras for Extreme Adventures:

• Compression socks (for long hikes or travel)
• Travel insurance (adventure sports coverage is a MUST)
• Cash (some remote tour providers don’t take cards)

3. Booking Tips

Some Bali adventure tours sell out months ahead, while others can be booked last minute. Here’s when to secure your spot early and when to stay flexible.

Book in Advance (1+ Month Ahead) If:

• You’re visiting in peak season (July – September)
• Tour has limited slots (skydiving, manta ray diving, overnight treks)
• It’s a must-do on your bucket list (don’t risk missing out!)
• You want a private or VIP tour experience

Last-Minute (1–3 Days Before) If:

• It’s a group tour (ATV rides, jungle swings, rafting)
• You want to negotiate prices (some agencies offer discounts)
• Weather is unpredictable (paragliding, skydiving, or scuba diving may change)

📌 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about the weather, ask tour providers about their cancellation policy before booking. Some allow free rescheduling!

Bali’s top activities (like Mount Batur treks & diving) are best done at sunrise before crowds and heat kick in.

Where to Stay in Bali

All I can stay is…good luck.

Bali blows my MIND with its accommodation opportunities.

I’m talking luxury villas, bucket list hotels, and stunning views…for a fraction of the price!

You can use the tool below to find your perfect place to stay👇

Final Thoughts to The Best Bali Adventure Tours

Bali isn’t just about picture-perfect beaches and yoga retreats—it’s a world-class destination for adrenaline junkies looking for heart-pounding, unforgettable experiences.

The best part? You don’t have to be an expert to dive into these adventures. With the right tour operator and a little courage, you can push your limits, step outside your comfort zone, and experience Bali like never before.

So, what’s stopping you? Which of these epic adventures are you adding to your Bali bucket list?

Let me know in the comments or reach out on social media (@TheBucketListMermaid)—I’d love to hear about your adrenaline-fueled plans!

More Adventure Resources