Bali road trip: authentic route from Ubud to Sidemen

Day 1: Welcome to the Island of the Gods

Upon arrival at Denpasar airport, our local guide will be waiting to welcome you with a traditional flower garland. Your private driver will take you straight to Ubud, the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali.

Day 2: Relax and unwind in Ubud

After a long flight, today is all about taking it easy, with plenty of time in the morning to relax by the pool. In the afternoon, a 60-minute traditional Balinese massage is planned; you’ll be free from your jet lag in no time! The rest of the day is completely yours.

Day 3: Authentic Balinese village life

Today you'll discover authentic Balinese countryside life. You'll take a lovely walk alongside green rice paddies where farmers are at work and see how important spirituality is in daily life. At lunchtime, you'll join a local family at their home for a traditional meal and learn how they make the famous colourful offering baskets (canang sari).

Day 4: White water rafting on the Ayung River

Time for some action! Today you'll go rafting on the Ayung River, drifting past impressive cliffs, dense jungle, and waterfalls. It's a fantastic, safe trip suitable for everyone. After lunch, you'll return to enjoy a peaceful afternoon at your own pace.

Day 5: Royal tombs, sacred springs, and green terraces

Together with your guide, you'll visit a few special spots around Ubud today. You'll start at Gunung Kawi, an ancient temple complex featuring impressive tombs carved directly into the rock face. Next, you'll head to Tirta Empul, the famous water temple where Balinese people gather for purification rituals. You'll end the day at the iconic Tegalalang rice terraces.

Day 6: Northward via the Monkey Forest and Belimbing

You'll leave Ubud behind and travel towards the peaceful northwest. Along the way, you'll stop at Sangeh Monkey Forest, a mystical woodland filled with giant trees and curious monkeys. Driving past the serene rice terraces of Belimbing, you'll then continue to the coastal town of Pemuteran.

Day 7: Snorkelling at Menjangan Island

Today you'll board a wooden boat heading for Menjangan Island, part of a protected national park. This is one of Bali’s finest spots for snorkelling. With your mask on, you'll spot colourful coral and plenty of tropical fish in the crystal-clear water. Lunch will be enjoyed right on board.

Day 8: Hot springs and mountain landscapes

You'll journey onwards to the cool mountain region of Munduk. En route, enjoy a relaxing dip in the Banjar hot springs, set in the middle of a lush park. Nearby, you'll also visit Brahma Vihara Arama, the island's largest Buddhist monastery. In the afternoon, you'll arrive in Munduk, beautifully surrounded by mountains and plantations.

Day 9: Hiking mountain lakes and the Banyumala Waterfall

Lace up your hiking shoes for a scenic trek through the mountains. You'll take in views over the twin lakes, walk through the forest, and cross the water in a traditional wooden canoe. After lunch, you'll hike to the Banyumala Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool.

Day 10: To the magical Sidemen Valley

A few iconic highlights are on the schedule today. First, you'll visit Ulun Danu Beratan, the photogenic temple on the lake. Next, you'll drive to Kintamani for sweeping views of the Mount Batur volcano, followed by a visit to the impressive Besakih Temple at the foot of Mount Agung. You'll wrap up the day in peaceful Sidemen.

Day 11: Cycling through authentic Sidemen

Sidemen shows you Bali as it used to be: green, quiet, and wonderfully pure. Today you'll explore this valley by bike. Together with a guide, you'll enjoy a gentle downhill ride along narrow lanes, green rice fields, and small villages, always with the grand volcano in the background.

Day 12: Bat temple and royal history towards Sanur

You'll leave the inland area behind and drive down towards the south coast. En route, you'll stop at Goa Lawah, a unique temple built around a cave filled with bats. Afterwards, you'll visit Kertha Gosa, a historic building with beautiful traditional ceiling paintings. Around midday, you'll arrive at the coast in Sanur.

Day 13 & 14: Relaxing on Sanur beach

The final days of your journey are all about relaxation. Sanur offers a lovely, easygoing atmosphere with a beautiful sandy beach and a promenade filled with charming spots to eat. Stroll around town, treat yourself to a massage, or simply unwind with a good book by the pool.

Day 15: Farewell to Bali

After breakfast, enjoy your final moments on the island. At the agreed time, your driver will pick you up for your transfer to Denpasar airport, where you'll board your flight back home.

What budget should you expect?

For this tour, you can expect a guide price starting from €8,500 for 2 people. This price includes international flights and bed & breakfast accommodation, depending on your travel dates, choice of hotels, and any extras such as additional excursions or extensions.

Frequently asked questions about this tour

How does it work with the private driver and guide?

Throughout the trip, an experienced local driver and guide are at your service for all transfers and excursions included in the itinerary. They know the island inside out, take care of all practical details along the way, and love sharing insights into Balinese culture and traditions. On free days (such as in Sanur), you enjoy complete freedom without a guide.

Are activities like rafting and cycling physically demanding?

No, all activities are suitable for anyone with a normal level of fitness. The rafting on the Ayung River is safe and great for beginners, while the bike ride in Sidemen is mostly a gentle downhill coast through the countryside. If you'd prefer a shorter route during a walk, your guide will happily adjust it on the spot.

What should I prepare for visiting the temples?

When entering Balinese temples, respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees is required. At most sites, you can borrow or rent a sarong at the entrance. Since you'll also be visiting water temples like Tirta Empul, it's handy to pack a spare set of dry clothes and a small towel in your daypack.

Can this trip be customized or extended?

Absolutely! This itinerary is meant to inspire. Would you like to stay longer on the beach in Sanur, add extra nights in Munduk, or select a specific boutique hotel? We'll gladly tailor the route and pace entirely to your personal preferences.