A Taiwanese businesswoman in Vietnam and her family traveled to Bali. This article is adapted/reposted with permission from “Let’s Play and Eat Ho Chi Minh City” Originally published in the “Bali/Indonesia Travel Guide” Facebook group Taken from the group, here’s our contribution back to the community
Prologue
For the first two days in Bali, we chose to stay at the newly opened “Aloft Kuta” located within “Beachwalk Shopping Center”. This Marriott-affiliated hotel offers a youthful brand with simple yet comfortable design, maintaining Marriott’s quality standards at a more affordable price. The friendly service and modern facilities made our stay truly enjoyable! The twin-bed room perfectly accommodated our family of four.
Click here to learn more: Aloft Kuta Accommodation & Beachwalk Shopping Center Introduction
Our second day itinerary included: GWK Cultural Park, Uluwatu Free Beach Club, Uluwatu Temple, Uluwatu Kecak Dance
Now begins our six-day Ubud exploration journey!
Day 3 Itinerary:
《Bali/Tegenungan Waterfall》- Ultimate Enjoyment at 《Omma Bali》
🌈Bali offers experiences beyond imagination, whether it’s serene beaches or majestic waterfalls, each visit brings something new. This time, we chose Tegenungan Waterfall and paired it with the scenic restaurant Omma Bali, enjoying a relaxing holiday with a waterfall view.
🌊 Tegenungan Waterfall Basics
📍Location: Tegenungan Waterfall
💰Entrance Fees:
- Adults: 20,000 IDR (~USD$1)
- Children: 10,000 IDR (~USD$0.50)
🏞️ Why Choose Omma Bali?
Most waterfall spots require hiking, but Omma Bali stands out for its convenience:
- Private Elevator to Day Club: Skip the hike downhill, perfect for those who prefer ease and families with kids.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy the waterfall’s grandeur right from your seat in the restaurant.
- Multiple Activities: Choose to enter the pool (minimum spend required), admire the waterfall, or hike down for photos.
🍹 Omma Bali Pricing Information
- Non-alcoholic drinks and meals are moderately priced and acceptable, but alcoholic beverages are relatively expensive 🍸.
- Minimum Spending Rules: The closer your seat is to the pool or waterfall, the higher the minimum spending requirement. If you’re just stopping by briefly, there are also regular seats with no minimum spending.
👣 Tips for Easily Viewing the Waterfall
It’s just a 2-3 minute walk from Omma Bali to the waterfall, making it very easy. If you’re too lazy to move, you can enjoy the full view of the waterfall from the restaurant seats. The cascading waterfall is refreshing and uplifting 💦.
Bali Garden Restaurant: Savor Crispy Duck 🍗 at Laka Leke Restaurant
If you’re looking for a serene restaurant in Ubud where you can enjoy classic Balinese cuisine away from the crowds, then Laka Leke Restaurant is the perfect choice. With its unassuming entrance, it hides a spacious Balinese garden, offering a comfortable dining environment and mouth-watering signature crispy duck.
This garden restaurant is located near our accommodation at Bali Bohemia Huts, just a 100-meter walk away. If you’ve just visited Monkey Forest, you can head to the restaurant from Gate 3, making it very convenient.
🏡 Restaurant Features and Atmosphere
- Garden Design: The restaurant is divided into an indoor seating area in a traditional stilt house and an outdoor seating area at the back. The rear seats offer a view of lush green rice terraces, creating a tranquil atmosphere that relaxes both body and mind.
- Tradition and Entertainment: The restaurant occasionally offers Balinese traditional dance performances and cooking classes, but you need to confirm the specific times with the restaurant in advance, as the schedule is currently irregular.
- Avoiding Crowds: For those who dislike the crowded scene at Ubud’s super popular restaurant Bebek Bengil, coming here to enjoy crispy duck is a quieter and more comfortable option.
🍴 Dish Recommendation: Signature Crispy Duck
- Features: Half a duck pre-marinated with spices, fried to a golden crisp. The skin is crunchy with just the right amount of fat, not greasy. Even the bones are easy to chew, making it irresistible.
- Duck Texture: Although the duck meat itself is a bit dry, it becomes more flavorful when paired with the restaurant’s three homemade sauces. Each sauce has a different level of spiciness, offering a refreshing and delicious taste that leaves you wanting more.
🌟 Other Culinary Options
While the restaurant is most famous for its crispy duck, other dishes also shine:
- Lemon Chicken: Tender chicken served with tangy lemon sauce and soft potato balls - both flavorful and satisfying.
- Spaghetti Carbonara: Rich and creamy sauce with perfectly cooked pasta - simple yet satisfying.
- Nasi Campur: A classic Indonesian dish mixing various traditional ingredients. The version here is said to be very authentic and worth trying.
🍹 Drink Recommendations
- Mango Smoothie: Rich mango flavor with a smooth texture - perfect for cooling down.
- Coconut Juice: Fresh coconut juice in its purest form - refreshing and thirst-quenching.
- Ice Tea: Light and refreshing - pairs well with any dish.
💰 Price Reference
- Crispy Duck: $9
- Lemon Chicken: $4
- Spaghetti Carbonara: $4
- Mango Smoothie: $2
- Coconut Juice: $2
- Ice Tea: $1
Laka Leke Restaurant perfectly combines traditional Balinese garden ambiance with classic cuisine. Whether it’s the spacious and comfortable dining area, the distinctive design of traditional stilt houses, or the crispy texture of their signature duck, this place is worth a visit.
If you want to avoid the crowds at Ubud’s popular restaurants but still don’t want to miss out on classic Balinese flavors, quickly add this understated yet impressive restaurant to your itinerary!
📍Address and Transportation Tips:
Located near Bali Bohemia, just a 100-meter walk from Monkey Forest Gate 3. It’s recommended to visit the Monkey Forest in the morning and then walk directly here for a meal.
🏨 **Day 3 Accommodation Recommendation: Bali Bohemia Huts——A Budget-Friendly Paradise Combining Vibrancy and Serenity 🐒
Staying at Bali Bohemia Huts on the edge of Ubud allows you to experience both the bustling city center and the tranquility around the Monkey Forest, making your trip well-balanced.
**Highlights of Bali Bohemia Huts:
- 🛏 Room Recommendation: Deluxe Mezzanine Room with Balcony.
- 💵 Price: IDR 690,000 per night (approximately USD$44), breakfast not included.
- 🍴 Dining Convenience: On-site restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner; you can even spot monkeys strolling by outside the restaurant windows, adding a fun touch.
- 🛋 Room Advantages: Spacious and great value for money, perfect for budget travelers or those seeking simplicity.
Location:
- 5-minute walk to Monkey Forest main entrance.
- 25-30 minute walk to Ubud Palace (note: paths are unlit at night, so bring a flashlight).
▶Bali Bohemia Huts Booking Link
Nearby Attractions:
- 🐒 Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: A great spot for family trips, with gentle and less aggressive monkeys.
- 🌙 Ubud Night Market & Performances: Traditional dance performances are held every Monday evening at Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple (next to Starbucks), tickets priced at IDR 100,000, offering a glimpse into Balinese culture.
- 🛍 Ubud Market: A perfect place to shop for unique souvenirs.
- 🍯 Kou Cuisine Handmade Jam: High-quality and adorable gifts, ideal for both personal use and presents.
Unexpected Find:
- Opini Kopi Garden: A trendy cafe with affordable prices, fresh juices, and a very comfortable atmosphere—definitely worth a visit.
⚠️ Note:
- Ubud’s paths can be quite dark at night, so a phone flashlight is essential!
- You can’t directly access the main entrance of Monkey Forest from nearby homestays, but it’s just a short walk away.
Day 4
Bali/Ubud - Selfies with Monkeys at Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
🌞Leisurely Living Next to Monkey Forest
The biggest advantage of staying near the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is being able to leisurely enjoy the morning. Take your time with breakfast and coffee, then stroll over to the sanctuary to easily start your monkey-filled adventure.
💡Recommendation: Monkey Cave Expresso
Near the sanctuary, there’s a highly-rated coffee bar with a 4.8-star Google review—perfect for enjoying a peaceful Ubud morning before visiting the monkeys ☕.
🌳 Monkey Forest Essentials
📍Location: Search for ‘Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary’ to find the main entrance
🕘Opening Hours: 09:00 - 18:00 (Last entry at 17:00)
💰Admission Fees: (Note: Prices increased as of April 2026)
- Adults: 80,000 IDR (~USD$5)
- Children: 60,000 IDR (~USD$4)
❗Important Notes: Multilingual paper guides (including Chinese) are available upon entry. Walking through the forest takes about 30-60 minutes. Mornings are less crowded with more monkeys, making it ideal for an early visit.
🐒 Tips for Interacting with Monkeys
While the monkeys in the forest are relatively gentle, please follow these rules:
- Do not stare directly into the monkeys’ eyes
- Do not carry plastic bags or bottles (monkeys may snatch them)
- Do not touch or disturb the monkeys
- Feeding the monkeys is prohibited
Look up to see monkeys leaping through the treetops, walk along forest paths lined with banyan trees, and admire the sacred Hindu temples surrounding you. The harmonious coexistence of monkeys and temples creates a deeply soothing atmosphere.
🏛️ 17th Century Ancient Temple
Within the grounds stands a 17th-century Hindu temple. While visitors cannot enter, the moss-covered walls offer a breathtaking sight that is well worth admiring.
📸 The Secret Weapon for Monkey Selfies
Staff in the area offer professional monkey feeding and photography services, requiring an additional purchase of a 50,000 IDR (approximately USD$3) photo ticket. They help capture fun moments like monkeys jumping onto shoulders or feeding, ensuring safety and efficiency—definitely worth trying.
⚠️ Note: Do not feed the monkeys yourself to avoid dangerous situations!
🌾 《TIS Cafe》Telaga Waja Rice Terrace——Highly Recommended Scenic Café✨
The Telaga Waja Rice Terrace is a must-visit spot near Ubud. Its stunning terraced fields and thrilling swing experiences make it a top choice for many tourists, though its commercialization can sometimes feel like being a ‘walking ATM.’ 💸
Rice Terrace Fees:
- Some cafés charge an entrance fee;
- Stepping onto the rice terrace land may require paying a landowner fee;
- Each section of the terrace belongs to different landowners, with separate fees.
To avoid these ‘fee traps,’ we recommend visiting the beautifully scenic and reasonably priced 《TIS Cafe》. Not only is there no entrance fee, but you can also enjoy equally mesmerizing terrace views—perfect for those who dislike long queues and aren’t chasing Instagram fame! 😊
Features of TIS Cafe:
- ✅ No entrance fee, and the scenery rivals famous attractions.
- 💰 Swing prices are affordable, just 50,000 IDR (approx. USD$3) per swing.
- 🌊 Children can use the pool, with a minimum spend of only 100,000 IDR/person (approx. USD$6).
- 🍽 Delicious meals at reasonable prices, with warm and friendly staff.
- 👣 Voluntary rice terrace donation, pay a one-time fee of 10,000 IDR to access multiple terraces for photos (the landowners are very kind).
- 📸 Free Instagram-worthy photo setups like aerial hammocks—absolutely worth it!
⚠️ Tips:
- Avoid peak hours for a more peaceful experience.
- When visiting, respect local customs; donations are optional, but bring small change in IDR as a gesture of goodwill.
Local Flavor Restaurant: Van Sheva Waroeng ✨
Want to experience authentic Balinese flavors? Just 200 meters from our accommodation, Van Sheva Waroeng offers affordable and delicious meals amidst expansive rice fields, immersing you in the daily life of locals.
🍴 Restaurant Highlights
- Truly local prices: Prices here are just 1/5 of those in city restaurants, without compromising on taste or care.
- Surrounded by rice fields: The restaurant has seating areas overlooking the fields, perfect for enjoying the scenery during breakfast or dinner.
- Made-to-order: Run by a husband-and-wife team, their handmade dishes are warm and rustic.
🌟 Recommended Dishes
- Grilled Pork Ribs (Iga Bakar): 40,000 IDR (approx. USD$3)
- Grilled Duck (Bebek Bakar): 40,000 IDR (approx. USD$3)
- Chicken Fried Noodles (Mie Goreng Ayam): 20,000 IDR (approx. USD$1)
- Carbonara Spaghetti: 30,000 IDR (approx. USD$2)
- Crispy Fried Bananas (Pisang Goreng Kribo): 15,000 IDR (approx. USD$1)
➡️ Additionally, don’t miss out on trying the fries, chicken sausages, pancakes, and more — you can’t go wrong with anything you order!
🍽 Quick Tips
- Longer Wait Times: During peak dining hours, there might be some delays. Use this time to snap photos at the rice field platform 📸
- Extra Recommendation: Just a 5-minute walk from “Madani Villa” is “Green Kubu”, a terraced restaurant with equally affordable prices and perfect for capturing stunning photos!
💡 Deep in the Ubud countryside, experience a dining moment that feels like “financial freedom”! 🎉
《Day 4 Accommodation Recommendation🏡》 - Living Next to Rice Fields🌾 Enjoy Endless Peace and Quiet 🤫 《Madani Antique Private Pool Villas》✨
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of rice terraces, “Madani Antique Private Pool Villas” is your dream accommodation! 🌿 Nestled in the lush greenery of Ubud, this private pool villa is not only affordable but also offers a truly relaxing getaway where you can enjoy uninterrupted peace.
💰 Surprising Price
A double package for two starts at just **1,400,000 IDR/night (approximately USD$90)**!
This price includes: ✔️ Entire private pool villa ✔️ Free afternoon tea🫖 ✔️ Extravagant floating breakfast 🍳, romantic petal bath 🛁, or bicycle rental 🚲 (choose one)
⚠️ Note: While an extra bed option is available, it costs 600,000 IDR (approximately USD$38) and only involves setting up a sofa bed, not adding an additional bed.
🏡 Space Features
The entire villa is nestled amidst lush rice terraces, designed with semi-open spaces:
- Semi-outdoor gazebo: Perfect for dining or lounging, offering a lazy and relaxing vibe 💤
- Pool + poolside loungers: Directly facing the rice terraces, the view is pure bliss ✨
- Bedroom with large bed: Lie down and gaze at endless greenery 🛌
- Semi-open bathroom: Bathtub facing the rice terraces, exuding authentic Balinese charm 🛁
During our stay, we chose the “Antique 907” room type, with its rice terrace-facing gazebo design that was breathtakingly beautiful. If you prefer a pool directly facing the rice terrace view, opt for the neighboring “Antique 906”. 🌾
📍 Accommodation Area Reminder
《Madani Antique Private Pool Villas》 is divided into two accommodation areas:
1️⃣ First Area: Staffed with hotel receptionists, offering more convenient services.
2️⃣ Second Area: Pure accommodation zone with only three villas and rice terraces, no on-site reception staff.
⚠️ If you’re staying in the second area, please remember to confirm check-in arrangements with the hotel in advance. Upon our arrival, our driver Gede immediately contacted the hotel staff, and within 5 minutes, a hotel employee arrived on a motorcycle, swiftly resolving the issue and completing the check-in process.
✨ Important Notes
- Insufficient hot water: While the bathtub is romantic, there’s not enough hot water to fill it completely.
- On-site communication: It’s more efficient to communicate accommodation needs with hotel staff via messaging apps.
- No deposit required: Accommodating international travelers, payment can be made upon check-in.
▶Madani Antique Villas featured in 22 Amazing Ubud Villas
Day 5 Itinerary
Tirta Empul Temple – A Sacred Experience of Spiritual Cleansing
The Serenity of Holy Water: A Sacred Ritual for Spiritual Purification
On the fifth day, we visited Tirta Empul Temple, renowned for its sacred spring water and a significant symbol of Bali’s religion and culture. Walking through the lush coconut grove path, we were greeted by ancient stone structures and crystal-clear spring water, transporting us back in time. This holy spring is considered by locals as a sacred site for purifying the soul, attracting countless devotees over centuries for blessings and spiritual cleansing.
Introduction to Tirta Empul Temple: Sacred Waters and Ancient Beliefs
Tirta Empul Temple is named after its surrounding holy spring, featuring more than ten different water spouts, each symbolizing various prayer intentions such as “cleansing the soul,” “warding off misfortune,” “healing illnesses,” and “banishing nightmares.” Local devotees complete their spiritual purification bathing ritual before entering the temple to pray, demonstrating their devotion to the deities.
Visitor Information and Fees
Visitors need to purchase tickets to enter Tirta Empul Temple, with fees being very affordable:
- Adult ticket: IDR 50,000 (approx. USD$3)
- Child ticket: IDR 25,000 (approx. USD$2)
The ticket includes the rental of a traditional colorful sarong, which is essential for entering the temple. However, please note that the colorful sarong cannot be used for entering water. If you wish to experience the Holy Spring Purification Ritual, additional fees apply:
- Green sarong rental fee: IDR 10,000 (approx. USD$1)
- Locker rental fee: IDR 15,000 (approx. USD$1)
These small fees are not only affordable but also allow you to deeply experience this unique traditional culture.
How to participate in the Holy Spring Purification Ritual?
The Holy Spring Purification Ritual may seem simple, but it follows a specific order and rules:
- Prepare the green sarong and locker, change your clothes, and proceed to the holy spring pool.
- Facing the holy spring pool, start from the left pool, beginning purification from the first water spout.
- Skip the second and third water spouts from the end (these are reserved for worshipping the deceased).
- After completing purification at the left water spouts, move to the right pool.
- At the right pool, only worship the first water spout.
At each water spout, follow these steps to complete your prayer:
- Place your hands together in prayer and make a wish towards the water spout.
- Wet your hair with the holy water and sprinkle it over your body.
The cool spring water instantly washes away the fatigue of travel, leaving you feeling light in body and spirit. This is a completely new cultural experience, definitely worth trying!
Tourism Meets Authentic Charm
Although Tirta Empul Temple has become a popular tourist attraction, with pools filled with Western visitors donning green sarongs for purification rituals, the scene is quite fascinating. Yet, the temple retains its local, authentic charm. The staff are warm and friendly, with no expensive additional charges, making visitors feel welcomed with genuine smiles.
⚠️ Friendly Reminder: Respect Local Culture
When participating in purification rituals, it’s essential to maintain solemnity and respect, as many local devotees are still engaged in devout prayers and bathing. Avoid excessive photography that might disturb others.
Recommended Extension: Gunung Kawi Temple
If time permits, consider visiting Gunung Kawi Temple, located not far from Tirta Empul. This site features stunning rock carvings and a captivating valley landscape, making it a cultural gem worth exploring near Ubud.
Additionally, Tirta Empul Temple is conveniently close to Sebatu Sanctuary Eco-Resort, my favorite accommodation during this trip. Staying here makes itinerary planning seamless and is highly recommended!
Experience Bali’s Spiritual Cleansing
Tirta Empul Temple is not just a photo spot in Bali but a spiritual destination that allows you to immerse in local culture. Participating in the purification ritual and bathing in the clear spring water not only rejuvenates the body and mind but also adds a sacred and meaningful dimension to your Bali journey.
✨ Why not experience this spiritual cleansing firsthand and make your trip more than just a superficial sightseeing tour!
The World’s Most Expensive Coffee Journey: Savoring Your First Cup of Civet Coffee
During our journey in Ubud, we embarked on an exploration of “Kopi Luwak,” renowned as the world’s most expensive coffee. Known for its unique production process and flavor, it’s an experience not to be missed when traveling to Bali. We chose to visit Satria Agrowisata, a farm in Bali, to witness firsthand the birth of this legendary coffee.
The Story Behind Civet Coffee
Civet coffee, known as Kopi Luwak in Indonesian and Civet Coffee in English, is distinguished by its production process where civets consume coffee cherries. The beans are then excreted after undergoing enzymatic changes in the civet’s digestive system, earning it the nickname “cat poop coffee.”
As one of the primary producers of civet coffee, Bali offers numerous farms for tourists to visit and sample. Most farms do not charge an entrance fee and provide complimentary coffee and tea samples, typically referred to as a Coffee/Tea Plantation Tour. However, the free experience often comes with the pressure of enthusiastic sales pitches from staff promoting their products.
Exploring Santria Farm: A Blend of Knowledge and Fun
Upon arriving at Satria Agrowisata, we were greeted by a lush botanical garden filled with various fruit trees, coffee plants, and spice plants such as Mangosteen, Arabica Coffee, and Ginger. This garden provided us with a preliminary understanding of the raw materials used in coffee production.
Next, the farm staff introduced us to the civet coffee production process, explaining how coffee beans are selected and cleaned from civet excrement. Surprisingly, even with just one or two visitors, the staff patiently and enthusiastically explained the process.
A Surprising Experience with 13 Free Beverages
After a brief introduction to coffee making, the staff served us 13 different beverages for free tasting, including various coffees, teas, and specialty drinks, each with unique flavors and benefits. Sitting under the dense forest canopy, sipping these drinks was not only a treat for the palate but also a visual delight, offering a relaxing escape.
Highlight: Bali CatPoo Chino
On a hillside, a striking sign reads ‘Bali CatPoo Chino’—one of the key attractions for civet coffee! Playing on the word ‘cappuccino’ (cat = cat, poo = poop), it’s quite amusing. We specifically ordered a cup of civet coffee priced at 50,000 IDR (around USD$3) to taste the legendary flavor. However, for us non-coffee connoisseurs, it didn’t taste much different from regular black coffee—just a unique experience.
Shopping Area & Purchasing Tips
As the tour nears its end, you’ll arrive at the product sales area. Shelves are filled with a variety of items like coffee powder, spiced tea, and dried fruits, making it hard to choose. Although we knew from online reviews that the products might not taste as rich as the ones served on-site, we were swayed by the enthusiastic staff and bought a pack of avocado coffee powder for 130,000 IDR (around USD$8). Consider it the ‘admission fee’ for the ‘free’ tour!
Special Recommendation: Other Options
If the pushy shopping environment isn’t your thing, consider visiting Bali Pulina. According to online information, the entrance fee is 100,000 IDR (around USD$6), which includes coffee and tea tasting along with snacks, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, the scenery there is said to be quite beautiful, providing a different kind of experience.
A Unique Memory: A Cup of Civet Coffee
Taking a moment during our journey to savor a cup of civet coffee, even though we ‘coffee novices’ might not fully appreciate its flavor, witnessing the production process and learning the story behind the coffee beans made it a worthwhile experience. This ‘world’s most expensive coffee’ offers not just a taste sensation but also a glimpse into Bali’s unique culture.
☕ Curious about the taste of this coffee? When in Ubud, why not try it for yourself!
Day 5 Accommodation: A Hot Spring Homestay with Only 4 Rooms by the Volcano🏡 《The Lava Bali and Hot Spring》✨
🚘 Heading north, we arrived at the Kintamani region in northern Bali, where the volcanic scenery left us in awe and created unforgettable memories 😌.
🌋 Mount Batur is Bali’s second-largest active volcano. Though not as tall as the largest Mount Agung, the landscape here surpasses Agung’s stark grandeur with its breathtaking beauty 💗. What’s more captivating is the presence of natural, colorless, and odorless hot springs ♨️, offering complete relaxation amidst the stunning views of Kintamani.
✖️ We skipped the two popular hot spring resorts and opted for a cozy homestay called The Lava Bali and Hot Spring, which has only 4 rooms. The atmosphere here is simple yet delightful, evoking a sense of tranquility that makes you want to stay forever 💕.
⬆️ Sitting at the homestay’s doorway, letting your mind wander, the sense of relaxation instantly peaks 😊. Climbing the stairs to the elevated hot spring pool area 👣, soaking in the warm waters while gazing at the majestic panorama of Mount Batur, is truly breathtaking ✨.
❄️ In the early morning or evening, the cool air makes the warmth of the hot spring pool even more comforting 🔥. Combined with the serene environment free from crowds, it becomes a uniquely personal Bali experience 👏.
🏡 Homestay Experience
While The Lava Bali and Hot Spring isn’t luxurious, it reflects the owner’s thoughtfulness in every detail ❤️:
- The rooms are simple yet stylish, with small touches that add charm.
- The bathroom is spacious with ample hot water.
- The owner speaks fluent English and quickly resolves any guest issues 👍.
💰 Homestay Pricing and Services
🔹 600,000 IDR per room per night (approximately USD$40).
🔹 USD$10 /Extra bed /Night (approx. USD$10) ©️Room rate does not include breakfast✖️🍽
Although the homestay doesn’t provide meals, don’t worry about finding food:
- There’s a convenience store right at the homestay entrance, making it super easy to grab snacks and drinks anytime💯.
- Several local eateries are nearby, offering very affordable prices 🫶.
- During our stay, we tried the nearby “JFC Indonesian KFC” and a local specialty “Terang Bulan Apam Balik” (recommended flavors: peanut, chocolate, sesame, and cheese).
This accommodation style, away from crowded tourist areas, allows for a more relaxed experience of Bali’s different lifestyle - simple yet beautiful😊.
▶The Lava Bali and Hot Spring Booking Link
Day 6 Itinerary
《Bali/Kintamani》Volcano Adventure 🌋
—Get up close with an active volcano, witness a magnificent sunrise, and explore black lava wonders—
When the first rays of dawn illuminate Mount Batur, the sunrise’s glow against the majestic peak creates a view that never grows old💗. The Mount Batur sunrise trek in Kintamani connects you with nature’s purity. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a leisurely traveler, you’ll find your perfect way to appreciate this active volcano’s awe-inspiring beauty!
Two Ways to Experience the Volcano Adventure
🔥 1. Hiking Challenge: Thrilling Volcano Sunrise Trek
For travelers brimming with energy and enthusiasm, the Volcano Sunrise Trek offers an exhilarating challenge. Reach the summit to witness the breathtaking sunrise from the crater, a journey that’s both thrilling and rewarding, perfect for those seeking adventure and extreme challenges❤️🔥.
🚜 2. Relaxed Enjoyment: Jeep Sunrise Tour
If you’re part of the “less adventurous group” 🤣 or simply want to enjoy the scenery in comfort, then booking a stylish jeep for a leisurely Black Lava Tour is your best bet!
⏰ Approximate Itinerary:
- 05:00 Jeep pickup from your accommodation 🚜
- Climb along winding mountain roads (approx. 40-50 minutes)
- Arrive at a pavilion to prepare for the magnificent sunrise ☀️
- Enjoy sunrise while sipping hot tea, coffee, and breakfast ☕️🍳
- Explore the Black Lava and Black Sand wonders 🪨
- Visit the lake temple 《Pura Segara Ulun Danu Batur》 🙏
- 10:00 Return to your accommodation 🏡
🛻 Jeep Tour Highlights
- Stunning Sunrise: The pavilion at the summit offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Mount Batur. The driver doubles as a professional photographer, capturing romantic silhouettes of you with the sunrise and volcano 📸, perfect for sharing on social media!
- Exploring Black Lava: Post-sunrise, the lava tour is particularly thrilling. The jeep navigates rugged volcanic terrain, bouncing up and down, keeping your heart racing 💥.
- Desert-like Black Sand: The Black Sand landscape resembles a mini-desert. Driving over the dunes feels like stepping into another world, immersing you in boundless vastness 👀.
- Lake Temple Visit: The final stop, 《Pura Segara Ulun Danu Batur》, though less famous than Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, exudes a serene simplicity that’s truly refreshing. Entry is free, with optional donations 🙏.
💰 Jeep Tour Cost Reference
- Standard Rate: $50/car (without breakfast) or $53/car (with simple breakfast 🍽)
- Price Negotiation Tip: Ask your accommodation host or private driver to help negotiate the price, usually it can be lowered to $44 - $47/car (without breakfast).
- Maximum of 3 adults + 1 child or 2 adults + 2 children per car.
❄️ Reminder: Bring Warm Clothing
The Mount Batur sunrise trek requires an early morning start, and temperatures in the mountains are low. It’s recommended to bring warm clothing (such as a jacket, beanie, scarf) 🧥🧢🧣, otherwise you might shiver while waiting for the sunrise.
Exploring Kintamani Cafes: Romantic Volcano View Restaurants
Kintamani is not only famous for its stunning volcano views but has also seen the rise of many Instagram-worthy cafes ☕️ in recent years, where you can enjoy delicious food while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
🌟 Personal Recommendation: Akasa Kintamani Coffee
- 180-Degree Unobstructed Volcano View: Every seat offers a panoramic view of Mount Batur, so beautiful it will take your breath away—you won’t want to leave 💯.
- Affordable and Delicious Food: Despite being a scenic restaurant, the prices are reasonable, and the drinks and food are excellent, with beautifully presented dishes worth savoring 👏.
- Photographer-Level Staff: The staff are not only polite and attentive but also skilled at taking professional-quality photos. In just a few seconds, they can deliver a series of “volcano masterpieces,” leaving you impressed ✨.
📍 Other Recommended Cafes
Whether it’s the sunrise trek or a visit to a scenic cafe, Mount Batur in Kintamani offers unforgettable views and experiences. The pristine and majestic natural scenery, the thrill of a jeep adventure, the grandeur of the sunrise and lava, combined with the comfort of a cup of coffee, create an unmissable memory of Bali 🌋☀️.
If you’re planning your next trip to Bali, be sure to add the Mount Kintamani Volcano Tour to your itinerary!
Day 6 Accommodation Recommendation: Sebatu Sanctuary Eco-resort
“Sebatu Village,” located north of Ubud, is a hidden gem far from the crowds and noise, almost like a secret base off the map. While other travelers stay in private pool villas in Ubud, we chose to venture further and stay in a luxurious bamboo treehouse nestled among the treetops—an adventurous journey of intimate connection with nature!
🏡 First Impressions of the Treehouse: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Luxury
Sebatu Sanctuary Eco-resort is a renowned eco-friendly hotel in Bali, designed with sustainability in mind, where every detail seamlessly integrates with nature. Western travelers have long listed it as a must-stay in Bali, but it remains relatively unknown to Asian tourists.
Upon arrival, you’ll immediately feel the professionalism and thoughtfulness:
- Welcome Service: Staff members remember your name and greet you with juice, coffee, or beer, instantly putting you at ease.
- Dedicated Butler: A WhatsApp group is created for you, allowing you to handle any requests—whether it’s booking breakfast, activities, or room service—with utmost efficiency.
- Attention to Detail: Every corner of the room is adorned with carefully placed greenery or flowers, from the bedside to the stairs and even the bathroom, making you feel warmly welcomed.
🌟 Must-Stay Room: The Two-story Bamboo Pod
The room we chose was a two-story bamboo treehouse, exuding luxury:
- Lower Level:
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- Open-plan design with direct views of the jungle, featuring a spacious daybed.
- The bathroom is completely open-air with stable hot water and good privacy. Those who want to experience outdoor bathing will definitely fall in love with it!
- Upper Space:
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- 360-degree panoramic windows with tree branches right outside, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
- There’s also a suspended hammock, highly recommended for photo opportunities!
💎 Little Surprise: All drinks in the fridge (beer, soda), premium chips, etc., are completely free. Coffee and tea bags are also plentiful!
🍽 Dining Experience: Deliciousness in a Fairyland
- Breakfast:
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- You can choose to dine at the restaurant, have it delivered to your room, or enjoy a floating breakfast in the pool—all at no extra cost, just make a reservation in advance.
- Dinner:
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- The hotel restaurant offers a rich menu with fresh ingredients and reasonable prices, making it a great choice to savor Bali.
🌿 Activity Recommendations: Intimate Moments with Nature
Sebatu Sanctuary not only offers a delightful stay but also designs many activities that bring you closer to nature:
- Forest Picnic (Romantic Picnic for 2):
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- Follow the butler on a 1.5 km walk deep into the forest to enjoy a picnic basket carefully prepared by the chef, right next to a natural waterfall pool. These two hours are completely isolated from the world, perfect for relaxation!
- SPA Experience:
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- The prices are very affordable, with massage beds set up directly in your room or outdoors, accompanied by natural breezes and the sounds of birds and insects—you’ll feel relaxed even before the massage begins.
💰 Room Price Reference:
- Two-story Bamboo Pod: $150/night
- Extra bed (includes 2 breakfasts): $16
PS: It’s recommended to book 1-2 months in advance as this place is very popular among Western travelers. With only 8 rooms available, they often get fully booked quickly!
📌 Transportation & Booking Tips
- Book through the hotel’s official website: Sebatu Sanctuary Eco-resort
- Recommended room types:
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- Two-story Bamboo Pod (2 rooms)
- Tented Villa Forest View (2 rooms)
- Hobbit Treehouse (1 room)
- Location & Transportation: Sebatu is located north of Ubud and can be reached by private car or motorbike. Nestled deep in the forest, it offers a quiet and secluded environment, perfect for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
📝 Personal Experience
Sebatu Sanctuary Eco-resort is a place where you can truly relax and reconnect with nature. It’s not just accommodation; it feels more like a healing journey for both the soul and the body. Despite its remote location, the thoughtful service, meticulous design, and nature-inspired rooms and activities make it worth exploring for every traveler.
If you’re also yearning for an intimate encounter with the jungle, don’t hesitate to book your stay! 🌲💚
▶Check out 9 other breathtaking bamboo villas
Day 7/Day 8 Itinerary
Overnight Safari Experience - Get Up Close with Zebras🦓, Elephants🐘, and Lions🐅!
🌙 Stay overnight at Mara River Safari Lodge in the Kifaru Family Room, enjoying the comfort of two bedrooms while feeding zebras up close, encountering elephants, and even having breakfast with lions at the restaurant!
✨ Highlights:
1️⃣ Stay includes two days of unlimited park access, making it super convenient to return to your room anytime!
2️⃣ Dine with lions at “Tsavo Lion Restaurant” through the glass windows for a truly unique experience. 3️⃣ Get up close with animals during specific times and take free photos📸!
🎢 Must-see: Animal shows, elephant baths, big cat performances, and the thrilling “Night Safari” adventure - the itinerary is packed!
💡 Tip: Staying overnight is more cost-effective than buying tickets separately and offers a more complete experience!
👉 Click to learn more about our experience staying in the zoo and accommodation details!
Our Highly Recommended Private Car Service
If you’re traveling in Bali, I highly recommend using Gede’s private car service! Gede is a very professional and patient driver who provides thoughtful service whether it’s for family trips or general sightseeing.
📋 Service Highlights:
- Always arrives on time (or early)
- Notifies you in advance if there are delays (traffic)
- Prioritizes safety, even shielding car doors for you
- Always first to confirm hotel arrivals
- Goes above and beyond to assist with any questions (lost items, shopping, information sharing)
- Helps inquire about tours through friends to get you the best prices
- Takes care of arrival essentials: airport pickup, local SIM card purchase (using airport Wi-Fi first), currency exchange (at reputable centers)
- Advises against tourist traps (Gede doesn’t take commissions, so some popular spots won’t allow him to accompany guests)
- Accompanies you at certain attractions (where locals get free entry), acting as a guide and sharing historical insights
- Stayed by our side at Uluwatu Temple/cliff/sunset, taking photos and watching out for monkeys trying to steal our belongings
- Remember! Gede is a driver, not a personal tour guide. It’s reasonable if he doesn’t accompany you into attractions - please be understanding
- Throughout our trip, we never demanded Gede’s constant company or explanations. We appreciated any extra time he spent with us, but understood when he didn’t
- For meals/afternoon tea/scenic cafes - places tourists like us visit - prices are generally high. Gede will drop you off and wait for your call
- For Gede, these places are prohibitively expensive. As friends, we enjoyed inviting him along (though he’d often decline meals, claiming he’s full, occasionally joining us for cheaper drinks)
📍 Contact Information:
- LINE ID: Bopeas29
- WhatsApp: +62 8786 2004 094
- Phone: +62 81237 811 841
If you’re looking for a reliable and thoughtful driver, Gede is absolutely the best choice! For a more detailed introduction to this driver, check here.
PS Indonesia is a tipping country, please don’t hesitate to tip generously - Gede deserves it! (10% of total car hire cost is basic, 20%-30% - I thank you on Gede’s behalf)
Journey’s End
As we concluded this family trip to Bali, we gained not just beautiful scenery and unforgettable cultural experiences, but also precious memories created with our children. From chasing laughter in Ubud’s fields, to close encounters with nature at the zoo, to hand-in-hand walks on sunset beaches, every moment was filled with warmth and happiness. Bali is not just a relaxing vacation paradise, but a place that brings families closer together. Here, time seems to move slower, allowing us to truly appreciate each other and cherish this unique family time. No matter where we go in the future, these Bali scenes and memories will forever shine in our hearts. ✨ (All mentioned prices are reference rates from August 2022, for your travel planning purposes.)
Full Travelogue:
- Day 1: Staying in a Shopping Mall! Family Accommodation for Two Adults and Two Kids
- Day 2: GWK Cultural Park, Free Beach Club at Uluwatu, Uluwatu Temple, Uluwatu Fire Dance
- Day 3-7: Five Days in Ubud: Food, Attractions, Accommodation, and Volcano Exploration Recommendations
- Day 8: How to Enjoy Bali Safari and Overnight Stay Guide
Do you think the itinerary from Let’s Play and Eat Ho Chi Minh City is exciting? Start planning your own Bali free and easy trip now! We also welcome everyone to share your itinerary in our community!
Click here to read more exciting Bali travelogues
Do you also want to write a travelogue but don’t know where to start? You can refer to “How to Write an Amazing Bali Travelogue” to make your travelogue more impressive!
More Ubud Food and Fun
Ubud, the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, attracts countless travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and rich traditional culture. It's the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you're exploring local traditions, enjoying natural beauty, or engaging in exciting outdoor activities, Ubud offers unique experiences that combine delicious food with stunning scenery! Want to learn more about Ubud? Click here
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