This Bali Highlights itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors seeking a balanced mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. It offers a leisurely pace, allowing you to fully experience the island’s highlights, from spiritual rituals in Sebatu to traditional cooking lessons in Manggis. The trip is designed to provide meaningful experiences, with enough time to explore each destination, whether it's the serene village walks or the scenic drives through Bali's mountains.
You’ll discover Bali's unique culture through hands-on activities like learning local prayers and sampling farm-to-fork meals. The journey takes you from peaceful Lovina to vibrant South Bali, with plenty of downtime and optional activities, such as snorkelling at Menjangan Island or exploring West Nusa Penida. With seamless travel arrangements, you’ll have the flexibility to enjoy the best of Bali at your own pace, knowing everything is taken care of.
Arrive in Bali and meet your guide at the airport for a transfer to Ubud, the island’s cultural centre. Set amongst rice fields and forested hills, Ubud is known for its temples, traditional crafts, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great base to ease into the rhythm of Bali and start exploring its heritage. Take the rest of the day to settle in, enjoy the surroundings, and get a first taste of the island’s unique character.
Today offers a deeper look into Balinese spirituality with a visit to the quiet village of Sebatu. Known for its sacred spring, where locals come for purification and prayer. Guided by a local, you’ll take part in a temple blessing wearing a traditional sarong, preparing offerings, and learning the meaning behind each ritual. It’s a peaceful, respectful introduction to a belief system that shapes daily life across the island. The experience ends with a refreshing dip in the holy water and a local lunch, offering a chance to reflect on the morning in a truly local setting. (B,L)
Head east to the quiet coastal area of Manggis, a less-visited part of Bali known for its calm atmosphere and strong community ties. After settling into your accommodation, take a guided walk through the village to get a feel for local life. This is more than just sightseeing, you’ll learn how partnerships with the community help support sustainable tourism and preserve local traditions. It’s a chance to connect with the people who call this part of Bali home and see a slower, more grounded side of the island. (B)
Today is all about food and community. Join members of the Manggis women farmer group for a hands-on Balinese cooking class. These women are not only skilled cooks but also advocates for organic farming in the region. You’ll learn how they grow their own ingredients and use them in traditional dishes - simple, flavourful recipes rooted in local culture. It’s an opportunity to understand Balinese home cooking from those who know it best, while supporting a grassroots initiative that empowers women and promotes sustainable agriculture. (B,L)
Travel north to Lovina, a relaxed coastal town known for its black sand beaches and calm waters. Along the way, stop in the highlands of Kintamani to take in sweeping views of Mount Batur and its crater lake - one of Bali’s most striking volcanic landscapes. The drive winds through cooler mountain roads and quiet villages, offering a different perspective of the island beyond its beaches. It’s a day to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and see the dramatic contrasts that define Bali’s geography. (B,L)
Enjoy a full day at your own pace in Lovina. This peaceful northern stretch of coastline is perfect for unwinding, but if you’re up for exploring, there are great options. Take a snorkelling trip to Menjangan Island, known for its clear water and vibrant marine life, or head inland for a trek through West Bali National Park, home to native wildlife and forest trails. Whether you choose to relax by the sea or discover Bali’s quieter natural side, the day is yours to enjoy. Contact one of our travel specialists if you'd like to add any of these excursions to your day. (B)
Travel south with a few stops along the way. Begin at a local market, where you’ll see the variety of tropical produce grown in Bali’s cooler mountain regions, an everyday insight into local life. Nearby, visit Ulun Danu Beratan, one of Bali’s most iconic temples, set on the calm waters of Lake Beratan. Often described as “floating,” the temple’s lakeside setting and mountain backdrop make it a standout cultural site. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue on to your hotel in South Bali. (B,L)
Spend the day at your leisure in South Bali. Whether you want to relax at your hotel or explore the vibrant area, there’s plenty to do. You can visit stunning beaches, enjoy the lively atmosphere, or take part in one of the many optional activities. Explore the dramatic cliffs and stunning views of Uluwatu Temple with a Kecak Dance performance, or discover the best of Bali’s street food on an evening tour. Alternatively, head to West Nusa Penida for a day of adventure or explore Instagram-worthy spots in East Bali.
Contact one of our travel specialists if you want to add any of these excursions to your itinerary. (B)
Free day at leisure. (B)
After breakfast, transfer back to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)
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