Tumbleweed >> Many thanks for the info. I've actually searched around and remember running into some peeps suggesting Sobek and Ayung. Guess will just have to pick between these 2.
BTW, if I may ask, which river did you go to? And what's a better time to take the rafting activity.. morning or afternoon?
:Later,
There are, I think, two rivers where rafting is conducted. Ayung river is the main one and I forgot the name of the other. Sobek and Ayung River Rafting will have their rafting in the Ayung river. It is the main and most famous river in Bali. The approx 2 hour rafting journey will bring you through Balinese forests, villages and pass by expensive hotel resorts.
The Ayung river is wide and relatively safe in my opinion. There were a few areas where the water flows rapidly and occasions where your raft will go downslope for that adrenaline rush.
My second rafting trip was along a narrow river where both sides of the river were high walls with no river banks. I found that trip to be the most exciting because the water was flowing faster and more slopes to negotiate. I saw few people fell off their rafts during that trip. With the current wet season, this river would be even scarier!
My suggestion is to take the morning trip if you don't mind waking up early. The forest in the valley is refreshing in the morning and light is good for photography.
Since you are staying in Kuta, the trip to the mountains will take longer compared to staying in Ubud. In other words the rafting company will pick you up from your hotel at about 7.00am or 7.30am. If you want your beauty sleep, than pick the afternoon trip. But since this is the low season, the rafting company may only have one session instead of two so you may not have much of a choice. You should be back to your hotel by 2pm ready for another round of shopping in Kuta.
Things to bring: Camera, some money in a waterproof zip lock bag (no need wallet) to buy soft drinks or beer. The river guide can be your photographer when you want a family picture.
Things to wear: T-shirt, shorts and water sandals. Don't wear flip-flops (or cap) unless you are willing to lose it if you fall over. Towels from the hotel. For the wife, ask her to wear a swimsuit under her t-shirt and shorts.
Good Luck!
