Tour Bali: The Ultimate Guide

Bali offers the perfect environment if you are looking for a combination of beaches, rice fields, volcanoes and many monuments such as temples. And you can enjoy the specific Balinese culture, such as Balinese dancing.

1. Characteristics Bali

Bali is pre-eminently a country where you can travel very well with children. There are many activities that are well suited to visit with children. In this article you will find all the information you need to be well prepared to travel to Bali.

2. Well prepared for travel to Bali

For your trip to Bali you need a valid passport that is also valid for at least 6 months after arriving in the country. If you enter Bali via the airport I Gusti Ngurah Rai you do not need a visa for a tourist stay of maximum 30 days. Upon arrival you can buy the visa. If you stay longer than 30 days or you arrive in Bali via another way, you will need a visa. You can apply for a visa for 60 days at the Indonesian Embassy in The Hague. This costs about €50. You can find sockets with three rectangular holes in Bali. Bring a world plug for this, so you can use and charge your electrical appliances.

Inoculations against DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio) and Hepatitis A are recommended for a tour of Bali. Furthermore, personalized vaccinations may be recommended, depending on your personal situation. You can make an appointment with a local vaccination agency 4 to 6 weeks before departure. During a consultation you can go through your travel plans. You will also receive tailor-made advice on which vaccinations you need. Most of the vaccinations are in stock, so that they can be adjusted.

There are several vaccination agencies throughout the country and the cost of vaccinations varies by region. You can enquire about the exact costs at your local office. You pay an average of €24 for a consultation. This includes your vaccination booklet, if you do not already have one. Furthermore, an inoculation against DTP costs about €25 and the vaccination against Hepatitis A about €55. Also check your health insurance because some (additional) insurances cover the costs for travel vaccinations.

3. Travel advice for a round trip Bali

The ministry of Foreign Affairs gives travel advice for Bali. There are security risks. For example, there is a negative travel advice for the area around the volcano Mount Agung. Since the volcano is still active, you may not come within a radius of 4 kilometers around the volcano. If you do travel to this area, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will not be able to help you if you get into trouble.

In Bali, too, there is an increased risk of terrorist activity. On crowded places it is good to be alert and avoid large crowds. There are also regular political demonstrations that can become violent. Prevent yourself from getting into this. There is also a lot of (petty) crime in Bali such as robberies and robberies. Through the local media you can stay informed about the latest developments. And of course always follow the instructions of the local authorities. We would like to list a number of precautions for your own safety during a trip through Bali:

• The largest Muslim population in the world can be found in Indonesia, of which Bali is a part. Make sure you take into account the strict Islamic laws that may apply in some parts.
• After sunset, it's best not to take to the streets, not even to travel.
• Don't just walk down the street, not even during the day. Be wary.
• Avoid the slums.
• Don't drink local illegally fired alcohol. This can contain ingredients that can be lethal.
• It is forbidden to take pictures of military objects.
• Homosexuality (LHBTI) is not accepted everywhere, not even for foreigners. So this is something to take into account.

4. Climate Bali

Bali enjoys a tropical climate with an average daytime temperature of 30 degrees on the coast almost all year round. At night it cools down to an average of 22 degrees. If you move inland higher up, you will encounter somewhat lower temperatures due to the differences in altitude. The best time to travel is in the dry season between May and September. The climate on Bali has two seasons. The wet season runs from October to March. In this period there is a shower almost every day and the humidity is higher. Tropical cyclones can also occur in this period. From April to September is the dry season. And in this period you really encounter very little rain.

When it comes to hurricanes, Bali is conveniently located, as this island is just outside the area where they originate. In the months January, February and March you can experience thunderstorm depressions with heavy showers and an attracting wind. It is good to realize that Indonesia, to which Bali belongs, is part of the 'Ring of Fire'. This is an area in the Pacific Ocean with many volcanoes. Volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis regularly occur here. On Bali, air traffic can also suffer a lot from the ash rains caused by volcanic eruptions. Authorities also often set up local safety zones after a volcanic eruption. So keep this in mind.

5. Transport from, to and on Bali

If you fly from the Netherlands to Bali by plane, it will take at least 16 hours and you will have one stopover. When you arrive in Bali, you will soon notice that there is actually no (organized) public transport. There are some buses, but these are mainly used by the locals. The bus doesn't go to every place on the island by default and is often stuck in traffic jams. You will also have to wait for the bus in the heat. It is better to take a taxi.

5.1. Taxi

Above all, for short distances, taxis are a good means of transport. You can arrange this through for example the reception of your accommodation. You will also see minibuses driving around going to a specific destination. However, you will often have to change buses several times on a route. And it sometimes happens that drivers try to charge you extra because you are a tourist.

5.2. Auto

Another way to discover the island is by car. The road surface is in reasonably good condition in Bali. However, it is recommended to rent a car with driver. Driving in Bali is different than you might be used to in the Netherlands. Road signs are often missing, traffic rules do not seem to be there and road users can be reckless. You will also be surrounded by hundreds of mopeds that seem to come from all sides. And the poor lighting and road markings make driving in the dark dangerous.

5.3. Rent a moped

You can also rent a moped. This makes it easy to drive between traffic by getting to your destination faster. Furthermore, the moped is a cheap means of transport. And you have the freedom to go wherever you want. Make sure you are well insured through the rental company. And also check your own travel insurance for renting mopeds abroad. Put a business card from your hotel in your pocket. If you have any breakdowns along the way, you can at least contact the hotel. It is mandatory to ride with a helmet.

You need an International Driving Permit (IRB) in addition to your Dutch driving licence to be able to drive a car or moped in Bali. You can pick up an IRB in person at any ANWB shop in the Netherlands. This must clearly state that you are also allowed to drive a moped with that license. There are regular police checks. If your international driver's license is not accepted, you can buy a local driver's license at the police station.

6. Sightseeing during a Bali tour

On the volcanic island of Bali you will enjoy a paradisiacal holiday. The amazing nature and culture ensure that there is plenty to see around this island. What are the sights you really shouldn't miss? We list the most important sights for you.

6.1. Sekumpul Waterfalls

You'll hear the Sekumpul Waterfalls before you see him. Once you've reached the waterfall you'll enjoy the view of a fantastic twin trap that falls 80 meters down to the valley below. The water hits the rocks at such full speed that the surrounding area is shrouded in thick fog. The hills are full of deep green forests whose trees stretch into the air.

The journey from top to bottom is slow on a slippery path. Once you get to the bottom, you can explore the cave area further under what seems to be an endless series of waterfalls. You'll soon be soaked by the rainy fog. You can visit the waterfall with a guide, but this is not obligatory. If you like, you can also walk around on your own.

6.2. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan

At Lake Beratan in Bali you will find the temple complex Pura Ulun Danu Bratan. Pura is the name for a Hindu temple. This temple is dedicated to the goddess of water, lakes and rivers called Dewi Danu. Enjoy this iconic sight in a beautiful mountain setting with fresh air. The complex is divided over several islets and is located on the lake that connects the north and south of the island. You will find several temples. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is located at an altitude of 1200 meters in a fertile environment. Lake Bratan is known as a sacred mountain lake.

6.3. Mount Batar

A climb on Mount Batar is highly recommended to watch the sunrise over the nearby volcano Mount Agung. As long as you have a reasonable level of fitness, this climb on the over 1700 meter high mountain cannot be considered heavy. It is a trek of about 2 hours, so as long as you have enough rest along the way, it is doable. You will be picked up at night to go to the volcano. This way you will reach the top before the sun rises. After that you still have time to walk around the crater of the volcano. You will see hot smoke coming out of the volcano in some places. The bowl-shaped crater, called caldera, has an inside of 7 ½ kilometers and was formed between 23,670 and 28,500 years ago.

6.4. Jemeluk Beach

Snorkel lovers should definitely visit Jemeluk Beach on the east coast of the island. From this black volcanic sandy beach you can see the beautiful coral reefs in the calm, clear world. Jemeluk Beach is mentioned as one of the best snorkelling spots on the island. Off the coast of Jemeluk Beach you will find several snorkel spots. A must is the Japanese Ship Wreck Point. Although the coral is dead in some places, you can spot several tropical fish here.

6.5. Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Ponds full of koi fish, high fountains and tropical gardens. That and much more can be found at the Tirta Gangga Water Palace. Tirta Gangga is a former palace in the east of Bali and this place is now known for its breathtaking scenery with ornamental gardens on different levels. When you walk inside, the first thing you'll notice is the pond which contains rows of figures of guards holding bats. There are stones in the pond which you can walk over as a visitor so you can walk in between. To avoid the worst crowds, it is advisable to visit this place either early in the morning or at the end of the afternoon just before closing time.

6.6. Mount Agung

In the west of the island, north-east of Mount Batar, you will find Mount Agung. This crater mountain is also called Gunung Agung, and is the highest point of the island with over 3000 meters. This active volcano has a long history of eruptions. This can be deadly and has various dangers for people living within a 30-kilometer radius of the volcano. However, the eruptions have made the surrounding soil fertile. This has led to a beautiful green landscape with rice fields.

6.7. Tegalalang rice terrace

If you want to visit a green place next to beaches, volcanoes and high mountains, you have to go to the Tegalalalang rice terrace. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bali. You will find green rice fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. Tegalalang rice terrace is part of the cultural landscape of the Bali province UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will find terraces where the local rice farmers are working. You can enjoy the view from the top, also walk down. This is sweating, as you walk down the terraces along narrow, grassy paths that can be muddy. Don't miss the ´I Love Bali´ sign at the beginning of the rice fields. This is a perfect photo opportunity.

6.8. Jatiluwih Green land

Westerly of the Tegalalang rice fields lies the Jatiluwih Green land. Here not only your body, but also your mind comes to rest between the green landscape and the quiet surroundings. Against a backdrop of Mount Batukaru you can enjoy cool hilltops and rolling rice fields. You can explore the area on foot, by bike or by car. Jatiluwih is recognized by UNESCO as part of the cultural heritage of the world. Therefore the construction of hotels is not allowed, except as a tourist facility. However, environmental conservation must come first and at least 70% of the natural fields and plantations must remain intact. So it is not so much about tourism as it is about preserving the region's culture.

6.9. Campuhan Ridge walk

You can walk the Campuhan Ridge Walk from the town of Ubud. You walk over a paved path with a deep gorge and water on both sides. The path brings you to a ridge above the rice fields of Ubud where you have a beautiful view over the surrounding valley. As the path is paved and not very long, basically anyone can make the Campuhan Ridge walk. It is recommended to start early. On the one hand to be ahead of most tourists, on the other hand because of the heat. On the way you will meet local people who will have their workout here.

6.10. Bali Swing

Just outside Ubud you'll find the Bali Swing. These are four swings that hang in the rainforest of Bali. Besides the swings where you will feel like a child again, you can take very nice pictures here. The swings differ in size. You will be secured, but just as well you have to have some guts to float through the air on a swing of over 70 meters. At the Bali Swing in Ubud you will also find several vantage points. For example with a kind of bird's nest in which you can sit to take a picture. You will find swings at several places on Bali where you can take beautiful pictures, only the swings at Ubud are according to connoisseurs the best.

6.11. Sacred monkey forest sanctuary

In the city of Padangtegal you will find the Ubud Monkey forest, also called the sacred monkey forest. This forest is an important spiritual, economic, educational and conservation center for this place. The Ubud Monkey forest is the natural habitat of the Balinese long-tailed monkey. In addition to more than 700 monkeys, you can also see all kinds of tree species here, some of which are considered sacred. And in the forest there are 3 Hindu temples.

The park is densely vegetated and somewhat hilly. Through the hiking trails you can visit many parts of the forest. Underneath which a deep ravine where a rocky river flows. The existence of the holy forest in the city shows that people and nature can live together in a harmonious way. Temple festivals are regularly organized for the inhabitants and the gods in the area.

6.12. Bali Safari & Marine park

Bali Safari & Marine Park is home to thousands of animals such as lions, tigers, elephants and hippos. Among the more than 100 different species you will also find special and endangered species such as the Komodo Dragon, Orang Utans and the Bali Starling bird. During a safari you can see how this park takes care of the animals and wants to preserve their natural habitat.

You can choose the day safari or an evening safari. If you want to stay the night in the resort, this is also possible. You will then enjoy a Safari-inspired accommodation in the park. From your lodge you can watch the animals up close. A visit to Bali Safari & Marine park is also great fun to do with children. By the way, there is a shuttle bus in front of the park which has several pick-up points across the island.

6.13. Bali Zoo

Maybe you think if you've visited a zoo, you've seen them all. But not the Bali Zoo. This zoo is specially set up to the wishes of mainly children. For example, it is possible to feed the animals, there are water park attractions and you will come across a number of protected species, such as the Sumatran tiger. The park is clearly structured and leads you along the different animals and activities. In this zoo it is also possible to take a mud bath together with the Sumatran elephants. Or visit the zoo in the dark. And the petting zoo is great fun for the little ones who are traveling with you.

6.14. Bali Bird park

More than 250 different bird species from for example Latin America, Africa and Australia can be found in the Bali Bird park. This park also houses the most beautiful and extensive collection of Indonesian birds. Furthermore, the park contains more than 2,000 tropical plants. Learn all about the different bird species here. This park is only a few minutes away from the Bali Zoo. In the Bali Bird Park there are several areas, such as Borneo, Java and Papua. The birds are placed in the region where they originally came from, so that their natural habitat is created. There are daily demonstrations such as feeding the birds. Also very nice to visit with children.

6.15. Sanur beach

On the southeast coast of Bali lies Sanur Beach. This long sandy beach is very popular with water sports enthusiasts. You will find all kinds of activities here, such as kite surfing, windsurfing and canoeing. On the beach you will also meet many Balinese women who offer massages or braiding. If you are looking for a place to spend a few relaxing days, you should definitely go to Sanur Beach. Along the beach you will find a long promenade to stroll along. And nearby you can enjoy delicious dishes at one of the many restaurants on the beach. While you look out over the sea a fresh fish is served from the grill. Here you will certainly unwind and taste the local life.

6.16. DMZ Bali 3d art museum

If you go from the southeast coast to the southwest, you can visit the DMZ Bali 3d art museum. Here it seems like your mind is playing a trick on you. There are two-dimensional paintings on display in three dimensions, with illusions that seem to threaten the eye. Here you can take pictures with different paintings on the wall and floor. Take a picture that looks like you're sitting on a large water lily or step on a raft that's about to be eaten by a shark. The fantastic paintings almost make the illusion seem real. The museum has 14 different rooms with different themes. And it is suitable for visitors of all ages.

6.17. Water bomb Bali

If you feel like a relaxing day full of water fun, you should definitely go to Waterbomb Bali. This water park is located in the south of the island and offers the perfect environment for the whole group, even if you are travelling around Bali with children. The park has been developed to complement the natural environment. So not only do you find world class slides, also gardens that show the beauty of the country get a place here. More than 50% of the park is green. Whether you want to try Asia's steepest slide or relax in the shade of your own cabana, Waterbom Bali has it all.

6.18. Jimbaran Bay

In the south of Bali lies a typical Balinese coastal town: Jimbaran. This place is known as a surf spot, because the sea is a bit calmer here than in other places. And it has a wide range of beaches. One of the best is Jimbaran Beach. This beach stretches for 4 kilometers and is full of small local cafes. Rent a beach bed here and enjoy a day of sunbathing. In between, take a dip in the sea. Don't forget your snorkel to see the underwater life. Or enjoy the local cuisine with fresh products from the sea and a refreshing green coconut. 6.19.

6.19. Samasta lifestyle village

Do you want to spend a day shopping and enjoy luxurious restaurants and hotels? Then the Samasta lifestyle village should be in Jimbaran. In this concept you will find influences of the traditional and tropical atmosphere of Bali combined with a selection of more luxurious lifestyle shops and experiences.

6.20. Uluwatu Temple

From Jimbaran you can visit the Uluwatu Temple in the southernmost tip of Bali. This temple stands on the edge of a 70 meter high rock and overlooks the sea. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple itself. But anyway, a visit to this rock is more than worth it. You can enjoy a dance show there every day. This takes place in the open air against a beautiful background with the setting sun. The Uluwatu temple is inhabited by monkeys who are known for stealing the belongings of the visitors. They are often given back a piece of fruit to buy, only this only encourages them more to steal.

6.21. Devil's tear

6.22. Kelingking beach

From Nusa Lembongan, as well as from Bali, you can make a daytrip to the adjacent Nusa Penida. And on this island Kelingking beach is the biggest attraction. The rocks on this spot have, with some imagination, the shape of a dinosaur. From above you can climb down over the edge of the cliff until you reach Kelingking beach. The climb is not to be underestimated and can be quite steep. You walk on narrow paths that are especially tight when you meet people along the way. Once you get down, the climb is definitely worth it. Enjoy the beautiful beach and the gigantic waves.

7. Book a round trip to Bali: compare providers and accommodations

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