Alright, let’s get into it—Bali isn’t just beaches and infinity pools. The island is bursting with experiences that’ll stick with you long after you’ve packed up your sarong. After 12 years, I’ve got the lowdown on Must-Do Tours in Baliand what’s, honestly, just Instagram hype. So buckle up (literally, if you're on one of my tours), and let’s chat about the tours that’ll make you fall in love with the Island of the Gods.
Sunrise at Mount Batur: A Hike Worth the Yawn
Okay, I’ll admit it—getting up at 2 AM isn’t my idea of fun. But trust me, the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek is one of those “pain now, thank me later” situations. The hike isn’t super intense, about 2-3 hours depending on your pace, but yes, it’s dark and can be slippery. Bring a flashlight—or better yet, let your guide bring one for you.
Check also: Bali Wellness and Spa Packages
Once you’re at the top, though? Wow. Watching the sun peek over the horizon while sipping hot coffee (usually provided by your guide) is unreal. It’s like Bali says, “Good morning, champ!” And if you’re lucky, you’ll get clear skies with views of Mount Agung and even Lombok’s Mount Rinjani in the distance.
I know I’m not supposed to use that word, but just roll with it): Wear layers. It’s chilly up there at dawn, but once the sun’s up, you’ll be peeling them off faster than you can say “terima kasih.”
Oh, and don’t forget to try the volcanic-cooked eggs. Yes, it sounds weird, but they steam them in the mountain’s vents, and somehow, they taste better because, well, volcano magic.
Snorkeling at Menjangan Island: The OG Underwater Safari
If you’re into snorkeling or diving, Menjangan Island in West Bali is the spot. The water here is insanely clear, and the coral reefs? Chef’s kiss. It’s about a 3-hour drive from the more touristy areas like Seminyak or Canggu, but that’s kind of the point. It’s quieter, less crowded, and feels like a secret you’re let in on.
The underwater world here is next-level. I once saw a sea turtle just casually cruising past me, and there are always loads of colorful fish darting around. The coral is alive and vibrant—no sad bleached reefs here. If you dive, you’ll also spot drop-offs that go down hundreds of meters. Spooky but cool.
One downside? It’s not the easiest place to get to, so plan to dedicate a full day. Oh, and bring snacks; the boat rides can be long, and hangry doesn’t look good on anyone.
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Don’t Just Look—Walk It
Here’s a hot take: the Tegallalang Rice Terraces aren’t just for Instagram photos. Yes, they’re stunning and green and layered like a perfect cake, but they’re also a great place to actually learn about Bali’s subak irrigation system. (That’s the traditional water-sharing method used here, in case you’re wondering.)
What makes this spot worth your time is walking through the terraces themselves. Pay a small donation—usually just a few bucks—and you can follow narrow paths that wind through the fields. You’ll likely meet a few local farmers who are always happy to chat. One guy even let me try planting rice once. Spoiler alert: it’s harder than it looks, and my row was embarrassingly crooked.
If you’re feeling adventurous, stop by one of the swing spots nearby. Yeah, it’s touristy, but the adrenaline rush of swinging out over the rice fields is legit fun.
Explore Ubud on a Culture-Filled Day Tour
Ubud isn’t just about yoga and vegan cafes—although those are great too. This town is the cultural heartbeat of Bali, and a day here can be as packed or chill as you want.
Start with the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Yes, the monkeys are cute, but watch your stuff—they’re also cheeky thieves. Sunglasses, snacks, cameras… they’ll snatch anything.
From there, hit up the Ubud Art Market. It’s vibrant, chaotic, and full of unique Balinese handicrafts. Pro tip (oops, there it is again): haggle politely. Most sellers expect it, and you’ll usually land a better price.
Finally, make time for one of Ubud’s many temples. My personal favorite? Tirta Empul Temple. Here, you can participate in a traditional purification ritual by bathing in holy spring water. It’s a beautiful, spiritual experience that feels surprisingly grounding, even if you’re not particularly religious.
A Day on Nusa Penida: Worth Every Bumpy Ride
Nusa Penida is like Bali’s wild little cousin. It’s rugged, remote, and absolutely jaw-dropping. If you’ve seen photos of the famous Kelingking Beach (aka the one that looks like a T-Rex), you already know the vibes.
Getting there involves a 45-minute speedboat ride from Sanur, which is a bit chaotic but part of the adventure. Once you’re on the island, rent a scooter or book a driver—trust me, the roads are no joke.
The highlights? Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach are must-sees, but Diamond Beach stole my heart. The climb down is steep, with stairs carved right into the cliff, but the view and the soft white sand at the bottom make it 100% worth the effort.
Sidemen Valley: Bali’s Peaceful Side
For a change of pace, head to Sidemen Valley. It’s like Ubud 20 years ago—lush, quiet, and full of charm. This is the place to slow down, take a deep breath, and just be.
You can explore the valley on foot or by bike, passing through small villages, rice fields, and rivers. One time, I stumbled upon a family weaving songket (traditional Balinese fabric) in their home. They invited me in, and it was one of the most humbling experiences ever.
If you’re into food, sign up for a cooking class here. Many local families open their kitchens to visitors, teaching you how to make dishes like sate lilit or lawar using ingredients straight from their gardens.
Discover Bali’s Waterfalls: Nature at Its Best
Bali’s waterfalls are something else entirely. You’ve probably seen them plastered all over social media, but seeing them in person? Way better. There’s this raw, untamed beauty about them—like nature showing off a bit.
If you’re starting out, Tegenungan Waterfall is a solid choice. It’s near Ubud and super easy to access. But fair warning: it can get crowded, especially in the afternoons. The good news? If you visit early in the morning, you might just have the place to yourself (except for a few early riser locals).
Now, if you’re up for a little more adventure, Sekumpul Waterfall in North Bali is where it’s at. It’s a bit of a trek to get there—think steep steps and river crossings—but the reward is a jaw-dropping cascade surrounded by lush jungle. Honestly, it looks like something out of a movie. A guide isn’t mandatory, but I’d recommend one—they know the safe paths and can point out cool stuff along the way.
Oh, and don’t skip Aling-Aling Waterfall. This one’s a thrill-seeker’s paradise because you can actually slide down natural rock slides or jump into the pools below. Just, you know, don’t get too cocky with the heights. Take it from me: bravery and recklessness are not the same thing.
Lempuyang Temple: The Gates of Heaven
Ah, the iconic Lempuyang Temple. You’ve seen the photo—the one where it looks like someone’s floating between two gates with Mount Agung in the background. Spoiler alert: there’s no actual lake. It’s a clever trick with a mirror, but it doesn’t take away from the fact that this place is breathtaking.
Getting to Lempuyang takes about 2 hours from Ubud, and the road can be a bit twisty. I always tell people to bring snacks and water—you’ll thank me later. Once you arrive, there’s a bit of a hike to reach the main gates, but the views along the way are worth it.
Here’s the thing, though: be prepared to wait if you want that photo. On busy days, the line can be up to two hours. If you’re like me and patience isn’t your strong suit, skip the line and just wander around the temple grounds. There are plenty of other amazing photo spots, and the spiritual vibe here is unbeatable.
Also, remember to wear a sarong (you can rent one at the entrance) and be respectful. Lempuyang isn’t just a photo op; it’s an important spiritual site for the Balinese people.
Balinese Cooking Classes: A Feast for the Senses
One of my favorite things about Bali is the food. Seriously, I could write a whole post just about nasi campur and babi guling. But eating is one thing—learning to make it? That’s next-level fun.
Balinese cooking classes are everywhere, but the best ones, in my opinion, start with a trip to the local market. There’s something so satisfying about picking out fresh ingredients like galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and turmeric while chatting with the vendors. Plus, you’ll finally learn what goes into those sambal sauces that pack a punch.
The actual cooking part is hands-on and messy in the best way. You’ll grind spices with a traditional mortar and pestle, wrap fish in banana leaves, and maybe even roll your own sate lilit. By the end of it, you’ll have a feast worthy of a Balinese celebration—and recipes to take home. Just don’t expect your kitchen to smell the same without all that tropical goodness in the air.
Explore Bali’s Local Villages: Authenticity Over Aesthetics
Look, Bali’s main tourist spots are amazing, but if you really want to connect with the island, spend a day in one of its local villages. This isn’t about flashy attractions; it’s about experiencing daily life here.
Take Penglipuran Village, for example. It’s a traditional Balinese village known for its well-preserved architecture and neat, orderly streets. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time. The locals are super friendly, and many are happy to show you their homes or share stories about their traditions.
Another gem is Trunyan Village near Lake Batur. This place is fascinating but not for the faint of heart. Instead of cremating or burying their dead, the locals leave bodies under a sacred banyan tree, where they naturally decompose without any smell. It’s a bit eerie but also deeply spiritual, offering a unique glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural diversity.
If you’re more into hands-on experiences, try your hand at traditional crafts in villages like Celuk for silver jewelry or Mas for wood carving. You’ll come away with not just a souvenir but a story to tell.
Explore Bali by Traditional Jukung Boat
This is one of those underrated experiences that not enough people talk about. A jukung is a traditional Balinese outrigger boat, and exploring the coastline on one feels like stepping into a simpler, more peaceful time.
I once joined a local fisherman in Amed for a sunrise jukung ride. The boat itself was tiny and colorful, with bamboo outriggers keeping it steady on the waves. As we glided across the water, the sky turned shades of orange and pink, and dolphins popped up alongside us like they were putting on a show.
This is also a great way to experience fishing the old-school way. I didn’t catch anything that day (no beginner’s luck for me), but just being out on the water, surrounded by the ocean’s vastness, was enough to make it memorable.
Chasing Bali’s Sunset Spots
You didn’t think I’d forget the sunsets, did you? Bali’s sunsets are the stuff of legends, and there are a million ways to enjoy them.
If you’re into laid-back vibes, head to Jimbaran Beach. Grab a spot at one of the seafood warungs, order a cold Bintang and some grilled fish, and watch as the sky puts on its nightly show. It’s simple, unpretentious, and oh-so-Bali.
For something a little more glamorous, the beach clubs in Canggu and Seminyak are where it’s at. La Brisa, Potato Head, and The Lawn are all crowd favorites. Sure, the drinks are pricey, but the atmosphere makes it worth it—plus, there’s usually a DJ spinning chill tunes to match the sunset vibes.
But my absolute favorite? Uluwatu Temple. The sunset views here are spectacular, and you can even catch a traditional kecak fire dance as the sun dips below the horizon. Just watch out for the monkeys—they’ve been known to swipe a phone or two.
Honestly, Bali is one of those places where there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach bum, an adventure seeker, or someone who just wants to soak up the culture, you’ll find your groove here. The tours above are just the beginning. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that Bali rewards curiosity—so get out there, explore, and let the island work its magic on you.
Comments