Bali is one of the favorite destinations for those seeking adventure, breathtaking landscapes, beautiful beaches, and many activities to enjoy.
This year, it has become a star destination for Cooperating Volunteers, as several participants have chosen it to experience volunteering, combining social work with discovering this Indonesian island that offers so many activities.
Today, we share with you some of the best plans you can enjoy if you choose it as your destination.
- UBUD
Ubud is the cultural and spiritual center of Bali, surrounded by rice fields, ancient temples, and traditional art. There are many activities you can do in the area. Here are a few:
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
These stunning rice terraces in the hills of Ubud are one of Bali’s most iconic landscapes. They are a perfect example of the traditional Balinese farming technique called subak and offer a spectacular view for walking, taking photos, and enjoying a drink with incredible views. You’ll also find the famous ‘Bali Swing’ here, where you can take memorable photos.
- Monkey Forest
This natural sanctuary is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. The forest has pathways that wind through ancient temples and moss-covered sculptures, creating a magical atmosphere. While the monkeys are friendly, it’s important to be mindful of your belongings as they can be mischievous.
- Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung)
This historic palace, located in the center of Ubud, is the official residence of the royal family. Although part of it is closed to the public, the gardens and courtyards are open, and you can enjoy traditional Balinese dance performances at night.
- Ubud Market
The Ubud Art Market is where you’ll find a wide variety of Balinese handicrafts such as fabrics, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to shop for local products.
- Neka Art Museum
Ubud is known as the artistic heart of Bali, and the Neka Museum is one of the best places to explore traditional and contemporary Balinese and Indonesian art. It offers a rich collection of paintings and sculptures that immerse you in the local culture.
- Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
This sacred cave, located a few kilometers from Ubud, dates back to the 11th century and is a fascinating archaeological site. The entrance to the cave is adorned with a stone carving of a demonic face, and inside you’ll find Hindu and Buddhist shrines.
- Saraswati Temple
Dedicated to the goddess of knowledge, music, art, and wisdom, this temple is surrounded by lotus ponds, making it a very photogenic and peaceful place. Traditional dance performances are also held here at night.
- Ubud Botanical Garden
A tropical nature escape with orchids, cacti, and many other plant species. It’s an ideal place to enjoy Bali’s biodiversity.
You can also enjoy a variety of restaurants, bars, massages, and any other activities according to what you’re looking for.
- ULUWATU
Located in the southern tip of Bali, this area is known for its impressive cliffs, surfing beaches, and one of the most important temples in the destination. Here are some of our recommendations:
- Uluwatu Temple
One of the most important and sacred temples in Bali, located atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. The temple offers spectacular views, especially at sunset, and is a fantastic place to appreciate Balinese culture. Don’t miss the famous Kecak dance performed outdoors as the sun sets.
- Padang Padang Beach
Famous as a surfing beach, Padang Padang is a golden sandy beach surrounded by rock formations, accessible by a narrow staircase between the rocks. It’s perfect for relaxing or watching surfers in action.
- Uluwatu Beach (Blue Point Beach)
Situated below the cliffs, this beach is a paradise for experienced surfers, as the waves are some of the best in Bali. While it’s not ideal for swimming due to its strong currents, it’s an excellent spot to relax at bars or cafés on the cliffs and enjoy stunning ocean views.
- Bingin Beach
Another gem for surfers, known for its crystal-clear waters and bohemian vibe. While low tides can make swimming difficult, it’s a great place to spend the day sunbathing and enjoying the scenery.
- Nyang Nyang Beach
This is one of the quietest and most secluded beaches in Uluwatu, perfect if you want to escape the crowds. The access isn’t easy, as it involves walking downhill on a steep path, but once there, you’ll find an almost deserted beach with white sand and turquoise waters.
- Karang Boma Cliff
This is one of Uluwatu’s lesser-known viewpoints, but the views from the edge of the cliffs are stunning. It’s an ideal spot for photography lovers, especially at sunset when the sky turns golden and orange over the ocean.
- Pura Luhur Temple
In addition to the famous Uluwatu Temple, you can explore other smaller temples scattered around the area, like Pura Luhur, another cliffside temple offering a more intimate and less touristy experience.
Other beaches you can visit include Dreamland Beach (ideal for surfing) or Balangan Beach (palm trees and white sand).
In Uluwatu, you’ll find plenty of dining options, nightlife, beach clubs, and activities like massages, paragliding, and shopping.
- TIRTA EMPUL
In previous blog posts, we listed the most iconic and well-known temples in Bali, and Tirta Empul is one of them.
It is primarily famous for its sacred waters, where the Balinese perform purification rituals. The temple’s central feature is its natural spring, which emerges directly from the ground and flows into purification pools. These pools are arranged so that visitors can participate in the “melukat” ritual, which involves cleansing themselves in each water fountain while saying prayers and following a specific order.
Both local and foreign visitors can take part in the purification ritual in the pools. It is recommended to bring a sarong (a traditional wrap skirt that covers the legs) and to follow the local customs. There are several fountains, each with a different purpose: some are dedicated to spiritual cleansing, others to physical purification, and some are used to pray for prosperity or healing from illnesses.
Right next to Tirta Empul is the Presidential Palace of Tampaksiring, built by Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, in the 1950s. Although the palace is not open to the public, it can be seen from the temple, and its modern architecture contrasts with the ancient structure of Tirta Empul.
The morning is the best time to avoid the crowds, especially if you wish to participate in the purification ritual in peace.
- WATERFALLS
Bali’s lush tropical jungles and waterfalls create magical settings, so today we bring you a list of the most popular ones.
- Tegenungan Waterfall
Located near Ubud, it is one of the most accessible and popular waterfalls. Unlike many others, it is not in the mountains, making it easier to visit. You can swim in the natural pool formed by the waterfall and walk up to the top for a panoramic view.
- Sekumpul Waterfall
Located in the north, near Singaraja, it is considered one of the most impressive waterfalls in Bali. It is actually a group of seven waterfalls cascading into a lush tropical jungle. Although access requires a challenging hike along steep paths and river crossings, the final view is absolutely spectacular.
- Gitgit Waterfall
Located in the north, near Lovina, it is one of the most visited waterfalls in the area. Gitgit Waterfall cascades from a considerable height, surrounded by lush vegetation. It is fairly accessible with a short walk from the parking area, making it a popular choice.
- Nungnung Waterfall
Located in central Bali, it is one of the tallest, with a drop of 50 meters. Although access requires descending a long series of steps, the hike is well worth it. The powerful waterfall creates a refreshing mist, and the jungle surroundings are stunning.
Here are a few more popular ones: Banyumala Twin Waterfall (Bedugul hills), Aling-Aling Waterfall (near Singaraja in the north), Tukad Cepung Waterfall (in central Bali), Munduk Waterfall (northern Bali), Leke Leke Waterfall (north of Ubud), and Peguyangan Waterfall (Nusa Penida).
We can’t say any of them are disappointing, as their locations and surroundings make them unique spaces.
- MOUNT BATUR AND SURROUNDINGS
This is a popular destination for hiking and adventure lovers. An active volcano located in the northeast of the island, in the Kintamani region, it offers one of the best trekking experiences to enjoy Bali’s sunrise.
The main attraction is the sunrise trek since, from the summit, you can watch the sun rise over Lake Batur and the neighboring volcanoes, including Mount Agung. The ascent usually begins around 2:00 or 3:00 am to reach the summit in time for sunrise, which occurs between 6:00 and 6:30 am. The trek takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the group’s physical condition. It is of moderate difficulty, suitable for most people in reasonable physical shape. Some sections are steep, but you don’t need to be an experienced hiker to complete it.
During sunrise, the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a magical spectacle. You can also see volcanic steam vents, and in some spots, guides cook eggs in the volcanic cracks.
At the foot of the volcano is Lake Batur, the largest in Bali, which fills a caldera formed by an ancient eruption. This lake is an important lifeline for local farmers and adds even more beauty to the landscape.
After the hike, many tourists relax in the Toya Bungkah hot springs, located on the shores of the lake.
Nearby is the Pura Ulun Danu Batur temple, one of the most important in Bali. It is dedicated to the water goddess Dewi Danu and plays a crucial role in the island’s religious ceremonies. Although it is not situated at a high altitude, it offers an interesting cultural perspective on the relationship between the volcano and Balinese spirituality.
- GILI ISLANDS
These islands, part of Lombok, are a perfect getaway for a couple or three days if you’re traveling to Bali. They are about 2 hours by boat and consist of three distinct islands, each offering a different experience depending on what you’re looking for.
- Gili Trawangan
The largest and most popular island among travelers. It is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of nightlife, beach bars, and parties.
There are several diving spots around the island, such as the famous turtle site, where it is common to see green and hawksbill turtles.
No motorized vehicles are allowed on the Gili islands, so bicycles and horse-drawn carts are the only means of transportation.
It is a popular place to watch the sunset with views of Mount Agung in Bali.
- Gili Meno
The quietest and least developed of the three islands, ideal for those seeking peace and relaxation. It is one of the best spots for snorkeling, especially on the island’s east coast, where there are coral banks and tropical fish. You can also see turtles swimming near the shore. Gili Meno has a lake in the center of the island where you can hike and birdwatch.
- Gili Air
It offers the perfect balance between the tranquility of Gili Meno and the social vibe of Gili T. It has a more relaxed atmosphere than Gili T but still offers enough entertainment options.
Gili Air is also excellent for snorkeling and diving, with coral reefs full of marine life.
- NUSA PENIDA
A spectacular island near Bali, famous for its stunning natural landscapes, hidden beaches, and diving and snorkeling spots. The highlights are:
- Kelingking Beach
One of the most famous beaches. Its cliff shape resembles a T-Rex, and the view from above is breathtaking. The beach, though difficult to access due to a steep staircase, offers white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Angel’s Billabong
A natural rock pool filled by the tides, with clear turquoise water. It is located next to the sea and perfect for swimming (only at low tide when safe).
- Broken Beach (Pasih Uug)
An impressive natural arch formed by a collapsed cliff, allowing the sea to enter and form a lagoon. Though you can’t swim here, the views are unforgettable.
- Crystal Bay
A white sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxing and snorkeling. This area is known for its marine life, including manta rays.
- Atuh Beach
A secluded beach surrounded by high cliffs, with turquoise waters and stunning rock formations. It is one of the most picturesque places on Nusa Penida.
- Diamond Beach
A newly accessible beach with stairs carved into the cliff leading down to the white sand. The cliffs and palm trees create a perfect photo backdrop.
- Teletubbies Hill
Rolling green hills resembling the setting of the children’s show “Teletubbies.” It’s a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the island.
- Tembeling Forest and Beach
A hidden gem offering a small, pristine beach, natural jungle pools, and caves. You can reach it by foot or motorbike through a jungle path.
- Goa Giri Putri
A cave temple located inside a mountain. To enter, you pass through a small opening in the rock, but once inside, the cave is huge and houses a Hindu temple.
Bali is the chosen destination for thousands of people every year, offering endless activities. Our volunteer programs are located in the north, where you can enjoy many of these, like swimming with dolphins in Lovina—an experience not to be missed.
You can also travel to any other area during weekends or in your free time, as the longest distances don’t exceed 3 hours.
We’re waiting for you in Bali, adventurer!