BALI’S NATURE GUIDE
Bali’s diverse and unique natural wonders make it an island paradise perfect for a getaway. With its stunning landscapes and endless adventures, it may not be enough to discover everything in just a single visit. Here are our top recommendations to savor Bali’s natural beauty.
- Explore Gorgeous Waterfalls
Bali is home to some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls. If chasing waterfalls is your thing, the island is a perfect place to see these impressive works of nature up close and personal.
Sekumpul Waterfall, locally known as Air Terjun Sekumpul, is the tallest in Bali, standing at 80 meters, and arguably the most stunning waterfall on the island. Hidden in the dense forest of North Bali, the waterfall is known for its seven narrow cascades surrounded by a lush green bamboo forest.
This waterfall is named after the local village Sekumpul where it is found. The village is in the Buleleng regency of North Bali. Getting down to the waterfall may require some effort, so make sure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear.
Location: Sekumpul Waterfall, Anturan, Buleleng, Bali
- Hike an Active Volcano
For outdoor adventurers, climbing Bali’s mountains is always on top of the list. But how about heating your plans by climbing an active volcano?
Mount Batur is the second-highest point in Bali and an active volcano that rises 1,717 meters above sea level. This volcano is perched between two ancient calderas, one of which is the home of Lake Batur, the largest and broadest lake in Bali.
Hikers usually start an early morning trek to catch the magnificent sunrise from the summit and avoid the stifling tropical heat. On top, you’ll be rewarded with unobstructed panoramic views over the Eastern part of the island. Further southwest, you’ll see Mount Agung, the island’s highest and most sacred mountain. It’s a short hike with warungs or small shops at the outset and end of the trail, so hikers are advised to bring a light backpack with water and snacks. Proper footwear is essential as the trail can get narrow and slippery, especially when it’s raining.
Location: Mount Batur, Kintamani, Bangli, Bali
- Relax at Bali’s Hidden Beach
Bali offers a perfect combination of sun, sand and surf! If you’re looking for a less crowded spot to relax, Green Bowl Beach is one of the hidden beaches to visit. The beach is a 30-metre secluded strip of white sand at the southern coastline of Bali, near Uluwatu.
Wondering how the beach got its name? The natural color of seaweed-covered rocks and curvature of the beach make it look like a green bowl from atop, especially during low tides. The beach also features massive limestone caves that offer shade for beachgoers and surfers.
The Green Bowl Beach attracts adventurous weekenders and surfers because of its exotic location and uncrowded waves. The waters become calm and crystal clear during low tide, which is ideal for snorkeling.
Location: Green Bowl Beach, South Kuta, Badung, Bali
- Explore the Scared Monkey Forest
Explore the sacred monkey forest in Bali, where hundreds of wild monkeys roam free. A great place to see monkeys in their natural habitat and take awesome photos, the Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the island.
The Ubud Monkey Forest is the sanctuary for over 1,000 Balinese long-tailed monkeys and has three sacred temples dedicated to different gods, constructed around 1350. It is also a nature reserve with over 115 species of trees. You’ll enjoy walking around in its serene atmosphere.
Visitors need not worry about interacting with the monkeys here as they are generally friendly and not aggressive. They can be cheeky so it is best to keep all valuables secure. Monkey have been known to take hats off heads and mobile phones that get too close. Just follow the instructions and tips from local guides as monkeys are still wild animals and can get aggressive if they sense they’re in danger. One tip: Avoid looking a monkey in the eyes as it’s a sign of aggression.
Location: Sacred Monkey Forest, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali
- Experience Religious Cleansing Ritual
Hindu temples in Bali are not just places of worship but also an integral part of the local culture. Many of Bali’s most spectacular sights are its ancient and modern temples.
The famous Tirta Empul temple, founded in 926 A.D., is one of the most popular attractions in Indonesia, with thousands flocking here to experience a religious cleansing ritual. This temple is renowned for its sacred spring water, which locals believe has mystical healing powers.
The sacred temple is quite a large complex with shrines dedicated to the gods Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, and one for Indra and Mount Batur. Just like other sacred sites around Bali, you will need to put on a ‘sarong’ before entering the premises. The sarongs are available at the temple’s entrance and can be rented for a small donation.
Location: Tirta Empul Temple, Tampaksiring, Gianyar, Bali
THINGS TO DO IN BALI
- Explore Bali’s Smaller Islands
If you fall for the beauty of Bali, there are many more smaller islands to explore. With its breathtaking scenery, crystal clear waters and tropical climate, the experience will be truly one for the books.
Just 40 minutes off the Bali coast you’ll find the beautiful islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. These islands are two of the most popular yet quiet islands. The islands can be explored by a motorbike under one hour. These Nusa islands are known for their soft white-sand beaches perfect for a relaxing sunbathing and snorkeling.
Neighboring Nusa Ceningan is Nusa Penida which is also famous for its beaches, coral reefs, and scenic cliff views. It’s also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered sea turtles, Bali starlings and other endemic birds.
- Engage in Water Sports
Bali’s charm stretches beyond its breathtaking views and fascinating local culture. The island’s water wonderlands make endless activities available for all ages. From diving into its rich underwater world to surfing world-famous waves, you’ll never have a shortage of exciting activities to do in Bali’s aquatic playgrounds.
For those needing speed, jet skiing, banana boating, wakeboarding, parasailing, and jetpacking are the top activities to try. Also, take advantage of Bali’s world-class surf spots at Kuta, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, and even off the main island at Nusa Penida. The waves range from beginner to expert level, so even kids can start learning how to surf.
If you prefer a more laidback time in the water, grab a snorkel and marvel at colorful fish at some of the best dive spots in the world. If you want to see more of Bali’s marine beauty, sign up for a scuba diving session with some of the world’s best diving instructors.
- Watch Stunning Sunsets
Bali is a paradise to behold during sunset. This island is blessed with amazing views of silhouettes of picturesque hills, coastlines, and coconut trees that are filled with shades of red and orange. If you plan to go Bali, this is the right time to capture some incredible sunsets over the waves.
There are many spots to watch the sunset in Bali. One of the best places in Bali to experience a magical sunset is Echo Beach in Canggu. Echo Beach offers 180-degree views of the ocean and rolling surf.
Echo Beach is relatively less touristy than other beaches, so it’s a perfect spot to watch an unobstructed sunset view. Also, it’s fascinating to watch some surfers catching their last wave of the day. If you want to spend the sunset hour actively, you can walk from Echo Beach to Berawa Beach and back.
Location: Echo Beach Canggu, Kuta Utara, Badung, Bali
- Learn or Practice Yoga
Many travelers take a trip to this island to learn and practice yoga because of its serene environment. They believe that being amidst the scenic beauty of nature, they will experience peace of mind and harmony.
You can learn the basics from open-air classes to ocean-view shalas (yoga studios) or become certified to take that knowledge back home with you and continue practicing your newfound skill.
Looking for a place in Bali to start your Yoga class or connect with fellow yogis? Ubud is known as the Southeast Asian Mecca for yogis and yoginis. The little town’s lush nature and tranquil surroundings make it a perfect location to embrace mindful practice and spiritual vibes. The most recommended yoga studios in Ubud are Intuitive Flow located on the Penestanan Kaja hill, The Yoga Barn in central Ubud which also offers meditation and dance classes, and the Chakra Yoga Shala which is run by local Balinese and with local Balinese teachers.
- Go for an ATV Adventure
Revel in the thrill of driving your own ATV as you speed past sprawling rice terraces, deep forests, and rugged mountains. ATV adventures in Bali are suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to experts.
Want to explore the beautiful jungles of Bali? Riding on powerful semi-automatic 250cc quad bikes in Ubud is probably the best way as it lets you cruise through the countryside, rice paddies, plantations, bamboo forests, rivers, traditional villages, and the region’s most scenic viewpoints.
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