Beginner’s Guide to ATV Riding in Bali

If you’ve never ridden an ATV before and are wondering whether it’s for you, here’s the good news: ATV riding in Bali is perfect for beginners. With breathtaking scenery, friendly guides, and well-designed off-road trails, Bali offers one of the best first-time ATV experiences in Southeast Asia.

This beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from what to expect, what to wear, safety tips, and why Bali is a top destination for this kind of adventure.

What is an ATV and Why Ride One in Bali?

An ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle), often called a quad bike, is a four-wheeled vehicle designed for off-road driving. Unlike motorcycles, ATVs are stable, easy to control, and don’t require prior riding experience.

Bali’s landscape makes it an ideal playground for ATV riders. Imagine driving through lush jungles, splashing through muddy rivers, riding alongside terraced rice fields, and squeezing through bamboo tunnels. This is not your average sightseeing tour—it’s adventure blended with nature.

Is It Safe for Beginners?

Yes—ATV tours in Bali are designed to be beginner-friendly. Before your ride, you’ll get a detailed safety briefing, and professional guides will accompany you throughout the tour. You’ll also have a chance to test the ATV in an open area before starting the trail, ensuring you're confident before the real ride begins.

Trails are categorized by level, so if it’s your first time, you’ll start on the easier, scenic routes and gradually progress to more challenging terrain if you're comfortable. You can also choose between single rides or tandem rides (perfect for couples or kids riding with an adult).

What to Expect on the Tour

Each tour starts with hotel pickup (if included in your package), followed by arrival at the ATV base camp. You’ll be welcomed, registered, and fitted with your helmet and rubber boots. A quick training session and a few practice laps later, and you’ll be ready to roll.

Here’s a typical ATV tour experience in Bali:

• Trail Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Terrain: Jungle paths, rivers, rice fields, small hills, and tunnels
• Stops: Scenic points for photos or short breaks
• End of Tour: Cleaning up, changing clothes, optional lunch

Depending on your tour provider (like Bali True Activities), you may also combine this with other experiences such as temple visits or waterfall stops.

What to Wear and Bring

Here’s what to bring for a comfortable, safe, and fun ATV experience:

What to Wear:

• Quick-dry t-shirt or long sleeves
• Sports shorts or leggings
• Closed shoes or sandals with heel straps (boots will be provided)
• Sunglasses or protective glasses
• A hat or cap (for before/after the ride)

What to Bring:

• Change of clothes
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Waterproof bag for valuables
• GoPro or phone with mount (optional)

Important: You will get dirty. Mud, water splashes, and dust are all part of the fun—so don’t wear anything you don’t want stained!

Best Locations in Bali for Beginners

There are a few areas in Bali that are especially well-suited for beginner ATV riders:

Ubud / Gianyar
This area offers stunning jungle trails, river crossings, and picturesque rice fields. It’s the most popular and accessible location for ATV tours and is very beginner-friendly.

Tegalalang
Close to the famous rice terraces, this route is ideal for those who want a scenic ride through village paths and less technical terrain.

Tampaksiring or Kintamani
More adventurous and higher in elevation, these routes are better for second-time riders or those looking for slightly more rugged landscapes.

With Bali True Activities, all of these routes can be adjusted to match your comfort level.

Tips for First-Time ATV Riders

To make your first ride enjoyable and stress-free, keep these tips in mind:

1. Listen to the safety briefing. It’s short, clear, and incredibly helpful—especially for new riders.
2. Go slow in the beginning. It’s not a race. Get used to the throttle and brakes before speeding up.
3. Follow your guide’s instructions. They know the trail and when to warn you about sharp turns or slippery terrain.
4. Keep your balance. Lean forward when climbing, and lean back when descending. This keeps the ATV stable.
5. Have fun and don’t worry about getting muddy. It’s part of the experience!

Who Can Join?

Age requirement: Most tour operators accept riders aged 10 and above for tandem, and 15+ for solo riders.

Health condition: Riders should be in generally good health. If you’re pregnant or have heart/back problems, it’s best to consult your doctor and inform the tour provider beforehand.

Solo, Couple, or Group – What’s Best for You?

• Solo Travelers: A great way to challenge yourself and meet fellow adventurers on the trail.
• Couples: Go tandem or ride side-by-side for a mix of romance and adrenaline.
• Families & Groups: Many providers offer group pricing and guides that cater to all levels of experience.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, honeymoon, or just enjoying a day out, ATV riding can be a highlight of your Bali trip.

Why Choose Bali True Activities for Your ATV Tour?

At Bali True Activities, we prioritize safety, authentic trails, and local expertise. Our guides are trained to assist beginners and make your tour enjoyable from start to finish. We also provide combo packages where you can combine your ATV ride with visits to Ubud temples, waterfalls, or local cafes for a full-day experience.

Plus, our tours include private transfers, ensuring comfort and convenience from your hotel to the adventure site and back.

Final Thoughts

Trying something new on your vacation can be both exciting and a little intimidating—but with the right support, it becomes unforgettable. ATV riding in Bali is the perfect beginner-friendly adventure: safe, scenic, muddy, and most of all, fun.

If you're ready to leave the typical tourist trail behind, hop on an ATV and experience a different side of Bali—wild, raw, and real.