There’s An IRL “Mario Kart” In Bali, Race Past Temples & Paddy Fields

Jungle Cart Bali – Mario Kart-inspired activity near Ubud

There are plenty of things to do in Bali, whether you’re partaking in some monkey business at Ubud Monkey Forest or refreshing your IG feed at Tegalalang Rice Terrace Bali, one of the island’s most famous landscapes. But if you want to appreciate Bali’s scenery from a different POV, check out Jungle Cart Bali. 

If you crave an adrenaline rush, this unique activity lets you race through paddy fields and villages in Payangan, an area on the outskirts of Ubud. 

Zip along a 4.5km-long track past paddy fields & villages

Navigate winding roads on a thrilling downhill track.
Image credit: Jungle Cart Bali

Unleash your inner Mario Kart champion as you go on a ride which takes you on a 4.5km journey through green landscapes, rice fields, temples, and traditional Balinese villages through the scenic countryside.

You don’t have to be worried about driving on busy roads. The Jungle Cart track area remains within the confines of the private jungle, ensuring a safe and controlled environment for all participants.

Race in engineless karts – no driver’s licence needed

Image credit: @junglecartbali via Instagram

Unlike the go-karting vehicles we see at HyperDrive and KF1, Jungle Cart Bali operates without an engine. The karts are also packed with safety features, like a low centre of gravity for stability, hydraulic disc brakes for extra control on steep descents, and an ergonomic seat for a comfortable ride. 

The kart is made of high-quality aluminium, which makes it easy to handle and pull up steep inclines.

Image credit: Jungle Cart Bali

Because of how simple it is to operate, anyone can have a go at Jungle Cart Bali – from your ah ma to the kiddos. You don’t need a driver’s licence. You can choose to drive at your own speed, too. Get your adrenaline pumping by hitting speeds of up to 60km/h, or take it slow and soak up the scenery.

All guests will go through a safety briefing and need to don helmets and safety gear before they set off. You’ll also be given a banana each, just like in the Mario Kart games. Eat it, or keep it to use as “obstacles” on the course – the karting company says you can do that, but ensures their karts are “banana peel-proof”.

Image credit: @junglecartbali via Instagram

Additionally, it’s recommended to wear sturdy shoes and sunglasses to avoid dust in your eyes. In case of heavy rain, your ride will be postponed to a later time or the next day. However, they do provide raincoats in case of light rain.

Try out Jungle Cart Bali on your next visit

Image credit: @junglecartbali via Instagram 

If you’re ready to hit the tracks, Jungle Cart Bali tickets cost Rp 380,000/person (~S$32.73). Children under the age of 14 can ride for free if they share a cart with an adult. And if you’re going in a large group, call or WhatsApp the Jungle Cart office in advance to secure your spot.

Your ticket will include the transfer from Jungle Cart Bali’s main office in Ubud to the starting point, a homemade jamu, pisang goreng, as well as the 15-25-minute track ride. And lastly, don’t worry about having to wake up early on holiday, because there are 3 tours per day: 9am, 12pm, and 3pm. 

Book your slots for Jungle Cart Bali

Other things to do near Ubud, Bali:

• Bali Zoo guide
• Campuhan Ridge Walk – 2KM trail
• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Cover image adapted from: Jungle Cart Bali via Facebook & @junglecartbali via Instagram