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Bali Tours & Vacations

There are 17,000 islands in the Indonesian archipelago, but none shine brighter than Bali. 

See the green slopes of Mt Batur to the Bintang bodegas on Seminyak’s main party strip. Bali is a volcano-dotted, beach-fringed paradise that’s serene and sensational by turns. Beyond the mega-resorts and yoga studios, you'll find the essence of Bali, the temples, out-of-the-way mountain towns, local markets and lazy fishing villages. Our Bali tours have something for everyone. Dive the impossibly blue waters off Lovina. Be welcomed into a Balinese family home. Soak in the Banja hot springs or sip smoothies in Ubud’s cafes . As always, when it comes to paradise, the hardest bit is choosing what to do first. 

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Bali at a glance

Capital city.

Denpasar (population 789,000)

4.2 million

(GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)

Learn more about Bali

Local culture.

Between the 12th and 20th centuries, Bali has often been treated as a pawn in the games of kings, rajahs and generals. More often than not, its fate has been closely tied to neighboring Lombok with fierce battles between the two islands over the centuries as different rulers vied for regional dominance. This history of varied occupation can be seen in Bali today, with elements of Hinduism and Islam present in modern Balinese society. However, there is no historical animosity between the religions, or even between the islands of Lombok and Bali.

One of the defining moments in Bali’s history took place in the 16th century when the collapse of the Majapahit dynasty encouraged the spread of Islam from the surrounding states into the Javanese kingdom. Rather than live under Islamic rule, many Hindu elites chose to escape to Bali. These elites included many artists, dancers, musicians, actors and court-supported artisans, as well as some more artistically inclined priests. The result was an intense proliferation of cultural arts across Bali, no doubt inspired by rich Balinese folklore featuring epic battles of good and evil, gods and mortals. This reputation persists today, with many travelers falling in love with the island’s intricate temple carvings, dance performances, colorful sarongs and handicrafts.

When you combine a love of arts with world-class beaches and deliciously fiery sambals, it’s no surprise Bali’s tourism industry is soaring. It’s not unusual for someone to ask you whether this is your second, third or fourth visit to the island. Many locals rely on tourism to some extent, either by working as tour operators or running hotels, yoga studios, massage parlors, bars, cafes or restaurants.

The destination’s popularity with  Australians  means there’s a gradual cultural creep in larger cities like Seminyak, where Melbourne-style cafes and international clothing labels are particularly popular. If you escape the resorts and head further north from Denpasar, you’re more likely to encounter traditional warungs (eateries) and villages untouched by tourism sprawl.

One last word of advice: always watch where you put your feet. Locals will traditionally place small offerings on the footpaths outside their homes or businesses up to three times a day. 83.5% of the population identifies as Hindu and religion plays a large part in Balinese life. In fact, there is a small religious ceremony associated with just about every aspect of Balinese culture, whether it’s the beginning of a soccer game, celebrating the full moon or cleaning the house.

Food and drink

At first glance it might seem difficult to pinpoint Bali’s exact culinary identity. The mishmash of Indonesian and pan-Asian influences means you’re likely to come across menus that sometimes feel part Thai, Malaysian, Indian and Vietnamese. But no matter what you order, the food will always be fresh and bursting with flavor. Dishes are typically made fresh each day, with curries and pastes prepared by hand using traditional methods.

The most authentic food in Bali is usually found streetside at eateries called warungs. Warungs are common in every village and city, and a good place for a quick feed on a budget. Many will specialize in a small menu of popular local dishes.

Top foods to try in Bali

Babi guling:  This is slow cooking Balinese-style. A whole pig is stuffed with chilli, turmeric, ginger, galangal, shallots, garlic, coriander seeds and aromatic leaves and rotated over an open fire. This dish is commonly seen at celebrations.

Satay:  Sometimes spelt ‘sate’ on local menus, Indonesia is famous for its tasty meat skewers (usually chicken) cooked over hot coals and slathered in moreish peanut sauce.

Nasi campur:  Nasi campur feels like a bit of a buffet. Your plate typically comes with a scoop of nasi putih accompanied by small portions of a number of other dishes, including meats, vegetables, peanuts, eggs, and fried-shrimp krupuk.

Nasi goreng:  The old favorite among tertiary students is nothing like the local version. Nasi goreng, literally meaning "fried rice”, is a popular rice dish with pieces of meat and vegetables, and a fried egg added on top.

Sambal:  A fiery paste made using a chili base smashed with secondary ingredients like shrimp paste, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, shallot, scallion, palm sugar, lime juice, and rice vinegar.

Learn more about some of the dishes to try in Bali

Eating vegetarian in Bali

Going vegetarian is relatively easy in Bali as many dishes are already meat-free. Tofu and tempeh are also a standard part of the local diet. Key vegetarian dishes to look out for include nasi saur (rice flavored with toasted coconut and accompanied by tofu, tempeh, vegetables and sometimes egg), urap (steamed vegetables mixed with grated coconut and spices), gado gado (tofu and tempeh mixed with steamed vegetables, boiled egg and peanut sauce) and sayur hijau (leafy green vegetables, usually kangkung – water spinach – flavored with a tomato-chilli sauce).

The abundance of fresh fruits in Bali means you can buy fresh coconuts and juices (or fruity cocktails) almost anywhere you go. If you're looking for something with a bit more punch then you could order a Bintang, the national larger or maybe arak – a local liquor made from fermented rice and coconut palm flowers.

Learn more about local drinks to try in Bali

Festivals and events

Many festivals in the Balinese calendar revolve around religious and spiritual occasions marked by periods of prayer or silence, and followed by lots of festivities and feasting. Some festivals might be inconvenient for travelers, such as the Day of Silence, but they’re also a great opportunity to gain an insight into local life that many don’t get to see.

Multiple surf contests are held throughout the year at different times and in different places. Check with local surfing schools for up to date information.

Top festivals in Bali

Nyepi (Day of Silence):  Bali’s major Hindu festival, Nyepi, or the Day of Silence, celebrates the beginning of a new year and is marked by inactivity. Legends say that this is a strategy to convince evil spirits that Bali is uninhabited and therefore not worthy of visiting! Jokes on them. The day involves prayer, meditation and quiet reflection.

Bali Arts Festival:  For an island with a strong history of cultural arts, it’s no surprise the Bali Arts Festival has pride of place in the annual calendar. Based at the Taman Wedhi Budaya arts center in Denpasar, travelers can see village-based dance groups competing for local pride across several traditional dance categories. The date changes each year but is typically held between mid-June to mid-July.

Bali Kite Festival:  From July to October, the skies of southern Bali fill with huge, colorful monsters, critters and imaginative creations. Scores of kites are launched by the locals as part of this special spiritual event. It is believed the kites urge the gods to provide abundant harvests.

Indonesian Independence Day:  Held on 17 August each year, this day celebrates Indonesia's independence from the Dutch in 1945. Expect to see legions of marching school children, flags, kites and fireworks. Don’t expect to get anywhere quickly either on the day or the days leading up to it.

Galungan and Kuningan:  Galungan celebrates the death of a legendary tyrant called Mayadenawa. The celebrations come to a head with the Kuningan festival, which is when the Balinese say thanks and goodbye to the gods. The exact dates of these two festivals vary as they are planned using the 210-day wuku (or Pawukon) calendar.

Learn more about Bali's festivals

Geography and environment

Bali is undoubtedly Indonesia’s most popular province thanks to its abundance of beautiful beaches, leafy jungles and impressive mountains. Located just east of Java and west of Lombok, the Bali province includes not only the island of Bali but also a few of the smaller neighboring islands, such as Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan.

Bali's highest mountain is Mt Agung (3,031 m, 9,944 ft), which is also known as the "Mother Mountain”. One of the other popular volcanoes on the island is Mt Batur. Both of these volcanoes have contributed to Bali’s incredibly fertile soil, which has allowed the rice crop trade to flourish.

Bali is located just 8 degrees south of the equator, which means it enjoys a fairly even climate year-round. The average year-round temperature hovers around 86°F, with a humidity level of about 85%. It's also surrounded by coral reefs and is part of the Coral Triangle, an area with the highest biodiversity of marine species. Over 500 reef-building coral species can be found here, which is seven times the entire Caribbean.

Bali’s problems with environmental pollution are well-documented, and it’s fair to say that the nearly 5.7 million tourists who visit annually are contributing their fair share. In late 2017, Indonesian officials declared a “garbage emergency” after a tide of plastic washed up a 5.8 kilometer (3.6 mile) stretch of coastline. We encourage all travelers to carry a reusable plastic bottle with them, a reusable tote bag for carrying items and to try and minimize their use of plastics wherever possible.

While you’ll find many of the main tourism hubs, like Seminyak and Kuta, filled with international fashion labels, there are also many local boutiques offering a wide variety of hand-made goods. These include traditional wood carvings (and even some famously phallic bottle openers), silver jewelry, colorful sarongs, eco-friendly bags, bamboo satchels, recycled furniture and a near limitless range of body oils and fragrances. Of course, if you’re looking for a traditional ‘I Heart Bali’ t-shirt or Bintang singlet, these are never in short supply either.

Like many parts of South East Asia, bargaining is a big part of the local shopping experience. Getting a good price comes down to how well you can haggle, but it’s important to have fun, bargain in good faith, and remember to smile. You’ll usually find better prices, and more negotiable shop owners, away from the main tourist strips.

Health & safety

Intrepid Travel treats the health and safety of its travelers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travelers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure:

From Australia? Go to:  SmartTraveller

From Canada? Go to:  Travel.GC.CA

From the UK? Go to:  GOV.UK

From New Zealand? Go to:  SafeTravel.GOVT.NZ

From the USA? Go to:  Travel.State.GOV

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information. Go to:  WHO.INT

Further reading

Bali travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Bali?

Sitting a snug 8 degrees from the equator, Bali’s climate is classic tropics. There’s a dry season and a rainy season, and not a whole lot in between.

The best time for a Bali tour (weather-wise) is the July to August peak season, or from December to the first week of January.

Although if you’d like to avoid the crowds (and why wouldn’t you) shoulder months like April, May, June and September make an excellent alternative.

The weather is dry and slightly less humid, and the island in general is a lot more relaxed.

October isn’t too bad either, especially if you’re into water sports like scuba diving, surfing or snorkeling (the rainfall is much lighter than in November).

Do you need a visa for a Bali tour?

The short answer is maybe – depending on your nationality. Passport holders from over 60 countries (including the   UK ,   Australia   and the   United States ) can enter Indonesia with a free tourist visa on arrival which allows you to stay for 30 days for tourism purposes. An immigration officer will date stamp your passport when you arrive and you will not be able to extend your stay. If you overstay there are hefty fines of IDR 1,000,000 (approximately 70 USD) per day.

If there's a chance you might want to stay longer than 30 days, you'll need to pay for a visa on arrival or apply for one prior to traveling at an overseas Indonesian consulate or embassy.

To enter Bali, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

• proof of onward or return ticket
• proof of funds to pay for your expenses during your trip
• completed immigration card (this will usually be given to you on the plane or at the arrival terminal)

Local laws require that you must be able to show your valid passport at any time when required to do so by an immigration office. We recommend taking a clear photocopy of your passport photo page, and visa (after arriving), to carry with you.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 27 June 2023 

Should I tip on a Bali tour?

Tipping isn’t compulsory in Bali, or anywhere else in Indonesia. But, like most countries, it’s very much appreciated.

Remember that many Balinese rely on tourism as a main source of income, and a tip is always appreciated.

What is the internet access like in Bali?

In tourist centers like Kuta, Seminyak, Denpasar, and Lovina internet access should be fine, and there will be plenty of internet cafes (or cafes with free internet) to choose from if your Wi-Fi isn’t up to scratch.

In more rural areas, there could be little or no coverage, particularly during homestays. Just remember to plan ahead. 

What are the toilets like in Bali?

Restaurants and hotels in developed tourist centers will have Western-style flush toilets.

In more rural areas the traditional squat toilet will be more common.

We recommend packing a bottle of hand sanitizer if you plan to visit rural parts of Bali.

Can I drink the water on a Bali tour?

Drinking water from taps isn’t recommended in Indonesia, but for environmental reasons try to avoid buying bottled water every day. There are a number of filtered canteens you can purchase or bring a supply of water filtration tablets that you can drop into your bottle wherever you go.

If you’re traveling on an Intrepid Travel trip, we always carry with us a large drum of water in our truck to refill your bottles on the road. Our hotel operators will also provide water free of charge to refill your bottles.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Bali?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants in Bali.

T hey may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as small family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns and rural areas.

Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases since credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in Bali.

What is ATM access like in Indonesia?

ATMs are found widely throughout Bali, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so be prepared for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Is Bali safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Homosexuality is legal in most of Indonesia, however, revisions to Indonesia’s criminal code are currently being considered that would criminalize gay sex and same-sex relationships. Advocacy groups fear this would represent a profound setback to human rights in Indonesia as a result. The LGBTQIA+ community has also been known to be targeted and harassed by police.

Bali, with its Hindu majority, has always been more liberal, tolerant and relaxed in attitude, however, public displays of affection are still not the norm for any couples anywhere in the country. Upscale hotels will likely not have any issues with same-sex travelers sharing a bed, however, if you are staying in budget or family-run businesses and are allocated separate beds, you might feel more comfortable not drawing attention to your relationship. 

Because sex, in general, is a taboo subject in Indonesian society, the issue of sexuality is unlikely to arise while traveling here. Indonesia is generally safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers, provided you are willing to be discreet and cautious with public behavior.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel. 

13 things to know before going to Bali, Indonesia

Jan 18, 2024 • 8 min read

These top tips for visiting Bali can help you plan the perfect trip © Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

The Indonesian island of Bali is a sun-soaked paradise that attracts every type of traveler, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury jet-setters.

But – as with any destination – the vast majority of travelers (especially first-timers) will have a number of questions, whether it's "Can unmarried couples stay together in Bali?" (an increasingly common one in the light of recently-introduced new rules for tourists in Bali, which we'll get to later) or "What should I wear?"

Thankfully, Bali is one of the easiest destinations to explore, although its size – the island covers 5776 sq km (2230 sq miles) – means travelers should take the time to think about what they want to see and do relatively early on. For example, places such as Seminyak , with its beach clubs and five-star hotels, tend to become somewhat crowded during peak season, while more rural destinations, such as Ubud , might well require a longer taxi journey but are absolutely worth the effort, especially for those keen to avoid the crowds.

It's also worth bearing in mind that Bali is one of Asia's safest destinations. As with any holiday hot spot, there are always going to be certain things we can do to ensure we stay safe while traveling, but crackdowns on petty theft and bad behavior have all helped transform the island into a wonderfully family-friendly destination .

Here are our top tips for anyone heading to Bali.

1. Check your vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to Indonesia

There are no mandatory vaccinations for visitors to Bali (barring the need for travelers arriving from countries with a high yellow fever transmission risk to carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate), although Hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus are often recommended. Bali falls into the "low to no risk" category when it comes to malaria.

Rabies remains a big problem in Indonesia, and although it claims fewer lives in Bali than elsewhere (according to the World Health Organization, 11 people died from rabies in the first half of 2023), it still exists, and the rabies vaccination is worth considering. Working out what vaccinations you need for a holiday to Bali is mostly a personal choice, but if you have concerns, contact your local physician for the latest guidance.

2. Bring a reusable bottle

One of the most asked questions by tourists: "Is Bali's tap water safe to drink?" The short answer is "no." Stick to bottled water or, better still, bring a bottle with a built-in water filtering membrane. Purchasing bottled water – especially in restaurants – can quickly become expensive, which is another reason we're fans of reusable filtered ones, such as Larq and Lifestraw. These are also handy when it comes to purifying water used for cleaning fruits and vegetables. Additionally, try to steer clear of ice and use bottled water to brush your teeth.

3. Don't write off the rainy season

Having a rough idea of when dry and rainy seasons fall is undoubtedly something that is useful to know before heading to Indonesia . But bear with us – Bali's rainy season, which takes place between October and April, is a great time to visit. It's typified by short, sharp showers that often only last a few minutes. And in addition to the fact that prices for everything – from regional airfares to hotels – plummet, the island becomes wonderfully lush, the weather is still warm (typically hovering between 24°C/75°F and 29°C/85°F), and the main tourist attractions are blissfully crowd-free. You'll also find it easier to snap up places on excursions, such as snorkeling tours and guided hikes .

4. Buy some bug spray

To be clear, Bali doesn't have a major mosquito problem, but like anywhere in Southeast Asia, these pesky biting bugs love the occasional bloodsucking session – in the case of Bali, particularly during the rainy season between November and April. Lighten the load on your wallet by purchasing your repellent in Bali and opting for bug sprays made in Asia. Popular (and much cheaper) Asian brands you'll find throughout Indonesia include Soffell (snap up the surprisingly pleasant floral-scented version if you can).

5. Avoid traveling during peak times

Traffic in Bali can be horrendous – especially around busier spots such as Denpasar and Kuta – and estimated journey times on apps like Google Maps or Grab are notoriously unreliable. Peak times tend to be 6am to 8am (but roads often remain busy until 10am when day-trippers head out) and 4pm to 7pm. Allow plenty of time to get from A to B, especially when heading to the airport.

6. Pack clothes that will cover you up for when you're not on the beach

In Bali, skimpy swimwear is fine for the beach , but definitely not for trips to a supermarket or restaurant.

Men and women need to ensure their shoulders and upper legs are covered when visiting religious sites, although most of these places will have sarongs for visitors to borrow. Pack like a pro by taking a light cotton scarf that can double as a sarong if you visit a temple or other religious site, and a pair of light cotton trousers (bonus points if they've got a built-in mosquito repellent), which will protect you from bites while also providing enough coverage at sites where tiny denim shorts or a vest just won't cut it.

7. Behave respectfully

Various media reports might give the impression it's easy to get into trouble in Bali, but it's not. In reality, you just need to be sensible: don't do drugs (being caught with under a gram of cannabis will land you in prison), be respectful and dress appropriately at religious sites, don't ride a motorbike or moped without a helmet (Bali's police have recently started cracking down especially hard on foreign moped drivers), and treat locals with respect.

8. Locals will be keen to share their knowledge with you

Staying at a hotel with a concierge or a friendly receptionist? Feel free to grill them about the best local bar, beach or restaurant. The Balinese are incredibly proud of their island  – don't be surprised if the bartender at your favorite beach bar ends up inviting you to their home for dinner with their family – and love nothing more than telling visitors about their favorite beach, nature walk or temple.

9. Eat, drink, stay and shop locally

Don't be afraid to go local, whether this means eating at tiny family-run restaurants or opting for local drink brands. You'll pay less and enjoy delicious local dishes, and you'll be contributing directly to the local economy, too. These days, even the smallest restaurants, bars and independent hotels will be listed on online review sites such as Zomato (especially popular in Asia), and a quick glance should tell you whether the business in question is reputable or not.

10. Carry some loose change

Many businesses in Bali will take payment by card, but there are still plenty of places that only take cash. These include temples, smaller souvenir shops and beachfront masseuses (which, by the way, offer some of the best massages going). ATMs on the island can be unreliable and are also few and far between in some areas. Additionally, don't assume you'll always have the mobile data you'll need to book a ride-share taxi. If you need to hail a tuk-tuk or taxi from the side of the road, it's highly likely you'll need to pay in cash.

When using ATMs, opt for ones connected with major banks (in Indonesia, these include BNI, Bank Mandiri, BCA and CIMB Niaga) to avoid withdrawal fees and remember that Indonesian ATMs issue the cash first, so don't forget to wait for your card to appear.

11. Get around by moped (but always wear a helmet)

Mopeds are the cheapest way to get around Bali  and often – especially during rush hour in places such as Kuta – the quickest, too. They're also offered as a mode of transport by Grab and Gojek (Bali's most popular ride-sharing apps), and prices for journeys via mopeds are significantly cheaper than those made by car. Just remember to check the reviews of your chosen driver and always wear a helmet (the driver will typically provide one). Avoid hailing scooter taxis on the street – you won't be able to check their credentials, and, in reality, Grab and Gojek have so many scooter drivers (both identifiable for their bright green jackets) that there's simply no need.

12. There is a no-sex-before-marriage law

In December 2022, the Indonesian government brought in a new law that forbids sex outside of marriage. Technically, this law applies to visitors as well as locals.

At the time, it was announced that the legislation won't be introduced until late 2025. Since then, Bali's governor has said that the law – dubbed by some newspapers as the "Bali bonk ban"– won't apply to tourists and, additionally, guilty parties can only be reported by spouses, parents or children. In summary, the law represents a worrying development for human rights in Indonesia, but it's not one that is likely to affect tourists.

13. Prepare to pay a daily tourist tax

As tourism has roared back after the pandemic, authorities have responded to environmental challenges (especially plastic waste on beaches) and overtourism concerns by finally launching a long-mooted fee for foreign visitors as of February 2024. The fee of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah per visitor (about US$10, €9 or AU$15) is payable upon arrival on the island.

This article was first published May 30, 2019 and updated Jan 18, 2024.

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The best Bali tours to take

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 11.06.2024

Bali , the Island of the Gods, is a paradise for travellers seeking a blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. That's where tours come in – they provide a hassle-free way to explore the island's many wonders with expert guides and well-organized itineraries . Whether you're into temple-hopping , jungle trekking, or beach-hopping, there's a wide variety of tours in Bali. From off-the-beaten-path adventures to popular tourist attractions, here are some of the best Bali tours to make your trip unforgettable.

1. Climb Gunung Agung

2. take a yoga class, 3. summit gunung batur, 4. explore the rice fields around ubud, 5. enjoy a snorkelling day trip to nusa lembongan, 6. take a day tour of one of the gili islands, 7. see dolphins, waterfalls and temples in northern bali.

• 8. Explore Bali's best beaches

9. Go whitewater rafting on the Ayung River

10. take a cooking class in southern bali, 11. visit the great lake bratan and surrounding waterfalls, 12. take a bicycle tour, 13. ride a hot air balloon above ubud, travel ideas for indonesia, created by local experts.

Bali's Beaches and Temples

Experience Bali's brilliant beaches and temples with this stunning trip. Marvel at ancient temples like Tanah Lot and Pura Besakih, soak in stunning sunsets, stroll bare-footed along the best beaches in Bali and haggle at local markets – experience all of this, and much more, with this unique trip!

Rest and Relaxation in Bali and Lombok

This unique trip will take you to some of Bali and Lombok's most traditional places. Look forward to driving through tropical landscapes and spending time in villages nestled in scenic spots of traditional luxury with infinity pools and stunning vistas over the ocean.

Royal Bali - Culture & Beaches

Enjoy a luxurious stay in Bali, with hand-picked 5 Star Hotels. This trip includes privately guided tours as well as leisure time, ideal for families with kids. Highlights include sea temple Tanah Lot, Jatiluwih rice terraces and Uluwatu temple with its famous Kecak dance.

The Best of Bali

This trip will take you from the modern-day Bali to the traditional one. Bali has many adventures to offer, tour the countryside with a Vespa or glide through the hidden canyons. You will also be able to enjoy visits to enchanting villages, where you can take in the local way of life.

Java and Lombok - culture and beaches

Start your trip in Yogyakarta (also called Jogja) with its rich cultural past such as the Borobudur temple. From there continue to hike Mount Bromo and explore more of East Java in Malang and Surabaya. End your trip on the dreamy beaches of Kuta/Lombok, dubbed 'the next Bali'.

Singapore & Bali - A Unique Exploration

Combine Southeast Asia's smallest country Singapore with its largest country: Indonesia. Spend a few days exploring the metropolis before flying to the magical island of Bali. Temples, volcanoes and ceremonies are part of your itinerary, as are the gorgeous beaches of Nusa Lembongan.

Bali’s highest peak, the dramatic, 3031m-high Gunung Agung volcano, is home to a number of important religious sites. Summitting Bali’s holiest peak requires a very strenuous guided climb, but the ascent and descent can be managed in one day.

Climbing this iconic volcano is one of the best Bali tours, but be aware that this is a serious climb. It’s strongly advised hikers book an established trekking guide. You’ll find many guide services in Sidemen village, 18km from Pura Pasar Agung; as well as Selat and Tirtagangga.

In the resorts, there’s Bali Sunrise Trekking and Tours in Ubud and Perama (bookable through their offices in most tourist centres or at www.peramatour.com). Else climb with Gung Bawa , a good-humoured, highly experienced and dependable guide who speaks excellent English.

Travel Tip - planning to go to Bali? Check our Bali trips or go directly to the " Best of Bali " trip.

View from Gili Trawangan on Gunung Agung, Bali © Shutterstock

Taking a yoga class in Bali is a transformative experience that combines the beauty of the island with the serene practice of yoga. As the gentle ocean breeze rustles the palm trees, you find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.

The picturesque setting provides the ideal backdrop for your yoga journey, allowing you to connect deeply with nature and your inner self. The classes are often held in open-air studios or on pristine beaches, enabling you to soak up the breathtaking views while immersing yourself in the ancient wisdom of yoga.

Whether you are a seasoned yogi or a beginner, Bali offers a wide range of yoga styles and retreats, catering to all levels and preferences.

Make sure to read our article about the best yoga retreats in Bali or check out our 7 day Bali Yoga retreat

Yoga practicing © Denis Moskvinov/Shutterstock

Just like climbing Agung, climbing Gunung Batur, is one of the best Bali tours. On a clear day, no scenery in Bali can match that of the Batur area. With its volcanic peaks and silver-turquoise crater lake, the scale and spectacle of this landscape remain unrivalled.

The best way to see it is from the top of Bali’s most climbed mountain, the 1717m-high Gunung Batur (Mount Batur).

Wisps of sulphurous smoke still drift from smaller cones on the slopes of this ancient volcano, which last erupted in 2000. Given the scenery, it’s no surprise that this is one of Bali’s most popular tourist destinations.

Most only visit on a day trip but stay overnight in either lakeside Toya Bungkah or Kedisan and hike to the summit to experience the magic of the scenery at sunrise. A guide is essential for sunrise treks. Use the Association of Mount Batur Trekking Guides , which has offices in Toya Bungkah and Pura Jati.

Batur sunrise in Bali © Shutterstock

There are several popular rice paddy walks on the outskirts of Ubud , some of which can be combined into one almost circular trek. Each has views that are perfect real-life versions of the Walter Spies-style paintings you see in Ubud's museums and galleries.

Cutting across the rice fields, the track becomes totally indistinct at times. But these narrow paths that run along the top of the dykes look out across to the amazing Gunung Agung (cloud cover permitting) as conical-hatted farmers work in the glittering rice paddies with the mountain in the background.

Travel tip - if you're looking for a bit of relaxation, our " Rest and Relaxation " trip is perfect for you!

Terrace rice field in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia @ Shutterstock

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Protected as a marine conservation area, the reefs around Nusa Lembongan attract divers from all over the world, not least for the chance to swim with manta rays and the one-tonne legendary local giant, the mola mola (oceanic sunfish), from early July to the end of October.

The diving here is unquestionably the most dramatic in Bali, but also rarely benign, as currents and waves can be fierce. Many of the reefs are rewarding for snorkelling. Prime spots off Nusa Lembongan that are accessible from the shore if the tide is right are Mangrove Corner and Mushroom Bay.

Virtually every guesthouse and hotel on the Islands can organize trips or contact one of the several dive centres on the island. Seek out five-star PADI dive school Big Fish Diving at Jungutbatu.

Make sure to read our article about the best areas to stay in Bali and our guide about the best time to visit Bali .

Mushroom Bay on Nusa Lembongan, Bali, Indonesia  © Shutterstock

Fringed by dazzling white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and reefs that teem with turtles and fish, the trio of the tiny Gili Islands just off Lombok ’s northwest coast are strikingly beautiful and have exploded in popularity.

With no motorized vehicles allowed on any of the islands (just horse carts and bicycles), and swathes of the dusty interiors still taken up with coconut plantations and sandy tracks, the Gilis are as close as you can get to living the tropical dream.

Island life here can be incredibly seductive, and most visitors revel in long days spent snorkelling the reefs, eating fresh seafood and enjoying the spectacular views, with the volcanic profiles of Bali and Lombok filling the horizon.

It's one of the most popular Bali tours, as it's possible to visit any of the three on a day trip from Bali.

Gili Trawangan is the most developed. Diminutive Gili Meno, next east of Gili Trawangan, is the smallest and quietest of the Gilis, with no nightlife except a laidback bar or two. East again, Gili Air falls somewhere in between, with plenty of restaurants and bars but a much larger population of islanders to balance out the tourist influx.

Dive deep into Balinese culture with this tailor-made trip to Bali's Culture & Gili's beaches . Visits include rice field walks, the Gates of Heaven, water temples like Tirta Empul and Tirta Gangga as well as a traditional cooking class. Your trip ends with the beaches of Gili Air and Jimbaran.

Aerial view of  Gili Meno, Gili Air and Lombok © Shutterstock

A cool, less populated landscape of morning mists and forest, inland north Bali feels like a different island when compared to the crowded southern plains. The Bedugal highlands is an area defined by mountains, lakes and waterfalls with swathes of clove and coffee plantations around hilltown Munduk.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, an important temple and a destination for Balinese-Hindu pilgrims, is also here. In the east is the active Gunung Batur volcano where occasional puffs of smoke waft from black rock, one of Bali's most popular sunrise hikes. At its base are other walks over parched, ethereal terrain peppered with giant boulders ejected from the earth's core.

Ready to explore Bali? Plan your transportation with our in-depth guide .

The Rough Guides to Indonesia and related travel guides

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Dolphin-spotting boat trips are wildly popular around Lovina and cultural activities including cooking classes are on offer too. Lovina’s proximity to good snorkelling and diving sites, and as a base for day-trips to nearby waterfalls and temples are another key appeal and make this area a good spot to try different activities. The Buddhist monastery and hot springs (air panas) at Banjar, 10km west, and temples and waterfalls east of Singaraja make a good days out.

Bali, Lovina @ Piotr Kala

8. Explore Bali's best beaches

Exploring the best beaches in Bali is an enchanting adventure that unveils a world of sun-kissed shores and turquoise waters. From the iconic Kuta Beach to the hidden gems like Nusa Dua and Uluwatu, each beach offers its own unique charm.

Kuta Beach, with its lively atmosphere and vibrant surf scene, attracts sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Seminyak Beach, just a stone's throw away, boasts trendy beach clubs and luxurious resorts, making it a hotspot for both relaxation and entertainment. For those in search of tranquillity, the pristine shores of Nusa Dua beckon, offering pristine white sand and calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

Further north, the black sands of Lovina Beach allure visitors with its serene ambience and the opportunity to spot playful dolphins at sunrise. There are tons of tours in Bali that take you to the best beaches. Our " Beaches and Temples " trip takes you to all the best places.

Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock

Looking for adventurous Bali tours? On the Ayung River just west of Ubud, Sobek specializes in whitewater rafting and kayaking tours on the Grade II–III rapids of Bali’s longest waterway. The river is suitable for all levels of rafters and kayakers, from beginners to experienced paddlers, and offers a mix of gentle rapids and thrilling drops.

Courses generally last around two hours long and cover about 8km. Sobek also provide free transfers across southern Bali. Book in Kuta .

Once you tire of sea, sun, sand and shopping, you will be able to find more cultural and spiritual pastimes amid the hedonism of Southern Bali, with lots of opportunities to learn a new skill. Cookery Classes Cookly is a listing of independent chefs and cooks throughout Bali who teach classes, or run traditional Balinese organic, vegan, market and farm tours. Most are family-friendly .

Nasi goreng in Indonesia

Lying just below Candikuning at 1200m above sea level, Danau Bratan (Lake Bratan) is the largest and most visited of the three spiritually charged crater lakes around Bedugul. Thought to be 35m deep in places. It is surrounded by forested hills, with the bulk of Gunung Catur (2096m), the caldera’s highest peak, rising sheer behind.

The trail to the summit begins at Gua Jepang, caves built by Indonesian prisoners of war during World War II, and passes through agricultural fields ending where dense forest and the ascent begins.

The last few kilometres require climbing over exposed tree roots on muddy trails and at the top is Pura Puncak Mangu, a simple temple built by the first Mengwi raja and, of course, spectacular views of the three lakes below.

Nearby in Munduk, the most accessible of several falls in the area is the pretty Tanah Barak waterfall, also known as Red Coral Waterfall or simply Munduk Waterfall.

Pura Ulun Danu temple panorama at sunrise on a lake Bratan, Bali, Indonesia @ Shutterstock

One of the best Bali tours is exploring its landscape by bicycle. A thrilling and immersive way to connect with the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage. As you pedal along, you'll be captivated by the ever-changing scenery, from lush rice terraces to cascading waterfalls and dense jungles.

Bicycle tours are particularly popular in Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, and meander through its surrounding countryside. The iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces are a sight to behold, with their intricate green terraces sculpted into the landscape. Take in the breathtaking views as you ride through the rugged terrain, passing by ancient temples and traditional Balinese architecture.

Did you know our Love trip to Bali includes a bicycle tour?

Experience the stunning natural beauty of Bali from a whole new perspective with the Island of the Gods' first and only ballooning adventure. Take to the skies in a 23-metre hot air balloon and soar above the breathtaking Tanah Gajah area, located amongst the legendary rice paddies of Ubud.

From the comfort of a cosy wicker basket, you'll climb to a thrilling 50 metres above the lush rice fields and float at the end of a tether, enjoying awe-inspiring panoramas of the tropical forests surrounding central Bali with Mount Agung on the eastern horizon.

Rough Guide tip: The journey only begins when you reach your destination. Find out how to get to Indonesia .

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