Highlights
- Walk through the incredibly lush green rice fields of Jatiluwih near Ubud
- Navigate whitewater rapids on a thrilling raft trip down Bali's Telaga Waja River
- Watch the sunset over an ancient mangrove forest on Sumba's Walakiri Beach
- See the soaring thatched roofs of traditional Sumbanese houses in Prai Ijing
- Swim in the underground tunnel linking the ocean to the pristine Waikuri Lagoon
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud, Free Time in Ubud | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 2 | Tour Jatiluwih Terrace, Ulun Danu Beratan, Gitgit Waterfall & Handara Gate | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 3 | Campuhan Ridge Walk, Explore Ubud Palace, Market & Sacred Monkey Forest | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 4 | Visit Elephant Sanctuary, Telaga Waja Rafting, Hike to Tukad Cepung Waterfall | Ubud, Bali |
| Day 5 | Fly to Sumba, Transfer to Waingapu, Free Time in Waingapu | Waingapu |
| Day 6 | Visit Waimarang Waterfall, Sunset at Walakiri Beach | Waingapu |
| Day 7 | Transfer to Waikabubak via Bukit Wairinding, Prai Ijing & Lapopu Waterfall | Waikabubak |
| Day 8 | Explore Waikuri Lagoon, Ratenggaro Village & Mandorak Beach | Waikabubak |
| Day 9 | Free Day on Sumba Island | Waikabubak |
| Day 10 | Fly to Bali, Transfer to Uluwatu, Free Time in Uluwatu | Uluwatu, Bali |
| Day 11 | Visit Uluwatu Temple, Sunset at Tanah Lot, Jimbaran Seafood Barbecue | Uluwatu, Bali |
| Day 12 | Depart Bali |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud, Free Time in Ubud
Welcome to the Indonesian island of Bali! Once 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.
To get the lay of the land, head to a local temple, visit the gorgeous Tegalalang Rice Terrace for sedate swinging and thrilling ziplining, or explore one of the many galleries in Ubud's thriving art scene. If you'd rather relax and rejuvenate after your long flight, take advantage of Ubud's 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: Tour Jatiluwih Terrace, Ulun Danu Beratan, Gitgit Waterfall & Handara Gate
Today, you'll enjoy a winding drive to the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih Rice Terraces with your guide. Take a leisurely walk through the lush landscape of green terraces hugging the hills and valley. As you follow the trails to the most picture-worthy spots, learn about the subak irrigation system (a centuries-old technique the locals use to sustain the terraces) and witness how it works in practice.
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.
In the afternoon, set off on a 15-minute walk to the Gitgit waterfall, one of the highest and most beautiful waterfalls in Bali. Walk through dense tropical greenery until the cool mist in the air refreshes your senses. Swim in the emerald pool at the waterfall's base before heading to your final stop of the day, the iconic Handara Gate. Set in the mountain highlands, the gate is a famous Instagram spot and an intricate work of art that showcases the history of Bali.
Day 3: Campuhan Ridge Walk, Explore Ubud Palace, Market & Sacred Monkey Forest
This morning, meet your guide for a picturesque two-hour trek along Ubud's famous Campuhan Ridge Walk. The easy, scenic 2.3-mile (3.7 km) trail passes through rice fields and local villages and provides plenty of sweeping hilltop views. Later in the morning, immerse yourself in Ubud's rich culture by shopping for handmade Balinese crafts and souvenirs at the world-renowned Ubud Art Market, a lively open-air hub. Snap up gifts for yourself or a loved one, such as traditional textiles, woodcarvings, jewelry, and paintings.
After exploring the market, visit the formerly royal Ubud Palace, also known as the Puri Saren Palace, with its well-preserved Balinese architecture and lovely gardens. While there, you'll enjoy a traditional legong dance performance, which takes place daily. Legong, which likely originated in the 19th century, requires such intense training that most girls begin at the age of five. Watch as the complicated hand movements and intricate footwork tell a mesmerizing story of mythical origins, accompanied by traditional music.
Day 4: Visit Elephant Sanctuary, Telaga Waja Rafting, Hike to Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Start today with a once-in-a-lifetime experience by spending the morning at an elephant sanctuary in Ubud. Interact with these gentle giants in their natural habitat while learning about local conservation efforts at this local refuge. Your trip highlight will be bathing with the elephants! Help lead them to the water and then splash together in the refreshing river before washing your elephant down with a brush and hose.
Following your elephant encounter, gear up for three exhilarating hours of whitewater rafting through tropical jungles on a 9-mile (14 km) rafting trip on the Telaga Waja River. You'll paddle through thrilling rapids, discover villages amid lush greenery, and witness cascading waterfalls along the river's edge. Expert guides will lead you through the twists and turns of the river, so this activity is open to beginners and seasoned rafters alike. Conclude your adventure with a local lunch by the riverside.
Next, meet your driver and head to the rice fields, where you'll hike down a narrow, rocky path for about an hour before reaching the Tukad Cepung waterfall, hidden within a cave setting. Notice the play of light and shadow created by the sun filtering through the cave and enjoy a refreshing swim. After your cool down and return hike, your driver will take you back to Ubud.Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 5: Fly to Sumba, Transfer to Waingapu, Free Time in Waingapu
Meet your driver this morning for a transfer to Bali's airport for a two-hour flight to Sumba, the rugged Indonesian island that still flies under the radar for most travelers. Upon arrival at Waingapu Airport, your guide and driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Settle in, then head out to explore the port town of Waingapu, the capital of the East Sumba Regency. Stroll through the local fish market, which comes alive at the end of the day, and stop at one of the small warungs (restaurants) to sample delicious fish, shrimp, or grilled squid while observing the bustling scenes of local life.
Day 6: Visit Waimarang Waterfall, Sunset at Walakiri Beach
Meet your driver this morning for an excursion to the Waimarang waterfall. Located near Waimarang village, this waterfall is a destination guaranteed to steal travelers' hearts. Cross streams and navigate narrow trails through lush tropical forest until you reach the secluded waterfall. In this multi-tiered cascade, water flows through a series of rock formations into several clear, turquoise pools perfect for swimming and relaxing. Plunge into the natural pool at the base of the falls to cool down from your energetic trek, and look up at the rock walls enclosing the pool.
Swap freshwater for salt by heading next to the idyllic Walakiri Beach, whose soft white sands and crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming. Walk among the forest of mangroves standing in the shallows to admire their striking silhouettes and beautiful reflections cast on the water. Then, snap photos as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean before returning with your driver to your hotel for the evening.
Day 7: Transfer to Waikabubak via Bukit Wairinding, Prai Ijing & Lapopu Waterfall
You'll head inland to Waikabubak today, exploring more of the island as you go. Begin your journey by ascending the hill, Bukit Wairinding, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of lush green valleys and rolling landscapes. Continue to the remarkable Prai Ijing megalithic village, chat with the locals, and discover the megalithic stone tombs in front of each home. Admire the traditional thatched Sumbanese houses called Uma Mbatangu (tall house ) or Uma Bokulu (big house). The height of each house's roof depends on the owner's status in the village and can reach up to 100 feet (30 m).
Finally, head to the tiered Lapopu waterfall, hidden in the tropical forest. Access the falls via a 10-minute hike and bamboo bridge crossing. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters below the 295-foot (90 m) cascades that tumble down a series of rock formations to form natural pools at different levels. Then, end the day by transferring to your hotel in Waikabubak, where you'll spend three nights.
Day 8: Explore Waikuri Lagoon, Ratenggaro Village & Mandorak Beach
Join your guide for a tour of the area's highlights today, beginning at the Waikuri Lagoon, a small saltwater lake formed by cavities in the cliffside separating it from the ocean. A true haven of peace, this lake's turquoise water is unequaled in clarity, making this isolated paradise the perfect place for a swim. Grab your snorkel mask and dive through the underwater tunnel connecting the lake to the ocean, keeping an eye out for marine life, including turtles and colorful tropical fish.
Continue your island tour at Ratenggaro village. Here, you'll have the chance to meet the locals, learn about their culture, and discover more of Sumba's traditional houses. Your guide will provide insight into the architecture and culture as you walk past the village houses toward the megalithic tombs. Pay your respects at these ancient burial sites of the village's ancestors, learn the tales and legends surrounding them, and then head to higher ground for village views from above.
Once you're done exploring Ratenggaro, travel with your driver to Mandorak Beach, where you'll have a scenic panorama of the rocky cliffs and ocean waves. Explore the incredible rock formations that make the beach famous, discover the underwater world in the pristine water offshore as you swim and snorkel, and then enjoy the spectacular sunset before returning to your hotel.
Day 9: Free Day on Sumba Island
For more beach time, check out Watu Bella Beach, where you'll pass through a small traditional village and groves of coconut trees to reach a magnificent stretch of white sand. Head to Pero Beach next, where herds of goats and buffalo roam free. You can stop here for a picnic lunch as you observe local fishermen and their traditional wooden boats.
Continue your beach-hopping at Watu Maladong Beach to explore the enormous rock formations protruding from the sea. Once you've had time to look around and relax, continue your journey to Bwanna Beach, a long and colorful clear-sand beach under an impressive cliff. A steep climb down will take you to Bwanna's enormous stone archway—an ideal spot to appreciate the sunset.
Day 10: Fly to Bali, Transfer to Uluwatu, Free Time in Uluwatu
Prepare for an early wake-up call this morning for your transfer to the airport, where you'll catch a flight back to Denpasar in Bali. Your driver will be waiting to take you to the beautiful Balinese region of Uluwatu on the island's southern tip. Check into your hotel and then spend the afternoon relaxing on the nearby beaches, like Uluwatu Beach or Padang Padang.
Discover South Bali's other vibrant beachside towns, such as Kuta, where you can ride the waterslides and dine at beachy cafés. For one-stop entertainment, spend time at Finn's Recreation Club, which offers a chance to participate in various watersports, hit up a waterpark, and relax at a spa. And, if you're a surfing enthusiast, you'll revel in the incredible surf on Bingin Beach or Dreamland Beach.
Day 11: Visit Uluwatu Temple, Sunset at Tanah Lot, Jimbaran Seafood Barbecue
Today takes you to the spectacular setting of the 11th-century Pura Luhur Uluwatu, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god of the sea, Dewa Baruna. Explore the temple grounds and learn about the history and traditions of Balinese Hinduism. While there, you'll also witness a kecak dance performance held on the temple grounds. This Balinese dance and music form originated in the 1930s in Bona, Bali, and is performed by male dancers who use their bodies and voices to create a mesmerizing rhythmic chanting sound.
Next, make a memorable visit to Tanah Lot, an interesting rock formation and temple dedicated to Balinese sea gods. During low tide, you can access the temple via a narrow causeway. Witness the fantastic sunset views, peruse local shops within the temple, and savor delicious food amid a sacred atmosphere guarded by playful monkeys. In the evening, head to a beach in nearby Jimbaran for a traditional seafood barbecue of freshly caught fish grilled over an open flame. Savor grilled prawns, squid, lobster, spicy sambal sauce, and steamed rice as you enjoy the beachy atmosphere.
Day 12: Depart Bali
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