North Bali Loop
Northern Bali is a land of hidden wonders, far removed from the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas. Here, lush nature intertwines with ancient traditions, offering travelers an authentic and unforgettable experience. Along the way, you’ll discover some of the most picturesque and lesser-known corners of this region, from impressive waterfalls and volcanic lakes to traditional villages and historic temples.
You’ll traverse vibrant rice terraces and immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the northern coast, teeming with corals and colorful fish. Get ready for an adventure that reveals the true essence of Bali, where each day unfolds a new chapter of beauty and discovery.
The Route
The loop starts in Ubud, Bali's spiritual village, which has now become one of the island's top tourist destinations due to its central location, making it easy to reach many places for day trips. Besides its charming atmosphere, Ubud offers all the necessary comforts to start your journey feeling energized and to relax upon your return.
The route covers all the major destinations in northern Bali and can be completed clockwise or counterclockwise. However, I recommend following the clockwise direction to save more relaxing beach stops like Amed and Virgin Beach for the end. This way, you can finish the loop by watching the final sunrise from the top of Mount Batur in Kintamani, one of Bali’s most iconic spots.
By staying one night in each of the main northern Bali destinations, the loop can be completed in 8 nights and 9 days. While some destinations are truly unmissable and deserve more than one night to be fully explored, others can be skipped depending on your interests.
Below is a list of destinations and their main points of interest to help you customize your loop:
Ubud: Ubud is the ideal starting point for exploring northern Bali.
Jatiluwih: In the Jatiluwih area, you will find the most stunning rice terraces in Bali, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is a must-visit destination.
Munduk: A must for waterfall and mountain hiking lovers, Munduk offers breathtaking views and a unique atmosphere compared to the rest of Bali.
Lovina-Singaraja: Lovina is a major tourist destination on Bali’s north coast, especially known for dolphin-watching tours. However, its beaches are not as beautiful as those in Amed and Virgin Beach. Consider visiting Lovina only if you're interested in seeing these unique marine animals. For a more authentic and less touristy experience, the former capital of Bali, Singaraja, just 20 minutes from Lovina, is an excellent alternative.
Sekumpul: In this mountainous region, you'll find Bali's most impressive waterfall and spectacular rice terraces. Staying in Sekumpul can be convenient for visiting these sites early to avoid crowds. If you're short on time, consider stopping at the famous waterfall while traveling between Lovina and Amed or before reaching Munduk from Jatiluwih.
Amed: Likely one of the best beach destinations in Bali, Amed offers a relaxed atmosphere, charming sunsets, and exceptional marine life for snorkeling and diving. Although the beaches can be crowded with anchored boats, it's worth staying here for more than one night if you have time, as its midpoint location is perfect for relaxation.
Virgin Beach: This area of Bali is less touristy, featuring equipped beaches like Virgin Beach and picturesque local villages such as Bugbug Village. While Amed is recommended for snorkeling and amenities, if you're seeking relaxation and a more local vibe, this area is ideal.
Sideman: This stop is essential for those wanting to immerse themselves in the rural and tranquil atmosphere that once characterized all of Bali, which has largely been lost in the south due to mass tourism.
Kintamani: A magical place where you can admire or hike Mount Batur at sunrise and relax in its hot springs. It's the perfect spot to conclude the loop.
The roads you will encounter may not always be in great condition and can be quite narrow. However, you will rarely find the heavy traffic and long queues typical of the island's more touristy areas, making travel between destinations quite pleasant, especially with the surrounding lush nature.This loop is ideal for those looking to become familiar with motorbike travel, as it is relatively short, with distances between stops not exceeding two to three hours, and offers many intermediate attractions to visit.
Tips Before Departure
Get a Vehicle: The journey begins in Ubud, an ideal base from which to start, where you'll easily find the most suitable vehicle for your adventure. For competitive rental arrangements, you can contact Kadek on WhatsApp at +62 81805385222, or Rama Scooter at +62 81779908188.
Travel During the Dry Season: The best time to take a scooter loop is during the dry season, from May to October. However, you may encounter rain, so it's advisable to bring a waterproof jacket.
Obtain an International Driving License: In Indonesia, as in much of Southeast Asia, an international driving license is required. However, I have never been stopped by the police in Indonesia, and when it does happen, a small fee is usually requested, often negotiable.
Travel Light: It’s advisable to travel with just one backpack and, if possible, store some clothes under the scooter seat, leaving part of your gear in Ubud. During some stops, you may need to carry your personal belongings with you. Along the way, you'll find laundry services offering express service, returning clean clothes the same day. Some areas like Kintamani and Munduk can have cooler temperatures, especially at night and at dawn, so it's wise to bring warmer clothing.
Don’t Book Accommodations in Advance: It’s unnecessary to book rooms in advance, as it's easy to find last-minute accommodations in these more remote areas of Bali, often with the possibility to negotiate the price on-site. This will give you greater flexibility if you want to stay more than one day in a stop that particularly impressed you or skip others.
Bring Cash: It's advisable to carry cash, as many establishments in these areas do not accept credit cards. While it's easy to find ATMs in some stops, it may be more difficult in others. To avoid inconvenience, it’s best to withdraw cash in Ubud before departure. The local currency is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR): with 1 euro, you can get about 17,000 Indonesian rupiah.
Swimming and Snorkeling Gear: In Amed and Virgin Beach, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel or dive in their crystal-clear waters. Besides your swimsuit (which is also needed for swimming in the Munduk and Sideman waterfalls), if you own a mask and snorkel, I recommend bringing them to save on rental fees at beach facilities. Alternatively, you can buy one directly in Amed.
Wake Up Early: To fully enjoy some attractions in northern Bali, it’s recommended to wake up at dawn; the recommended sleep hours during this adventure will generally be from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, with rare exceptions.
Get Familiar with Google Maps: Various apps can assist you in getting around, but I find Google Maps to be the most intuitive and comprehensive. Locations are easy to find, and user reviews can help in your decisions. It's advisable to install the app on your smartphone and download the area map to have it available at all times, avoiding unexpected issues in case of a lack of coverage. All hotels, restaurants, and activities I’ll mention in the guide are easily traceable on Google Maps.
Internet Connection: Internet connectivity may be unstable in some remote areas of the island; I recommend choosing Telkomsel as your mobile carrier, as it is the most reliable. Additionally, along the way, you'll easily find accommodations that offer rooms with desks and Wi-Fi, or common areas where you can work comfortably.
Get a Sarung: A sarung (or sarong) is a traditional Indonesian garment, similar to a long skirt or wrap, that is wrapped around the waist and worn by both men and women. To enter all the temples in Bali, it’s necessary to wear this garment as a sign of respect for the sacredness of the place. Before departing, you will have the opportunity to purchase a sarung in Ubud at the numerous local markets.
Day 1: Ubud - Jatiluwih
Morning
To make the most of your day, it's advisable to leave early in the morning, giving you ample time to explore the attractions around Jatiluwih. Once you depart from Ubud to reach the first destination of the loop, you'll notice that the roads will gradually become less crowded. Before reaching Jatiluwih, it's worth taking a short detour to stop at the village of Wongaya Gede (Google Maps). Here, you can visit Pura Luhur Batukau (Google Maps), one of Bali's most sacred temples, still preserved from mass tourism. Afterward, you can travel along the picturesque Subak Piak road (Google Maps), winding through lush rice fields. I recommend a stop at the scenic Nyedu Kopi (Google Maps) to refresh yourself before continuing your journey.
Lunch
To access the central area of Jatiluwih (Google Maps), a UNESCO World Heritage site, there is an entrance fee of IDR 50,000 (about €2.80). Once inside, you can have lunch at one of the local restaurants. I recommend CataVaca Jatiluwih (Google Maps) for its well-maintained premises and tranquil location among the rice paddies, but if you prefer a more touristy option without sacrificing the stunning views of the famous terraces, Jatiluwih Resto (Google Maps), near the main entrance, is a good alternative.
Afternoon
After lunch, check in at your chosen accommodation. I recommend Gunza Bed and Breakfast by BIJAK (Google Maps), which is highly praised for its cleanliness, affordable prices, tranquility, and beautiful views from the shared balcony. Although it’s not close to the main entrance of the terraces, a secondary entrance is just a 10-minute walk away, ideal for starting your stroll through the rice fields. This homestay is located in the village of Jatiluwih, where you can experience a more authentic and local atmosphere. Once settled, you can head to the hot springs of Air Panas Angseri (Google Maps), a natural oasis frequented almost exclusively by locals, just 15 minutes away. These hot springs will allow you to relax after your first day of exploration.
Sunset
Return to the heart of Jatiluwih (Google Maps) to enjoy the sunset among the rice fields. Keep in mind that this area of Bali is often cloudy in the afternoon, but if you're lucky, you might witness a breathtaking spectacle. If the weather isn't favorable, don’t be discouraged: mornings usually offer clearer skies, and the sunrise among the rice fields, which you'll have the opportunity to admire the following day, is often even more stunning than the sunset.
Dinner
After a day full of exploration, enjoy dinner at one of the recommended lunch restaurants or discover other options nearby. Turn in early and set your alarm for before dawn, so you’re ready for another exciting day of adventures.
Day 2: Jatiluwih - Munduk
Sunrise
Start your day by waking up before sunrise. If you're staying at Gunza Bed and Breakfast by BIJAK (Google Maps), you can easily walk to one of the secondary entrances to the Jatiluwih rice terraces, located in the proximity of Warung Krisna D' Uma Jatiluwih (Google Maps). From here, embark on a wonderful walk among the terraces as the sun rises on the horizon. It's advisable to leave around 6:00 AM to enjoy the sunrise and explore this enchanting landscape. Dedicate a couple of hours to discover the most evocative rice fields in all of Bali, capturing unforgettable moments and enjoying the tranquility of the morning before the tourists arrive.
Morning
After your walk, enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant or at CataVaca Jatiluwih (Google Maps), which usually opens at 8:00 AM. Afterward, check out of your accommodation and head toward Munduk. Along the way, one of the first recommended stops is Pura Ulun Danu Bratan (Google Maps), located on the shores of Lake Bratan. Although it’s very touristy and has an entrance fee of IDR 75,000 (about €4.25), which is considered quite high for Bali, it’s worth a quick visit as it’s on your route.
Lunch
Near the temple, you’ll find several restaurants ideal for recharging your energy. One of the best is Restaurant Ulun Danu Beratan (Google Maps), perfect for a hearty buffet meal at the cost of IDR 120,000 (about €7.10). Alternatively, on your way to the next stop, you can stop at the sophisticated Green Kopi Restaurant (Google Maps).
Afternoon
Continuing your journey, you can stop to visit some waterfalls before reaching the village of Munduk, where numerous hotels and homestays are located. An excellent choice is the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall (Google Maps) complex, which boasts four beautiful waterfalls perfect for cooling off and spending a couple of tranquil hours, with a low entrance fee of IDR 40,000 (about €2.30). If you're a waterfall enthusiast and don’t feel too tired from previous activities, you can also visit the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls (Google Maps), another attraction that features several waterfalls connected by a nature trail. However, I personally consider the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall (Google Maps) to be more spectacular.
Continuing toward Munduk, you'll have the chance to admire Lake Buyan on the left and stop at one of the numerous viewpoints, including the touristy Wanagiri Hidden Hill Bali (Google Maps). Once you arrive at your destination, check in at your accommodation. If you're looking for budget-friendly lodging in a great location, I recommend Taman Ayu Homestay Munduk RedPartner (Google Maps). If your budget is larger, you can explore other nearby accommodations.
Sunset and Dinner
Finish your day with a sunset dinner at one of the local restaurants known as "warung" (small family-run eateries). You can choose the famous Warung Heaven Munduk (Google Maps) or Warung Genitri (Google Maps), both offering spectacular views of the Munduk valley. After dinner, retire early to prepare for the adventures of the following day, setting your alarm for six in the morning.
Day 3: Munduk - Lovina / Singaraja
Sunrise
Wake up at dawn and prepare for an unmissable trek along a forested path, where you can admire waterfalls and beautiful views of the Munduk valley.
The starting point is right next to Taman Ayu Homestay Munduk Red Partner (Exact Location Here): use the AllTrails app to follow the route and avoid getting lost. Don’t forget to bring water, as this hike will be intense with its ups and downs. Starting at dawn allows you to avoid the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty in peace, as well as access the waterfalls without paying an entrance fee.
Morning
During your trek, the first waterfall you’ll encounter is Melanting Waterfall (Google Maps), followed by Red Coral Munduk Waterfall (Google Maps), and finally Golden Valley Waterfalls (Google Maps). Have a tasty breakfast at Golden Valley Side Eco Café (Google Maps), the perfect spot to recharge after a two-hour walk, with a beautiful view of the last waterfall of the trail. Once back on the main road, you can either look for a driver to take you back to the hotel or continue walking downhill towards the village.
After returning, check out and head towards Lovina, where you’ll spend the third night of your loop. Along the way, don’t forget to stop at the famous Banjar Hot Springs (Google Maps) for a well-deserved relaxation and visit the Brahmavihara-Arama (Google Maps), one of the few Buddhist temples in Bali.
Lunch
Near the temple, Waroeng Pindras (Google Maps), which offers local dishes and Georgian specialties, is a good choice for lunch. Alternatively, you’ll find other great options along the route or directly in Lovina.
Afternoon
Lovina has become a popular spot for dolphin-watching tours, which take place early in the morning when the chances of seeing these fascinating marine mammals are highest. Once in Lovina, it’s time to book your experience for the following day. There are several companies offering this service, and prices are often negotiable, especially for larger groups. Personally, I chose Boatingfun77 Dolphin Tours (Google Maps), which you can contact via WhatsApp at +62 8133899868. My group of four paid IDR 150,000 (approximately €8.90) each for a package that included dolphin watching and swimming, lasting about two hours.
Once in Lovina, check in at one of the many available accommodations. I recommend staying near the Lovina Dolphin Statue (Google Maps), where the morning excursions depart. Hotel Dupa (Google Maps) is an affordable option with simple rooms; if you choose this place, request a room at the back, away from the noise of the main road, and with a view of the surrounding nature. Spend the afternoon on Lovina’s beaches: while they may not be the best in northern Bali, it’s still pleasant to dip your toes in the sand and watch the sunset after your busy days.
Dinner
For dinner, there are several options in Lovina. I recommend The Global Village Foundation Kafe (Google Maps), a nonprofit restaurant serving international dishes with a staff of deaf-mute employees. Alternatively, you can try the Vietnamese restaurant Me Vui Lovina (Google Maps) for a change of flavors. Go to bed early to be ready for the morning dolphin-watching excursion.
Alternative
If you’re not interested in the marine animal sightings Lovina is famous for, consider staying in Singaraja (Google Maps), Bali’s old colonial capital during the Dutch era, where you can enjoy an authentic atmosphere free from tourists. Each evening, a night market is held near Taman Kota Singaraja Park (Google Maps), where you can sample traditional Indonesian dishes. For those preferring Western cuisine, the popular restaurant Mailaku Roemah Nongkrong (Google Maps) is an excellent choice. Ranggon Sunset Point Bar & Resto (Google Maps) is perfect for a seafood dinner with a sea view to watch the sunset. Singaraja is also one of Bali’s artistic and cultural capitals: if you’re lucky, you might catch one of the events often organized at Taman Bung Karno (Google Maps) during the weekend. You might even consider spending the night in Singaraja instead of Lovina if you want to fully experience the local vibe, away from tourists. In that case, the homestay Rumah Kost Gumitish Banyuning Singaraja Buleleng (Google Maps) could be a convenient choice for you.
Day 4: Lovina / Singaraja - Sekumpul
Morning
Start your day with a memorable dolphin-watching excursion. Head to the Lovina Dolphin Statue (Google Maps) to meet your guide at the agreed time (ideally before 8:00 AM). This tour offers a unique experience where you can cling to the sides of the boat with a mask and snorkel, allowing you to see dolphins both below and on the surface, interacting closely with these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. After the excursion, return to your hotel to check out and prepare for your journey to Sekumpul. Before leaving Lovina, take a moment to relax and ensure you have everything you need for the trip.
On your way to Sekumpul, stop in Singaraja, especially if you didn’t visit it the previous day. Here, explore the Pasar Anyar Singaraja (Google Maps), a traditional morning market rich in local culture, where you’ll notice a strong Islamic influence, a contrast to predominantly Hindu Bali. Don’t miss a brief visit to Klenteng Ling Gwan Kiong (Google Maps), a small Chinese Buddhist temple.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch in Singaraja, where you’ll find more dining options compared to Sekumpul. The waterfront area has various places with sea views, including the previously mentioned Ranggon Sunset Point Bar & Resto (Google Maps), ideal for some fresh fish and the trendy Krisna’s Beach Street Bar & Resto (Google Maps), recommended for a refreshing drink. For a budget-friendly local seafood meal, Warung PP Ikan Bakar (Google Maps) is the best choice.
Afternoon
In Sekumpul, where you’ll be spending the night, I recommend Rostica Hotel & Camping (Google Maps), one of the best affordable accommodations on your trip. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a good restaurant, a relaxing pool, and stunning valley views that become unforgettable at sunset. In the afternoon, unwind at the hotel, enjoying the common areas, or take a short exploration of the surroundings, saving the main attractions for the next morning.
Sunset and Dinner
For dinner, you can either stay comfortably at the hotel or try one of the nearby restaurants, like Spice Warung & Restaurant (Google Maps). Wrap up your evening by heading to bed early and setting your alarm for around 6:00 AM to prepare for the next day, which promises to be intense and adventure-filled.
Day 5: Sekumpul - Amed
Sunrise
The spectacular Sekumpul Waterfall (Google Maps) opens at 8:30 AM, but there’s a way to access it earlier without paying the IDR 150,000 (about €8.90) entrance fee, which includes a mandatory and unnecessary guide for the official trekking path. Wake up at dawn and use the Komoot app to guide you along the unmarked trail to the majestic waterfall. The app will show you the starting point of the path, where you can also park your bike (Google Maps), and provide directions to ensure you stay on track, as the trail can be easy to lose.
As you cross the picturesque Fiji Rice Terraces (Google Maps), you’ll reach the majestic waterfall, Bali’s tallest at 70 meters, in about 20-30 minutes of descent. Leaving around 6:30 AM will help you avoid the crowds and appreciate the beauty of the site in peace, enjoying the experience without sharing it with other visitors and saving on the entrance fee.
Morning
After visiting the waterfall, retrace your steps to your vehicle and head to your hotel. If you’re staying at Rostica Hotel & Camping (Google Maps), breakfast is likely included; I recommend enjoying it on the terrace or by the pool. After some relaxing time, perfect after the trek, check out and depart around 10:30 AM for one of the longer journeys on your itinerary, with two interesting stops along the way. The first stop is the Pura Ponjok Batu Temple (Google Maps), famous for its spectacular cliffside location overlooking the sea. This charming temple is definitely worth a visit.
Lunch
The second stop is the restaurant Dapur Bali Mula (Google Maps), highly recommended for an authentic Balinese dining experience. Their fixed menu features traditional dishes, primarily seafood.
It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance at +62 81337130088, especially if you want to try the famous pork ribs and other meat specialties not included in the basic menu.
Afternoon
After lunch, continue for about an hour and a half along the coastal road to Amed. Upon arrival, check in at your chosen accommodation. Ari Homestay (Google Maps) is a great option with spacious, clean rooms, spectacular views, and a private terrace, especially if you request a room further from the road.
If you prefer to stay right on the beach, there are several budget options along Amed Beach, particularly in the Pantai Jemeluk (Google Maps) area, which offers the best snorkeling in Amed.
Warung Ombak Homestay (Google Maps) is worth considering for its affordable and negotiable prices; you can contact the owner Komang on WhatsApp at +62 81936454640. For a more luxurious stay, consider one of the resorts on Lipah Beach (Google Maps).
Sunset and Dinner
Sunset Point Amed Bali (Google Maps) is a day club with a pool and restaurant known for its stunning views of Amed Bay. While it can be crowded and touristy, it’s a great spot to enjoy an unforgettable sunset. The minimum entry fee is IDR 125,000 (about €7.40), which can be spent on food and drinks.
Alternatively, See You Again Cafe (Google Maps) offers excellent sunset views with no entry fee. After dinner, relax and head to bed early to make the most of the following day in Amed.
Another great spot to watch the sunset is Lahangan Sweet (Google Maps), a viewpoint in the mountains about 30 minutes from Amed's shores. Here, you can capture the iconic photo on the tree platform with Mount Agung in the background. It's especially recommended if you’re spending two nights in Amed, as you will likely be tired after a full day of travel.
Day 6: Amed - Virgin Beach
Consideration
After the intense days prior, Amed is the perfect place to recharge, located halfway through your loop. Although this itinerary only suggests one night, consider extending your stay in this charming coastal town, especially if you love diving. Amed is renowned for its exceptional dive spots and offers schools that organize transfers to Tulamben (Google Maps), just 25 minutes away, home to the famous USAT Liberty Wreck (Google Maps) from World War II.
Sunrise
Start your day early to maximize your time in Amed, especially if you’re only staying for one night. Wake up before dawn and head to Lipah Beach (Google Maps), the best spot in Amed to watch the sun rise directly from the sea due to its eastward orientation.
Morning
Spend a couple of hours at Lipah Beach, snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters to see corals, tropical fish, and, with a bit of luck, turtles. Once you’re done, if breakfast is included in your stay, return to your hotel; otherwise, enjoy your morning meal right on the beach at Warung Asri (Google Maps).
Afterward, head to Pantai Jemeluk (Google Maps), the top snorkeling spot in Amed, located at the far eastern end of Amed Beach. Several local establishments offer free loungers to customers who dine there.
Lunch
After a morning of snorkeling or sunbathing, check out of your accommodation. If possible, pack your bags early to enjoy a seafood lunch in one f the warung right by the beach like Blue Star Bungalows & Cafe (Google Maps).
Afternoon
Depart for Virgin Beach, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way; be sure to make a few stops to fully appreciate the area.
The first stop is Penataran Agung Lempuyang Temple (Google Maps), famous for its "Heaven’s Gate", an iconic photo spot known for its mirror-like effect, which I recommend avoiding due to long wait times. Along the route to Tirta Gangga (Google Maps), an enchanting water palace with elegant gardens and statues, stop by Warung Kopi Bawasari (Google Maps) to admire the lush rice terraces lining the road. Another stop I would recommend, if time allows, is Taman Ujung (Google Maps), a beautiful historical Balinese site and royal garden.
In the late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Virgin Beach, where I recommend staying at Pondok Diana (Google Maps) if you don't have high expectations: this simple, family-run homestay, immersed in nature, is just a 3-minute scooter ride from the beach. You can contact Diana via WhatsApp at +62 82144386780 for better deals. If you’re looking for something more comfortable, Rumah Santai Gusti & Gosia House (Google Maps) is a great alternative.
Dinner
For dinner, at Warung Lesahan Mina Karik (Google Maps) you can enjoy delicious traditional Balinese dishes at competitive prices. Set your alarm for an early start the next day.
Day 7: Virgin Beach - Sideman
Sunrise
Virgin Beach faces east and has two main access points at either end along the cliffs. The northern access leads past Pondok Diana, while the southern access is located on the opposite side. The best spot to enjoy the sunrise over Virgin Beach is Bukit Asah Bali - Tempat Camping di Bali (Google Maps), situated along the southern access.
Morning
After witnessing the sunrise, head down to the beach for a pleasant morning stroll as the sun rises on the horizon, immersing yourself in a tranquil atmosphere. You can spend a few hours enjoying the peaceful beach, although the local warungs with loungers and services won’t be open yet. Alternatively, you can return to your hotel for breakfast and come back to the beach later. If you choose the latter option, take a slight detour to visit Bugbug Village (Google Maps), a charming local village free from tourists, featuring picturesque views of rice fields and temples, especially in the back areas (Google Maps). Have breakfast at your hotel and check out so you can spend as much time as possible on the beach before leaving.
At Virgin Beach, I recommend renting a lounger at Fishermen Cafe (Google Maps), which offers seating both beachfront and under the shade of palm trees, along with an excellent restaurant serving fresh fish. In the northern part of the beach, you'll find simpler warungs, while to the south, Virgin Beach Restaurant (Google Maps) offers a more upscale set up with an infinity pool overlooking the sea.
Virgin Beach is also perfect for snorkeling, where you might spot various fish, corals, and even turtles if you’re lucky, especially in the calm waters near the southern cliff.
Lunch
If you've already checked out, you can enjoy a fresh fish lunch right at Virgin Beach, especially at Fishermen Cafe (Google Maps).
Afternoon
After lunch, set off for Sideman, a beautiful area of Bali known for its lush nature and peaceful ambiance. On your way, stop at the Samsara Living Museum Bali (Google Maps) and the Sibetan Rice Terraces (Google Maps).
The museum, run by the local community, immerses you in Balinese culture for IDR 100,000 (around €5.80), explaining the deep meanings of Hinduism and the ceremonies that accompany the lives of Balinese people, from birth to death. The rice terraces, on the other hand, are remote, lush rice paddies, perfect for a quick photo opportunity along the way.
Once you arrive in Sideman in the late afternoon, check in at one of the cozy homestays in the area, such as Ume Dukuh Home Sideman (Google Maps) or Embang Homestay (Google Maps). If you want a more intimate experience with a local family, Dek will be happy to host you in her comfortable room at Elly House Sideman (Google Maps). You can contact her via WhatsApp at +62 85237817387.
Dinner
For dinner, you can choose from local warungs like Sweet Warung (Google Maps) or Warung Ume Anyar (Google Maps). If you prefer something more international and have a bigger budget, Asri Dining by Samanvaya (Google Maps) is an excellent choice. Go to bed early to enjoy the morning tranquility in this area of Bali, still untouched by mass tourism.
Day 8: Sideman - Kintamani
Sunrise
Sideman offers stunning pastoral landscapes, made even more enchanting by the light of dawn. I recommend starting your day early with a walk among the Sidemen Rice Terraces (Google Maps).
Morning
Return to your hotel for breakfast and dedicate the morning to the two main activities in Sideman: the Sidemen Silver Class (Google Maps) and Gembleng Waterfall (Google Maps). The first is particularly recommended if you're interested in crafting a custom silver ring, perhaps with your loved ones. It involves a two-hour workshop run by a friendly local family who will guide you through the various stages of creation. While this experience is now popular throughout Bali, the original site is this wonderful establishment set in a beautiful natural backdrop. You can book this experience via WhatsApp at +62 82146360055.
Doing this activity early in the morning will allow you to relax at Gembleng Waterfall (Google Maps) during the hotter hours of the day, where you can swim in its natural pools and refresh yourself at the scenic restaurant located at the top.
If you're feeling adventurous and want to avoid touristy routes, consider visiting the stunning viewpoint Tukad Tisda (Google Maps). To find the trailhead, you'll need to ask the locals for directions.
Lunch
Consider checking out before visiting the iconic Gembleng Waterfall (Google Maps) so you can enjoy a leisurely lunch at its restaurant, taking in the spectacular views of Sideman.
Afternoon
After lunch, it will be time to head to the last stop on this itinerary: Kintamani. On the way, take a slight detour to visit Pura Agung Besakih (Google Maps), known as the “Mother Temple”. Despite the high entrance fee of IDR 150,000 (around €8.70) including a guide, the visit is highly recommended; this is the largest and most important religious complex in Bali, located on the slopes of Mount Agung.
Once you arrive in Kintamani, you’ll need to decide whether to tackle the climb of Mount Batur, the area’s main attraction, or simply enjoy the sunrise from one of the lookout points nearby.
You'll find various accommodation options ideal for resting before your hike. Among the various establishments, I highly recommend Pondok Bali Volcano (Google Maps), run by an extremely friendly family that can also organize your night trek at great prices. The rooms are comfortable and set in a beautiful landscape in the valley at the foot of the volcano, near Lake Danau Batur and hot springs. You can contact the owner, Asti, via WhatsApp at +62 83114392235. The trek starts in the middle of the night, around 3:30 AM, but the experience is unmissable to cap off your journey in northern Bali beautifully.
Sunset and Dinner
Along the main roads of Kintamani, you'll find various cafes offering Western dishes and local warungs. However, I suggest opting for a light meal and going to bed early in preparation for the next day, perhaps dining directly at your homestay.
Day 9: Kintamani - Ubud
Sunrise
Climbing the Kintamani volcano is undoubtedly the best option to witness one of Bali’s most spectacular sunrises, ending your tour in the northern part of the island on a high note. Be sure to wear warm clothes, as temperatures at the summit can be quite chilly.
Alternatively, you can enjoy the sunrise from the viewpoint Pinggan Sunrise View Pohon Cinta (Google Maps), just a 15-minute drive from the recommended homestay, with free access.
If you prefer a more relaxed option, you’ll find several establishments along the busy road Jl. Raya Penelokan that open before sunrise, perfect for enjoying the view of the mountain while sipping a warm drink. Among these, AKASA Specialty Coffee (Google Maps) stands out for its incredible panoramic view and cozy atmosphere, also offering a rich and varied menu.
Morning
After enjoying the sunrise from your favorite viewpoint, return to your homestay for breakfast and check out. Spend the morning relaxing at one of Kintamani's hot springs: Batur Natural Hot Spring (Google Maps) and Toya Devasya (Google Maps) are the most popular among tourists, especially for rejuvenating after the Mount Batur hike. Both are ideally located overlooking Lake Danau Batur but are not particularly cheap; entry to Toya Devasya (Google Maps), which I recommend as the best option, costs IDR 300,000 (around €17.10) for foreigners and IDR 110,000 (around €6.30) for Indonesians and Kitas holders (Indonesian residence permit).
If you prefer a more authentic option at more affordable prices, Bali Volcano Natural Hot Spring Swimming Pool (Google Maps) is ideal, featuring two small pools frequented mainly by locals.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at the hot spring facility you choose to extend your relaxation time, or select from one of the many wonderful restaurants along Kintamani's main roads, such as the already mentioned AKASA Specialty Coffee (Google Maps).
Afternoon
Take a slight detour on your way back to Ubud to visit Penglipuran Village (Google Maps), famous for its traditional Balinese houses lined along a charming stone-paved pathway. The village stands out for its impeccable ecological management and preservation of cultural traditions, making it a fascinating example of environmental and cultural stewardship. Here, you can shop and rest before tackling the final stretch of your loop.
You’ll arrive in Ubud rather tired after an intense day that began before dawn. Once there, you’ll have an abundance of accommodation options, ranging from elegant resorts to cozy homestays. One of my favourite budget accommodation is Nyonam Warta Accommodation (Google Maps), offering simple yet clean rooms located in a traditional family compound, with a rich breakfast included.
I hope this tour of northern Bali has allowed you to discover the island in its most authentic and natural form, away from the traffic and mass tourism that dominate the south. Experiences like these offer a unique perspective often overlooked by those sticking to Bali's more popular areas.
Travel Expenses
Northern Bali is generally less touristy than the south, where most people concentrate due to the high availability of services and convenient proximity to the airport. This area of the island offers a more characteristic atmosphere and more affordable prices.
During this trip, I consistently chose budget accommodations without sacrificing private rooms and bathrooms. Although the facilities were not particularly luxurious, they provided the necessary comfort to recharge my energy and tackle the driving days between different destinations.
The selected restaurants and warungs were also quite economical, allowing me to savor typical island dishes featuring fish and meat, with an average cost of IDR 60,000 (around €3.50) per meal.
Along the way, you'll find options for those with a higher budget, as well as more basic hostels and local restaurants, perfect for those looking to reduce travel costs even further. Considering the variety of activities available and the limited time, you’ll spend very little time in your chosen accommodations.
Traveling as a couple significantly reduces accommodation costs, which is a crucial factor when planning a trip to Bali.
Here’s an approximate overview of the expenses incurred during the 9-day, 8-night trip:
