Highlights
- Relax in your villa and swim in your private pool at the 5-star Mandapa Ritz-Carlton
- Spend time at the beautiful pools and gardens of Tirta Gangga Water Palace
- Observe and interact with curious monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
- Dine on fresh local fruits and pastries at an opulent poolside floating breakfast
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud, Free Afternoon to Explore | Ubud |
| Day 2 | Visit Jatiluwih Rice Terrace & Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Sunset Golfing | Ubud |
| Day 3 | Snorkeling Excursion in Tulamben, Tour Tirta Gangga Water Palace | Ubud |
| Day 4 | Balinese Jewelry-Making Class, Romantic Dinner at Si Jin Restaurant | Ubud |
| Day 5 | Sacred Monkey Forest & Ubud Palace, Tanah Lot, Transfer to Jimbaran | Jimbaran |
| Day 6 | Experience Jimbaran's Rich Farming Community & Culture | Jimbaran |
| Day 7 | Day Trip via Helicopter to Surf, Swim, and Sunbathe in Grajagan | Jimbaran |
| Day 8 | Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Dance Performance, Evening at the Rock Bar | Jimbaran |
| Day 9 | Floating Breakfast, Lightness of Being Massage, Barbecue with Private Chef | Jimbaran |
| Day 10 | Depart Jimbaran |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Ubud, Free Afternoon to Explore
Welcome to Indonesia! Your flight lands on Bali, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands and known for its lush landscapes, ornate temples, and rich cultural traditions. Your private driver will collect you from the airport and transfer you to Ubud, where you'll check in at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Nestled in Ubud's jungle, this 5-star retreat offers rooms, suites, and villas with floor-to-ceiling windows, private pools, and 24-hour butler service.
After hotel check-in, your afternoon is free to explore on your own. Head into town and stroll along the charming streets, stopping at local shops or grabbing a bite at a local restaurant. For souvenirs, visit the Ubud Art Market, where you can find items like silk scarves, handcrafted bags, and fun kites, or if you'd like a nature stroll, make your way to the temple of Pura Gunung Lebah and follow the Campuhan Ridge Walk, an hourlong, easy hike that takes you through rice paddies and palm trees. Tonight, relax with dinner and drinks at your hotel.
Day 2: Visit Jatiluwih Rice Terrace & Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Sunset Golfing
The day starts with a visit to Jatiluwih Rice Terrace, one of Bali's most scenic destinations. Meet your private driver in the morning and travel to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features terraced rice fields encompassing more than 1,400 acres (600 ha). You can take a leisurely walk or bike ride through the endless greenery of the fields, and your guide will share information on the subak irrigation system, a traditional method of rice cultivation that has been used in Bali for centuries.
Continue to Ulun Danu Beratan, a 17th-century complex dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of Lake Beratan. The shrine sits on the lakeshore and has distinctive multi-tiered meru shrines, intricate carvings, and a peaceful atmosphere. As you learn about the site's history and cultural significance, marvel at the temple's traditional carvings and designs. Finish with a gentle walk along the lake before returning to your hotel.
Later, golf enthusiasts can enjoy a fun sunset golf session in Ubud. This golfing experience combines the thrill of the sport with the beauty of Bali's natural landscapes. Players of all skill levels will enjoy the course, which features well-manicured fairways and greens, all set against panoramic vistas and the slowly setting sun.
Day 3: Snorkeling Excursion in Tulamben, Tour Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Discover Bali's underwater world as you take a private snorkeling excursion to Tulamben, a small fishing village on the northeast coast and one of the island's most popular diving and snorkeling sites. Meet your guide at your hotel in the morning for the two-hour scenic drive, and upon arrival, you'll get set up with your equipment and receive a safety briefing before diving in.
Swim along colorful coral reefs and view the region's diverse marine life, all set against Bali's incredible coastline. The waters of Tulamben also hold the wreckage of the USAT Liberty, a transport ship that was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1942, which you'll have a chance to explore. The beaches here are relatively quiet and secluded, making it a relaxing spot to enjoy the natural surroundings between snorkeling adventures.
Before you return to your hotel, visit Tirta Gangga Water Palace. This lovely water garden, built by the king of Karangasem in the early 20th century, features a collection of pools, fountains, and statues, all surrounded by green gardens and distant views of rice terraces and mountains. Spend time in different garden areas, including the main pool, the smaller fountains, and the stepping stones that lead to the central island. Arrive back at the resort in time for a sunset dinner or a walk around the grounds.
Day 4: Balinese Jewelry-Making Class, Romantic Dinner at Si Jin Restaurant
Journey into the age-old tradition of Balinese jewelry-making, meeting with skilled local artisans for a private lesson that showcases the silver and gold crafting techniques passed down through generations. Under the expert guidance of master craftspeople, you'll practice intricate filigree work and create personalized pieces, unleashing your creativity and coming away with a truly unique souvenir of your travels.
Tonight, prepare for an extraordinary dining experience at Si Jin, a fine dining establishment that celebrates the essence of Ubud's culinary heritage. You'll be welcomed into a haven of exquisite flavors and impeccable hospitality, sampling items from a menu crafted specifically toward local Balinese ingredients and adding contemporary Asian influences. Try reserve cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and exciting twists on traditional fare, such as eggplant with miso and mozzarella, or their take on Mac-n-Cheese.
Day 5: Sacred Monkey Forest & Ubud Palace, Tanah Lot, Transfer to Jimbaran
You're off to Jimbaran, a fishing village and resort town approximately two hours from Ubud. Your private driver will collect you for the drive, with stops at notable sites along the way. Start at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to over 700 macaque monkeys. Established in the 14th century, the sanctuary is considered sacred to the Balinese, and in addition to monkeys, you'll find several ancient Hindu temples. See the monkeys in their natural habitat, and if you're lucky, you may even get to feed them!
Next up is Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren, a well-known cultural landmark in Ubud. Built in the 1800s, the palace was once the residence of Ubud's royal family, but now it serves as a cultural center where visitors can learn about Bali's history and traditions. Tour the palace's ornate halls and courtyards, taking in the intricate architecture that blends Balinese and Javanese styles and the beautifully cared-for gardens. The palace is also a venue for traditional Balinese dance performances, including the Legong dance, which you may have the opportunity to observe.
End the day at the enchanting Tanah Lot. This ancient Hindu shrine sits perched atop a rocky outcrop, surrounded by crashing ocean waves, offering a spectacular play of light across the water as the sun goes down. Let this moment of tranquility linger as you take in the views, enjoying the spiritual ambience. Afterward, continue to Jimbaran and arrive at your hotel, the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. Sheltered in a quiet bay on the water, you'll find well-appointed rooms with traditional Balinese decor, options for villas with private pools, and a wealth of amenities at your fingertips.
Day 6: Experience Jimbaran's Rich Farming Community & Culture
Become part of the authentic rhythms of rural life in Bali by spending a day with local farmers, delving into the traditional agricultural practices that define the island's cultural heritage. Your day starts at sunrise, as you meet your guide and head to a local farm, where you'll participate in the daily rituals of planting, tending the rice terraces, and nurturing an array of tropical crops.
Guided by the wisdom of seasoned farmers, embrace the gratifying labor of handpicking fresh produce, understanding the significance of each cultivation process within the local ecosystem. Indulge in the warmth of Balinese hospitality as you close the day with a shared meal that features farm-fresh delicacies, exchanging stories and insights that offer a glimpse into the deep bond between the Balinese community and their agricultural roots.
Day 7: Day Trip via Helicopter to Surf, Swim, and Sunbathe in Grajagan
Thrills abound this morning as you set out for a high-flying helicopter ride to the surfing haven of Grajagan, renowned globally for its world-class waves and incredible coastal views. Your driver will transport you to the helipad, where you'll meet your pilot and take to the skies. See Bali from a different perspective as you soar across mountain vistas, deep jungle, and white sand beaches, then arrive at Grajagan for a day of sun and fun.
This surfer's paradise is the perfect playground for beginners and veteran wave riders, with surf conditions fusing powerful swells and pristine natural surroundings. Adrenaline junkies will love the rush of testing barrels and breaks, while less experienced surfers can stay closer to shore while still immersing themselves in the region's vibrant surf culture. Sun, swim, and play in the waves all afternoon, returning via helicopter just before sunset.
Day 8: Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Dance Performance, Evening at the Rock Bar
Today's private tour takes you to the ancient 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. Walk around the grounds and learn about the significance of the temple, which is dedicated to Dewa Baruna, the Hindu god of the sea. As you wander, keep an eye out for the population of monkeys that inhabit the area—considered sacred and believed to protect the temple from evil spirits, they're also prone to snatching items from unsuspecting visitors!
From here, make your way to the amphitheater for a memorable kecak dance performance. This traditional Balinese dance and music show features a large group of male performers chanting the rhythmic "cak cak" sounds while dancers re-enact scenes from the Hindu epic Ramayana, all set against the backdrop of the setting sun. Finish with a stop at Jimbarin's Rock Bar, where you'll find a cliffside entrance and a custom DJ booth carved right into the cliff face. Sit at their Round Bar, listen to live music, and sip handcrafted cocktails in the unique surroundings.
Day 9: Floating Breakfast, Lightness of Being Massage, Barbecue with Private Chef
Start your last full day in Bali with a decadent floating breakfast. In the tranquil surroundings of your private pool, indulge in an array of gourmet delicacies while you bask in the morning sun and savor the views of jungle greenery and serene ocean waters. You'll be served an assortment of fresh tropical fruits, pastries, and traditional Indonesian delights, all meticulously presented.
Afterward, it's time for the ultimate rejuvenation with a "Lightness of Being Massage." Designed to alleviate physical tension and promote emotional well-being, this therapeutic journey combines Balinese massage techniques, aromatherapy, and gentle stretches to restore harmony and balance within the body. Guests are transported into deep tranquility as skilled therapists work on their muscles, all within the soothing ambience of a luxurious spa. Walk away with a sense of lightness, peace, and renewed connection to the soul.
End your perfect day under the stars as a private chef prepares a barbecue feast just for you. Set against a balmy tropical evening, you'll be treated to fresh local seafood, prime cuts of meat, or an array of flavorful vegetarian delicacies, all expertly prepared and grilled to perfection. The menu is tailored to suit individual preferences, creating a dining experience that epitomizes luxury and culinary excellence, leaving your appetite fully sated.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 10: Depart Jimbaran
Your luxury island escape in Indonesia ends today. After breakfast, you'll check out of your hotel and meet your driver for your transfer to the airport to catch your flight home or to your next destination. Safe travels!
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