The best of Bali in twelve days
Embark on an enchanting Bali adventure with one of our tailor made trips like this one.
Visit the Pura Luhur "Uluwatu temple" perched above the Indian Ocean, accompanied by a captivating Kecak dance at sunset. Indulge in a seafood rijstaffel with stunning views of Jimbaran Bay.
Explore Bali's cultural treasures, from the Bat Cave Temple to Kusamba's salt-producing area. Visit Klungkung Palace, ancient Tenganan Village, and immerse yourself in Tirta Gangga's water palace, savoring an authentic Balinese lunch with views of Mt. Agung. Discover Penglipuran for insights into Bali Aga traditions and head to Kintamani for breathtaking views of Mount Batur.
Uncover the heart of Ubud with visits to the Monkey Forest, Royal Palace, and Neka Art Museum. Enjoy a scenic trek along the Campuhan Ridge, blending nature, culture, and art. Venture into Central Bali, exploring Taman Ayun temple and Bedugul's picturesque landscapes. Visit the iconic Ulun Danu Temple and conclude your day with serene accommodations.
Discover Jatiluwih's UNESCO-recognized rice terraces, Gunung Batukaru's sacred temple, and the historical Puri Anyar Kerambitan Royal Palace. Immerse yourself in local culture at Waka Gangga. Explore Belimbing's scenic rice paddies with a trek, cleansing ritual at Benben Waterfall, and a temple visit in Balinese national dress. Witness a Hindu offering ceremony.
Conclude your journey with a spiritual encounter at Tanah Lot sea temple, experiencing a mesmerizing sunset. Continue your exploration in Seminyak, capturing the essence of Bali's rich cultural and natural wonders.
I created this trip - call me to create yours.
The itinerary…
Day 1: International departure
Board your international flight to Indonesia, ready for your amazing Balinese adventure.
Day 2: Arrive Bali
Uluwatu Temple
Upon your arrival in Denpasar, our representative ensures a seamless transfer to the Open House hotel, where you will stay overnight. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Pura Luhur "Uluwatu temple," perched 250 feet above the Indian Ocean. Marvel at the surfers' haven below and witness monkeys in the surroundings. The highlight is the captivating Kecak dance, featuring a hundred male performers depicting an ancient Ramayana story. Following this cultural spectacle, indulge in a seafood rijstaffel at a cozy beach shack-style restaurant overlooking Jimbaran Bay. The crescent of white sand and blue sea sets the stage for a perfect conclusion to your day in this coastal paradise.
Day 3: Balinese cultural day tour
Traditional house in Tenganan
After breakfast, go on a captivating tour of the nearby area, starting at Pura Goa Lawah, the "Bat Cave" Temple, one of Bali's six main temples. Journey to Kusamba, a traditional salt-producing area, witnessing the age-old salt-making process. Explore Klungkung Palace, notably the Kertagosa Pavilion, showcasing traditional Balinese architecture and housing Kamasan Paintings depicting Hindu legends. Conclude the day with a visit to Tenganan Village, home of Bali Aga, the island's original inhabitants. Immerse yourself in this well-preserved ancient culture that has endured for centuries. Each stop on this enriching journey unveils a unique facet of Bali's heritage and traditions. After your tour, you’ll be taken to Candi Beach Resort, where you will stay for two nights.
Day 4: Temples of Bali
Tirta Gangga Water Palace
Enjoy a delicious breakfast, then embark on a journey exploring Bali's cultural treasures. Begin at Tirta Gangga, a restored water palace with pools, fountains, and lush gardens. Enjoy an authentic Balinese lunch at Bali Asli Restaurant with views of the valley and Mt. Agung. Continue to Besakih, the 'mother temple of Bali,' over a thousand years old and nestled on Mount Agung's volcanic slopes. The temple complex, comprising 23 related temples, witnesses daily prayers and attracts crowds on ceremonial days. Each site exudes historical richness, offering a glimpse into Bali's royal past, culinary delights, and spiritual heritage. Return to the resort in the afternoon for rest.
Day 5: Balinese villages and Tampaksiring
Mount Batur
Today’s activities begin with breakfast and a visit to Penglipuran, a Bali Aga village immersed in history. Explore the well-ordered settlement surrounded by plantations and bamboo forests, showcasing the enduring importance of ancestral traditions and rules (Adat). Head to Kintamani for breathtaking views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, perched on the caldera rim. Witness the geological marvel of Mount Batur, a 'small' mountain shaped by millennia of volcanic activity. Conclude in Tampaksiring at Pura Tirta Empul, known for its clean spring water pools. Experience the holy rituals of body cleansing, attracting visitors from all corners of Bali for purifying baths in the sacred water. After your purifying bath, you will be taken to Bisma Eight, where you will stay for two nights.
Day 6: Ubud adventures
Ubud Monkey Forest
Wake up, enjoy breakfast and start your adventure today at the Ubud Monkey Forest, a nature reserve and temple complex with diverse flora, temples, and crab-eating macaque monkeys. Explore the Ubud Royal Palace, the residence of the local royal family, discovering ornate architecture and the Asta Kosala Kosali house-building tradition. Enjoy free time in Ubud's bustling centre. Visit Neka Art Museum, showcasing art inspired by Bali's culture, along with a UNESCO-recognized collection of keris. Conclude with a scenic trek along the Campuhan Ridge, immersing in peaceful landscapes and traditional Balinese compounds. Your day is a blend of nature, culture, and art in the heart of Ubud.
Day 7: Central Bali
Ulun Danu Temple
Prepare yourself with a full breakfast for an enriching excursion into Central Bali, starting in Mengwi at the Taman Ayun temple complex, known for its association with the Balinese Royal Family. Drive to Bedugul Regency, famous for its picturesque landscapes and caldera lakes. Explore the vibrant market at Candi Kuning, showcasing Bali's fresh fruits, exotic spices, and scented flowers. Continue to the iconic Ulun Danu Temple, a 17th-century Hindu Shivaite water temple on Lake Beratan. Marvel at its serene beauty, especially during the rainy season when it appears to 'float' on the calm waters, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. After your temple visit, you’ll be transferred to the Munduk Moding Lodge, where you will stay overnight.
Day 8: Jatiluwih and the Royal Palace
Jatiluwih
Embark on a southward journey after breakfast, pausing at Jatiluwih to admire UNESCO-recognized rice terraces with stunning vistas. Optionally, walk along some terraces (*) before heading to Gunung Batukaru, Bali's second-highest mountain, revered by locals. Explore Pura Luhur Batukaru, a temple nestled in the dense forest. The final stop is the 17th-century Royal Palace Puri Anyar Kerambitan, where the royal family's belongings share tales of old Bali within a vast antique-filled compound. This palace has hosted feasts for global figures, reflecting its significance and cultural richness. After this impressive palace visit, you’ll be transferred to Waka Gangga, where you will stay for the next two nights.
Day 9: Spirit of Belimbing
After an early breakfast, set off on a scenic journey to Belimbing, exploring beautiful rice paddies and enjoying a 7km trek around coffee and chocolate plantations. Refresh with tea or coffee at the tour start point. The trek, not strenuous, traverses rice-paddy terraces, with your guide explaining local farming practices. Visit the sacred Benben Waterfall for a cleansing ritual, followed by lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, don Balinese national dress for a temple visit with sacred monkeys. Witness a Hindu offering ceremony, led by a temple priest, incorporating ornate bantens and the essential element of holy water. Reflect on these spiritual experiences before returning to your hotel for dinner.
Day 10: Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple
Embark on a spiritual journey at Tanah Lot, an integral sea temple in Balinese mythology, accessible only at low tide. Witness the temple's sacredness with a freshwater spring containing holy water, attracting Balinese from across the island for cleansing rituals. Arrive in time for a mesmerizing sunset, offering abundant photographic opportunities. After this spiritual encounter, drive to Seminyak for an overnight stay at the Colony hotel, continuing your exploration of Bali's rich cultural and natural wonders.
Day 11: Departure
Seminyak beach
Enjoy your breakfast, and then the day is yours to do as you please until it is time to transfer to the airport in order to catch your onward flight.
Day 12: Arrive home
After an epic flight home, regale your friends and family with tales of your amazing adventure on the beautiful island of Bali.
Duration: 11 nights
Location: Indonesia holidays, East and Southeast Asia
Price: £1995pp
From £1,995 pp based on two people sharing, excluding international flights.
The trip includes all accommodations and activities specified above. Rooms and meals are as follows:
- 1 night at The Open House – Deluxe Suite, dinner included.
- 2 nights at Candi Beach Cottage – Deluxe Garden Room. breakfast and lunch included.
- 2 nights at Bisma Eight – Garden Suite, breakfast and lunch included.
- 1 night at Munduk Moding – Garden Suite, breakfast and lunch included.
- 2 nights at Waka Gangga – Villa Garden View, breakfast and lunch included.
- 1 night at Tony’s Villa - Bungalow, breakfast included.
Also includes
- All transfers, private guides and fees where stated as included.
This trip excludes:
- Single Supplements.
- International flights to/from Indonesia.
- Meals not mentioned as included.
- Park fees not mentioned as included.
Tailor this trip around your preferred dates, your budget and your ideas.
When to go to Indonesia
Discover the best time to visit Indonesia with our helpful guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January in Indonesia is pleasant, with minimal rainfall. Explore Bali's lush landscapes or dive in Raja Ampat for clear underwater views.
February
February sees Indonesia somewhat still dry with comfortable temperatures. Check out Northern Sumatra, which has less rainfall than the rest of the country at this time of year or visit Yogyakarta for cultural festivals.
March
In March, the climate starts to get humid and warm. Witness the Nyepi (Balinese New Year) celebrations in Bali, or trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani in Lombok.
April
April sees the heat and humidity ramp up, with the addition of occasional rainfall. Head to Flores to visit the mesmerizing Kelimutu volcanic lakes.
May
May is the ideal time for travel as temperatures balance out and the humidity dropping. Take the opportunity to explore Java's historic temples or go hiking in Sumatra's lush rainforests.
June
June is a continuation of May’s good weather, dry (for Indonesia) and warm. Try diving in Komodo National Park or witness the Pasola festival in Sumba.
July
July sees Indonesia’s peak tourist numbers hit. The weather is great and there is plenty to see and do. Witness the Bali Kite Festival or enjoy water sports in the Gili Islands.
August
August is also a great time to visit, as most of the archipelago is dry and warm. Many locations across the country hold Independence Day celebrations, so join in the festivities or explore the pristine beaches of Nusa Penida in the excellent weather.
September
September sees more great weather but is generally less crowded in terms of tourism. Use this time to trek in Bukit Lawang, Sumatra, or explore the cultural gems of Yogyakarta.
October
Depending on the year, October can be the start of the rainy season but generally it stays nice and dry. Attend the Balinese Arts Festival in Denpasar, or hike Mount Bromo in Java.
November
November is the official start of the rainy season in most regions. Stay dry in Jakarta by ducking into the numerous cultural sites, or explore the rich history of Borobudur Temple in Java.
December
In December, the monsoon season is in full swing with frequent heavy rain. Enjoy Christmas festivities in Bali, but remember to bring a raincoat!
Speak to an Indonesia expert today.
A tailormade holiday just for you
-
Alistair
Managing Director