When you think of Bali, you imagine beaches and massages. Yet, Indonesia’s premier tourist destination offers more than relaxing pursuits. Beyond Bali’s glitzy villa accommodations and pristine shores are adventures waiting to be experienced. Here are a few of the thrilling escapades you can undertake while in this tropical paradise.

White-water Rafting

Experience the most adrenalin-pumping ride of your life at Ayung River in Ubud and Telagawaja River in Karangasem. Both provide great water adventure amid spectacular landscape and scenery. Most tour operators will include 2 hours of river rafting fun with an experienced staff to guide you through the rapids.

Elephant Safari Ride

A great way to explore the lush greenery of the island of Bali is on the mighty elephant. You can choose 2 types of elephant adventure: the Elephant Safari Park at Taro and the Bali Elephant Camp. The former allows you to feed and pet the elephants and then ride them through the botanical gardens, forested area, and the park’s bathing lake.

Meanwhile, Bali Elephant Camp takes you on a ride through rice paddies, the jungle, and the Ayung River. You’ll also get to experience daily life in the quaint villages of Bali like Carangasari.

Jungle Trekking

If you want to get away from the confines of your Bali villa accommodation and from the bustle of the beach scene, then go for a refreshing trip into the lush jungles of Bali. The rainforest of Bedugul is filled with fertile tropical trees and a cool atmosphere. Here, a professional guide will take you through the various flora and fauna, animal habitats, and a beautiful lake you can cross with a traditional canoe.

Odyssey Submarine

Dive into an ocean adventure inside the Odyssey Submarine. The comfortable submersible boat will take you under the waters of Amuk Bay – the best dive spot in eastern Bali. At about 150 feet below, you will be able to look through portholes and see coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.

Sea Walker

If you want to get your feet wet, literally, and swim with the fishes, then you can try the Bali Seawalker. It’s a diving activity that uses a helmet, which is supplied with air so the diver can breathe under water. The dive will take you about 5 to 10 meters deep and allows you to interact with the marine life. Bring the fishes some bread and watch them flock to you. It’s a great way to see the fish up close.

Tours such as the abovementioned are easy to arrange and most, if not all, are available through any Bali villa accommodation and hotel concierge services.