Highlights
- Cycle through the picturesque rice terraces, temples, and villages around Ubud
- Interact with macaques at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
- Snorkel at the Blue Lagoon to experience the vibrant underwater world of Bali
- Visit a local sanctuary to swim with elephants
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 2 | Kintamani Cycling Tour, Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 3 | Snorkel in Padang Bai, Visit Tirta Gangga Water Palace | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 4 | Elephants, Palaces & Markets in Ubud | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 5 | Depart Bali |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud
Welcome to the Indonesian island of Bali! After you arrive at Denpasar International Airport, you'll be transferred to the charming town of Ubud to check into your hotel. Surrounded by green rice terraces and tropical forests dotted with ancient Hindu temples, Ubud is considered the spiritual center of Bali. Get the lay of the land this afternoon by hiking along the easy and scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk, visiting the gorgeous Tegalalang Rice Terrace for sedate swinging or thrilling ziplining, or exploring one of the many galleries in Ubud's thriving art scene.
If you'd rather relax and rejuvenate after your long flight, Ubud is also the ideal spot, with its plethora of wellness spas, yoga centers, and meditation retreats. Get a traditional Balinese massage, take a yoga class with a view of the jungle, or soak in a flower bath by the river.
Day 2: Kintamani Cycling Tour, Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
This morning's adventures begin early, as you're picked up from your hotel for a cycling tour through some of Bali's most picturesque highland regions. Beginning near the well-known volcano of Mount Batur and overlooking Kintamani Lake, this two to three-hour mountain biking excursion will take you through 18 miles (30 km) of forest trails, past historic Hindu temples, local communities, and verdant plantations. You'll make stops to explore a traditional Balinese village, take in the scenery from various viewpoints, and drop in at farm stands to sample exotic fruits from the source.
Day 3: Snorkel in Padang Bai, Visit Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Today you'll visit the Bali beaches of your dreams at Padang Bai and Blue Lagoon Beach. Picture white sands, relaxed vibes, and crystal-clear water, where you'll encounter many tropical species. Sun on the beach and snorkel in the offshore reefs, keeping an eye out for turtles, octopuses, various tropical fish, moray eels, and reef sharks (if you get lucky). Enjoy lunch in a restaurant on the beach, taking in the views as you sample local cuisine.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Elephants, Palaces & Markets in Ubud
Start today with a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you prepare to spend the morning at a nearby elephant sanctuary. This local refuge in Ubud allows you to interact with these gentle giants in their natural habitat while learning about local conservation efforts. The trip's highlight will be bathing with the elephants, where you help lead them to the water and splash in the refreshing river.
Your next stop is the Ubud Palace, or Puri Saren Palace, a historic landmark and cultural hub of the town. Built in the 1800s, the palace, home of the royal family of Ubud, is renowned for its architecture, gardens, and various cultural displays. If you're around later in the day, be sure to catch the nightly traditional Balinese dance performance, which takes place after sunset.
Near the palace, you'll find several of Ubud's most famous street markets. Start at the Ubud Art Market, a bustling open-air hub with a wide selection of traditional Balinese crafts, such as textiles, woodcarvings, jewelry, and paintings. When the sun sets, head to the Gianyar Night Market, where you can shop for local delicacies, handicrafts, and souvenirs. As you stroll through the market, sample several Balinese favorites like satay, nasi goreng (fried rice), and traditional sweets, like laklak (rice pancakes) or pisang goreng (banana fritters).
Day 5: Depart Bali
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