Updated: 26 September, 2024
All the best things to do in Bali, visit the temples, waterfalls, swings and the most beautiful corners, with prices, how to get around and tips.
Bali, known as the Island of the Gods, is the destination in Southeast Asia that receives the most tourism, despite this, they have known preserve its traditions and Balinese essence like few others, even in the times that they were a Dutch colony.
This beautiful island is an almost obligatory travel place for travelers in search of spiritual experiences, backpackers and adventurers, where you will find a great variety of activities and spectacular landscapes to see.
Furthermore, a trip to Bali is one of those that changes your life.
In this article I tell you all the things not to miss in Bali and below you have the map with each of the places marked.
✅ Tour to rice fields, waterfalls and monkey forest – the most beautiful places on the island.
✅ Hiking to Mount Batur for the most amazing views. 😍
✅ Excursion to waterfalls, rice fields and temples - the most complete.
How many days to spend in Bali?
To visit the must-see spots on the island of Bali, I recommend staying at least a week. But if you can stay two weeks to a month, even better—there’s so much to explore.
Bali can be your only destination. You can also do some day trips to the nearby islands like Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, each with its own unique charm.
18 things to do in Bali
1. Jatiluwih Rice Fields, Tabanan
On the outskirts of Ubud are the most impressive terraced rice fields so characteristic of Bali.
The rice fields were declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012, by your subak irrigation system, a typical Balinese system that dates back to the 9th century.
The most beautiful rice fields in Bali are those of JatiluwihFurthermore, there are not as many tourists as in Tegallalang, which I tell you about in the next point.
To visit them you can take a hiking route on your own. The rice fields are private property, some farmers have put up fences and charge a small amount to pass (less than 3 USD/euros).
Another option is to hire a guided excursion like this one in the link, so you don't worry about anything, not even transportation.
This excursion is super complete, because they also take you to visit the Tegenungan waterfalls, monkey forest, craft market, swings, among other interesting places.
Check availability and book below:
If you prefer a tour with guide in SpanishI recommend this other one that also visits the temple Tanah Lot and Nung Nung waterfalls, I'll tell you about both places below.
2. Tegallalang Rice Fields
The rice fields are one of the most characteristic landscapes on the island and one of the most essential in Bali.
Tegallalang rice fields are the most popular and visited on the island due to its proximity to Ubud. You can easily get there on your own and do a hiking route.
If hiking is not your thing or you prefer a less physically demanding alternative, you can do a electric bike tour through the rice fields like this one from the link that includes lunch, transfers and you go with a guide.
3. Mount Batur
The Mount Batur is one of the volcanic peaks in Bali and it is one of those visits that you cannot miss, especially for watch the sunrise.
Mount Batur and Lake Batur were declared Heritage of humanity by unesco in 2012 and is the most touristic place in all of Indonesia.
Although it is a place that is normally quite crowded at dawn, it is worth it because it is truly spectacular.
The mountain has a height of 1,717 meters and it is an active volcano that It had its last eruption in 2000 and is located in the center of two concentric calderas.
– How to climb Mount Batur?
The parking lot where the trekking route begins is located an hour and a little from Ubud.
You can get there on your own, but the lights on the roads in Bali are almost non-existent and therefore It is better to book an excursion.
The start of the route is about 1,100 meters high, the total climb is about 600 meters to the top for less than 5 kilometers that will take you a couple of hours.
So, if you go on your own, I recommend starting the climb no later than 4 in the morning.
It is a demanding trek, but if you are in shape it will not be a problem. On the other hand, if you are not used to doing sports, you can do it, but it will take longer.
– Excursion to Mount Batur or on my own?
This is one of the few visits, which It is best to do it with a tour.
If not, upon arrival When you go to the parking lot you may have an uncomfortable situation with the local people. who expects you to pay to go with a guide.
I recommend this one Mount Batur hiking tour of the link that includes transportation, they give you water, breakfast, the entrance fee and you go with a guide.
In addition to a thermal bath on Lake Batur at the end of the tour, which is very appreciated to relax after the intense climb.
As an alternative you have this hiking tour to Mount Batur which is the most popular, which includes a visit to coffee plantations And the breakfast.
You can check the availability and book here below:
If hiking is not your thing, or you prefer something more relaxed and effortless, I recommend this 4×4 visit to Mount Batur with bath in the hot springs.
Mount Batur It is one of the best things to see in Bali and you can't miss it.
– What to bring for hiking to Mount Batur?
- Front light: like the one in the link, it is more practical because it leaves your hands free, although if you don't have one, those on the excursion will give you a flashlight.
- Water: The one they will give you on the excursion is not enough, you will sweat a lot.
- Meal: Bring something like cookies, bars or nuts, because breakfast can be scarce, especially with the demanding hike.
- Warm clothing: When you arrive at the parking lot you will feel a little cool, but you will immediately warm up when you start walking. The problem is when you reach the top after having sweated and you wait for dawn, you will get cold. I recommend wearing a thin fleece, long pants or tights, and a windbreaker.
- Trekking shoes or sneakers with grip: The terrain is not very technical, but there are loose volcanic stones. It better be a closed footwear and preferably with some grip, that is, the soles are not smooth like some sneakers.
- trekking poles: especially if you have knee or ankle problems, because the descent is hard on the joints. The poles will help you not only when going down, they are also a great help when going up.
- Sun protection and cap: For the descent the sun hits hard.
- Swimsuit and travel towel: This in case you are going to bathe in the hot springs.
- Photo camera or mobile phone with a well-charged battery: The views are wonderful and the experience is very nice.
4. Surfing in Bali
Bali is one of the top world destinations in terms of surfing for their huge and orderly waves, the dream of every experienced surfer.
Bali's perfect waves form over reef bottoms that extend around the Island of the Gods.
These coral bottoms can be dangerous for novice or intermediate surfers, but There are also beaches suitable for beginner or advanced levels.
If you have always had the surfing bug and you are going on a trip to Bali, don't miss the opportunity to surf.
There you will find a great offer of surf camp to learn or perfect your surfing technique.
Like this surf camp 4 days in Nusa Lembongan which includes surf lessons, yoga classes, accommodation and breakfast, for less than 100 euros a day.
You will also find surf schools throughout the island to take some occasional surf class. If you already have experience you can rent a surfboard from about 3 USD / euros.
🏄♀️ In this other article about Surfing in Bali You can read in details about prices and everything you have to take into account, even about sharks.
5. Yoga retreat
Bali is one of the most popular destinations for yoga retreats, meditation, gong baths and no wonder, the island overflows with spirituality.
The Island of the Gods is a place that many describe as magical not only for the beauty of its landscapes and kindness of its people, but also for the good energy and a feeling of peace that it transmits.
Yoga retreats in Bali are becoming more popular because They are the perfect mix for a vacation of total disconnection, to take care of yourself physically and mentally, as well as enjoy the rich Balinese culture.
Most withdrawals include food and accommodation in the most dazzling surroundings of this beautiful island, this is the yoga retreat in bali more popular.
It is no wonder, it is a 7-day retreat with accommodation and meals included for less than 300 euros.
Additionally, some include excursions and activities for learn from Balinese traditions.
🙏 In this other article I tell you about the 5 Best Yoga Retreats in Bali with all the details.
6. Yoga class
You will also find a wide range of yoga studios with specific classes, mainly in Ubud, the heart of Bali.
Specifically, the Yoga Barn Studio has a great reputation for the quality of its classes. The price is not the cheapest, but it is worth at least trying some of their classes.
At Yoga Barn they have an extensive calendar with very varied yoga classes such as: aero yoga, vertical yoga, power yoga, yin yoga, Tibetan bowls, myofascial release and many more.
The venue is very large with spacious and comfortable shalas with beautiful views.
Furthermore, they have a cafe with delicious cold pressed juices, macrobiotic foods and Ayurvedic, ideal for after a yoga session.
7. See dolphins in the wild
One of the most beautiful things to see in Bali are the dolphins in freedom from various points on the island and sometimes even from the beach, as is the case in Amed in the east.
But going to that beach does not guarantee seeing them, sometimes they swim far away and You will have more possibilities if you rent a small boat.
For that, The best place for dolphin watching is Lovina Beach, in the north of Bali, where dolphins swim about 12 km from the beach.
– You have two options
- You can go directly to the beach and negotiate the price with a fisherman to take you to see them, the normal price is less than 7 USD/euros.
- If not, you can hire this excursion to see the dolphins with pick-up at the hotel and the boat, includes a visit to the temple on the shores of the lake Ulun Danu Bratan and the beautiful Gitgit waterfalls which I talk to you about below.
– What time are dolphins seen in the wild?
Dolphin sightings may be at dusk, but you'll have more chances to see them at dawn.
– Attention: fake dolphin rehabilitation center
Please don't be confused with the visit in the south of the island to a place where They train dolphins and let them interact with visitors.
They claim to be a rehabilitation center for injured dolphins, but They are dolphins bred in captivity, abused to learn tricks and earn food..
In authentic rehabilitation centers or when they are truly free, you are not going to interact with them, in short, they are wild animals.
8. Snorkeling with manta rays in Nusa Penida
Most of the island of Bali is surrounded by coral reefs with rich marine life.
However, not all of its beaches are suitable for snorkelling or diving due to its strong waves.
Therefore, if you are interested in snorkeling, the Nusas Islands have some beaches with less waves.
The Best snorkeling experience in Bali is to go swimming with the manta rays in Nusa Penida in Manta Bay, they are giants and watching them swim is really beautiful.
– How to go to Nusa Penida from Bali?
To get to Nusa Penida you can do it with a speed boat leaving from Sanur Beach, They take 30 minutes to arrive and cost about 8 euros.
To see the schedules and buy the tickets I recommend this page that saves you traveling.
An alternative to avoid complications is to do it with a snorkelling excursion like this one from the link that includes fast boat transportation, food, guide and all snorkelling equipment finned. 😉
Furthermore, it is a full day excursion that take you to the spectacular Cristal Bay in Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.
Below you can see availability and book the tour:
9. Rafting on the Ayung River + Quad through the jungle
If you like strong emotions, I recommend doing rafting on the Ayung River to go down the rapids and some waterfalls.
The landscape in the middle of the jungle is spectacular and one of the best things to do in Bali.
To make this visit the best is a excursion like the one in the link that includes transportation, a fun quad bike ride through the jungle and then includes the buffet lunch.
10. Bali Waterfalls (4 most beautiful)
The incredible island of Bali has a few waterfalls that are worth your visit. For this reason, many excursions include a visit to a waterfall.
These are 4 of the most interesting (marked in green on the map):
1.- Gitgit
These waterfalls are in the north and are one of the most popular because It is easily accessed and found.
Although they are small compared to other waterfalls, their 35 m height does not leave you indifferent, as does the lush vegetation that surrounds it, inhabited by monkeys.
👉 Entry costs 20,000 IDR (1.23 euros).
2.- Nung Nung
Nung Nung waterfall is 35 km from Ubud in a rice field area.
Once in the parking lot, you have to climb 420 steps, which are worth it because it is one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the island with its 50 m height.
👉 Entry costs 10,000 IDR (0.61 euros).
3.- Tegenungan
Tegenungan are one of the most famous waterfalls, mainly for their proximity about 25 minutes by car from Ubud.
That's why they are perfect for going to cool off in their waters. But you must keep in mind that In the rainy season the flow can be very high and have a lot of current.
👉 Entry costs 15,000 IDR (0.92 euros).
4.- Sekumpul
These are located to the north and They are the most spectacular with several jets that fall 80 m high by a wall of abundant vegetation.
The visit to the Skumpul waterfalls is one of the best things to do in bali.
👉 Entry costs 20,000 IDR (1.23 euros). But the locals that are there They will try to charge you about 200,000 IDR (12.28 euros) additional to go with a guide, but you can do it on your own.
If you want to do it with a field trip I recommend this link that also takes you to the famous Ulun Danu and Taman Ayun temples.
11. Swings in Bali (3 best)
If you go on a trip to Bali, You can't leave without trying their great swings and feel like you've returned to childhood. 🤪
On the Island of the Gods there are many options, these are the 3 best swings in Bali (marked in blue on the map):
1. Zen Hideways Swing
The swing belongs to a property that is listed on Airbnb (here is the link).
Previously, you could pay to enter, now it is exclusive for guests.
These are Balinese-style wooden cabins, luxury accommodation not affordable for everyone, but you have unlimited access to their immense swing.
2. Charlie's Chocolate
This large swing with views over the sea It is from the Balinese chocolate factory Charly's Chocolate in the eastern part of the island of Bali.
The entrance price is about 0.60 USD/euros and another 0.60 USD/euros for car parking.
The visit includes an explanation of how they make the delicious and organic chocolate that is grown on the same island and a tasting.
3. Bali Swing
It is one of the most popular swings on the island, located in a natural park and very close to Zen Hideways.
In Bali Swing there are 12 very varied swings. For example, one is shaped like a nest, another is a bed over the waterfall and the most amazing is one 70 m high, not suitable for people with vertigo.
It is located not far from Ubud, next to the Tegallalang rice fields of point 2.
Although the entrance is not cheap and it is a place of a lot of posturing, the environment is so beautiful that it is worth your visit.
12. Tirta Empul Temple and purification ritual
The main religion of Indonesia is Islam, except Bali, where 90% of the population is Hindu.
Although, it is a particular form called Balinese Hinduism.
In Bali you have several religious rituals, even those performed daily by the islanders. If you have the opportunity, I recommend that you participate in one or at least go see it, they are very beautiful.
But if you have little time, the best of all is purification ritual at the Tirta Empul temple.
The temple is also known as the Temple of the Spring, you can visit it on your own.
But if you want to do the ritual you will need someone to guide you and therefore Respect for the locals who are there.
– How is the purification ritual done?
I will tell you in general terms how to do the purification ritual in Bali, which the locals know as melukat.
This ritual can be done at any Balinese sacred place, including rivers and springs.
However, Tirta Empul is the most popular because it is considered the most sacred place.
The ritual begins with the Balinese shaman who looks at your chakras to know what needs to be purified and healing mantras are recited.
Subsequently, you go to the water source (river or pool in the case of temples), offerings are made and incense is lit.
Finally, in the water 9 purifications are done, each one with a different meaning.
– The ritual in the temple: to take into account
Before entering the pool you must put on a green sarong with a red sash, different from the one they lend you when you pay the entrance fee.
Then, once in the pool, you must go through each of the fountains and get your head wet (the 9 purifications). The route is from left to right.
In the pool, you will find 2 jets that are completely different, you shouldn't use those because they are for the dead.
– Can I do the purification ritual on my own?
It is impossible to do the purification ritual without a Balinese shaman, but many tourists do the final part of the ritual in the pool, getting their heads wet.
Yeah You do it, no one will tell you anything, as long as you don't bother the Hindu faithful who are there.
From my point of view It is a lack of respect for Balinese culture and their religion.
Imagine if someone did the same thing in a church or at a religious event like a procession. They will ask you to leave, because it is simply not the time.
Therefore, I recommend you make a visit to the temple, which is very worthwhile and see the ritual that the locals do.
If you want to do the ritual, do it with a shaman to guide you and you will live the real experience.
I highly recommend this tour with a shaman from the link which is very complete.
By the way, Hindus accept that someone outside the religion perform the ritual with the shaman.
13. Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple It is one of the most spectacular in Bali, mainly due to its location on a rock on the coast about 20 km from Denpasar.
The temple built in the 16th century is dedicated to the Balinese sea gods and is one of the seven sea temples in Bali.
According to Balinese mythology, at the base of the rock there are poisonous sea snakes that protect the temple.
Your name Tanah Lot It literally means "land in the sea."
The rock is a product of erosion caused by the sea and on days of high tide water can cover rock, others can be crossed without getting wet.
This temple attracts many tourists, photographers and even people who go to take wedding photos, especially at sunset when the temple acquires wonderful colors.
– Entrance fee and visit to Tanah Lot
The entrance costs 60,000 IDR (3.68 euros) and you also have to pay something in the parking lot if you go on your own.
If you don't want to drive there you can go with this excursion with guide in Spanish what includes Nung Nung waterfalls (point 10) and the Bedugul temple.
Alternatively, you have this tour which includes visits to monkey forest and rice fields of Tegallalang.
Note that Tourists are not allowed to enter the temple itself., it's only for the Balinese.
In Bali, the authorities are taking measures, because with all the number of tourists that the Island of the Gods receives and with so much posturing, many tourists are disrespectful in the sacred places.
Likewise, I recommend that you Don't miss seeing the Tanah Lot at sunset from the beach which is very beautiful.
Additionally, at sunset you can go to the temple to receive the blessing from the priests.
14. Temple and Gates of Pura Lempuyang
Pura Lempuyang is one of the 9 main Balinese temples dedicated to the god of peace.
And the name Lempuyang It means "holy light" and pure It means "temple."
To tour the entire site and see the 7 temples takes about 4 hours.
From the top of the temples views are quite impressive, you will be able to see Mount Agung with its 3,142 meters high, it is the highest in Bali and one of the four volcanoes on the island.
Nowadays this temple is full of tourists who want to get their classic photo of the gates of heaven with the reflection on the ground.
The reflection, although it looks like a lake or something like that, is actually a small mirror that is placed in front of the camera or mobile phone to achieve the effect.
To get there you will have to go by your own transportation or with an excursion.
If you drive, keep in mind that before arriving there is an area of sharp curves, just going slowly will be enough.
In case you don't want to complicate things, I recommend this link excursion which is probably the best tour in Bali.
It is a full day excursion that also goes to the beautiful Tirta Gangga royal palace, swings, waterfalls and Tegallalang rice fields (point 1).
This is one of the most complete and popular Bali tours, I recommend booking in advance.
Below you can see the availability of dates and book:
If you prefer to do it with a guide in Spanish, I recommend this other excursion with the price per group, if you travel with several people or join other travelers it can be very worthwhile.
15. Balinese Wedding
Within Balinese culture there are very beautiful traditions, such as weddings.
In Bali you can take advantage of experiencing a traditional balinese wedding in first person. The wedding includes traditional clothing and each and every ritual, including the wedding.
Keep in mind that the wedding has no legal value, but it will be a unique experience.
The price includes absolutely everything, including the romantic dinner, photo report and Balinese musicians.
16. Balinese Dance Show
Throughout its long history, Bali has become a cultural center, developing its rich Balinese traditions, including their very varied and ancient traditional dances.
One of the best things to do in Bali is to go see some Balinese dance which is performed with colorful traditional costumes.
Some with incredible movements of hands, arms, head and eyes that they learn from a very young age.
You will find many places to see a show, some designed especially for tourists and others more traditional.
From my point of view, The best place to see a dance show is the Ubud Palace which is more authentic.
The shows are every day at 7:30 p.m., the ticket costs 100,000 IDR (6.14 euros) which you can buy right there an hour before.
I recommend you enter about 45 minutes before the show starts so you can sit close to experience one of the most colorful activities in Bali.
17. Batik Class
The Balinese excel in several arts, some well known internationally such as jewelry and furniture crafts.
Perhaps the least known is batik, it is an ancient fabric dyeing technique used in several Asian and African countries.
In Bali it is a very popular technique that they have developed to the point of being included as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009.
Balinese fabrics decorated with batik are of great importance in Balinese culture. These accompany the Balinese throughout their lives, in everyday life and in ceremonies.
If you want to learn how the Balinese perform this technique you can make a batik class, I leave you a link to a course in Ubud.
18. Balinese Cooking Workshop
If you travel to Bali, it is difficult not to fall in love with its particular and delicious Balinese cuisine.
If you like to cook, I recommend this one. balinese cooking class where you will learn about the way of preparing various dishes of Balinese cuisine, the ingredients and of course you will taste it... yum, yum 😋😄
In addition, you will take the recipes with you so you can prepare them at home and share them with your people.
Bali Map
* To check the legend for each place, click the button in the top left corner of the map. To view this map on your phone or computer, tap the star on the right side of the title. Then go to Google Maps, select "Your Places" and "Maps" from the menu.
Flights to Bali
The flights to Bali from Barcelona, Madrid and other Spanish airports They are not direct, you will have to make at least one stopover.
Prices for cheap flights to Bali start from 700 euros depending on the season and the stops they make.
Some of the best airlines to travel to Bali are: Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar and Iberia.
Likewise, to find cheap flights bali I recommend that you use this search engine that shows you all the alternatives with how long it takes and the prices.
How to get from Bali airport to the hotel?
To get from Denpasar airport in Bali to your hotel you have several options:
- Taxi: As in any airport in the arrival area you will find taxis, but I do not recommend it.
- Driving: In Bali, you can drive but it is quite dangerous. For rent a car in bali I recommend this search engine, if you know the search engine it will surprise you, but it also has the cheapest rental cars in Bali. 😉
- Transfer: It is the most practical and popular option. I recommend this one private transfer very cheap, it costs about 7 euros to the nearest towns such as Seminyak, from 17 euros to Canggu and from 18 euros to Ubud. Also, the price is per car, not per person.
How to get around Bali and go to the other islands?
As I mentioned in the previous point, driving on the Island of the Gods is not the best idea, on the other hand, if you go by taxi everywhere it will cost you a lot and there are few buses.
So these are the best options to get around Bali:
- Private driver in Bali: It is the most flexible way to visit the most emblematic places safely because they are used to driving around the island. You can find drivers, like this one from the link, for less than 60 euros a day for two people and makes the stops you want.
- Day trips: The cheapest way is to take 1-day excursions that include a visit to several places. In the article I have suggested several that are the best, in terms of price and with good guides.
- 3-day private tour: If with so many places to visit in Bali, you don't know where to start, you can do this tour which includes the best of the island, with a very fun local guide and its price is very cheap for all the visits it includes. The first day is dedicated to the Ubud area, then to the north of the island and the final day to the south.
Then stop visit the other islands of the province of Bali or the Gili Islands, you can go with the motor boats that are fast and cost little money, in this search engine You can see schedules, prices and book tickets.
In the following playlist you can see: snorkeling with manta rays; a traditional Balinese wedding and the Zen Hideways swings.
Where to stay in Bali?
On the island of Bali there are many accommodation options from hostels to spectacular boutique hotels and villas in the middle of the rice fields.
Depending on what you want to do on the island, you may want to stay in one area or another. If you want to visit the essentials of Bali, I recommend staying in Ubud or a nearby area.
Below I leave you a list with the best Ubud hotels for different budgets:
- Cheap: Ubud Aura with comfortable rooms, a good breakfast and very well located.
- Half: Ulun Ubud Resort With a beautiful pool and incredible views, the best in terms of quality and price.
- Luxury: Amora Ubud Boutique They are spectacular villas with a private pool and an unbeatable breakfast.
👍 Friend's tip: if you are traveling in high season (July or August) book at least 7 or 8 months in advance to get good prices, otherwise you will find them at double or more.
Final Thoughts
These are the best things to do in bali, of the varied offering that this incredible island has.
Bali in Indonesia is one of those unique ones in the world that you fall in love with and is worth traveling to at least once in your life.
Before saying goodbye, I take this opportunity to leave you a link to this Bali guide, with all the articles I wrote to travel independently.
If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and if you found the article useful, share it with other fellow travelers. 😘
More about Bali and Southeast Asia
- 5 Yoga Retreats in Bali, Indonesia
- Best time to travel to Bali: climate and prices
- The best Holistic Retreat in Bali
- 6 Best Villas in Bali: luxury holidays at a good price
- What to bring to Southeast Asia: 47 Essentials in your Backpack
- What to Pack for Bali
- Thailand or Bali? Which one should I visit?
Hello, I’m Andrea, the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I’m a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler. I’m passionate about good food and always looking for new adventures.
Good morning! I'm Adriana and my partner and I want to go to Indonesia but we want to spend more time visiting beaches and not so many temples. Could you tell me about that and the best routes from Bali? Thank you
Hello Adriana
If what you want is to visit beaches on vacation, I would recommend that you choose another destination, Bali is not a destination that stands out for its beaches, unless you want to surf.
The Balinese temples are quite impressive and vary greatly, but it is not the only thing there is to do. Then, when it comes to natural landscapes, the beautiful thing is the jungle with its waterfalls, mountains and rice fields.
In Southeast Asia, a country that has a good balance of places to see and many beautiful beaches is Thailand, if you have not been you will love it.
From Thailand I do have articles about beaches and routes, here are a couple:
http://viajerosactivos.com/mejores-playas-de-tailandia/
http://viajerosactivos.com/ruta-por-tailandia-clasica