ATV quad bike tours in Bali — what they are
An ATV (all-terrain vehicle) quad bike tour takes you off-road through rice paddy tracks, jungle trails, river crossings and traditional village paths that are completely inaccessible by regular transport. Most operators are based in the Ubud area (particularly Payangan and Tegallalang) and offer routes of 1 to 3 hours on well-maintained 250cc or 300cc quad bikes.
You do not need a driving license for ATV tours in Bali. Operators provide a 15–20 minute safety briefing and short practice circuit before the actual trail. Automatic and semi-automatic bikes are available for first-timers — most people can handle the course competently after 10 minutes of instruction.
The terrain ranges from easy flat rice paddy paths to moderate jungle descents, river crossings and narrow ridge tracks. Most routes pass through at least one traditional Balinese village, offering a glimpse of daily rural life that a standard sightseeing tour misses entirely. Some operators include a waterfall stop or a coffee plantation visit.
Mud is part of the experience — particularly during and just after the wet season when the jungle paths are saturated. Most operators provide helmets, gloves, protective eyewear and sometimes ponchos. Wear clothes you are comfortable ruining. Photos are usually available from guides and action cameras mounted to bikes.
Best ATV locations in Bali
Payangan (Ubud area) — best jungle trails
The foothills north of Ubud in Payangan offer the most dramatic ATV terrain: steep jungle descents, river valley crossings and thick canopy cover. Most Ubud-based operators use this route. Distance from central Ubud: 15–25 minutes.
Tegallalang — rice terrace routes
The Tegallalang area northeast of Ubud has ATV routes that wind directly through the famous UNESCO rice terraces — the same terraces visible from the tourist viewpoints but accessed from the paddy level. Quieter operator competition here than central Ubud.
Bedugul (Tabanan highlands) — cooler temperatures
At 1,200 metres elevation, Bedugul offers ATV routes through pine forest and volcanic terrain with cooler air and a completely different landscape to the lowland jungle routes. Best combined with a Bedugul lake visit.
Kintamani — volcanic terrain
Routes near Kintamani cross lava fields from the 1963 Agung eruption and offer panoramic views of the caldera. More remote than Ubud operators and requires more planning but the volcanic landscape is unique.
Pricing
| Duration / Type | IDR | USD equiv. | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-hour solo ATV | Rp 350,000 – 450,000 | $22 – $28 | Helmet, gloves, guide |
| 1-hour tandem ATV (2 riders) | Rp 500,000 – 650,000 | $31 – $41 | Same safety equipment |
| 2-hour jungle trail | Rp 500,000 – 700,000 | $31 – $44 | Equipment, snack stop |
| 3-hour combo (ATV + rafting) | Rp 800,000 – 1,200,000 | $50 – $75 | Lunch, equipment for both |
| ATV + rice terrace walk | Rp 550,000 – 750,000 | $34 – $47 | Guide, photo spots |
Prices above are for 2026. Most operators include hotel transfer from Ubud-area accommodation.
What is included in a standard ATV tour
- ✓Safety helmet, gloves and protective eyewear
- ✓Safety briefing and practice circuit before the trail
- ✓Guide leading the route and assisting at difficult sections
- ✓Action camera or guide photography at scenic points (some operators)
- ✓Light snack or fresh coconut at a rest stop on 2-hour+ tours
- ✓Use of the ATV (fuel included)
- ✓Changing facilities and shower at base camp after the ride
What to bring
- →Clothes you do not mind getting muddy (old T-shirt and shorts)
- →Closed shoes or trainers — sandals are not suitable
- →Small waterproof bag for phone and camera
- →Change of clothes for after the ride
- →Sunscreen (apply before the ride — guides move fast on open terrain)
Best season
ATV tours run year-round. The dry season (May–October) offers the cleanest, fastest tracks. The wet season (November–April) means muddier, more slippery trails — which many riders enjoy more but requires more physical effort and produces better photos. Avoid booking immediately after very heavy rain as some river crossings become impassable and operators cancel tours for safety.
Safety considerations
Weight and height limits: Most operators have a maximum weight of 120–130kg per rider. Tandem bikes are designed for two adults but check the combined weight limit before booking.
River crossings: Some routes include crossings through rivers 30–60cm deep. Your guide will stop at the bank and assess before proceeding. Do not attempt a river crossing if your guide advises against it.
Back injuries: The vibration from ATV riding over rough terrain can aggravate existing back or spinal conditions. If you have a recent injury, discuss it with the operator before booking.
Minimum age: Most operators set minimum age at 10–12 years for their own bikes. Check the specific operator's policy — some allow younger children on tandem bikes with a parent.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a driving license for an ATV tour in Bali?
No. ATV tours do not require any driving license. Operators provide a full safety briefing and practice circuit before the actual trail.
Can children do ATV tours in Bali?
Children over 10–12 can usually ride a small quad bike with instructor supervision. Younger children can be passengers on tandem bikes with an adult. Check the minimum age policy when booking.
Will I get very muddy?
Almost certainly yes, especially if riding after rain. Operators provide showers and basic changing facilities at base. Bring a complete change of clothes including shoes.
Are ATV tours safe in Bali?
Reputable operators with certified guides, maintained bikes and mandatory safety equipment have a strong track record. The most common incidents are minor falls at low speed. Serious injuries are rare but not impossible — especially on the more technical wet-season routes.
Is it worth combining ATV with white-water rafting?
The ATV + rafting combo is one of the most popular outdoor activity combinations in Bali. Both activities are based in the Ubud area and many operators run both from the same base. Budget a full day and arrive hungry — lunch is usually included in the combo price.
What is the difference between a solo and tandem ATV?
Solo ATVs have one seat and are controlled entirely by the rider. Tandem ATVs have two seats and are typically driven by the guide with the guest behind. For guests who are not comfortable driving, the tandem is the safer and more relaxed option.
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