Bali Travel Itinerary: Experiencing the Best of Seminyak, Ubud, and Sideman in 14 Days

  • Day 1: Seminyak Beach
    30 minutes (7 miles) north of Ngurah Rai International Airport

    Start your Bali adventure with some seaside relaxation at the inviting Seminyak Beach. With its deep blue waters and soft white sands, this beach never fails to impress tourists and locals alike. You may also catch a romantic sunset dining experience on the lively beachfront cafes or chill at one of the glitzy beach clubs nearby.

  • Day 2: Ubud Monkey Forest
    1 hour and 20 minutes (20 miles) north of Seminyak Beach

    Day two of your Bali trip will take you to the top tourist attraction in Ubud, the Ubud Monkey Forest. Admire the playful macaques up close and explore the temples enshrined in lush greenery. However, be cautious of the monkeys as they may grab items from visitors.

  • Day 3: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
    20 minutes (10 miles) north of Ubud Monkey Forest

    Tegalalang Rice Terraces is a serene spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. Walk through the rice fields across swaying palm trees, and enjoy the splendid views of the emerald-green terraces stacked in a clump.

  • Day 4: Mount Batur Trek
    1 hour and 15 minutes (15 miles) Northwest from Tegalalang Rice Terraces

    Get ready to stretch your legs and trek up the iconic Mount Batur early morning to catch the golden sunrise from the top. This active volcano periodically releases steam and smoke that may offer a thrilling sight to behold. Experience an unforgettable adventure with experienced guides that show you the way.

  • Day 5: Besakih Temple
    2 hours and 30 minutes (50 miles) northeast of Mount Batur

    Besakih Temple, also known as the "Mother Temple," is Bali's largest and holiest temple, and it is nestled in the heart of Mount Agung. This temple complex is home to over 20 traditional Balinese temples, making it a significant cultural site worth a visit.

  • Day 6: Nusa Dua Beach
    2 hours (30 miles) south of Besakih Temple

    Relax in one of Bali's most luxurious beach resorts and relish the cool waters of Nusa Dua Beach. With its pristine sands and crystal clear waters, this beach is one of Bali's most esteemed tourist attractions. Various upscale beachfront restaurants and shops also await you.

  • Day 7: Bali Safari and Marine Park
    35 minutes (16 miles) west of Nusa Dua Beach

    Bali Safari and Marine Park is a fun-filled wildlife park and outdoor recreation facility that the whole family will enjoy. The park features over 100 animal species unique to Indonesia, including rare endangered species like the Komodo dragon and Bali Starling. Enjoy a Safari ride or have lunch in the park's many restaurants.

  • Day 8-11: Sideman
    1 hour and 30 minutes (25 miles) east of Bali Safari and Marine Park

    It's now time for some real cultural immersion located in Sideman Valley. In Sideman, you can experience a rural way of life in Indonesia in the midst of stunning rice terraces, majestic mountain views, and fantastic trekking paths. Engage with the locals, have a chance at traditional Balinese activities such as woodcarving or farming and have fun enjoying the lush scenery.

  • Day 12: Goa Gajah Temple
    1 hour and 20 minutes (20 miles) west of Sideman Valley

    Goa Gajah Temple is an ancient cultural site southeast of Ubud. The temple carved into a rock, features water-filled pools and sculptures. A visit to this holy place reveals the connection between Balinese Hinduism and nature in the form of sacred bathing pools and fountains.

  • Day 13: Jatiluwih Rice Terrace
    1 hour and 30 minutes (25 miles) northwest of Goa Gajah Temple

    End your Bali trip with a spectacle of green terraced paddy fields at Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its bamboo-ringed fields, cascading over hills and valleys, with the Batukaru volcano in the background.

Time and Cost Estimates:

  • Seminyak Beach (Free)
  • Ubud Monkey Forest ($6) (2 hours)
  • Tegalalang Rice Terraces ($1) (1 hour)
  • Mount Batur Trek ($75) (6 hours)
  • Besakih Temple ($5) (3 hours)
  • Nusa Dua Beach (Free)
  • Bali Safari and Marine Park ($18) (4 hours)
  • Sideman Valley ($100) (4 days)
  • Goa Gajah Temple ($2) (2 hours)
  • Jatiluwih Rice Terrace ($1) (2 hours)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $208

Transportation

To travel around Bali, it's best to hire a private car that is readily available. A driver is recommended because driving a car in Bali as a foreigner can be challenging due to poor road conditions and traffic congestion. This service typically costs between $30-50 per day. If renting a bike or scooter, be wary of narrow roads and driving conditions that may be dangerous for those unaccustomed to Bali roadways.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, visit Bali's other popular attractions like the Tanah Lot Temple or Waterbom Bali Water Parks. For those with less time, skip the Bali Safari and Marine Park and replace it with a relaxing stay on the lovely island Gili Air, off of the coast of Lombok.

Airports:

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is Bali's main airport located 8 miles (13 km) south of Denpasar serving numerous international air carriers. A taxi from the airport to Seminyak takes about 30 minutes and cost approximately $20.

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