Bali is an island of striking contrasts: volcanic peaks and tropical forests, terraced rice fields and ocean beaches, busy market streets and quiet mountain villages. Just as compelling are the traditions woven into everyday life. This journey is designed to reveal that variety at an unhurried pace, combining well-known highlights with opportunities to meet local people, learn traditional crafts, cook Balinese dishes, and simply enjoy the landscapes that make Bali so distinctive.
Designed to balance cultural immersion, active exploration, and time to slow down, this itinerary moves from Ubud’s artistic heart to the cool highlands of Munduk, the rice-field landscapes of Sidemen, and the relaxed coast of Sanur. Along the way, we experience some of the island’s most memorable landscapes and traditions through village visits, temple exploration, hiking, local food, and hands-on cultural experiences.
Welcome to Ubud!
Welcome to Bali! Arrive in Ubud, the island's cultural heart, where emerald rice fields, tropical gardens, and forested ravines surround a lively town steeped in Balinese tradition. After settling into our hotel, we meet as a group around 3:00 p.m. and set out on a relaxed orientation walk through central Ubud.
Frangipani blossoms spill over stone walls, incense drifts from small offerings placed outside homes and shops, and the sounds of scooters and birds mingle with the bustle of daily life. Along the way, we pass small galleries, artisan workshops, intricately carved gateways, and family compounds that offer a first glimpse into traditional Balinese architecture. Near Ubud Palace, ornate temples and banyan trees provide a striking backdrop to the activity of the town center.
This evening, we gather for a welcome dinner at Hujan Locale, where contemporary interpretations of Indonesian dishes introduce us to the fragrant spices, herbs, and vibrant flavors of the archipelago.
The Lokha Ubud Resort Villast & SpaUbud, Bali
Experience soulful luxury at The Lokha Ubud Resort Villas & Spa, a wellness retreat in Bali surrounded by lush jungle and serene riverside views. Nestled in Ubud’s lush highlands, The Lokha Ubud Resort offers luxury accommodation in harmony with Bali’s natural beauty. Inspired by Balinese culture and hospitality, the resort and spa provide an authentic yet refined retreat for rejuvenation and exploration in the heart of Bali.
Rice Terraces and Village Life
Today we leave Ubud for Bali's lush countryside and the spectacular Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO-listed landscape of brilliant green paddies cascading across the slopes of Mount Batukaru. We walk among rice fields, coconut palms, banana trees, and irrigation channels, learning about subak, Bali's centuries-old cooperative system of water management that connects farming with community and Hindu tradition.
We continue to Pura Luhur Batukaru, an atmospheric 11th-century temple tucked into cool rainforest, where moss-covered shrines rise beneath towering trees and the sounds of birds and flowing water replace the bustle of town.At Rumah Desa, we step inside a traditional Balinese family compound to discover the rhythms of village life. We learn how daily offerings are made, try our hand at writing Balinese script on a lontar palm leaf, and discover traditions such as coconut-oil making and boreh, an herbal preparation made from local spices. Lunch offers a taste of home-style Balinese cooking, perhaps including rice, seasonal vegetables, chicken or pork seasoned with turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, and local spices.
We return to Ubud this afternoon, with dinner at Nusantara by Locavore, celebrating Indonesia's extraordinary regional cuisine.
Muntigunung Village Trek
An early start this morning rewards us with a spectacular introduction to Bali's mountainous interior. Driving north with our guide, we pass emerald rice terraces and rural villages before reaching the rim of the vast Batur Caldera. As the morning light spreads across the surrounding peaks and Lake Batur below, we pause to take in one of Bali's most iconic skylines.
A short drive later, we begin our journey into one of Bali's more isolated regions. For generations, the women and children of the Muntigunung villages traveled these mountain trails in search of water and economic opportunity. Today, we will learn about the ongoing community development initiatives that have helped this region prosper while providing access to clean water and other necessities.
Continuing our descent, we walk through an arid landscape shaped by the region's long dry season, with sweeping views toward sacred Mount Agung and the deep valleys of northern Bali. Along the way, we visit several small communities and meet residents involved in locally based enterprises which provide income income and opportunity for residents and their communities.
After a scenic lunch, we'll return to Ubud for a relaxing afternoon as we reflect on all we've seen today. Dinner is free this evening to enjoy one of Ubud's many fine restaurants.
Ubud Your Way or Mt Batur sunrise adventure
Today is yours to experience Ubud at your own pace, or embark on an epic summit up Mt. Batur for one of the island's most iconic views.
For those who would like to explore the best that Ubud has to offer, our local experts will help you make the most of your day. Set out to discover more of this creative town, where temple courtyards, galleries, and family compounds mingle among dense tropical greenery.
Join a yoga or wellness session, seek out one of the city's inviting cafés, or browse Ubud Market for handwoven textiles, baskets, woodcarvings and local crafts, or treat yourself to a traditional Balinese massage.
Feeling more adventurous? Set out early in the morning for one of Bali's most memorable landscapes: Mount Batur, an active volcano rising above an immense ancient caldera and the deep blue waters of Lake Batur. Choose from two hiking options to experience the mountain at your preferred pace.
Option 1: Sunrise Hike: Depart Ubud around 3:00 a.m. and climb by headlamp with a local guide, reaching the summit after approximately 2 hours. As dawn breaks, watch the sky brighten over Lake Batur and the surrounding volcanic peaks, with distant Mount Agung emerging on a clear morning.
Option 2: Morning Hike: Depart around 5:30 a.m. for the same two hour ascent, trading the pre-dawn start for views of Batur's rugged slopes, black volcanic rock, and sweeping caldera in the morning light.
After descending, soothe tired muscles at Toya Devasya Natural Hot Spring, where warm geothermal pools overlook Lake Batur. Following lunch at a local restaurant, we return to Ubud for a leisurely afternoon. Tonight, dinner is at Murni's Warung, an Ubud institution tucked into lush greenery above the Campuhan River.
This evening is yours to explore Ubud's vibrant restaurant scene.
Into the Mountains
Today reveals another side of Bali as we climb into the island's lush northern highlands. The air cools, mist drifts across volcanic ridges, and Ubud's rice country gives way to dense forest and hillsides planted with coffee, cacao, cloves, and tropical fruit. Here, waterfalls tumble through deep green valleys and the sweet, spicy scent of cloves occasionally hangs in the mountain air.
Pause at the Twin Lakes Viewpoint to take in Buyan and Tamblingan, two volcanic lakes surrounded by rainforest, before enjoying lunch overlooking Lake Tamblingan at Terrasse du Lac. Their kitchen combines Balinese flavors with international influences, drawing on vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices grown in the restaurant's on-site garden.
By afternoon, we reach Munduk, a peaceful mountain village that feels worlds away from Bali's busier south. Settle in, breathe in the cooler highland air, and enjoy time to simply take in your surroundings. Tonight, gather at the open-air Ayu Restaurant, where locally sourced Indonesian and Western dishes are served against a backdrop of lush forest and valley views.
Munduk Moding Plantation Nature ResortBuleleng, USA
Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort is one of Bali’s most distinctive luxury eco-retreats, set high in the lush hills of North Bali. Surrounded by six hectares of working coffee plantation, rainforest and exotic gardens, this secluded resort combines refined Balinese design with spectacular mountain and sea views. With elegant villas and suites, private pools and award-winning infinity pools, the property offers an intimate and tranquil escape immersed in nature.
Munduk Waterfalls and Balinese Cooking
We begin the morning with an energetic guided walk through Munduk's lush forest, passing coffee and clove plantations along the way. Our route takes us to Red Coral Waterfall, also known as Munduk Waterfall, with smaller waterfalls and hidden corners of the forest along the way.
We continue downhill through Munduk village, passing traditional homes, gardens, and scenes of daily life before stopping for lunch at Warung Classic. The afternoon is free to swim, enjoy the views, or simply recharge.
Later today, we join a hands-on Balinese cooking class at Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa, if staying at the property. We learn to prepare traditional Balinese dishes with fresh local ingredients before sitting down to enjoy the meal we have prepared. If the cooking class is not available, dinner will be enjoyed at a local restaurant in Munduk.
Lake Tamblingan Rainforest Adventure
This morning, step into a wilder Bali, where mist curls through the rainforest and trails disappear beneath towering trees. Giant ferns unfurl along the forest floor, orchids cling to moss-covered trunks, and tangled vines descend from above. Known as Alas Mertajati, this ancient forest is considered sacred by surrounding communities, who have protected its trees, water, and temple sites for generations.
The forest suddenly opens to Lake Tamblingan, its still waters framed by mountains and dense green slopes. Here, we board a traditional pedau, a wooden canoe once carved from enormous trees and used for fishing, transportation, and reaching sacred sites along the shore. Paddle quietly across the lake, surrounded by forested mountains and birdsong.
After approximately 2 hours of walking and paddling, we stop for lunch before returning to the hotel for a relaxed afternoon. Tonight, gather at Ulekan Munduk for a traditional Indonesian and Balinese meal, where we will enjoy array of savory dishes and accompaniments made for sharing.
Munduk to Sidemen
Today we journey toward eastern Bali and the beautiful Sidemen Valley, stopping at Ulun Danu Beratan, a 17th-century temple honoring Dewi Danu, goddess of lakes and water. Its graceful, pagoda-like shrines appear to float above Lake Beratan backed by forested mountains that often disappear into the mists—one of Bali's most ethereal sights.
Continuing south, watch for traditional villages clustered around family compounds and temples, with tiled roofs, carved stone gateways, shrines, gardens, and rice fields woven into everyday life. After lunch along the way, the landscape opens into Sidemen: a quieter Bali of emerald paddies, palm groves, river valleys, and views toward sacred Mount Agung.
Settle in and perhaps indulge in a traditional Balinese massage, a deeply relaxing combination of flowing strokes, acupressure, gentle stretching, and aromatic oils. Tonight, dine amid the tropical gardens of Asri at Samanvaya, where Balinese flavors mingle with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, accompanied by beautiful views across the rice terraces.
Wapa di Ume SidemenSidemen, Bali
Wapa di Ume Sidemen is a tranquil boutique retreat nestled among the lush rice terraces and tropical landscapes of Bali’s secluded Sidemen Valley. Inspired by traditional Balinese architecture and surrounded by spectacular views of Mount Agung, this intimate resort blends natural beauty with understated elegance. With 21 villas and suites, the property offers a peaceful and authentic escape immersed in the culture and scenery of rural Bali.
Sidemen Village and Culture
This morning, discover Sidemen on foot, following quiet lanes and paths through brilliant green rice terraces beneath the slopes of Mount Agung.
Step into a family compound to meet a local weaver and discover songket, an intricate textile woven by hand with shimmering gold or silver-colored threads. These richly patterned cloths become sarongs, sashes, and ceremonial dress worn for temple festivals, weddings, and other important occasions.
Continue to a village school before discovering another Balinese tradition: arak. Traditionally distilled from fermented palm or coconut-flower sap, this potent clear spirit is sipped neat in village and ceremonial settings.After a picnic overlooking the rice fields and time to relax, try another of Bali's celebrated crafts during a silversmith workshop. Working alongside a local artisan, learn traditional techniques and create a piece of jewelry to take home.
As afternoon fades, settle in at hillside Koli-Koli for a sundowner—perhaps with a chance to sample arak in a contemporary Balinese cocktail—with Mount Agung rising beyond the rice terraces.
Sidemen to Sanur
Our journey toward Bali's east coast takes us again into the hills, where we will begin a gentle, downhill trek to Tenganan, a centuries-old village that offers a glimpse into an older Bali. Home to the Bali Aga, descendants of communities established on the island before the arrival of the Javanese Majapahit kingdom, Tenganan has retained traditions found in few other places. Walk its stone-paved lanes past walled family compounds and communal pavilions, and discover geringsing, a rare double-ikat textile that can take years to create and has long been prized for its ceremonial importance and believed protective powers.
After lunch, step into the former royal world of Tirta Gangga. Built in 1948 by the king of Karangasem, this elaborate water palace unfolds through tropical gardens, fountains, statues, and ornamental pools filled with colorful koi, all set against the mountains of eastern Bali.
By late afternoon, we reach Sanur and the sea. Settle into our beachfront hotel and enjoy time by the pool or beach. Tonight, experience Sanur's easygoing social scene at Batujimbar Cafe, a longtime local gathering place known for fresh, beautifully prepared dishes, from Indonesian favorites to contemporary café fare.
Island & Snorkeling Day Tour
After breakfast this morning, we will transfer to Sanur Harbor to embark on a memorable private chartered day trip to explore this area's beautiful reefs and islands.
Our exact itinerary will depend on the weather and ocean conditions, but rest assured we will see some of this area's best snorkeling reefs and iconic landmarks around Nusa Lembongan. Possible stops include we will have the chance to snorkel at Mangrove Point, which offers well-sheltered snorkeling before the day trip crowds arrive.
Visit Kelingking Beach, famous for its dramatic cliff formation resembling a T-Rex and its stunning turquoise waters. Continue to Angel's Billabong, a natural infinity pool formed by rock formations along the coastline, and Broken Beach, known for its unique natural arch and scenic coastal views.
After the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Your Final Bali Adventure
Our final full day in Bali begins slowly, after a busy few days. Sleep in, stroll the beach, visit the Turtle Conservation and Education Center, or explore Pasar Sindhu, a lively local market filled with tropical fruit, vegetables, flowers, and everyday Balinese ingredients.
In the afternoon, we begin our memorable final evening with a trip to Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali's most iconic temples. Perched on a dramatic cliff rising 70 meters above the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean, this view invites you to reflect on the past 12 days through the Island of the Gods.
As the sun begins to set, we shift our attention to a Kecak Fire Dance performance at the temple. This traditional dance acts out the epic Hindu legend of the Ramayana through expressive dance and dramatic fire effects. Finally, we sit down to a farewell dinner on the beach before going our separate ways tomorrow.
Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and one Bali sunrise. Depending on your flight time, take a final walk along the Sanur beachfront, linger by the pool, or simply relax and savor these last few hours.
Lunch is at leisure if time allows before a private transfer to Ngurah Rai International Airport. After nearly two weeks together, we hope you leave with wonderful memories of Bali that we've shared along the way.
Suksma, Bali!
Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.
13 Days
May 3-15, 2027
Sep 13-25, 2027
$6,995 Per Person
First one:$2,095
Additional:$2,595
See single supplement policy below.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.
Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.
If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).
Single Supplement for Custom Tours. Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.
The proposed itinerary does not assign a Boundless Journeys trip rating. The program combines city and village walking, a 1.5-2 hour Mount Batur hike, a 2-2.5 hour Munduk waterfall walk, and an approximately 2-2.25 hour rainforest-and-canoe experience. A final trip rating should be confirmed once the exact routes, lodging, and operating details are finalized.
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.
The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Travel time from the airport to Ubud varies depending on traffic and usually takes between one and two hours.
The trip ends in Sanur, Bali, Indonesia. The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Travel time to the airport varies from 20 to 45 minutes.
The itinerary includes overland travel between Ubud, Munduk, Sidemen, and Sanur, with sightseeing stops along the way. Roads are small and traffic can be unpredictable, so settle into island time and enjoy the ride.
September visitors to Bali will enjoy sunny drier weather from 82 to 84 degrees in the day and 71 to 73 degrees at night.
Bali
Food is an important part of this itinerary, with meals ranging from village-style Balinese cooking and a hands-on cooking class to contemporary Indonesian restaurants in Ubud and relaxed coastal dining in Sanur. Several meals are specifically named in the proposal, while free days allow guests to explore independently.
As in many off the beaten path locations, it is not advisable to drink tap water in Bali. It is recommended to brush your teeth with bottled water to avoid potential stomach issues. When showering or washing your face, you should keep your mouth closed. Bottled water or drinking water from a larger tank will be provided during activities. Your guide can explain to you local best practices for water and ice consumption in various locations. With a few minor adjustments, it is possible to greatly to reduce your chances of getting a case of traveler's illness.
In an effort to reduce waste, we strongly encourage you to bring a water bottle to refill with water. Where available, we provide purified water from larger containers to refill your bottles, rather than using many small single-use bottles throughout your trip. This is just one small way we strive to travel more responsibly and we appreciate your efforts in helping us to protect the extraordinary places we visit.Boundless Journeys has taken the Travelers Against Plastic company pledge to promote sustainable travel and encourage travelers to avoid buying bottled water when they travel. You can take the pledge, too, and learn more about TAP's efforts at travelersagainstplastic.org.
At Boundless Journeys we believe group dinners are a time to celebrate our day, while enjoying the best of local cuisine, and good company. In keeping with this spirit, we typically include local beer and wine with group dinners. If you prefer premium wine, or liquor, please feel free to order what you like, and you may settle your tab at the end of the meal.
Several days intentionally offer choices, including the Mount Batur start time, free days in Ubud and Sanur, and three different options for the final afternoon and evening. This flexibility allows the journey to balance structured exploration with time to relax and opportunities to enjoy spontaneity and seek out what interests you most.
The itinerary includes visits to local villages, family and artisan experiences, and activities in sensitive habitats and environments. We have an opportunity to interact with these places in ways that support and sustain, rather than damage or disrupt them.
We ask that our guests take care to understand and follow any basic recommendations provided by our office team or local guides, so that we can keep our local relationships strong and our destinations beautiful and welcoming for locals and future visitors.
With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.
This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one.
By: Kristin Calkins
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