ATV Riding in Ubud: Complete Guide, Prices & What to Expect

Ubud is globally famous for its emerald rice terraces, centuries-old temples, and serene artisan villages. But just beyond the tranquil center lies another way to explore central Bali: ATV quad biking through the jungle.

An off-road quad bike adventure takes you off paved tourist roads and deep into Payangan's rugged countryside — where dirt trails, muddy trenches, cave tunnels, and river splash tracks become your playground.

Unlike normal sightseeing tours where you observe Bali's landscapes through a vehicle window, on an ATV you are actively navigating the terrain. If you've never ridden a quad bike before, you probably have plenty of questions: Is it difficult? Do you get muddy? Is it safe for beginners and kids? What should you wear?

Here is our comprehensive guide to everything you need to know before booking your Ubud ATV Quad Bike Adventure.

What Is ATV Riding in Ubud?

An ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle), also called a quad bike, is a four-wheeled off-road vehicle designed to tackle rough, unpaved terrain. Powered by automatic 250cc engines with thumb-throttle acceleration, they require no manual shifting or clutch control — making them intuitive even for first-time drivers.

In Ubud, the best guided ATV tours take place slightly north around Payangan and the Ayung River valley. This lush highland region provides natural topography impossible to find near southern beach resorts: deep ravines, tropical river beds, and traditional Balinese subak rice fields.

What Does the Ubud ATV Trail Actually Look Like?

The experience is focused on variety and navigating changing scenery rather than high-speed racing. A standard 1.5 to 2-hour guided route typically takes you through five distinct trail segments:

• Gorilla Face Cave: Drive straight into a dark, stone-carved tunnel illuminated by headlamps and headlights — one of the most Instagrammed highlights in Bali.
• Deep Mud Puddles & Trenches: Specially excavated mud tracks designed for donuts, spin-outs, and heavy splashing.
• Jungle Ravines & Bamboo Forests: Narrow dirt paths snaking under towering tropical canopy and lush fern groves.
• Waterfall & River Splash Tracks: Natural shallow riverbeds and waterfall drops where cool water washes over the wheels.
• Scenic Rice Fields & Rural Villages: Traditional single-track paths alongside stepped rice terraces with local farmers at work.

Single ATV vs. Tandem ATV: Which Should You Choose?

When reserving your ride, operators offer two configuration options:

• Single ATV (Solo Driver): One rider controls their own quad bike throughout the entire tour. This is ideal for solo travelers, groups of friends, and anyone wanting full control over steering and acceleration.
• Tandem ATV (Driver + Passenger): Two people share a single machine — one driving in front while the passenger holds on from the rear seat. This is the top choice for couples, honeymooners, or parents riding with children aged 5 to 12.

Tandem packages are more budget-friendly per person, and couples frequently swap driver and passenger roles at the midway rest break.

Is ATV Riding in Ubud Difficult or Safe for Beginners?

Yes, Ubud ATV tours are 100% beginner friendly. Over 70% of participants on our tours have never driven an ATV before.

Before heading onto the main trail, every tour begins with a comprehensive safety briefing. Instructors explain how to accelerate, steer, and apply front and rear hand brakes. You'll complete practice test laps on a flat training circuit until you feel completely confident before setting off.

Essential safety measures implemented on guided Ubud ATV tours include:

• Full safety gear provided: CE-certified helmets and rubber gumboots
• Professional trail marshals positioned at the front, middle, and rear of the convoy
• Automatic engine speed limiters to prevent reckless overtaking
• Full activity accident insurance included with every booking

What Should You Wear and Bring?

Expect to get completely covered in mud and water — that's half the adventure! Prepare accordingly with this practical packing checklist:

• What to wear: Light t-shirt, shorts or quick-dry swim trunks, and clothes you don't mind getting permanently stained by red Bali clay.
• Footwear: Gumboots are provided free at the basecamp. Wear socks to keep your feet comfortable inside the boots.
• A full change of dry clothes: Clean shirt, underwear, shorts, and a dry plastic bag for your muddy riding outfit.
• Toiletries: The basecamp provides clean shower stalls with soap and fresh towels. Bring your own shampoo if desired.
• Phone protection: Keep your phone in a secure waterproof pouch or leave it in the basecamp lockers during the ride.

How Much Does ATV Riding in Ubud Cost?

Current pricing for guided Payangan ATV tours starts from:

• Single ATV (1 Person): IDR 700,000 per bike (with discounts down to IDR 600,000 for groups)
• Tandem ATV (2 Persons): IDR 900,000 per bike (only IDR 450,000 per person)
• Private AC Hotel Transfer: Optional add-on available from Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Sanur, and Nusa Dua

Every pass includes the complete 1.5–2 hour guided trail ride, helmet and boot rental, hot showers with towels, Indonesian buffet lunch overlooking the jungle, and comprehensive insurance.

When Is the Best Time to Go: Dry vs. Rainy Season?

Ubud ATV rides operate 365 days a year, rain or shine. Each season offers a uniquely thrilling experience:

• Dry Season (April – October): Firm trails, less mud, and clear blue skies. Ideal for riders nervous about slipping or wanting a cleaner, dustier ride.
• Rainy Season (November – March): The ultimate muddy playground! Rain turns trenches into deep splash pools and water crossings become rushing streams. For thrill-seekers, the wet season is widely considered the best time to ride.

Save More: The Ubud ATV & Ayung River Rafting Combo

If you want the ultimate full-day adventure, pair your quad biking with Ayung River White Water Rafting.

On our Ayung Rafting & ATV Combo Tour, you spend the morning paddling through 10 km of Class II–III rapids and scenic stone carvings, enjoy a hot Indonesian buffet lunch at the river basecamp, and spend the afternoon tearing up Payangan's Gorilla Cave and mud trails.

Booking both together saves up to 30% compared to booking separate activities, and includes seamless private hotel pickup and return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a driver's license to ride an ATV in Ubud?

No international or domestic driver's license is required. Because the tour takes place entirely on private off-road trails rather than public streets, no license is needed.

What is the minimum age for children?

Children as young as 5 years old can join safely as passengers on a Tandem ATV with an adult. The minimum age to drive a Single ATV independently is typically 13 to 16 years old depending on physical height and confidence.

Can pregnant women or people with back injuries participate?

Due to bumpy terrain and vibrations, quad biking is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with severe spinal injuries or recent surgeries.

Are lockers and showers available at the basecamp?

Yes. Every rider receives a secure locker key upon check-in to store passports, wallets, and clean clothes. Clean private shower stalls with soap, shampoo, and fresh towels are available after the ride.

Can I use my own GoPro or action camera?

Yes. Helmets with standard action camera mounts are available upon request. Guides can also carry your camera to photograph you during water crossings and inside the Gorilla Cave.

What happens if it rains during our tour?

Tours run as scheduled in the rain! Wet weather actually makes the trails much more exciting with bigger mud puddles and waterfall spray. If severe weather creates unsafe river levels, tours can be rescheduled free of charge.