Dolphins and Gods

DAY PROGRAM

• Day 1 / Welcome to Bali - first night in Ubud

  Upon your arrival at Denpasar Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by Stjernegaard's friendly English-speaking guide, who will ensure a smooth transfer to Ubud. During the drive, you’ll receive useful information about Bali, including a guide to recommended excursions and activities. If you’d like assistance planning your adventures, our local representative, Putu Eka is available to help with bookings and provide support throughout your stay.

  The drive to Ubud takes about an hour and a half, giving you a glimpse of Bali’s beautiful landscapes. Once in Ubud, you’ll check into a cozy hotel near the main street, offering both convenience and peaceful views of the rice fields. Ubud is perfect for exploring on your own, with art galleries, shops, and cultural experiences waiting for you. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Ubud has something special to offer.

  
  Meals: (-/-/-)  •  Overnight: Ubud

• Day 2-4 / Ubud, self-guided experiences in Bali's cultural heart

  Ubud is known as Bali’s artistic and spiritual center, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the island’s central highlands. You’ll find beautiful green rice terraces cascading down the hillsides, with a peaceful river flowing through the valley. Over it all rises Mount Agung, a majestic volcano that stands over 3 kilometers tall.

  This amazing landscape has inspired artists from all over the world. Painters, sculptors, and woodcarvers have made Ubud their home. You can visit places like the Neka Gallery, which showcases incredible art influenced by Bali’s beauty and culture. Ubud is also full of tradition. You may see colorful religious processions or preparations for temple ceremonies, which are a big part of life here.

  The town is a great place for shopping, too! Explore the market and small shops, where you’ll find handmade crafts, clothing, and more. Ubud offers something special for everyone, whether you love art, culture, or just exploring.

  Meals: (B/-/-)  •  Overnight: Ubud

• Day 5 / Ubud to Lovina: A Day of Sightseeing

  Your journey from Ubud to Lovina is filled with unforgettable experiences. After being picked up from your hotel, you’ll enjoy  a scenic drive that includes visits to ancient temples, lush rice fields, charming villages, and stunning waterfalls.

  The first stop is the Taman Ayun Temple, a 400-year-old treasure and one of Bali’s most beautiful temples. Take time to admire the intricate wood carvings on the temple doors—a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The temple is set within a large park featuring an artificial lake, with impressive pagodas floating gracefully in the middle.

  Next, you'll head towards Mount Batukaru, which rises 2,278 meters into the sky. Your journey continues with a visit to a traditional Balinese home. Here, you’ll learn about the Balinese way of life. In the kitchen, you’ll discover the rich food culture of Bali and learn about the many spices that are essential in Balinese cooking.

  After exploring the house, you’ll take a leisurely stroll through the village, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The next highlight is the stunning Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, where vibrant green fields stretch across the hillsides. These terraces are so remarkable that they’ve been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  After a refreshing walk through the rice fields, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in a stunning setting. 

  The highlands here are framed by the striking blue-green volcanic peaks and rolling hills, creating a natural palette of bright greens and reds. As you wind your way along the roads, you’ll ascend over 1,200 meters in altitude, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Beratan.

  One of the highlights of this area is the famous Ulun Danu Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple set in the middle of the lake, adding to the magical atmosphere of the surroundings.

  Your journey continues along the fantastic scenic to the powerful Gitgit Waterfall. As you approach, the constant roar of the waterfall fills the air, and you’ll feel the refreshing mist around you. The water plunges from a height of 20-30 meters, crashing onto the rocky outcrops below, creating a stunning and powerful sight.

  In the late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Lovina and check into the beautiful The Lovina hotel. It’s the kind of place you won’t want to leave. Located directly on an unspoiled beach with black sand from volcanic ash, the hotel offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The friendly staff goes out of their way to make your stay extra special.

  The hotel also offers a variety of activities for you to enjoy, and the best part is they’re all free! You can try paddleboarding, join a yoga class, or take a snorkeling trip to explore the nearby waters.

  
  Meals: (B/L/-)  •  Overnight: Lovina

• Day 6-9 / Lovina, dolphin safari, fishing trips, waterfalls and relaxation

  You’ll spend a few wonderful days relaxing at The Lovina hotel, enjoying the peaceful beach and the laid-back charm of the nearby town. The north coast of Bali has a more relaxed vibe compared to the busy south, so everything here happens at a slow, enjoyable pace.

  One of the main attractions in Lovina is dolphin watching, and you’re right by the water, so if you’re up for an early morning adventure, you’re in for a special treat. As the sun begins to rise, boats of all sizes head out to spot the dolphins, with the graceful creatures often playfully jumping around the boats. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, it’s rare to return without seeing these amazing animals in action, as they roam freely in the open sea.

  Just a 30-minute drive from Lovina, the village of Sudaji is a hidden green gem in northern Bali. This area is home to one of Bali’s most stunning sights—the Sekumpul National Park. Here, you’ll find the impressive Sekumpul Waterfall, a breathtaking double waterfall, along with the Fiji Waterfall, which has three powerful streams. The sight of the water cascading from 80 meters high is truly awe-inspiring, and you'll feel small in the face of its immense beauty and force.

  For an added adventure, you can take an optional excursion to see Bali's Largest Waterfall, where the dramatic landscape will remind you of a scene from Jurassic Park. It’s a truly remarkable place to connect with nature. 

  Another must-see is Barat National Park and Menjangan Island, located less than two hours from the hotel. The area is rich in wildlife, with exciting flora and fauna to discover. If you're into snorkeling, bring a mask and fins, as Menjangan Island offers a colorful underwater world full of vibrant fish and coral reefs.
  Let our  local guides arrange a day trip for you  to explore the highlights of the northern part of Bali.

  As the day winds down, Lovina's sunset offers a breathtaking spectacle. The sky turns shades of red and violet, creating a peaceful and magical atmosphere. It’s the perfect moment to relax with a refreshing exotic drink or a cold Bintang beer, soaking in the tranquility of this beautiful place.

  Meals: (B/-/-)  •  Overnight: Lovina

• Day 10 / Lovina - Sanur, sightseeing along the way

  After a few relaxing days in beautiful Lovina, it’s time to continue your journey to Sanur, one of Bali’s most charming beach towns. Along the way, there are several fascinating stops to explore.

  The first stop is the hot springs at Banjar Village, where Bali’s first spa was established centuries ago. Today, the Balinese still use the natural volcanic baths, believed to have healing properties.

  Next, you’ll visit Sangsit and the Pura Beji Temple, where you’ll see exceptional craftsmanship. The temple’s limestone walls are covered in intricately carved sculptures, making it one of the best-preserved sites of its kind.

  Continuing up into the highlands, you’ll visit Penulisan Temple, located at 1,745 meters above sea level. There’s a bit of a climb to reach the temple, but the breathtaking view at the top is well worth it. Built-in the 9th century, the temple is a true architectural and historical gem. On a highland plateau at 1,200 meters, you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of Lake Batur, with the majestic Mount Batur looming in the background.

  Your day concludes with a visit to a traditional village, where you’ll experience the daily life of one of Bali’s more isolated communities. In this village, traditions, and religion remain deeply important, offering a unique insight into Balinese culture.

  In the late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Sanur and check into your hotel, either near the main street or directly on the beach, where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the area.

  Meals: (B/L/-)  •  Overnight: Sanur

• Day 11-14 / Sanur, relaxation on the beach and the possibility of local excursions

  In Sanur, you can unwind by the beach or pool and enjoy the excellent service that Bali is known for. The days are yours to enjoy at your own pace, but there’s plenty to do if you feel like exploring.

  For instance, you can take a boat trip to Lembongan Island, which includes a snorkeling adventure where you may spot majestic giant manta rays. If you prefer something more active, join an early morning bike ride and experience the peaceful vibe of the city as it comes to life.

  What makes Sanur special is that it feels like a true Balinese town, with real local life. To get an insider’s view, you can explore with a local guide who will take you to hidden spots and share the local way of life.

  Meals: (B/-/-)  •  Overnight: Sanur

• Day 15 / Sanur

  Time for the last experiences in the beach town before returning to Denpasar. Enjoy  your last day in the relaxed coastal town of Sanur, taking in the beach atmosphere and peaceful surroundings. When it's time to depart, you'll be picked up from your hotel and driven to Denpasar Airport, ready to begin your journey home with wonderful Bali memories.

  Meals: (B/-/-)