The following content is adapted from a travelogue shared by group member Gao Rongfan:
Bottom line first: Actual cost for two people on an 11-day, 10-night trip—flights about USD$858, Ubud accommodation 5 nights USD$262, Jimbaran accommodation 5 nights USD$290, tourist tax + visa on arrival and other incidentals about USD$113. The key to great value is choosing the right accommodation (Ubud’s tranquil jungle area + Jimbaran, a 5-minute walk to the beach). The ‘water activities got ripped off’ mentioned in the title is a real lesson from an entry dispute—see the itinerary below for details.
Bali 11-Day 10-Night Independent Travel Deep Dive
Itinerary Overview
- Dates: Wednesday, January 1, 2025 to Saturday, January 11, 2025
- Flights: China Airlines, about USD$858 for 2 people
- Accommodation:
-
- Ubud: Bhuwana Ubud Hotel Trip Booking, 5 nights total USD$262, enjoy the tranquility and birdsong of the pristine jungle.
- Jimbaran: Anja Jimbaran, 5 nights total USD$290, a 5-minute walk to the beach to soak in the golden sunset and the charm of the waves.
- Ubud: Bhuwana Ubud Hotel Trip Booking, 5 nights total USD$262, enjoy the tranquility and birdsong of the pristine jungle.
- Other Expenses:
-
- Tourist Tax: USD$21 for 2 people
- Health Declaration Form: Fill out on departure day, link: Health Declaration Form
- Customs Declaration: 1 per family, link: Indonesia Electronic Customs Declaration
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Process at the counter, cost USD$68 for 2 people, about 30 minutes wait
- Airport Pickup: Booked via Klook, USD$25
- Airport Drop-off: Free drop-off by the private driver Quick Reference:
- Tourist Tax: USD$21 for 2 people
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 (January 1, Wednesday) — Arrival in Bali, Start Vacation Mode
At 6 PM, we arrived at our hotel in Ubud, officially kicking off this trip. Bali’s night is filled with tropical vibes, with a faint floral scent lingering in the air, instantly making us feel relaxed and joyful. After dropping off our luggage, we stepped out onto the lively streets to find dinner—there were plenty of restaurants to choose from. We called it an early night to rest up for the next day’s adventure.
Check out our accommodation: Bhuwana Ubud Hotel Trip Booking
Day 2 (Thursday, January 2) — Exploring the Jungle and Whitewater Rafting
ATV Ride and Rafting Experience
- Meeting Time: 9:15 AM
- Why We Recommend It: Perfect for adventure-loving travelers!
In the morning, we drove ATVs through the jungle, rice paddies, and streams. The scenery along the way was stunning, and the instructor patiently guided us on safety, so even beginners could quickly get the hang of it. Afterward, we headed to the river for about 2 hours of rafting. We recommend wearing light clothing or just a swimsuit, because you’ll definitely get wet! During the rafting, the tropical rainforest along the crystal-clear riverbanks was a feast for the eyes, and we even spotted monkeys jumping in the trees, which was a delightful surprise.
ATV / Rafting: No capsizing
Interestingly, one of our fellow travelers was a foreigner who joined the rafting in high heels—quite a sight to behold!
🏎️ Bali ATV Activity ▶Klook Deals
🚣 Bali Rafting Activity ▶Klook Deals
Day 3 (January 3, Fri) — Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Tour
Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Tour
Cost: USD$141 for 2 people (booked via Klook) Meeting Time: 2:50 AM
The highlight of this day was the Mount Batur sunrise tour. We rode a jeep along rugged mountain roads, enjoying the star-filled sky along the way. As we reached the summit, the horizon gradually brightened, and when the sun slowly rose, the entire island of Bali was bathed in warm morning light—a truly breathtaking scene.
Volcano sunrise / Black volcanic lava
Tip: Be sure to wear a long-sleeved jacket, as it’s quite chilly at the summit in the early morning. We only had on short sleeves and shorts, shivering from the cold, but that experience became an unforgettable memory.
🌋 Mount Batur Sunrise ▶Klook Deals
Day 4 (January 4, Sat) — Ubud Culture & Market Exploration
Sacred Monkey Forest
Ubud Palace
The fare is about USD$4 for a 20-minute ride, allowing you to experience the artistic beauty of traditional Balinese architecture.
Ubud Market
Within walking distance, the market sells handicrafts, clothing, and accessories worth buying—bargaining is expected.
Ubud Water Palace
The entrance fee is about 140,000 Indonesian Rupiah. The lake reflects the traditional architecture, creating a scene as beautiful as a postcard.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The entrance fee is USD$16 for about a 1-hour visit. The monkeys are very mischievous, so keep your belongings secure.
On this day, we immersed ourselves in Ubud’s cultural atmosphere, took plenty of stunning photos, and left with a full heart.
🐒Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Admission Ticket▶Klook Deal
Day 5 (January 5, Sun) — Bali Safari & Marine Park
Bali Safari Zoo
Ticket Price: USD$98 per person (paid by card) Schedule: Departs at 9:00 AM, returns at 4:00 PM
Wildlife Park
Bali Safari Zoo is a fantastic destination for families and animal lovers—we spent an entire day exploring the park. In addition to seeing large animals like elephants and lions, there are plenty of interactive activities, such as feeding giraffes and taking photos with baby tigers. The park’s safari tram ride is especially thrilling, allowing you to observe various animals up close.
If you’re traveling with kids, I highly recommend this itinerary—they’ll have a blast. The dining options at the zoo are also decent; we had lunch there before continuing our exploration, and we didn’t head back to the hotel until 4:00 PM, still wanting more.
🦒Bali Safari Zoo Tickets ▶ Klook Deals
Editor’s Note: Right next to Bali Safari Zoo, there’s a newly opened Marine Park in 2025. For more details, check out here
Visitors can get up close to touch sharks and stingrays. There are also penguins, piranhas, capybaras, and more—check out our introduction!
Day 6 (Monday, January 6) — Nature & Culture Tour: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Tirta Empul Temple & Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Entrance Fee: 150,000 IDR Travel Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes by car from your hotel in Ubud
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple / Super soft and adorable civet cats
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a must-visit attraction. Nestled by the lake, the temple reflects off the clear waters, creating a picturesque scene that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Here, we also got to hold and feed the adorable civet cats—these little creatures are incredibly cute and perfect for photos with family or friends. On-site, you can also sample civet coffee, which costs around 71,500 IDR per cup. The aroma is rich and unique, making it an experience not to be missed!
🏞️ Explore Ulun Danu Beratan Temple ▶Klook Deals
Tirta Empul Temple
Entrance Fee: 100,000 IDR
Tirta Empul Temple is a famous religious site in Bali, where many locals come to perform purification rituals. Although we didn’t bathe in the holy water ourselves, just watching the locals’ ceremonies gave us a strong sense of the spiritual atmosphere. If you’re particularly interested in religious culture, this place is worth a visit; if time is limited, you can decide based on your schedule.
🛕💦🙏 Bathe in holy water and experience the blend of nature and culture at Tirta Empul Temple ▶Klook Deals
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Entrance Fee: USD$7
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
In the afternoon, we headed to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces at Alas Harum, one of Bali’s most iconic natural landscapes. The layered rice paddies looked like a masterpiece of nature. We spent the entire afternoon there, taking plenty of photos and strolling leisurely along the narrow paths between the fields, soaking in the tranquility. Since it rained that day, our planned Ubud Jungle Swing experience was canceled, but the beauty of the terraces alone made it all worthwhile.
🌾🏞️🍃 The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a must-visit in Bali. The layered greenery and sunset views are utterly captivating! ▶Klook Deals
More to Eat, Play, and Explore in Ubud
Ubud is the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, drawing countless travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and deep-rooted traditions. It's the perfect place to unwind. Whether you're exploring local customs, soaking in natural beauty, or diving into exciting outdoor activities paired with stunning food and scenery, Ubud offers a unique experience that will move you. Want to learn more about Ubud? Click here
Accommodation Themes in Ubud
- 【Bali Ubud Accommodation】30+ Unique Stays in Ubud: Experience a Magical Journey Amid Bali's Mountain Scenery!
- 【Ubud Accommodation Guide】Ubud Villa Pool Villas: A Private Paradise – 20+ Stunning Bali Villa Recommendations
- Bali Ubud Yoga Retreat Accommodation: 10 Dreamy Choices Combining Yoga Classes and Spiritual Relaxation
- 18 Bali Resorts with Kids Clubs for Families: Best Choices in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Ubud for a Family Vacation
- Bali Group Travel: Ubud Private Villa Rentals with 3, 4, 5, 6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
Dinner: Jimbaran Beach Restaurant
Cost: USD$44
After the rice terrace trip, we headed to Jimbaran Beach for dinner. As the sun set, we savored fresh seafood, and this romantic meal was the perfect end to the day. Quick Reference:
11 Best Seafood Restaurants in Jimbaran, Bali: No-Fail Picks
Day 7 (Tuesday, January 7) — Stunning Sunset at Tanah Lot and a Cliff Bar
Tanah Lot Temple
Entrance Fee: 150,000 IDR
In the morning, we set off early to avoid traffic and arrived smoothly at Tanah Lot Temple. Perched on a rocky outcrop in the sea, the temple is completely surrounded by water at high tide, creating a spectacular and one-of-a-kind view. It’s an unmissable landmark in Bali. We took plenty of photos and felt the beautiful blend of nature and spirituality.
🛕🌊🌅 Tanah Lot Temple, a must-visit sunset spot in Bali, offering stunning ocean views and a spiritual atmosphere ▶Klook Deals Quick Reference:
Tanah Lot Temple ticket prices, low tide times, and nearby attractions
Lunch: Babi Guling (Suckling Pig Rice)
Cost: USD$10
At noon, our driver took us to a Babi Guling restaurant recommended by locals. The pork was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, paired with Bali’s special spicy sauce—absolutely amazing! This hidden gem is a local secret, and I highly recommend it to everyone.
Rock Bar
Minimum Spend: Approximately USD$45 per person (redeemable for food and drinks)
Rock Bar is one of Bali’s most famous cliffside bars, perched on a seaside cliff overlooking the vast Indian Ocean. We arrived at 5 PM and managed to snag a great spot, enjoying the spectacular sunset while sipping on the bar’s signature cocktails. With the sound of crashing waves and the stunning sunset, the atmosphere was romantically unforgettable.
Quick Reference:
How to Book Bali’s Jimbaran Rock Bar? Complete Experience Guide!
Day 8 (January 8, Wed) — Water Sports Adventure at Tanjung Benoa
Water Sports at Tanjung Benoa
Cost: 2,700,000 IDR
On this day, we headed to Tanjung Benoa for water sports, including snorkeling, canoeing, and banana boat rides. A key note: we didn’t book tickets in advance on Klook, so the on-site price was much higher—a small regret of the trip. We chose Flying Fish and Parasailing, and the total for the two of us came to 2,700,000 IDR (about USD$174 for two).
If you’re planning water sports at Tanjung Benoa, don’t make the same mistake I did by not researching ahead—you’ll end up paying several times more! Be sure to book tickets online in advance—not only will you save a lot, but you’ll also avoid being overcharged on the spot.
Further Reading: Tanjung Benoa Water Sports Guide
🏖️🌊🚤 Tanjung Benoa Water Sports: Parasailing, Snorkeling, Sea Walking, Banana Boat ▶Klook Deals ▶Trip Deals
Day 9 (January 9, Thu) — Blue Cliffs and Uluwatu Temple Fire Dance
The Blue Highway
The road is flanked by towering cliffs, offering a breathtaking landscape that ranks among Bali’s most stunning sights—truly awe-inspiring.
🏖️🪨🌊 Discover the beauty of the blue cliff road, a dramatic split landscape that’s an Instagram-worthy spot with every snap! ▶Klook Deals
Uluwatu Temple and Fire Dance Performance
Ticket Prices: Uluwatu Temple 100,000 IDR, Fire Dance Performance 300,000 IDR
Fire Dance . Catch the sunset fire dance at the 6 PM show
In the afternoon, we arrived at Uluwatu Temple, perched on a towering cliff overlooking the magnificent Indian Ocean. As dusk fell, we watched a traditional fire dance performance. Dancers in vibrant costumes moved to the rhythm of drums and flames, showcasing Bali’s rich cultural charm. With the sunset casting its glow over the cliffs, the entire scene was breathtakingly beautiful. This is an absolute must-visit classic attraction!
🛕🌊🌅 Uluwatu Temple, a stunning clifftop attraction where you can also enjoy a traditional fire dance performance ▶Klook Deals Trip Deals
Uluwatu Dining and Entertainment Recommendations
Uluwatu is one of the most popular areas in southern Bali, renowned for its stunning cliff views, charming beaches, and excellent surfing spots. Filled with a romantic tropical vacation atmosphere, it's the perfect choice for enjoying sunset views and relaxing moments. If you're also considering staying in Uluwatu, you can refer to the following carefully curated dining and entertainment guide to make your trip even more enriching and fun: Uluwatu Guide: Uluwatu Attractions and Dining Recommendations
Uluwatu Accommodation Themes
- Uluwatu Accommodation Recommendations: 14 Private Villas with Stunning Ocean Views
- Bali's 18 Best Family Resorts with Kids Clubs | Top Choices for Family Vacations in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Ubud
- Bali Group Travel: Uluwatu Private Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
Day 10 (January 10, Friday) — Leisurely Shopping and Food Exploration
Icon Bali
We planned a relaxed day, heading out at 11 AM to Icon Bali and the Seminyak area. Though we weren’t big on shopping, strolling along the streets, enjoying coffee and local cuisine, and soaking in the trendy atmosphere made for a wonderfully pleasant day. Seminyak’s neighborhoods are filled with boutique shops and designer brand stores—a paradise for shopping enthusiasts! What’s inside Icon Bali? Check out Xiao Jie’s introduction:
Quick Reference:
Day 11 (Saturday, January 11) — Farewell to a Wonderful Journey
At 11:50 AM, we took a car to the airport, ready to end this journey full of beautiful memories and return to Taiwan.
Notes
- Massage Experience: Hot stone massage and aromatherapy oil massage, recommended by our driver, with guaranteed quality and great prices. We scheduled two massages during the trip—first a hot stone massage, then an aromatherapy oil massage. Both experiences were fantastic, leaving us completely relaxed in body and mind.
💆♀️🌿🕯️ Enjoy an ultra-relaxing SPA in Bali, complete with aromatherapy and hot stone massage 😌, for total rejuvenation! ▶Top-Rated SPA Recommendations by Area
- Private Car Service: We highly recommend using a private driver who can tailor the itinerary to your preferences and suggest the best routes. Our driver, Ok Bali, was exceptionally professional, spoke fluent Chinese, and even shared insights into Bali’s history and culture, giving us a deeper understanding of the place.
Popular Outdoor Activities in Bali
- 4 Top Snorkeling Spots in Nusa Penida Without the Hassle
- 40,000+ Reviews: Bali Instagram Hotspot Tour
- Mount Batur Sunrise: Hike or Jeep Ride Guide
- Bali's 20 Beach Clubs with Free Entry
- Nusa Lembongan & Manta Bay Snorkeling Experience
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Admission Ticket
- Tanah Lot Sunset Tour (Optional Chinese-Speaking Guide)
- Top-Rated: Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep & Kintamani Cafe Photo Tour
- Gates of Heaven Sunset Private Tour: Lempuyang & Tirta Gangga
- Bali Instagram Tour with Professional Photographer
On the right is our driver for these few days—his name is simply “Ok.” Considerate, attentive, no speeding, no smoking, punctual—Ok the driver truly has countless merits.
🚗👨✈️🌴 When traveling in Bali, a private driver is your best companion! They know the local routes well, are warm and professional, and will take you on a fantastic tour of Bali ▶Hall of Fame: Recommended Private Drivers
Final Thoughts
This Bali trip was made unforgettable thanks to the professional service of our driver and guide, Ok Bali, who allowed us to deeply experience the island’s natural beauty and cultural charm. Bali not only boasts stunning landscapes but also a rich cultural heritage—every corner leaves you enchanted. I hope this travelogue provides valuable insights for those planning a trip to Bali, and I wish everyone an equally memorable journey!
Do you think Kao Jung-Fan and their group had an amazing itinerary? Start planning your own Bali free-and-easy trip now! Feel free to share your itinerary in the community group too!
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