Bali, an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches, and coral reefs, is a paradise for travelers. Its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant arts scene make it a must-visit destination.
In this guide we will tell you our experience in Bali, best places that we have been and best activities that we did. Our itinerary, contacts and prices. All you need to know before going in the famous Indonesian island.
In the dry seson, from April to October, is the ideal time to visit Bali, with mild weather and minimal rainfall. The wet seson, from November to March, is more humid but less crowded, offering a quiter experience. We were there from February to March and the best time was in March, not too many people and not to much rain.
To do before
- Dowload tha apps GRAB and GOJEK, in order to have taxi cars and bikes for a cheep price. These apps work for other countrys in Asia as well.
- Passport must be valid for a least six months from the date of entry
- Visa for stays up to 30 days, many nationalities can get on arrival for 35USD
- Health Insurance strongly recommended, we used 'True Traveller'
What to pack
- Breathable clothes
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Adapter for electrical outlets (type C or F)
- Comfortable walking shoes
Denpasar International Airport
At the airport
-Take some cash, minimum 1 milion rupees, most of the places don't exept card payments
-Buy a sim card
-Download the apps Grab and Gojek, if you did not already
Denpasar to PADANGBAI
1 night
Padangbai offers a more tranquil and authentic Balinese experience compared to the busier tourist hubs, making it an excellent destination for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. One of the most poor place in Bali. Here you can find the port that will take you to Gili Trawangan. If you have never travelled Asia it will be a cultural shock, but it is a good place to stay for the first night and relax after the flight. It is nice to walk around Padangbai and see the typical resturants and bars.
Activities
- Trekking and Nature Walks
Padangbai to Candidasa Coastal Walk: A scenic coastal trek that offers stunning views of the ocean and passes through small villages and quiet beaches.
Trekking to the Hill Above Padangbai: Enjoy panoramic views of the town, harbor, and surrounding coastline from the hilltop.
Lovely place near the beach. Clean and comfortable. 16,62 euros 1 night x2 ppl
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Food
Seafood Restaurants: Fresh seafood is a highlight in Padangbai, with many beachside warungs (local eateries) serving delicious grilled fish, prawns, and calamari.
Try Balinese Dishes: Sample local dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), and sate lilit (minced seafood satay).
Cute place with good food
4€ two plates of typical food
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Padangbai to GILI T
2 nights
Gili Trawangan offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and vibrant social scenes, making it a versatile destination for all types of travelers. Whether you're looking to dive into the underwater world, enjoy the beach, or party the night away, Gili Trawangan has something for everyone, it is the biggest island of the Gilis.
The boat from Padangbai costs 250k rupees, a total of 2 hours of travelling. Arrived in the island you can walk around or rent a bicycle. The sunsets are amazing here. Our favorite spot was on the beach on the right side of the port, if you have the port in front of you.
Gili T is it really popular for mushrooms, there are a lot of shops where you can find them.
Activities
- Snorkeling and Diving
Snorkeling: Explore the crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs right off the beaches. Popular snorkeling spots include Turtle Point and the northern beaches.
Diving: Gili Trawangan is renowned for its diving opportunities. Dive sites like Shark Point, Manta Point, and the Japanese Wreck offer encounters with turtles, reef sharks, manta rays, and a variety of colorful fish.
Freediving: For a unique underwater experience, try freediving courses available on the island.
We suggest to go snokeling around the Gilis, book it one day before in the small shops around the island or at your hotel/hostel or use the contact below. You will see famous wrecks, lots of fishes and turtles.
Contact:
@explore_tiga_gili (on Instagram)
You could get a discount if you stay at GIli Castel/Mansion Hostel.
- You could also rent a bicycle and explore Gili Trawangan at your own pace. The island is small, and biking is a great way to discover its beaches, cafes, and scenic spots.
- Horse riding it is relly populare at sunset time. Enjoy a romantic horseback ride along the beach.
- Yoga and Wellness
Yoga Classes: Join a yoga session at one of the island’s yoga studios, such as The Yoga Place or Gili Yoga.
Spa Treatments: Relax with a traditional Balinese massage or other spa treatments available at local spas.
-Watch the sunset
Gili T's west coast is a popular spot for watching the sunset.expand_more There are many beachfront bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink and watch the sun go down.
- Nightlife
Beach Bars and Clubs: Gili Trawangan is famous for its lively nightlife. Popular spots include Sama Sama Reggae Bar, Tir Na Nog Irish Bar, and Jungle Bar.
$ We worked here for 10 days in exchange of accommodation. We had to be present in the hostel greed people and make them have fun. You could do the same by texting them on Instagram or email them.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Gili T is a plastic-free island, so bring reusable water bottles and bags.
- Transport: No motorized vehicles are allowed on the island. Walking, cycling, and horse-drawn carts (cidomos) are the main modes of transportation.
- Health and Safety: Always wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment, and be cautious of strong currents while swimming or snorkeling.
- Bargaining: Bargaining is common in local markets, so feel free to negotiate prices.
- Cash: Many small shops and stalls may only accept cash, so it's a good idea to carry enough Indonesian Rupiah.
Gili T to LOMBOK
2-3 nights
We didn’t go to Lombok, unfortunately, but everyone advised it to us. It is a beautiful island in the east of Bali, known for its stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and cultural heritage. It is more wild and less touristy. If you have time you have to go otherwise you can directly from Gili t go to Nusa Penida.
The second-highest volcano in Indonesia, offering challenging treks with stunning views, hot springs, and a picturesque crater lake (Segara Anak). Multi-day trekking and camping trips. The trek usually starts from Senaru or Sembalun.
Located in the north near Senaru, these waterfalls are set in lush jungle surroundings. Hiking and swimming. A guided trek often combines both waterfalls.
A historical park built in 1727, which includes a temple, water palace, and a replica of Mount Rinjani. Exploring the park’s history, walking through scenic gardens, and visiting the royal bathing pools.
A popular tourist area with beautiful beaches, resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Beach activities, dining, nightlife, and exploring nearby attractions like Batu Bolong Temple.
Known for its stunning beaches and surf spots, Kuta Lombok offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to its Bali counterpart.
Surfing, beachcombing, exploring nearby beaches like Tanjung Aan, Mawun Beach, and Selong Belanak.
An area in the southwest known for its pristine, less-crowded beaches and small islands. Island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.
Traditional villages where you can learn about the culture and daily life of the Sasak people, the indigenous inhabitants of Lombok. Cultural tours, watching traditional dance performances, and buying traditional handwoven textiles.
A unique temple complex where both Hindu and Sasak Muslim traditions are practiced. Learning about the syncretic religious practices and exploring the temple grounds.
- Transport: Renting a scooter or car is a convenient way to explore the island.
- Local Cuisine: Try local dishes like Ayam Taliwang (spicy grilled chicken) and Plecing Kangkung (water spinach salad).
- Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting villages and religious sites, and be mindful of local customs.
- Safety: Be cautious of strong currents at certain beaches, and ensure you have travel insurance for activities like trekking and diving.
Gili T to NUSA PENIDA
2 nights
Nusa Penida, an island southeast of Bali in Indonesia, is known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
The boat from Gili T to Nusa Penida was 350k rupees each. The ride was really bumpy, don’t get scared as we did. Nusa is one of the most famous island near Bali known for her natural beaty. At the port you will have a lot of people offering you a taxi, be carefull of the prices. You can rent a bike, but the streets are really triky, or you can just take a taxi. We suggest you to go see the sunset, we went to Cristal Bay.
Activities
The second day it is dedicated to go around the island.
Contact
+62 812-7228-308 (Nyoman)
Nyoman took us around the all island for the all day for just 600k rupees. When we finished the tour he took us to his house. He offered us food and introduced us to his family. It was an amazing experience and he was super nice and kind.
Famous for its T-Rex shaped cliff, Kelingking Beach offers breathtaking views and a challenging descent to a beautiful beach. (you have to go down to the beach, even if it is a mission)
Another stop that you have to do just if you have time, it is Nusa Lembongan.
In the morning go straight away to the port to take the boat. It should costs 50k rupees. It is nice to go around in Nusa Lembongan, the bike would be perfect. The beach it is really cute but compared to Nusa Penida it is not really.
Activities
The main reson to go in this island it is for the snorkeling with Manta Reys. You will have to book one day prior and it should be 175k rupees each.
Known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Take a guided boat tour through the mangroves to explore the unique ecosystem and enjoy the tranquility.
Cross the Yellow Bridge to Nusa Ceningan and explore this smaller neighboring island, which offers its own set of attractions.
Blue Lagoon located on Nusa Ceningan, this stunning spot features clear blue waters and is perfect for cliff jumping or just enjoying the view.
Ubud, located in the heart of Bali, is known for its rich cultural heritage, lush landscapes, and vibrant arts scene.
Boat price 250k rupees, from Nusa Lembongan to SANUR port. From Sanur take a taxi to Ubud, we suggest Grab or GoJek.
Activities
- The first day is dedicated to visit the surroundings, the Monkey Forest and the rice fields pool club Cretya. Cretya was our favourite, really chill place immersed in the nature with pools and dj set. The rest of the day try to organize the activities for the next days.
Stunning place to party during the day, in the middle of rice fields.
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- The second day it is dedicated to go to the north of Bali, Lovina Beach. Here you can swim with the dophins while hanging onto a boat that is mooving. One of the best experoences ever, they come pick you up early in the morning and drop off in the evening.
Contact:
+62 813-3857-0403 (whatsapp)
- Go to bed early because the third day it is hiking day. A MUST DO if you go to Bali, you have to do the Mount Batur. The best experience in the island, but you have to be lucky with the weather. After the tour you can go for coffee tasting, for free. Here you can try the most expensive coffee (2€ for cup), the Kopi Luwak coffe. The luwak it is an animal that eats the berry seeds, which are partially digested and then pooed and turned into coffee.
$$$ Totally immersed in the nature, it is an amazing place but with lots of insects. One night we found a scolopendra in the bed. The food was really good and the vibe was immacolate, so we still suggest the place. One night they even organized a big dinner for all the people that were staying there, offering typycal dishes.
50,18 3 nights x 2 ppl
North Bali is known for its serene and less crowded environment, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure.
We didn't had the chance to go up north to do volunteering, but do it if you can. We suggest the app 'WorkAway' to find places to go and people that would like to do the same. You will have to pay a subscription.
We went volunteering for a few days in the house of this lady. We had to do mosaics. The house was in Tabanan a region not as touristy. We stayed there for the Balinese New Year, 11th of March. Day of silence, meditation and dedicated to connect more deeply with God.
Contact
+6281905007000 (Shankari - whatsapp)
Overall was an amazing experience. The lady was very caring and and loves what she is doing. She makes you feel home, doing meetings everyday and giving life advices.
Although technically more central, these UNESCO-listed rice terraces are easily accessible from North Bali and offer stunning views and trekking opportunities.
Canggu, a coastal village on the southern coast of Bali, Indonesia, is a popular destination known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and vibrant expat community.
Famous for the social/night life. You could just chill around and go to caffes and at the beach. Really famous beach club Finns Beach Club and club for the night Old man's.
Super popular, most of the time you have to queqe, but worth it
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Canggu to SEMINYAK
1 night
Seminyak is cute to go around in the night. There are good resturants, a bit overpriced. We had to go there but it is a skippable location. The beach is the same as Canggu's beach.
An iconic beachfront restaurant offering Mediterranean and Italian cuisine.
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Seminyak to ULUWATU
3 nights
Uluwatu, located on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Bali, is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, and vibrant surf culture.
Uluwatu was one of our favorite region in Bali. The vibes is amazing, surf, healthy cafes, beautiful beaches! Although, the most expensive place.
$$$ Prettiest location, where you can do surf lessons as well. You can share your room with someone else if you solotravel and wanna spend less. Amazing view, a bit hard to get there but in a good spot.
To train, it is good and not too expensive, after you can go eat at 'The cashew tree'
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Uluwatu to Denpasar airport
NOTES
We stayed in Bali more than one month and this is what we did and advise. Two weeks are enought if you wanna do the main things.
Before coming to Bali dowload tha apps GRAB and GOJEK, in order to go around as cheep as possible.
If you wanna eat cheep you can go eat at WARUNG, local resturants. You are not gonna be able to cook anywhere and it is hard to find a place that sells fresh food. Most of the places that we advised are more expensive, around 7€ per meal.
As SIM CARD, we used Telkomsel, all the prices depend from where you are, try always to bargain. Don't remember how much we paid, but wouldn't take it for more than 300k rupees.
The dolphinds and the hiking tour can be done if you are somewhere else as well. They are more close from Ubud so it can be less expensive.
If you have the chance you can try to do a lesson of Muay thai.
MASSAGES are not expensive, you have to try once, in Ubud and Seminyak is cheeper.
Hi! We are Engi an Bea. Two cousins that love traveling. We want to share out experiences and make you have the best time in your next destination. We will share all our tips on our trips, where you should go and what you should do. If you want you can reach out to us for more info.
SAFE TRAVELS!!!!
