From lush nature, immaculate sand, crystal-clear water, to breathtaking landscapes - Bali has it all. What a better way to engage your senses and unearth your inner bliss than in this tropical paradise. There is a wide array of activities and experiences to include in your next trip to Bali. Here are 10 things we recommend adding to your Bali-bucket list to ensure that you get a full Bali experience.
1. Rent a Scooter
Your Bali experience will not be complete without the famous Bali form of transportation - the scooter. As public transportation can be pretty limited and catching a Grab (Bali’s version of Uber) can be quite expensive, renting a scooter is your best option. Flexibility is the main advantage of having a scooter. Cut down small Indonesian streets and take your vehicle right to your destination without any hassle. Make sure to wear a helmet and remember important road safety measures as the Bali roads are known for being a little free-for-all. Quench your taste for adventure as you explore some of the most beautiful sights in Bali on two wheels.
2. Find your inner-peace at Uluwatu Temple
As one of the 6 holiest places on the island, Uluwatu is extremely significant to the Hindu culture in Bali. Being one of the Sad Kahyangan, (six places of God) Uluwatu Temple is said to bring a spiritual balance to Bali. This harmonized point will not only enable you to find your inner-peace, but it will also take your breath away with the stunning views along the cliffside walk. We recommend visiting later in the day and enjoy an evening stroll as you watch the sunset into the ocean’s horizon. Warning: Beware of the monkeys- they might try to snag your things. Make sure to keep all loose items of clothing hidden (glasses, hats, and even water bottles).
3. Island-hop to Nusa Penida, Kelingking
Located on Bali’s southeast coast, Nusa Penida is well worth a visit. Almost untouched by urbanization, Nusa Penida is only now blowing up with tourists. The hilly and scenic island seems like a dreamland as you explore untouched corners of the world. The turquoise water, lush greenery, and immaculate beaches make up a tropical paradise. We recommend Kelingking Beach, one of the most popular hikes on Nusa Penida. Although quite daunting, the hike is doable if you remember to bring water, and take several breaks when necessary. You are climbing almost vertically so make sure to wear appropriate footwear. The untouched beach at the bottom is a perfect place to relax, get a drink, and maybe even spot some wild stingray
4. Swing on the famous Bali Swing
Surrounded by tropical jungle, rice paddies, and the occasional monkey, the Bali Swing is a must-do on your Bali bucket list. The famous swing has made it into travel blogs, instagrams, and digital media all over the world. Get lost in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to try something that you will never do anywhere else in the world. The cliff-edge romantic views will take your breath away as you feel the fresh air in your face and pinch yourself of your paradise reality.
5. Respect Monkeys in a Monkey Forest
If there’s one animal we can guarantee you will see while in Bali, it’s the monkey. The mischievous yet extremely cute creatures are everywhere, and are not a bit shy of human presence. We recommend visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest as it can also be a very sacred experience. Otherwise known as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, the forest is considered sacred; therefore, over 1000 monkeys live a care-free life in the sanctuary.
6. Make Use of the Water
As Bali is completely surrounded by water, we recommend making use of it. Water activities are a fun and interactive way to explore the coasts of Bali. From surfing, to snorkelling, to paddle boarding, Bali’s coasts have something for everyone. Due to Bali’s tropical climate, the water is known for being warm all year round - one of the amazing perks of being just a few degrees south of the equator.
7. Adventure by the Rice Terraces
Formally known as the subak, Bali’s irrigation system has brought a lot of attraction for tourists. Rice paddies are an iconic landscape of Bali as they create intricate and beautiful patterns on the terrain. Scenic and terraced hillside rice paddies are a common viewing in Bali and therefore should definitely be added in creating your Bali experience. For a fun day-trip and adventure, we recommend the Tagallalang Rice Terrace as you can appreciate this beautiful landscape, while also getting active in zip-lines and jungle swings.
8. Discover Bali’s Hidden Gem: Munduk
As one of the most underrated (and almost undiscovered) areas in Bali, Munduk is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist life. With towering waterfalls, beautiful indonesian architecture, and deep cultural roots, Munduk is well worth a visit. Located just past Bali’s most famous gates (Handara Gate), Munduk is just a short detour from the typical tourist path. With that being said, we definitely recommend also seeing the Handara gate, it’s pretty awesome.
9. Whet your Appetite with Bali’s Waterfalls
Home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world, Bali’s tropical rainforests hold some hidden treasures. Walking through dense jungles, climbing over rocks, and crawling under lush green canopies can lead you to some of Bali’s most hidden gems. Whet your appetite in exploring what Bali has to offer as you become one with nature and value your inner explorer.
10. Relax on Bali’s Immaculate Beaches
As Bali has so much to do, it is easy to fill every day with something new. With guaranteed tropical sunshine, Bali makes avoiding pristine white sands and crystal-clear water difficult. Our final recommendation is to remember to relax. You are on vacation, after all.
Which item are you most excited to check off your Bali bucket list? Let Acanela help you get started today.
Post written by Brooklyn Cathers