Highlights
- Ride the zipline above the lush green rice terraces of Tegalalang
- Learn the secrets of Balinese cuisine in a traditional cooking class in Marga
- Lay your towel on the volcanic black sands of beautiful Pemuteran Beach
- Snorkel with sea turtles in the pristine waters and reefs of Menjangen Island
- Hike to Padar Island's iconic Pink Beach in the Komodo archipelago
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 2 | Tibumana Waterfall & Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 3 | Sunrise Trek to Mount Batur Summit | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 4 | Tegalalang Terraces & Gunung Kawi, Transfer to Marga, Stay in a Ruma Desa | Marga |
| Day 5 | Marga Cultural Immersion, Traditions & Cooking Class | Marga |
| Day 6 | Explore Jatiluwih Rice Terraces & Ulun Danu Beratan, Transfer to Pemuteran | Pemuteran, Bali |
| Day 7 | Free Day in Pemuteran | Pemuteran, Bali |
| Day 8 | Snorkel Around Menjangan Island | Pemuteran, Bali |
| Day 9 | Transfer to Amed, Visit Pulaki & Besakih Temples | Amed, Bali |
| Day 10 | Tour Tirta Gangga & Taman Ujung Water Palaces, Visit Pasir Putih Beach | Amed, Bali |
| Day 11 | Fly to Labuan Bajo, Komodo Cruise Day 1: Kelor, Rinca & Kalong | Komodo Island |
| Day 12 | Komodo Cruise Day 2: Padar & Komodo | Komodo Island |
| Day 13 | Komodo Cruise Day 3: Sebayur & Kanawa, Fly to Jimbaran (Bali) | Jimbaran, Bali |
| Day 14 | Free Morning in Jimbaran, Depart Bali |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud
Welcome to Indonesia! Upon arrival at the airport in Bali, meet your driver in the arrivals lounge for a 1.5-hour transfer to your hotel in the charming town of Ubud. Ubud is Bali's cultural capital, surrounded by green rice terraces and tropical forests dotted with ancient Hindu temples. Take the remainder of the day to adjust to the local time and rest or explore the area independently.
This afternoon, get the lay of the land by hiking along the easy and scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk. If you'd rather relax and rejuvenate after your long flight, enjoy 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: Tibumana Waterfall & Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Explore some of the countryside around Ubud today, starting with the hidden beauty of Tibumana Waterfall. Head to a secluded location with your driver, then walk for 15 minutes through the lush Balinese jungle to reach the waterfall. Admire this natural wonder from afar before dipping your feet in the calm waters at the base of the falls.
In the afternoon, visit the 14th-century Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a popular tourist attraction in Ubud and home to over 700 long-tailed macaque monkeys. Observe the monkeys in their natural habitat and learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts from your guide. The forest sanctuary, spanning over 30 acres (12 ha) and sacred to the locals, is also home to several temples. As you walk through the forest to visit the shrines and temples, you can meet and feed the resident monkeys, wandering freely. Be aware that these bold macaques may wish to climb onto you.
Day 3: Sunrise Trek to Mount Batur Summit
Well before sunrise, join your guide for the one-hour drive to Mount Batur to begin your ascent of this active volcano. This challenging trek in the dark takes around 1.5-2 hours, and you'll hike along a well-trodden trail to more than 5,577 feet (1,700 m) above sea level. When you reach the top just before dawn, watch the sunrise above the clouds and be rewarded with far-reaching views over the sleeping island. Directly below you, you'll see Lake Batur, and through the clouds, you can spot Bali's other volcanoes in the distance: Abang, Agung, and Batukaru.
Enjoy a packed breakfast amid this spectacular scenery. (Remember to order this takeaway breakfast from your hotel the night before.) Then, make the short trek back down, soaking in the morning light and possibly spotting local wildlife. Once back at the base, meet your driver for a return transfer to your hotel in Ubud.
Day 4: Tegalalang Terraces & Gunung Kawi, Transfer to Marga, Stay in a Ruma Desa
The adventures continue today with a visit to Ubud's mesmerizing Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a UNESCO-listed landscape of verdant terraces carved into steep hillsides. Hop on the Instagram-famous swing, get an aerial view of the terraces from a thrilling zipline ride, or walk through the paddies to get a close look at traditional Balinese farming techniques. Tegalalang is also home to several traditional Balinese villages, where you can witness local life and culture up close.
Next, enjoy a guided tour of Gunung Kawi Temple to see the impressive collection of shrine reliefs carved into the rocks, providing sweeping views of the lush valley below. Then, continue with your driver to the village of Marga, where you'll spend two nights at a locally owned ruma desa (village house). Follow a local guide on a village tour, where you can interact with the villagers and learn about the traditional Balinese lifestyle.
Visit the vibrant green rice fields to discover local agricultural techniques, including traditional irrigation methods and tools, while you sip from a young coconut. Return to the village for a meal prepared by the locals featuring typical Balinese dishes of the area, like beef rendang (spicy dry curry) and sate ayam (chicken skewers with peanut sauce). End the night witnessing a local celebration with Balinese music and dance.
Day 5: Marga Cultural Immersion, Traditions & Cooking Class
Immerse yourself in the rhythms of Marga today with your host family, who will introduce you to various aspects of Balinese culture through fun, engaging, and enriching activities. Begin with a visit to an elementary school to meet the students and get a glimpse of the Indonesian education system. Stop at a local home to witness typical Balinese activities, such as religious offerings and music. Then, see a demonstration of silversmithing and learn how to make herbal medicine and process coconut oil.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
In the afternoon, walk to a local market with your guide and select various organic fruits, vegetables, and spices to prepare a typical Balinese meal. Learn how to make the canang (offerings) found all over Bali, then enter a traditional kitchen to meet your chef and embark on a Balinese cooking class. You'll help prepare local recipes using traditional culinary techniques while learning how to roast coffee. After you enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, return to your homestay for one more night.
Day 6: Explore Jatiluwih Rice Terraces & Ulun Danu Beratan, Transfer to Pemuteran
Say farewell to your homestay in Marga today, then meet your guide for a winding 43-minute drive to the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. Take a leisurely bike ride through the gorgeous landscape of lush green terraces spread across the hills and valley. Follow the trails to the most picture-worthy spots as you learn about the subak irrigation system, a centuries-old technique the locals use to sustain the terraces, and witness how it works in practice. See Balinese rural life up close as you pedal past local farmers plowing the fields with buffalo and going about their daily tasks.
Later, you'll visit one of Bali's most iconic landmarks, Ulun Danu Beratan—a complex of distinctive multi-tiered shrines on the shores of Lake Beratan that is set against a backdrop of misty mountains. Wander through the beautiful botanical gardens or among the five temples dedicated to Hindu deities. The main temple, dedicated to the goddess of the lake, Dewi Danu, is an important religious site for the Balinese.
Day 7: Free Day in Pemuteran
You'll have a free day in Pemuteran to spend at your leisure. This quaint fishing village is known as a jumping-off point for some of the best underwater experiences in Bali, while above water, the village has plenty on offer. Lie on the black sands of Pemuteran Beach, trek up to the temple of Bukit Batu Kursi for panoramic views of the jungle and ocean, or volunteer at the Turtle Hatchery Project. Book a guide for a three-hour hike through the pristine West Bali National Park (which you'll explore underwater tomorrow)—home to diverse wildlife, including the rare Bali starling.
In the evening, take in the serene beauty of Banyuwadeng Bay against the backdrop of sunset. This tranquil lagoon is best seen from a boat, especially a kayak or canoe. Watch the sun change the waters to pastel as you paddle through the gentle waves and the mangrove forests, with views of the distant Java volcanoes across the Bali Strait providing a striking panorama.
Day 8: Snorkel Around Menjangan Island
Day 9: Transfer to Amed, Visit Pulaki & Besakih Temples
Enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour transfer along the north coast of Bali, leaving Pemuteran and heading toward the charming town of Amed. This fishing village on the island's eastern shore, a gorgeous and undiscovered corner of Bali, is known for its laid-back beaches, lack of crowds, fresh seafood, and easy access to world-class diving. Take in the views of Mount Agung from the black-sand Amed Beach, snorkel right off the shore at Jemeluk Beach, or catch a sunset from Sunset Point.
Along the way, you'll stop for an off-the-beaten-path adventure to visit the incredible Pulaki Temple, one of the largest temples in northern Bali. Enter this coastal Hindu temple to admire its stone carvings adorned with colorful offerings, take in the views, and keep an eye out for the playful monkeys that reside there. The temple was founded in the 16th century, but archaeological research indicates the site may date back to prehistoric times.
Continue your tour at the Great Mother Temple of Bali, Besakih, the largest and most significant Hindu temple complex on the island. Situated on the slopes of volcanic Mount Agung, enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and rice paddies surrounding the complex of over 80 temples and shrines, each dedicated to a different deity. The temple dates back to the eighth century, and despite being located in an active volcanic area, it has survived numerous eruptions and earthquakes over the years. Finally, you'll arrive in Amed, where you'll be free to relax at your hotel or explore for the rest of the day.
Day 10: Tour Tirta Gangga & Taman Ujung Water Palaces, Visit Pasir Putih Beach
Your tour of Bali continues today, first with a stop at the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, a tranquil Hindu water garden and temple complex on the eastern part of the island. Built in the early 20th century by the King of Karangasem, this enchanting water park features a collection of pools, fountains, and statues, all amid lush greenery with far-reaching views of the surrounding mountains. Walk along the octagonal stepping stones and feed the carp, bathe in one of the spring-fed pools, or wander among the vibrant flowers and intricate sculptures as you observe locals praying at 11 of the 13 water spouts.
The next highlight is a visit to Taman Ujung, a floating palace set in a peaceful and relaxing garden. Wander along the walking paths and over the bridges of this sprawling 25-acre (10 ha) compound with ponds filled with koi fish, landscaped gardens, and shrines. According to local legend, Taman Ujung is believed to have fertility powers. As a result, you may see young couples making offerings or posing for wedding photos. As you explore, you'll also discover beautiful natural surroundings with fabulous views of the Lombok Strait in the distance.
Day 11: Fly to Labuan Bajo, Komodo Cruise Day 1: Kelor, Rinca & Kalong
The next phase of your adventure begins today, as you head 30 minutes from Amed to the airport to catch a 45-minute flight to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores. Upon arrival, a driver will be waiting to transfer you to the local port, where you'll board a yacht for a two-night sailing adventure around the spectacular islands of the Komodo archipelago. After settling into your cabin, enjoy the seaside views as you navigate the Flores Sea and the waters of Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for being home to the largest lizard in the world, the Komodo dragon.
Sail first to the uninhabited island of Pulau Kelor, a tiny piece of paradise known for its white-sand beach—a prime spot for relaxing, snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking. Set off on a steep, 10-minute hike to the island's highest point for rewarding views of the surrounding islands and sea. On your way back down, look for exotic birds and other wildlife before continuing your island hop while enjoying lunch on board.
Disembark next at Rinca Island to join a local ranger who will lead you to panoramic viewpoints, teach you about native wildlife, and point out the national park's endemic Komodo dragons in the wild. End the day with a picture-perfect sunset at Kalong Island, also known as "Flying Foxes Island," due to the large population of bats that inhabit the mangrove-covered islet. Weigh anchor at dusk to witness the memorable moment when around 300,000 of these bats take flight into the setting sun for their nightly hunt.
Day 12: Komodo Cruise Day 2: Padar & Komodo
Set sail to Padar Island today, where you'll begin an early-morning trek across the rugged but beautiful landscape to reach the island's highest point for views of the archipelago. Watch for wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and various bird species as you climb. The steep staircase can be challenging in places, but once you're at the viewpoint, you'll marvel at the sight below of beaches in three different colors: black, pink, and white. Trek down to the famous Pink Beach, which gets its rosy hue from ground coral fragments.
Relax on the beach, snap a few photos, swim, and snorkel at the offshore reef to see tropical fish and sea turtles. Then, gear up for the next adventure—Komodo Island. This is the best place in the archipelago to spot the Komodo dragon, which lives nowhere else on Earth. These huge lizards can grow up to 9.8 feet (3 m) and average 150 pounds (70 kg). Then, hop in the water to snorkel at the famous Manta Point, known for its large population of resident manta rays. Strap on your mask and fins, then swim among these gentle, magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Day 13: Komodo Cruise Day 3: Sebayur & Kanawa, Fly to Jimbaran (Bali)
Continue your island-hopping tour of the Flores Sea and the Komodo archipelago by snorkeling above the colorful coral reefs surrounding Sebayur Island. Thanks to its visibility, this is a favorite spot for underwater photography, so have your camera ready. Then, sail to Kanawa Island and Bidadari Island, both popular destinations for snorkeling. Gear up and dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands to see the diverse marine life, including colorful tropical fish like clownfish and parrotfish, sea turtles, and even sharks.
When ready, climb aboard for lunch and then set sail back to Labuan Bajo. Upon disembarking, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Denpasar, where a driver awaits to whisk you toward Bali's south coast and the beautiful beachside fishing village of Jimbaran. Spend your last night in Indonesia exploring the beaches of Jimbaran, such as Dreamland or Balangan Beach, both known for their surfing and tide pools.
Day 14: Free Morning in Jimbaran, Depart Bali
Your final morning in Jimbaran is free to spend at your leisure. Relax by the pool, enjoy the spectacular beaches like Padang Padang, or walk through the lively open-air Kedonganan Fish Market. Those interested in cultural excursions can also consider visiting the dramatic Uluwatu Temple. Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, the temple's architecture dates back to the 11th century and showcases the rich history of Balinese Hinduism.
At the appointed time, your driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to Denspar International Airport. Selamat jalan! (Happy travels!)
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