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The best bali day trips: from balinese temple tours and mountain hikes, to island-hopping and more.

by Amy Nicholson • 26 Oct 2017

Get cultured or adventurous with our list of Bali day trips, tours and attractions - from west to east and everywhere in between!

Ever heard of the saying “little things pack a big punch”? Well, the same thing can be said about Bali. Don’t be fooled by the size, because this small island in Indonesia’s southern region has got a lot to offer for all kinds of travellers: the adventurous thrill seekers, the relaxed vacationers, and even the mini explorers! Lucky for us, there are many awesome Bali day trips to squeeze into a travel itinerary, and make the most out of your island escape.

Whether you want to explore Seminyak and Canggu , hike active volcanoes in North Bali, get wet and wild in the Ubud jungle, cuddle baby orangutans or even visit the Bali’s holy temples – check out our picks of the best day trips in Bali for your island itinerary.

Best Bali day trips: Central & North Bali

1. ubud – rice terrace trekking, arts and culture browsing, yoga and more.

Known for acres of emerald rice paddies, yoga and wellness , Ubud is where you go to immerse yourself in nature and Balinese culture . A day trip to Ubud can keep you busy with so much to see and do! For the art lovers, you can watch a traditional Balinese dance performance at Ubud Palace, visit one or two of many art galleries – we love Threads of Life ’s traditional textiles, or John Hardy Kapal Bamboo Boutique & Workshop and to witness the world-renowned jewellery in the making. For the adventurers, take a plunge into the stunning Tegenungan Waterfall , or stop for a farm-to-table lunch overlooking the gorgeous Tegalalang Rice Terrace. As for the animal lovers, say hi to the cute (but not so cuddly!) monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest . With effective planning and a skillful driver, you’ll be able to hit up a few places in one day.

2. Kintamani – cafe-hops, hike and bike tours

Kintamani is one of the most scenic and interesting areas of Bali, and well worth a visit. Get out of the hustle and bustle of the busy beach towns in the south, and feast your eyes on Lake Batur and Mount Batur.  For the active people out there, how about an all day cycling tour around Lake Batur? Starting with breakfast overlooking the active volcano (now that’s not something you do everyday!) in Kedisan Village, you can then hop on your bikes and cycle pass the black lava fields (left-over from when Batur Volcano erupted in 1963!), Buahan Village, Abang Village and Ulun Danu Beratan temple (below). As for the relaxed bunch, you’ll want to take in the stunning sights of Kintamani – with the booming Kintamani cafe culture (we LOVE Pahdi Specialty Coffee ), you can easily spend the day sipping on hot coffee and simply lose yourself in the views and fresh mountain air…

3. Bedugul – Strawberry picking, botanical gardens and a majestic water temple

This town is not to be missed if you love the world of flora! Bedugul is one the most beautiful areas in Bali, which has a number of botanical gardens and eco-parks, Lakes Beratan and Buyan (where you can camp or fish), and of course the infamous Ulun Danu Beratan temple – a magical “floating” temple on Lake Beratan. An early morning drive to Lake Batur followed by a leisurely walk through the botanical gardens are must-do’s before making your way to lunch at one of the most Instagrammable restaurants, Rumah Gemuk . Afterwards, take the kiddos to pick fresh strawberries, then catch the sunset at the temple before making your way back to your hotel. We suggest staying up north at one of the nearby hotels (we love Munduk Moding Plantation and its sky-high infinity pool !).

4. Payangan – quad biking, canyon tubing and zip lining

Have you got the need for speed? Spend the morning chasing friends in the jungle on quad bikes! Discover authentic Bali by speed as you drive through lush green rice fields, cross the epic jungle, and drive through Balinese villages – muddy splashes included! Quad biking tours often start from the Payangan area, which is a rural area in the central part of Bali (approximately an hour’s drive from Sanur ). And if that wasn’t enough excitement to keep you going, spend the afternoon tubing in a hidden canyon! Who needs a theme park when you have the same effect in real nature?! Half way down the descent of the river, make a stop at a zip lining park and fly through the tree tops or over the river. We can’t think of a better way to see the stunning unspoiled and authentic version of Bali.

5. Lovina – dolphin watching and snorkelling

Lovina beach is one of Bali’s most spectacular beaches , perfect for watching dolphins in their natural habitat! The calming sea water is the perfect place to spot the hundreds of dolphins that can be seen in the morning time around one kilometre offshore. You will head out on a traditional outrigger boat at dawn to get as close as possible to these beautiful creatures. There are lots of restaurants on the beach , perfect for a brekkie to fill you up for the day! You’ll want to hire a snorkel and admire the marine lives in their natural habitat, because Lovina’s coast is still relatively untouched.

6. Mount Batur – hike up a volcanic mountain for the best sunrise seat

If you’re looking for things to do in Bali that’ll get your heart pumping, how does climbing to the top of an active volcano sound? Well, the hike up Mount Batur is something we highly recommend. The hike only takes a couple of hours, and it’s not too challenging, meaning almost anyone can do it. We do however, recommend an expert guide as the hike starts as early as 3am when it’s still dark. Afterwards, stop by the lake for lunch with a view and make a short drive to one of the must-see temples, Besakih temple . Spend the rest of the day at the nearby marigold field and take a leisurely walk, Sound of Music-style!

7. North Bali – waterfall-hopping and natural water sliding

The beautiful scenery and the cool temperatures of the northern waterfalls make for a lovely Bali day trip, and there are so many of them to visit! Luckily, a few of them are located close to each other, so you’ll be able to squeeze a few waterfalls into one trip. You’ll want to check out Sekumpul and Fiji waterfalls trek – waterfall-hopping which includes hiking through nature, slipping and sliding on a natural water slide, cliff diving and a photoshoot at a gigantic tree top swing ! Sounds like a day well-spent…

8. Tabanan – natural hot springs and Jatiluwih rice terraces

With the cold air in the north, you’ll want to take a dip into one of the natural hot springs! Since a few are located in the same area (you can find them in Tabanan, between central and northwest area of Bali), why not visit a bunch of them and make a day trip out of it. As the day gets warmer, be sure to make a stop at Jatiluwih rice terrace – one of the biggest rice suppliers in Bali and the rest of Indonesia, and learn about rice cultivation from the experts. Then, drive to the west to catch the spectacular sunset at the famous Tanah Lot – a sea temple majestically perched on an impressive natural rock formation, surrounded by water.

Best Bali day trips: East Bali & beyond

1. pura lempuyang temple –  a heavenly day trip in bali.

Not only providing a jaw-dropping vista one-thousand steps high, Pura Lempuyang is considered one of the most holy places in Bali. Known as the “Gateway to Heaven”, visit on a clear day and you’ll be able to see Mount Agung ’s majestic peak framed perfectly by the temple gates. Make a day of it up here as there are six other temples to explore, plus nearby waterfalls, Tirta Gangga royal water palace and the gorgeous Sidemen valley and its surrounding rice terraces.

2. East Bali – white water rafting along Ayung River

Want to see Bali by water, plus get those muscles firing? Well, grab your helmet and swimmers , and get ready for the wettest ride of your life. River rafting in Bali is set within a dense jungle canopy overhead, towering gorges and scenic rice terraces. Head down the river at different speeds, and look out for the beautiful waterfalls whilst you tackle the rapids with your friends. If you decide to join a tour, many will include a tasty lunch because you’ve got to keep your belly full with all the adrenaline pumping through your body!

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3. bali safari & marine park – make a few furry friends.

If you are looking for a family-friendly fun day out, then look no further than the Bali Safari & Marine Park . Covering 40 hectares of land in the Gianyar regency, it is home to over 60 animal species, all of which roam free in large enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Ride a safari bus to visit the animals, watch the elephant show, cuddle baby orangutans, and watch baby sharks at the aquarium. And don’t forget to check out the majestic Indian white tigers. For even more fun in the park, head there in the evening for a thrilling night safari tour. After all that excitement you are bound to be feeling peckish, so take the kids to the in-house restaurants, where you can dine with the fam whilst lions play around you – it’s a family outing the kiddos will be talking about for years…

4. Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Ceningan or Nusa Penida – island-hopping

If you fancy leaving the mainland and its traffic for the day, you can easily make a day trip to a nearby island. The best way to island-hop is by taking a ferry or a speed boat from Sanur harbour, where you’ll find great excursions and tours to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida – Bali’s little sister islands to the east. Once there, you’ll get to try water activities and sunbathe on secluded beaches to keep you busy all day. Top tip: Be sure to try some of the local restaurants and warung before heading back to Bali’s mainland.

5. Amed – Scuba diving and snorkelling

With black sands and soaring volcanoes on the horizon, Amed isn’t your typical beachfront vista. But boy is it a goodie. Sitting on Bali’s northeastern coast, Amed is known for its dramatic landscapes that guarantee awe-inspiring holiday pics. And if you’re into diving or snorkelling, Amed is also home to one of the island’s most vibrant reefs – a coral garden that’s as colourful as it is popular. An adventure beneath the waves here often involves a day trip to nearby Tulamben too, to explore the sunken US Liberty Shipwreck and the resident aquatic life. You’ll definitely want an underwater camera for this one…

Best Bali day trips: West & South Bali

1. canggu – bohemian living for a day in bali’s boho capital.

The island’s boho capital – AKA Canggu – is fast-becoming a number one destination on every Bali itinerary. Come here for the day to visit the many cool spots you won’t want to miss: blissful spas , cool bars , the so-hot-right-now boutiques , and of course, the ever-growing collection of Canggu’s best cafes and restaurants . You’ll want to come hungry, and you’ll want to try everything from the vegan brunches to the hottest sunset spots, the best date night destinations and the most buzzing nightlife scene , too.

2. Seminyak – the perfect day trip for fashionistas

Away from the rice fields and traditional temples of Bali, the hip ‘hood of Seminyak is where it’s at for a bit of glitz and glam. Spend a day here exploring the uber-hip restaurants , the luxe Seminyak spas , the breezy beach bars and the swanky Seminyak villas . And if fashion is your thang, you’ll want to shop ’til you drop at Seminyak’s best boutiques .

3. Waterbom Bali – make the biggest splash and slide away

If water parks are your thing, then spend a day getting wet and wild at Asia’s number one water park, Waterbom !  There are lazy rivers and pools to whistle the time away, but for the thrill seekers out there, try out the notorious Climax, an exhilarating ride that has a trap door which opens underneath you so you catapult all the way down the near vertical slide (don’t say we didn’t warn you!). There are tonnes of exhilarating slides to keep that heart pumping all day.

4. South Bali – cultural park in the morning & beach club afternoon chill

For the artistic travellers who just want to bask in Bali’s rich culture, head down to Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park in Uluwatu . Here you’ll find spacious lands which houses the skyscraping GWK statue and cultural events like Kecak Garuda Wisnu Kencana – the first ever collaboration between the performance arts of Kecak dance and Ogoh-Ogoh, a gigantic puppet which represents the mythical creature of Garuda. Once you’ve explored the park’s grounds, keep heading south to Melasti beach, where you’ll find chic beach clubs along the promenade. Spend the afternoon (and all the way past sunset) lounging on sunbed, sipping cocktails, listening to good music before wandering down the beach for the golden hour photoshoot!

5. Bali Paintball Arena – a day of thrills

If you are here with a group of friends and fancy unleashing your inner Rambo, then head to the Bali Paintball Arena . Get dressed up in military-styled camouflage jumpsuits (don’t forget your war paint!), grab your mask and paintball gun, and commando roll your way through natural undergrowth, custom-made hideouts, obstacles and bunkers whilst shooting your ‘friends’ with balls of paint.

6. Uluwatu – Bay-watch and surf world-class breaks

Right up there with the world’s very best surfing destinations , Uluwatu’s waves are high priority on every board rider’s itinerary. Novices need not apply – the waves here regularly barrel onto sharp reef with strong currents to boot, attracting pros (and wannabes) from around the world. Post-surf, you’ll want to chill at Uluwatu’s spectacular white sand beaches – pristine waters with surrounding rugged cliffs and green foliage.

7. Nusa Dua – family-friendly water sports

Nusa Dua has so many water sports adventures on offer, you could spend your entire holiday getting wet and wild. For adrenaline junkies, there’s jet-skiing, banana and donut boat rides, water-skiing, wakeboarding, fly fishing and parasailing, or you can fully immerse yourself in the deep and experience the ocean by swimming, snorkelling, surfing, scuba diving and even sea walking. If you don’t fancy getting wet, take a trip on a glass-bottom boat to discover Nusa Dua’s beautiful marine life above board.

8. Bali National Golf Club – go pro-golfing in a 18-hole course

Whether you’re a beginner, a pro or just a casual weekend golfer looking for a relaxing holiday hobby, Bali National Golf Club is Nusa Dua’s international-standard manicured golf course with three distinct playing environments across an 18-hole course. There are creeks and canyons, sculptured fairways and elevated groves, and for the final hole, a challenging lakeside green. There’s also a Pro shop, a driving range with putting green, and even a modern clubhouse overlooking the Indian Ocean. Now that’s a golf course!

Happy day-tripping, Honeys!

Love this list of Bali day trips? Fill up the rest of your Bali itinerary with these awesome activities and attractions , too.

Amy Nicholson

After spending most of her twenties living and breathing the London life as a writer and marketeer, Amy left the hustle and bustle of the city in search of palm trees, sandy toes and salty hair. Now residing in Bali, Amy spends her time exploring the magical island and writing about everything it has to offer.

More from Amy

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The Best Tours in Bali

Bali, a true hidden gem amongst the over 17,500 islands that are dotted around Indonesia , offers quite an overwhelming amount of activities for you to choose from - however, we can help you with our amazing guided tours in Bali. Our friendly local Balinese tour guides will be more than happy to show you around the island’s best kept secrets and its very best spots, with bespoke itineraries that will make every single moment of your trip as memorable as the next!

Whether you’re an adventurer seeking the thrill of an action packed Bali white water rafting tour , or you’re more after the slow and relaxing pace of a Bali spa experience , our Bali excursions are perfect for many different people and the type of adventure they’re looking for. We’ve put together our very best tours in Bali for you to look through, as well as a handful of tips and tricks to help you prepare for when you leave, so you can easily plan a once-in-a-lifetime Bali trip that you won’t forget.

Why take Bali tours in 2024?

Located in the heart of Indonesia, Bali is famous for its rich history, incredible landscapes and deep rooted culture; with tourism making up a large part of its economy, there are tons of tours in Bali to take advantage of the incredible things to see and do on the island. With many discovering this hidden gem, it’s no surprise that day trips in Bali are becoming more and more popular every year, with the increased bookings of Bali tours in 2024 showing no exception!

Looking to get away from the commotion and chaos of everyday life? Excursions in Bali are the ideal way to escape, with plenty of opportunities to kick back in luxurious hotels and resorts, relax on pristine beaches and marvel at impressive waterfalls; it’s the perfect place to de-stress! Whether you’re exploring alone or want the best Bali tour operators to curate an amazing vacation, going on Bali trips is a brilliant way to step back and experience some new things.  

For families, solo travelers, groups of friends or otherwise, trips to Bali can offer a different experience for whatever type of vacation you’re looking to have; a relaxing getaway or a way to experience unique and fun activities in Bali that are on offer. Taking guided tours in Bali is both an easy and relaxing way to explore this beautiful island, whether you’re looking for spiritual meaning or a day packed full with adventure. 

Amongst our most popular options is our famed Bali island tours , a unique selection of Bali trips where you can discover and relax in a slice of paradise; we’d love to give you the chance to explore these unbelievable places, and with our Bali day trips we can help you do that without the hassle of organizing anything yourself. Even better than that, you can experience these and many more sights and activities with no-one except yourself, family and friends and your very own guide with our private tours in Bali! We think there’s no better way to take in this beautiful province, and it will create memories for a lifetime.

If you want a change of scene from the regular local tours in Bali, consider coming with us on one of our Nusa Penida tours to explore the amazing neighboring island, renowned for its quiet and relaxed way of life - you’ll even get some memorable snaps along the way! If you’re less of the relaxing sort and you were after some exciting tourist activities in Bali, then take a look at our cultural Bali tours where you can find all sorts of unique trips - our Ubud tours are also great for seeing how the locals live their lives, and you might even get the chance to buy some handmade souvenirs, recommended by your private tour guide in Bali.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in Bali?

As many as you can stay for! There are countless private tours in Bali and other activities which can keep you entertained for weeks on end; although we’d love for you to stay as long as possible, a week or two should be enough to discover the best activities in Bali for you to do. However long you plan to go for, you’ll definitely want to come back as soon as possible to take some of the Bali excursions you missed out on!

What clothes do you need to pack for a trip to Bali?

The diverse weather and range of private Bali trips you might be undertaking makes it necessary to pack a variety of lightweight clothes, comfortable shoes and a swimsuit as a minimum (the latter will come in handy for many Bali activities!). This should include shorts, t-shirts, skirts and other items of loose-fitting clothing - the island is sunny most of the time, but there’s no harm throwing in a rain jacket if you happen to get stuck in a shower! Before embarking on your Bali excursions, it’s worth taking the time to research the best time to visit Bali so you can try and avoid a downpour when hoping for a bright and sunny getaway - although, we’d recommend you still pack a variety of clothes so you can expect the worst and hope for the best. It’s important to be prepared for any occasion so you can make the most of our stunning Bali tours for 2024!

Are trips to Bali family friendly?

Yes! Day tours in Bali are perfect for any family holiday , due to the diverse range of activities ranging from adventure to relaxing that are suitable for any age. With cultural sites to discover, beaches to relax on, fun filled activities to partake in and even amazing amenities at most hotels, you can be sure that most Bali tours are safe for children - although we recommend taking normal precautions with your children as you would anywhere in the world!

What is the best month to travel to Bali?

The best months to travel to Bali are April, May, June, and September . During these periods, the weather is warm and sunny with less rainfall, and the island is less crowded compared to peak tourist seasons. It's also an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring Bali's natural beauty, so make sure to plan some beautiful Bali nature & adventure tours to take advantage of these months in the best way!

Do you need a visa before going on Bali tours?

Bali offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for stays of up to 30 days for travelers from a list of eligible countries . If you’re not from an eligible country or if you plan to stay longer (and get in as many tours in Bali as possible!), other visa options are available. For detailed information on the different types of visas and the latest requirements, make sure to check out our Bali visa guide .

How long is a tour in Bali?

Tours in Bali can vary greatly in length, from short 3-hour excursions to full-day adventures lasting 12 to 13 hours . For those looking for an even more immersive experience, some of our Bali tours extend over 3 days , offering an incredible opportunity to take in some of Bali’s most unique sights that many won’t see in a lifetime.

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