Five Ideas for Guided Tours in Bali

• Amed

  Nestled among several small villages along the northeast coast of the “Island of the Gods,” you will find Amed. For an authentic and enriching experience, embark early in the morning on a fishing boat and set sail.

  If you feel like it, rent a scooter and explore the Adabi rice fields, located near the Taman Soekasada Ujung water palace. Then, continue your journey to the stunning Tirta Gangga Water Gardens, where a walk through terraces adorned with fountains will lead you to a freshwater pool perfect for a refreshing swim.

  Just a half-hour drive from Amed, discover one of Bali’s most iconic sites: the sacred Hindu temple of Pura Lempuyang. In the evening, let yourself be enchanted by the breathtaking sunset from the cliff overlooking Jemeluk Bay, a true haven of peace. Here, locals and travelers alike gather at dusk to sip fruit juice, enjoy a beer, or for some, play guitar while admiring the sun setting behind the majestic Mount Agung.

• Ubud

  In the south-central part of Bali, immerse yourself in the island’s rich culture with a local guide who will unveil the hidden treasures of this tropical paradise. Just over an hour’s drive away, Ubud, the artistic heart of Bali, captivates with its unique charm. Its main street, Jalan Raya, is lined with artisanal shops, restaurants, and lively cafés.

  Ubud is also a major hub for Balinese arts, boasting museums, art galleries, and theaters where traditional music and dance performances take place. Among its highlights, don’t miss the stunning Pura Taman Saraswati Temple, surrounded by a lotus-filled pond.

  For an unforgettable adventure, visit the Monkey Forest, a 15-hectare sanctuary home to over 800 free-roaming macaques. Playful and mischievous, these monkeys can be entertaining… but be sure to keep your belongings secure!

  If you seek tranquility, explore the trails leading to the surrounding rice fields. The famous Campuhan Ridge Walk is a must, but don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path. The friendly locals will be happy to guide you back, turning every detour into a new discovery.

• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

  Nestled near Mount Batu Karu, this breathtaking landscape unfolds like a natural painting, showcasing an endless palette of lush green hues. Jatiluwih is undoubtedly one of the most stunning sights you’ll encounter in Bali.

  These rice terraces are the result of centuries of meticulous craftsmanship, with generations of farmers shaping the land and developing an ingenious irrigation system. Water flows from the upper terraces to the lower ones, ensuring a fair distribution among all farmers.

  The name “Jatiluwih” translates to “wonderful,” and it’s no surprise that this site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The scenic hiking trails winding through the rice fields offer various routes, often forming loops that reveal new perspectives and hidden gems at every turn.

• The Gili Islands

  It’s interesting to note that “Gili” simply means “island” in Sasak, the native language of Lombok, the large island just southeast of Bali. Like Bali, the Gili Islands are part of the Lesser Sunda Islands.

  The trio consists of three distinct islands: Trawangan, the most vibrant; Meno, the wildest; and Air, which offers a balance between the two. Beyond their white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Gilis are renowned for their incredible snorkeling and deep-sea diving spots, where coral reefs host a rich marine ecosystem.

  Once you experience this paradise, you may never want to leave. To get there, fast ferries depart from Amed, with a journey time of approximately 2.5 hours.

• Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur)

  Perched at the southernmost tip of Bali on the Bukit Peninsula, the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple is a spiritual and architectural masterpiece dating back to the 11th century. Founded by a Javanese priest, it was built in homage to the sea deities.

  Surrounded by nature, the temple is inhabited only by colonies of monkeys. Be mindful of your belongings, as these cheeky creatures have a knack for snatching anything shiny! Perched atop an 80-meter-high cliff, the temple offers a breathtaking panorama, blending architectural splendor with stunning ocean views.

  Every evening, as the sun sets, rhythmic music and dance come together for the mesmerizing Kecak fire dance performance, an unforgettable spectacle. Nearby, Uluwatu is also world-famous for its legendary surf spot, particularly at Blue Point Beach, a paradise for wave enthusiasts.