Highlands and Sea Turtles

DAY PROGRAM

• Day 1 / Arrival in Bali

  Upon arrival at the airport, our guide will greet you and accompany you on the drive to Ubud. Here, the atmosphere is charmingly relaxing, with a delightful mix of tourists and locals, showing the Balinese's exceptional ability to harmonize with tourism rather than simply benefiting from it. During your drive from the airport to Ubud, you will probably find yourself embracing the leisurely Bali vacation vibe as you take in the breathtaking views of flowing rivers and lush green paddies.

  On this first day, you will also receive a full information package about the island, featuring practical details, excursion recommendations, restaurant suggestions, and other useful insights. Our carefully selected local guides, are top experts in their field, lead a variety of activities including biking, hiking, trekking, snorkeling, and cultural sightseeing. The provided material also includes contact details, ensuring you can easily reach them for any assistance or recommendations throughout your stay.

  Meals: (-/-/-)  •  Overnight: Ubud

   

• Day 2-4 / Ubud: Art, Culture & Sunrise Adventures

  You will spend five days in Ubud, a bustling city where Bali’s artistic spirit truly thrives. Here you have the option to book excursions with English-speaking guides.

  For many years, artists from around the world have found inspiration here, drawing endless creativity from Ubud's stunning surroundings. However, the true masterpiece of Ubud is its landscape, which is best captured on a casual stroll or bike ride through the central highlands. This region is also a lively center for traditions and ceremonial processions, implemented with a sense of honor that often features a celebration. The area is scattered with charming villages, each home has a magnificent temple open for visitors. The warmth of the local hospitality boosted the atmosphere, which many consider to be the true essence of Bali.

  Therefore, Ubud has experienced significant growth in recent years. The traditional market has been joined by a variety of thriving specialty shops, including galleries, jewelry designers, clothing boutiques, and stores that offer a wide range of bags, scarves, dresses, t-shirts, and shoes. Cafés and restaurants also grow, with charming courtyards transforming into trendy dining spots and cafés with views of the rice fields serving fresh juice, excellent coffee, and tasty lunch options. During your stay in Ubud, you will have the chance to start on various excursions to explore the highlands more deeply and gain a closer insight into Balinese life.

  One of our favorite excursions is an early morning trek up Mount Batur. You will be picked up from your hotel in the middle of the night, having the hike guided by the experienced local trekking guide and starting at dawn time in complete darkness.

  You arrive at the edge of the volcanic crater just as the sun starts to shine over the fascinating landscape, while enjoying a well-deserved breakfast before going down. Hereafter you will be returning to the hotel early in the morning. This excursion can be booked in advance or arranged locally with our agent during your stay in Bali.

  Meals: (B/-/-)  •  Overnight: Ubud

• Day 5 / Transfer Day to Bangli

  It is time for a farewell to the town of Ubud, as today you will be heading an hour north to the charming region,
  Bangli lies at the foot of the majestic Mount Agung, its iconic cone shape towering over the landscape between Ubud and Sidemen in Bali's lush highlands. Often described as one of the island's hidden treasures, Bangli is a gem frequently overlooked by tourists. Despite its modest profile, the area boasts stunning waterfalls, the greenery of nature, the serene beauty of the highlands, and classic Balinese temples. Here, you will also find an authentic local existence and a unique cultural encounter that truly captures the essence of Bali.

  One of the most fascinating aspects of Bangli is its rich history. Once it became the capital of Bali, and the city is home to several ancient temples and palaces. Upon your arrival, you will be comfortably accommodated at your hotel, where you will spend three nights. During your stay, you will have quite a time to explore and appreciate the many wonders that Bangli has to offer.

  The valley is one of Bali's most stunning and authentic river valleys, and on a clear day, you can even overview the coast in the distance. Above it all rises the majestic Mount Agung, providing a stunning backdrop to Sidemen’s green rice terraces on clear days. Bangli, situated at the base of this iconic volcano, is situated between Ubud and Sidemen in Bali's lush highlands. Often described as one of the island’s hidden treasures, this area offers a serene and wonderful retreat. Please note that if you wish to upgrade your hotel during your stay in Bangli, our upgraded accommodation is in the town of Sidemen, situated in the valley of the same name.

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

• Day 6-7 / Bangli - Hidden Waterfalls & Sacred Traditions

  You can spend your days in Bangli exactly as you wish, customizing your activities to suit your preferences and interests.

  During your stay, you will have excellent opportunities to engage yourself in local life while being surrounded by some of Bali's most breathtaking natural beauty. Bangli is home to several traditional Balinese villages, each offering a fascinating overview of the daily lives of the local people and an opportunity to learn about Balinese customs and traditions. The well-known villages include Penglipuran, very famous for its well-preserved architecture, and Trunyan, known for its distinctive burial practices.

  You might enjoy a bike ride through rice fields, alongside working farmers, past serene villages, coffee plantations, and lush oases. Along the way, you can stop at some of the area's famous and charming waterfalls. For example, you can visit Tangkup Waterfall, where water cascades approximately 25 meters into a small pool surrounded by green cliffs. Another must-see is Tukad Cepung Waterfall, a stunning, beautiful oasis where the water appears to glow when sunlight hits it just right. Additionally, Kanto Lampo Falls offers a scenic backdrop with a refreshing natural foot pool, and Tibumana Falls, framed by lush vegetation, is a favorite spot among Instagrammers.

  Alternatively, you can relax and engage yourself in the essence of authentic, rural Bali by hiking along scenic trails. Another option is to explore the impressive Pura Kehen temple, an incredible 14th-century structure well known for its beautifully manicured terraces, intricate stone carvings, and towering pagoda-like design. This well-preserved temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Balinese culture and history.

  Two other highly popular excursions while staying in Bangli include an early morning hike up Mount Batur to catch a breathtaking sunrise from the summit. Alternatively, for those seeking a more challenging adventure, you can choose to watch the sunrise from Mount Agung, Bali's highest peak, which offers panoramic views of the entire island.

  In between all the incredible natural experiences, you can also make time for leisure with a relaxing spa treatment at one of the many spa and wellness centers in the area.

  You can also participate in a cooking class to gain insight into the art of preparing traditional Balinese dishes. With so many options available, you’re sure to find something that keeps you engaged and entertained.

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

• Day 8 / Transfer from Bangli to Gili Trawangan

  After enjoying several wonderful days in Bangli, you will continue your journey today. You’ll head to Gili Trawangan and the other Gili islands by minibus and fast ferry, a trip that typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the weather.

  You will arrive at Gili Trawangan in the afternoon, where you’ll be greeted by its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters - it's truly a paradise that’s hard to resist. The island offers direct access to vibrant tropical fish and stunning coral reefs. On Gili Trawangan, you'll encounter a diverse mix of visitors, from young backpackers and avid divers to families with children and more mature travelers - truly a varied and lively crowd.

  Meals: (B/-/-)  •  Overnight: Gili Trarawangan

• DAY 9-11 / Island Escape: Snorkel, Stroll & Unwind in Gili

  On Gili Trawangan, the pace slows down and you'll feel more relaxed from the moment you arrive.
  The experience on Gili Trawangan is unique, as the transport from the ferry dock to your hotel is either on foot or in a charming two-wheeled horse-drawn carriage. Along the way, you may be passed by a few bicycles - the fastest mode of transportation on the island, where motorbikes and cars are not permitted.

  On the Gili Islands, relaxation, snorkelling, diving, and sunbathing are the main attractions. If you seek more activity, the islands offer a wide selection of cozy bars and excellent restaurants. For a gourmet beachfront experience, try Ko-Ko-Mo or Samba on Trawangan. Crooked palms and shady casuarina trees sway in the breeze, while colorful umbrellas and tables directly in the sand add charm to the beachside dining experience.

  The water awaits with stunning shades of blue, and beneath the surface, it teems with brightly colored fish among large coral reefs in an array of surprising shapes, patterns, and hues. In some places, you can swim directly from the shore to these fascinating reefs.

  However, it is even better if you rent a small boat that can take you to the best snorkeling spots. Alternatively, take a boat trip to the neighboring islands or rent bikes to explore the island. The days here inspire total relaxation on one of Indonesia's most wonderful beaches.

  Meals: (B/-/-)  •  Overnight: Gili Trawangan

• Day 12 / Transfer to Uluwatu

  You might find yourself wanting to stay in the Gili Islands for a few more days - or perhaps you don’t want to leave this paradise at all.

  But there are more wonderful experiences ahead as you make your way to Uluwatu, a scenic, hilly area in the southwestern part of the Bukit Peninsula, Bali's southernmost point. Uluwatu - or just "Ulu" to the locals and their people - is named after a famous temple perched on the cliffs. The area is renowned for its blue waves, white sand beaches, impressive sea cliffs, quality surfing, and luxurious beach clubs.

  There is something for everyone here, promising enjoyable days ahead in the area.

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

• DAY 13-14 / Uluwatu Bliss: Surf, Sunsets & Spiritual Charm

  Although Uluwatu is a bit remote on the southernmost part of the island, it is worth a visit.

  The area is renowned for excellent surfing, hidden beaches, a laid-back atmosphere, and stunning views from the cliffs along the entire south coast. There are also many resorts, hotels, and charming surfer spots.

  Uluwatu Temple, perched above a cliff, stands out as one of Bali's most famous and spiritually significant sites, known for its unique architecture, breathtaking views, and beautiful sunsets. In the evening, against the backdrop of a flaming sunset, you can experience the traditional and captivating Balinese Kecak fire dance.

  Uluwatu also boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a perfect destination to tantalize your taste buds with the diverse Flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy authentic dishes such as Nasi Padang, Balinese Babi Guling, and Javanese Nasi Campur.

  With turquoise waters, white sand, and limestone cliffs resembling Nusa Penida, it is no exaggeration to say that Uluwatu boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Bali. Uluwatu's southern coastline offers true gems of remote tropical sand beaches with breathtaking ocean views. Discover hidden beach beauties like Gunung Payung, Melasti, Pandawa, Balangan, and Nyang Nyang Beach, one of Uluwatu's hidden treasures.

  If you seek adventure over relaxation, and if there's a surfer inside you longing to hit the waves, you can test your skills and balance at popular surfing beaches such as Blue Point, Dreamland, and Padang Padang. These spots serve both expert surfers and beginners alike.

  After a wonderful day full of experiences, we recommend finding a place to relax as you prepare for the day’s final breathtaking show from nature in this paradise: the sunset.

  Uluwatu is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, which you must experience with a refreshing sunset cocktail in hand. You can relax at bars like Savaya, El Kabron, Ulu Cliff House, or Sunset Cabana Bar, where you will find premium beverage drinks while you watch the vibrant colors of the sunset transform the sky.

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

• DAY 15 / FAREWELL TO BALI

  After a wonderful and adventurous holiday, you'll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the airport, where you'll board your flight home with unforgettable memories of your Bali journey. We hope to see you again!

  Meals: (B/-/-)