10 Best Tours in Bali

Hey there my travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 best tours in Bali for some laid back adventures this year. Bali is a beautiful island located in Indonesia that offers a variety of unique experiences for travelers.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there are plenty of tours in Bali that can help you explore the island and make the most of your trip. So pack your swimmers and comfortable shoes and let’s check them out.

Best Tours in Bali

As above, Bali is a beautiful island in Indonesia that offers a wide range of tours and activities for tourists. Whether you are interested in full-day tours, adventure tours or historical tours, Bali has it all.

I will discuss the ins and out of booking them at the end of this list but for now, we will explore the best tours Bali has to offer below:

1. The Uluwatu Sunset Tour

The Uluwatu Sunset Tour is a popular half-day tour in Bali, known for its unique blend of cultural and scenic experiences. This tour typically lasts around 6 hours and is highly recommended by travelers for its enriching and enjoyable itinerary.

The tour usually includes a visit to the beautiful Uluwatu Temple, which stands majestically on a cliff edge, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. This ancient Hindu temple is known for its stunning architecture and the spiritual ambiance that surrounds it.

A significant highlight of the tour is the Kecak Dance performance – a traditional Balinese dance performed by a group of male dancers who chant and move in unison, creating a captivating and rhythmic spectacle. The dance is usually performed at sunset, adding to the dramatic and mystical atmosphere.

The tour often concludes with a delightful seafood dinner at Jimbaran Beach. This beach is famous for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets, making it the perfect location to relax and enjoy a meal after a day of exploration.

The tour is not only about sightseeing but also offers insights into Balinese culture and traditions. The experience of visiting the temple and watching the Kecak Dance allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the local customs and religious practices.

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2. Ubud Tour

If you are staying in the southern parts of Bali, then a day tour to Ubud is well worth the effort. his tour, which typically lasts between 8 to 10 hours, is designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience of Ubud’s rich cultural and natural landscape.

And whilst the exact itinerary can vary and often depends on customization options, common attractions and experiences included in such tours are:

1. Ubud Monkey Forest: A natural forest sanctuary home to a large number of grey long-tailed macaques. It’s not only a wildlife reserve but also holds spiritual significance with ancient temples set amidst dense foliage.
2. Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung): A historical building complex where the royal family of Ubud resides. It’s known for its traditional Balinese architecture and evening dance performances.
3. Ubud Art Market: A bustling market where you can find a variety of handcrafted goods, textiles, paintings and unique Balinese souvenirs.
4. Tegalalang Rice Terraces: Famous for their stunning scenes of rice paddies involving the traditional Balinese cooperative irrigation system known as subak.
5. Traditional Balinese Temples: Visits to significant temples such as Tirta Empul Temple, known for its holy spring water, or Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), an archaeological site of significant historical value.
6. Waterfalls: Depending on the itinerary, the tour might include visits to picturesque waterfalls in the area, such as Tegenungan Waterfall.
7. Coffee Plantations: Some tours offer a visit to local coffee plantations where you can learn about traditional coffee production and taste the famous Luwak coffee.
8. Local Cuisine: Sampling traditional Balinese dishes and learning about the local culinary practices.

All in all, this tour is ideal for those who want a well-rounded experience of Ubud, covering its cultural highlights, natural beauty and culinary delights. It’s particularly suitable for first-time visitors who wish to get a comprehensive overview of what Ubud has to offer.

Check out these: Best Things to do in Ubud

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3. Nusa Penida Snorkeling + Land Tour

The Nusa Penida Snorkeling + Land Tour is a full-day tour that offers an exciting and comprehensive experience exploring the island of Nusa Penida, located southeast of Bali. This tour is highly recommended by travelers and includes several key features and locations:

1. Duration: The tour typically lasts from 8 AM to 5 PM, providing a full day of activities and exploration.
2. Private Boat Ride: The tour includes a private boat ride to Nusa Penida, offering a more personalized and exclusive experience compared to standard ferry services.
3. Snorkeling at Four Different Spots: Participants have the opportunity to snorkel at four distinct locations around Nusa Penida. These spots are chosen for their clear waters, abundant marine life and beautiful coral formations.
4. Swimming with Manta Rays: A highlight of the tour is the chance to swim with manta rays. These majestic creatures are often spotted in the waters around Nusa Penida, providing a unique and memorable experience.
5. Land Tour: In addition to the snorkeling adventures, the tour includes a land tour of Nusa Penida. This part of the trip allows visitors to explore the island’s stunning landscapes, including cliffs, beaches, and other natural attractions.
6. Inclusions: The tour is generally all-inclusive, typically covering the cost of the boat ride, snorkeling equipment, guide services and sometimes meals and refreshments. Exact inclusions can vary, so it’s advisable to check the specific details at the time of booking.

This tour is ideal for those who love marine adventures and wish to explore the natural beauty of Nusa Penida both underwater and on land. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and scenic beauty, making it a popular choice for visitors to Bali.

Book your trip to Bali here!

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4. ATV Quad Bike Tours

For the more adventurous amongst you, Bali offers a range of ATV Quad bike tours designed to provide an exhilarating ride through a variety of terrains and rural landscapes, which may include muddy tracks, rice fields, plantations and jungle paths. The trail is carefully chosen to offer a mix of scenic beauty and adventurous riding.

One of the most popular options is the ride to Gorilla Cave near Ubud which involves riding the quad bikes to the cave’s location and experiencing its natural beauty and geological features. The adventure is designed to cater to both beginners and experienced riders and all necessary safety equipment for the quad bike ride, including helmets and boots is provided.

The total duration of most Bali quad bike tours is approximately 6 – 7 hours, from pickup to drop-off and is led by experienced guides who know the terrain well. They ensure that the ride is safe, enjoyable, and that participants get to see the best spots along the trail.

Participant Requirements:

• The Bali ATV adventure is not suitable for pregnant travelers.
• It’s appropriate for couples, group travelers, and individuals aged 6 to 65 years old.
• Children under 16 years old are not allowed to ride the ATV alone but can join as passengers (tandem).
• The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

This tour is an excellent choice for adventure seekers looking to experience the natural beauty of Ubud in a unique and exciting way. The combination of ATV riding, exploring the Gorilla Cave and enjoying a local lunch provides a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

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5. Bali Instagram Tour

Ok, now for the social influencers amongst you, there is the Bali Instagram Tour. This is a full-day tour designed for those who want to visit the most picturesque and Instagram-worthy locations in Bali. It is highly recommended by travelers and includes visits to magical waterfalls, stunning temples and other scenic spots that Bali is famous for.

The tour typically lasts between 10 to 12 hours and visits to some of Bali’s most beautiful and photogenic locations. These spots are carefully selected for their visual appeal and are popular among photographers and social media enthusiasts including:

1. Lempuyang Temple (The Gateway to Heaven): Famous for its stunning split gates that frame Mount Agung, creating a visually striking and highly photogenic scene.
2. Tegalalang Rice Terraces: These are beautiful and expansive rice fields in Ubud, known for their lush greenery and traditional Balinese irrigation system called subak.
3. Tukad Cepung Waterfall: A unique and scenic waterfall that’s hidden inside a cave, offering a magical and serene atmosphere perfect for photography.
4. Wanagiri Hidden Hills: Known for its breathtaking view of Lake Buyan and its famous Bali swing, providing a perfect backdrop for dramatic photos.
5. Handara Gate: Another popular spot for photos, this traditional Balinese gate offers a picturesque view with a backdrop of lush green mountains and exotic plants.
6. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: This water temple sits on the shores of Lake Beratan and is known for its serene and mystical beauty, especially when the lake’s calm waters create a reflective mirror effect.
7. Jungle Swing in Ubud: Swings over the jungle, such as those in Bali Swing or other similar locations, offer a thrilling experience and a unique photo opportunity with a backdrop of tropical greenery.
8. Diamond Beach or Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida: If the tour includes a visit to Nusa Penida, these beaches are known for their stunning coastal cliffs and clear blue waters.
9. Coffee Plantations: Some tours include a visit to a local coffee plantation where you can learn about the traditional process of making Balinese coffee, including the famous Luwak coffee.

These locations are chosen for their visual appeal and the unique experience they offer, making them ideal for capturing memorable photographs. The tour is a great way to explore Bali’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks while getting those perfect shots for Instagram.

Check out these: Best Waterfalls in Bali

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6. Tanah Lot & North Bali Tour

The Tanah Lot & North Bali tour is a popular tour that offers a blend of cultural and scenic experiences in Bali and typically covers some of the most picturesque and culturally significant sites in the region. Here are the key highlights of the tour:

1. Tanah Lot Temple: This iconic sea temple is one of Bali’s most famous landmarks. Located on a rock formation off the coast, Tanah Lot is known for its unique offshore setting and sunset backdrops and is an important cultural and spiritual site for Balinese Hindus.
2. North Bali Scenery: The tour includes a journey through the scenic landscapes of North Bali, known for its lush greenery, mountains and serene environment. This region is less crowded compared to the southern part of Bali, offering a more tranquil experience. highlights here include Bedugul, Gitgit waterfall, Lovina Beach and the Banjar Hot springs.
3. Cultural Insights: The tour provides insights into Balinese culture, traditions and architecture via visiting local temples and villages allowing participants to get a deeper understanding of the local way of life.
4. Photography Opportunities: With its stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks, the tour offers numerous opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture the beauty of Bali.
5. Duration: The tour typically lasts for about 8 to 10 hours, making it a full-day excursion that allows ample time to explore and enjoy each location.
6. All-Inclusive Option: Many such tours are all-inclusive, covering entrance fees, transportation and sometimes meals. This makes it convenient for travelers to enjoy the day without worrying about additional costs.

This tour is ideal for those who want to experience the cultural richness and scenic beauty of Bali, particularly the less-explored northern region. It’s suitable for all types of travelers, including solo adventurers, couples, families and groups.

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7. Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking Tour

The Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking tour is a popular adventure activity in Bali that offers an unforgettable experience of hiking up an active volcano to witness a breathtaking sunrise. Here are the key highlights and features of this tour:

1. Early Morning Trek: The tour typically starts very early in the morning, often around 2:00 AM or 3:00 AM, to ensure that participants reach the summit in time for sunrise.
2. Mount Batur: The trek involves climbing Mount Batur, an active volcano located in the Kintamani region of Bali. The mountain stands at approximately 1,717 meters (5,633 feet) above sea level.
3. Sunrise View: The main attraction of the trek is the stunning sunrise view from the summit. As the sun rises, it illuminates the sky in vibrant colors, offering a spectacular view over the surrounding landscape including the caldera and Lake Batur.
4. Guided Experience: The trek is usually guided by experienced local guides who are familiar with the terrain and can provide insights into the geological and cultural significance of Mount Batur.
5. Physical Challenge: The hike is moderately challenging and typically takes about two hours to reach the summit. It’s suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness.
6. Breakfast at the Summit: Many tours offer a simple breakfast at the summit, which may include eggs cooked with the steam from the volcano’s fissures, along with bread, fruit and hot beverages.
7. Duration: The total duration of the tour, including transportation to and from the trekking start point, is usually around 8 to 10 hours.
8. Additional Attractions: Some tours may include additional stops after the trek, such as a visit to a coffee plantation, hot springs or a traditional Balinese village.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts looking to experience one of Bali’s most iconic natural attractions. The combination of physical activity, natural beauty and cultural insights makes it a memorable experience for many visitors to Bali.

Check out these: Best Hiking Trails in Bali

Book your trip to Bali here!

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8. Tirta Empul Tours

Tirta Empul, known for its holy spring water, is a significant Hindu Balinese water temple located near the town of Tampaksiring, Bali. Here are some key aspects of tours that typically include Tirta Empul:

1. Spiritual Significance: Tirta Empul is famous for its holy water where Balinese Hindus go for ritual purification. The temple pond has a spring which gives out fresh water regularly, which Balinese Hindus consider to be holy or amritha.
2. Cultural Experience: Tours to Tirta Empul provide insights into Balinese Hindu traditions and practices. Visitors often get the chance to observe or participate in purification rituals.
3. Architecture and History: The temple features traditional Balinese architecture and is rich in history. It was founded in 926 A.D. and is dedicated to Vishnu, a Hindu god.
4. Scenic Beauty: The temple is set amidst lush greenery and offers a serene and picturesque environment, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation.
5. Combination with Other Attractions: These tours often combine a visit to Tirta Empul with other nearby attractions such as the Ubud Monkey Forest, rice terraces, coffee plantations or other cultural sites in Bali.
6. Guided Tours: Most tours are guided, providing valuable information about the temple’s history, the significance of the rituals, and insights into Balinese culture.
7. Duration and Inclusions: The duration of these tours can vary, but they typically last half a day to a full day. They often include hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation and sometimes meals or entrance fees.
8. Dress Code and Etiquette: Visitors are usually advised to dress respectfully when visiting the temple. Sarongs and sashes are often required or provided for entering the temple grounds.

These tours are ideal for those interested in experiencing the spiritual and cultural aspects of Bali. They offer a chance to witness the unique religious practices of the island and explore one of its most sacred sites.

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9. White Water Rafting Tours

In Bali, there are several tours available that include white water rafting as a key activity. These tours offer an exhilarating experience navigating the rapids of Bali’s rivers, surrounded by the island’s lush landscapes. Here are some key aspects of these white water rafting tours:

1. Popular Rafting Locations: The most common rivers used for white water rafting in Bali are the Ayung River in Ubud and the Telaga Waja River in East Bali. Both rivers offer a mix of exciting rapids and scenic views.
2. Rafting Experience: The rafting experience typically includes navigating through rapids ranging from class II to III, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate rafters. The Ayung River is known for its more moderate rapids, while the Telaga Waja River offers a more adventurous experience with its stronger currents.
3. Scenic Beauty: The rafting journey provides an opportunity to see Bali’s natural beauty up close, including lush rainforests, waterfalls, and picturesque gorges.
4. Duration and Inclusions: These tours usually last half a day to a full day and often include hotel pickup and drop-off, safety equipment, professional guides and sometimes meals or refreshments.
5. Safety and Guides: Safety is a priority on these tours, with experienced guides leading the way and providing instructions on navigating the rapids. All necessary safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets are provided.
6. Additional Activities: Some tours combine white water rafting with other activities like cycling, trekking or visits to local attractions to offer a more comprehensive Bali adventure experience.
7. Suitable for All Ages: White water rafting in Bali is generally suitable for all ages, making it a popular choice for families, groups and solo travelers looking for an adventurous outing.

White water rafting tours in Bali are a great way to add some adventure to your trip, offering both excitement and the chance to enjoy the island’s stunning natural environment.

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10. Mason Elephant Park & Lodge Tour

The Mason Elephant Park & Lodge in Bali is a unique destination that offers visitors an opportunity to interact closely with elephants. Established in 1997 in the misty hinterlands of Ubud, the park serves as a dedicated elephant rescue facility, particularly for the critically-endangered Sumatran elephants.

The park is home to Bali’s largest herd of Sumatran elephants, including several born there and was created as a response to the declining elephant population in Sumatra due to deforestation and poaching. The park emphasizes ethical treatment and does not use brutal or cruel training methods. Training is conducted through repetition, reward, and patience.

Visitors can enjoy various interactive experiences with the elephants such as feeding, bathing and riding them through the park’s lush environment.

Tour Options:

• General Admission: Offers a chance to see the elephants and learn about them.
• Bathe & Breakfast: An experience that includes bathing with the elephants followed by breakfast.
• Elephant Safari: A ride on an elephant through the park.
• Safari Under the Stars: An evening tour with the elephants.
• Jumbo Wash: An opportunity to wash and interact with the elephants.

The park is set within 4.5 hectares, landscaped to mimic the elephants’ natural habitat in Sumatra. The location in central Bali was chosen for its cooler climate and lush environment.

And should you wish to stay a while, The Elephant Park Lodge offers unique accommodation where guests can stay and have more time to interact with the elephants as well.

The Mason Elephant Park & Lodge is a must-visit for those looking to have a close encounter with elephants in an ethical and sustainable environment. It offers a blend of adventure, education, and conservation, making it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Booking Tours in Bali

When it comes to booking tours in Bali, there are a few options to choose from including:

1. Online Booking Platforms: Many tours in Bali can be booked online through platforms like TripAdvisor, Viator, GetYourGuide, or Klook. These websites offer a wide range of tours, user reviews and easy booking processes. They often provide detailed information about the tour, including duration, inclusions, exclusions and cancellation policies.
2. Local Travel Agencies: You can also book tours through local travel agencies found in popular tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and Nusa Dua. These agencies often have physical offices where you can walk in, get information, and book tours directly.
3. Hotel Concierge Services: Many hotels in Bali offer concierge services where you can book various tours. Hotel staff can provide recommendations and handle the booking process for you. This option is convenient but sometimes might be slightly more expensive.
4. Direct Booking with Tour Operators: If you have a specific tour operator in mind, you can often book directly through their website or contact them via phone or email. This option can sometimes offer more flexibility in terms of customizing your tour.
5. Hire a driver: Should you know where you want to go or wish to go by yourself, then you can hire a private driver to take you to most of the locations above. This method allows you to set a price and customize your travel experience. Noter though that you will need to pay for your own entrance costs and food along the way.

FAQs

Conclusion

There you have it, my 10 best tours in Bali to get out and about on this year. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is another tour you have done that should be added to the list.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul