Are you dreaming of pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, and a rich cultural experience? Look no further than Bali, the Island of the Gods. With its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and endless adventures, Bali in Indonesia, offers something for every traveler.
In this guide, I will take you on a seven-day journey through this tropical paradise. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, this itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your time in Bali. Let's explore the magic of Bali together!
Before You Go
To ensure a smooth entry into Bali, US citizens need to have the following documents filled and submitted online (as of summer of 2024):
Customs Declaration (fill 4 days prior to travel)
This all these filled ahead of time, we finished immigration and customs within 10 minutes.
Best Time To Go
The best time to visit Bali generally falls between April and October, during the dry season. This period boasts sunny skies, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for beach activities, diving, and exploring the island's lush landscapes. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. We went in June, and although temps were in the mid to upper 80s, the entire island was extremely crowded.
If you are looking for a more peaceful experience and the possibility of saving money, think about planning your visit for the shoulder months of March, November, or December. Even though there is a higher likelihood of rain during these months, you can still expect pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
What To Wear
Due to Bali's tropical climate, it is advisable to wear light and breathable clothing. Despite Indonesia being a Muslim country, Bali follows Hinduism predominantly, allowing women to dress freely except when entering temples.
Here's a breakdown on what to wear/pack:
Beach and casual wear: Opt for sundresses, shorts, tank tops, and swimwear.
Cover-ups: Bring a sarong or light cover-up for beachside lounging and casual dinners.
Temple attire: Respectful attire is required for visiting temples. Cover shoulders and knees with a sarong or light pants and a top. Sarongs can also be borrowed for free at every temple entrance.
Footwear: Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for most occasions, but consider bringing comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
Getting Around
There are two ways of getting around in Bali:
You can plan your own itinerary and use Grab, Gojek or a taxi driver from your villa or hotel to drive you from point to point. This takes a lot of effort in planning from your part, and with the horrendous one-lane traffic throughout the island, waiting for a taxi at each point of interest can be time consuming.
The option we chose was to hire a personal driver who came well recommended in the various FB groups. After much research, we settled on Hire Bali Tour Driver. Navigating Bali was a breeze thanks to Putu's well-planned itinerary and his reliable drivers. The efficiency of the drivers ensured we covered all the major attractions without any hassle. I highly recommend this company for a stress-free way to explore the island and make the most of your time there.
Seminyak
While in Bali, we divided our time between the beach town of Seminyak and the interior town/cultural capital town of Ubud.
For Bali visitors, Seminyak provides an ideal combination of tranquility and thrill. With its unspoiled beaches, top-notch shopping options, and lively nightlife scene, the area caters to a wide range of preferences, whether you seek indulgent spa experiences, fine dining, or dancing at fashionable clubs. Situated near the Bali International Airport, Seminyak serves as a convenient entry point to explore the stunning beaches of Bali.
Where To Stay in Seminyak/Kuta
Staying at this Airbnb in Kuta was absolutely perfect. The two-bedroom villa, serving as a tropical sanctuary with a private pool, was ideal for unwinding after a day of adventures. The most memorable aspect was unquestionably the delightful breakfasts cooked by our personal chef, Aan, which we savored while floating in the pool. Its convenient central location allowed us to easily reach Seminyak's lively attractions and shopping, guaranteeing a pleasant and unforgettable stay.
Our AirBnB which also offered our own chef, and a floating breakfast.
Day 1
We began our Bali adventure with a seamless landing at the international airport, then quickly made our way to our villa in Seminyak, thanks to our efficient driver, who picked us up at the airport. Once we had unpacked, we set out to explore the lively downtown area, which ended with a stunning sunset on the beach.
Seminyak beach sunset
The Seminyak flea market was a fantastic find for those looking for souvenirs, and we concluded our day with a delightful dinner at the renowned Ku De Ta, enjoying a perfect end to our first day in this tropical paradise.
Ku De Ta restaurant
Our original intention was to explore Uluwatu, famous for its breathtaking cliffs and iconic temple. However, due to hearing multiple stories of mischievous monkeys causing disturbances at the holy location, we opted to forgo the visit this time. Despite the undeniable beauty of Uluwatu's natural surroundings, the possibility of encountering those playful yet potentially troublesome primates discouraged us from making the trip.
Day 2
Nusa Penida, a sister island to Bali, had been on my bucket list for ages, and today was the day to finally explore its wonders. Waking up before the crack of dawn, we took a short ferry ride that transported us to this island paradise. The moment we stepped foot on Nusa Penida, we were greeted by a landscape that was nothing short of breathtaking. Rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery painted a picture of untouched beauty.
Our first stop was the iconic Kelingking Beach, a natural masterpiece that resembles a colossal whale's tail. Standing at the edge of the cliff, gazing at the turquoise waters crashing against the white sands, we felt a sense of awe and wonder.
Kelingking Cliff
Next on our itinerary was the mesmerizing Broken Beach and Angel's Billabong. These natural formations are a testament to the power of nature. The contrast of the emerald green pool against the rugged cliffs was simply stunning.
Broken Beach
To complete the day, we embarked on a snorkeling adventure in Manta Bay and Crystal Bay. The underwater world was a kaleidoscope of colors, teeming with vibrant marine life. Although we looked forward to swimming alongside graceful manta rays, we did not catch sight of any, much to our disappointment.
Snorkeling at Crystal Bay and Manta Bay
As the sun began its descent, casting a golden hue over the island, we made , our way back to Bali. To end the day on a perfect note, we indulged in a delicious Italian feast at the charming Italian Way restaurant in Seminyak. The mouthwatering pasta and the warm ambiance were the perfect way to unwind after an exhilarating day of exploration.
Dinner at Italian Way in Seminyak
Ubud
Lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and a thriving arts scene makes Ubud Bali's cultural heart. Ubud offers many options to unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments, indulge in delicious cuisine, or connect with nature through yoga and meditation. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or spiritual growth, Ubud promises an unforgettable experience.
Where To Stay in Ubud
Our stay at Pondok Damar, an Airbnb villa in Ubud was nothing short of magical. Just a short taxi ride from the bustling center, this tranquil oasis offered the perfect balance of privacy and convenience. The villa itself was a masterpiece of Balinese architecture, boasting two spacious bedrooms and a stunning pool surrounded by a lush garden. It was the ideal retreat to unwind and soak in the beauty of Ubud.
Breakfast and pool at our villa in Ubud
Day 3
Our Bali adventure continued with a cultural exploration of Ubud. We started the day by checking out of our Seminyak villa and embarking on a journey to Batubulan village. Here, we witnessed the captivating Barong dance, a traditional Balinese performance filled with mythical creatures and intricate choreography.
Next, we headed to the enchanting Celuk Swing, where we rented flowing dresses for a magical photo session amidst lush greenery.
Celuk Swing
After capturing many insta-worthy shots, we indulged in a delightful tea and coffee tasting experience, including the renowned Luwak coffee. Luwak Coffee is a must-try for coffee enthusiasts visiting Bali. Renowned for its unique flavor profile, this coffee is produced through a fascinating process involving the Asian Palm Civet. The coffee beans are ingested by the civet, then extracted from their droppings, cleaned, and roasted. This unconventional method results in a coffee with a distinct taste and aroma. While the process may seem unusual, the end product is often praised for its rich and complex flavor.
Tea tasting at Celuk Swing
Luwak coffee
The surrounding bird nests provided a picturesque backdrop for our photos.
Celuk swing birds nests
Our cultural immersion continued with a visit to the historic Batuan Temple, a sacred site showcasing intricate Balinese architecture. This ancient temple, dating back to the 11th century, is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and traditional Balinese architecture. As we wandered through its sacred grounds, we encountered a serene atmosphere and a profound sense of spirituality.
Batuan Temple
After exploring the temple's spiritual ambiance, we returned to our villa to freshen up before venturing into the heart of Ubud.
Evening brought us to the iconic Ubud Palace, a stunning example of Balinese royal architecture. We strolled through its courtyards, admiring the intricate carvings and traditional design.
Ubud palace decorations
The nearby Ubud Market offered a vibrant shopping experience, where we explored the colorful stalls and picked up unique souvenirs to commemorate our trip. We returned to the villa and called in a massage service for an hour long Balinese massage for the family. Pro Tip: Balinese massage is very inexpensive and offered on every street corner. Many offer to travel to your room or hotel to provide services.
Enjoying a variety of spa services
Day 4
We continued our spiritual journey in Bali by visiting three iconic temples in a single day: Ulundanu, Taman Ayun, and Tanah Lot.
Our first stop was the ethereal Ulundanu Temple, nestled on the serene Lake Beratan. As we arrived, we were immediately captivated by the temple's majestic silhouette reflected in the still waters.
Ulundanu Temple
To enhance our experience, we decided to rent traditional Balinese costumes on-site. Dressed as royalty, we felt transported back in time as we explored the temple grounds. The photo opportunities were endless, with the stunning backdrop of the lake and the temple's intricate architecture.
Photo shoot in traditional costume at Ulundanu Temple
After a magical morning at Ulundanu, we continued our temple tour to Taman Ayun Temple. Known for its sprawling gardens and serene atmosphere, Taman Ayun offered a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle. The temple's unique architectural style, featuring tiered roofs adorned with intricate carvings, was a feast for the eyes. We spent a leisurely afternoon wandering through the gardens, admiring the temple's beauty, and soaking up the tranquil ambiance.
Taman Ayun Temple complex
Our day culminated in a visit to the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, a breathtaking coastal sanctuary perched on a rock formation. Arriving in time to catch the sunset, we secured a spot at one of the many restaurants along the clifftop, to witness this natural masterpiece unfold. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the temple and the ocean, we were filled with awe and wonder. The sight of the temple silhouetted against the fiery sky was truly unforgettable.
Sunset at Tanah Lot
Visiting these three temples in one day was an exhilarating adventure that allowed us to experience the heart and soul of Bali.
We returned to our villa in Ubud and fell into a restful sleep after yet another invigorating massage session.
Nighttime Balinese massage at the villa
Day 5
Our adventure began with a pre-dawn departure (4am) from Ubud, aiming to capture the iconic Lempuyang Gate of Heaven at sunrise. After a scenic two-hour drive, we embarked on a shuttle to the temple's summit. We had to wait for the ticket counter to open at 6am, after which we lined up to get our number for the photoshoot. Despite arriving early, our number was 22, and we had to wait for about 45 minutes for our turn to take pictures at the famous Gate of Heaven. To pass the time, we explored the temple grounds, with Sonia adding a touch of local flair in a rented Balinese costume. Pro Tip: For a few hundred Rupaiah, hire one of the guards to take your pictures. They do a great job, suggesting the best angles and poses. Soon it was our turn, and we immortalized the moment with stunning photos, thanks to the skilled local photographers.
Photo-ops at Lempuyang Gate of Heaven
Our journey continued to Lempuyang Hidden Valley, another picturesque location offering breathtaking views. We indulged in another professional photoshoot to capture the beauty of the surroundings. Pro Tip: Sign up for the Hidden Valley photo package while waiting at the Gate of Heaven for your pictures to be taken.
Photo-ops at Lempuyang Hidden Valley
After a morning filled with photo opportunities, we stopped for breakfast at Maha Kenkana, a few meters down the hill from the Gate of Heaven, for amazing views of the spectacular Mount Agung. Pro Tip: show your restaurant bill to gain access to even more photo ops on the rooftop of the restaurant.
View of Mt Agung from Maha Kenkana restaurant
More photo-ops at Maha Kenkana restaurant rooftop
As the day wore on, we decided to make the most of our time and explore another hidden gem - Tirta Gangga Water Palace. Located on the way back, it was the perfect way to unwind after the spiritual ascent. Tirta Gangga is a mesmerizing blend of nature and architecture. The sprawling complex boasts cascading pools, intricate carvings, and lush greenery. We spent a delightful afternoon strolling through the gardens, admiring the koi fish, and taking countless photos.
Feeding the Koi fish at Tirta Gangga Water Palace
After a morning of some of the most amazing sights we have ever seen, we sought relaxation at Tegalalang Rice Terrace, enjoying a leisurely lunch and poolside relaxation at Tis Cafe. Pro Tip: The wait can be long to use the infinity pool. So book ahead! While we waited for our turn to use the pool, we hiked up to the lush green rice terraces of Tegalalang to enjoy the iconic views of Balis rice fields.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Tis Cafe infinity pool
The day concluded with a long drive back to our villa where we treated ourselves to yet another well-deserved in-house massage, the perfect end to a whirlwind adventurous day.
Day 6
After a hectic past few days, we decided to have a relaxed last day in Bali. Our driver suggested visiting Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, which was not in our itinerary. Pro Tip: This park is close to the airport and convenient to kill a few hours before catching your flight. As we arrived at the park, we were immediately awestruck by the colossal statue of Garuda Wisnu Kencana, the centerpiece of the park. This magnificent sculpture, depicting the Hindu god Vishnu riding the mythical bird Garuda, is a testament to Balinese artistry and craftsmanship. We spent quite some time admiring the intricate details and the sheer scale of this iconic monument.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Beyond the statue, the park offers a plethora of cultural experiences. We explored the various themed gardens, each showcasing different aspects of Balinese life. From the serene lotus pond to the vibrant orchid garden, these green spaces provided a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
We also had the opportunity to learn about Balinese arts and crafts. The artisans' dedication to their craft was evident in the intricate details of their work. We purchased a few souvenirs as a reminder of our day at the park.
As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed a delicious meal at one of the park's restaurants, savoring the local cuisine while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It was the perfect end to a truly unforgettable day and our visit to Bali.
Day 7
As our Bali adventure drew to a close we decided to spend our last few hours with some retail therapy to drive away the blues. What better way to do it than immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Ubud's famous market?
With suitcases yearning to be filled, we spent a few hours wandering through the maze of stalls, haggling with friendly vendors, and discovering hidden treasures. Pro Tip: Bargaining is the norm in Bali. Start by asking for 70% less than the asking price.
Bali is a shoppers paradise!
With our bags filled to the brim, we headed back to the airport with souvenirs of an unforgettable trip. As we board our flight home, we can't help but feel a pang of sadness mixed with a deep sense of gratitude. Bali has captured our hearts with its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich cultural heritage.
From the serene rice terraces of Ubud to the vibrant energy of Kuta and Seminyak, this island had offered us a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Every day had been a new discovery, a chance to connect with nature, and indulge in unforgettable experiences.
While this trip may be over, the memories we've made will forever be etched in our minds. Bali has left an indelible mark on our souls, and we can't wait to return to explore more of this enchanting island.
Until next time, Bali.
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