Activities and nature: Java, Bali and Nusa Lembongan
Itinerary
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Day 1 Welcome to Bali! Off to Seminyak
Welcome to Bali, the Island of the Gods!
You will be greeted at the airport by your driver, who will take you to your hotel in Seminyak to rest after your journey.
Seminyak is a seaside resort located on the southwest coast of the island.
Depending on your arrival time, take advantage of your free time to stretch your legs on the beach and gently immerse yourself in the Balinese spirit.
You’ve arrived!- English-speaking driver: 45 min drive
- Meals not included
- Night in Seminyak at Bali Agung Village in a double room -
Day 2 Heading to the rice fields and then to Java
This morning, you will leave the Seminyak coast and head north to the Belimbing region, known for its beautiful terraced rice fields.
Accompanied by a local guide, enjoy a first short hike through these lush, idyllic landscapes and get a first glimpse of local agricultural life: clearing, maintaining the rice fields, transplanting, or harvesting rice.
With such a stunning setting, don’t hesitate to stop for lunch in a small local restaurant (known locally as a “warung”) with a view of the rice terraces before continuing north toward your next stops.
You will then arrive at the famous Brahma Vihara Temple, the largest Buddhist temple on the island, which you will visit before continuing your journey to the eastern tip of Java Island, crossing the strait by local ferry.
Once there, you will settle in Banyuwangi, facing the strait that separates Java from Bali, at the foot of the next day’s highlight: Mount Ijen and its sulfur carriers.- Hike: 2h walk
- English-speaking driver: 4h drive + 1h ferry crossing
- Meals included: breakfast / Lunch and dinner not included
- Night in Banyuwangi at Ketapang Indah in a superior room -
Day 3 Kawah Ijen and the sulfur carriers
Early in the morning or late at night (around 4 a.m.), you will take a short transfer to the starting point of the Kawah Ijen hike to begin your ascent.
You will first climb a wide path through the forest, then follow a narrower trail to reach the top of the volcanic crater.
As the first light begins to appear behind you, you will reach the famous “green crater” and witness its striking colors.
Kawah Ijen is famous for its acid lake at 2,400 m and its sulfur mining. Along the way, you will encounter several sulfur carriers.
Due to volcanic activity, it is not always possible to reach the summit of Kawah Ijen, which is sometimes closed (and descending into the crater is officially forbidden, despite a few trespassers).
In that case, an alternative hike will be offered.
Note: the day before, your driver will take you for a mandatory health check-up required for the ascent. The cost of this check-up is at your expense, about 50,000 IDR per person (around 3 euros).
On the way back, you will stop at the beautiful Jagir waterfall for a refreshing swim after your effort, before returning to the hotel for a shower and a well-deserved rest.
After lunch, you will take the ferry back to the island of Bali, then continue to Pemuteran, a small fishing village in the northwest of Bali, facing the island of Menjangan, which you will have the pleasure of visiting the next day.
Check into your new accommodation and enjoy a free late afternoon by the sea.- Kawah Ijen ascent: D+/- 600m elevation gain / 3 to 4h walk
- Access by jeep included with a local guide
- Drive to Bali with your English-speaking driver: 1h drive + 1h ferry crossing
- Meals included: breakfast (boxed) / lunch and dinner not included
- Night in Pemuteran at Kubuku Ecolodge in a deluxe room -
Day 4 Snorkeling and relaxation on Menjangan Island
This day is dedicated to discovering the many treasures of Bali Barat National Park (West Bali).
In the morning, you will drive to the port of Labuhan Lalang, where you will board small boats heading to Menjangan Island, the “island of deer,” surrounded by beautiful, well-preserved coral reefs.
You will explore several snorkeling spots (swimming with fins, mask, and snorkel) around the island, depending on sea conditions. Picnic lunch during the day, either on the boat or on the island, and you may be lucky enough to spot the famous deer.
After this wonderful day, you will return by boat to the island of Bali, with the option to take a final short walk to the Bukit Kursi viewpoint or simply relax at your hotel after this adventure.- Snorkeling: around 4 hours of activity
- Transfer with your English-speaking driver: about 1 hour by car
- Meals included: breakfast and lunch / dinner not included
- Overnight in Pemuteran at Kubuku Ecolodge in a deluxe room -
Day 5 Mountains, Waterfalls and Plantations
This morning, you leave the coastline and head toward the mountainous region of Munduk (about 2 hours by car), passing first by the Pulaki Temple and then by the famous Banjar hot springs, where you can relax like the locals. Upon arriving in the mountains, a local guide will be waiting to take you on a hike through beautiful landscapes and help you discover the region’s rich plantations of cocoa, coffee, vanilla, cloves, and mangosteen. You’ll finish the walk below the village of Munduk, where a family will welcome you for a traditional Balinese lunch — a moment of sharing and exchange. In the afternoon, you’ll continue your exploration and walk through the village of Munduk, visiting one of its many waterfalls. By the end of the afternoon, you’ll settle into your charming hotel overlooking the plantations.
- Hike 2–3 hours of walking
- Drive with your English-speaking driver: about 2 hours by car
- Meals included breakfast and lunch / dinner not included
- Overnight in Munduk at Puri Sunny in a double room -
Day 6 From sacred lakes to volcanic peaks
This morning, you will take the road down to the lake region of Munduk.
On the shores of Lake Bratan, you will stop to visit the famous floating temple of Ulun Danu Bratan.
You then continue along small roads heading east toward the village of Kintamani, near Mount Batur, where you will have lunch at your leisure.
After a well-deserved break, in the afternoon you’ll walk down into the caldera to get closer to the lava fields, including the most recent flow dating back to the 2000s. This is a beautiful and easy hike through forest and farmland, offering sweeping views over Mount and Lake Batur.
You’ll then head to your accommodation for the night, to rest before tomorrow’s climb.- Activities 2 hours of walking
- Transfer with your English-speaking driver: 2 hours by road
- Meals included breakfast / Lunch and dinner not included
- Overnight in Kintamani at Caldera Hotel in a mountain view room
*Note in volcanic regions, hotel comfort is good but generally more basic than in other parts of the island. -
Day 7 Ascent of Mount Batur and relaxation in the hot springs
Early in the morning, you leave with your local guide for the magical ascent of Mount Batur (alt. 1717 m). After about 1.5 to 2 hours of hiking, you will reach the summit in time for sunrise. In front of you, an exceptional view opens over the sea, the lake, and Mount Agung, while the rays of the “Mata Hari” (literally “the eye of the day”) slowly warm you as it rises into the sky.
After a walk along the crater ridges and your descent down the volcano’s slope, you will enjoy a relaxing and invigorating break in the hot springs located at the foot of the volcano and overlooking the lake. You can also, if you wish, take a kayak to explore the calm waters of the caldera.
After these emotions and moments of rest, you will continue your journey eastward to the slopes of Mount Agung to visit the largest temple in Bali, the famous Besakih Temple, before heading to the Sidemen region, one of the most peaceful and lush areas of the island, filled with plantations, rice fields, local crafts, and small canals running through the landscape. You will settle into your hotel and enjoy a free evening.- Ascent: approximately 4 hours of hiking. Elevation gain/loss: +550m, -550m
- Drive with your English-speaking driver: 2 hours
- Included meals: breakfast / Lunch and dinner not included
- Overnight in Sidemen at Abian Ayu in a deluxe room with garden view
*In summer, access to Mount Batur can be quite crowded, and it is not possible to avoid the main path. Alternative hikes are possible, for example, on Mount Abang. -
Day 8 Cooking class and walk through the plantations
Today, aprons on! You will take a few Indonesian recipes home in your suitcase! Young and old alike will be in the kitchen for a cooking class, followed by a homemade lunch prepared by you of course. Then, with a local guide, you will go for a walk through the surrounding plantations and finish with a visit to the village of Sidemen and its local crafts.
In the late afternoon, return to your accommodation, or why not let yourself go for a traditional Balinese massage (not included, to be booked on site).
After all, you are on vacation :-)- Activity: 3h cooking class + 1 to 2h walk
- Meals included: breakfast and lunch / dinner not included
- Overnight in Sidemen at Abian Ayu in a deluxe room with garden view -
Day 9 Ubud: a sacred day, and one hell of a rafting day!
This morning, you meet your driver to leave Sidemen and head toward the sacred region of Tampaksiring, where you will visit the famous rock-cut mausoleum of Gunung Kawi and its 400 steps before discovering hidden sacred pools used daily by the Balinese for purification rituals.
In the afternoon, a new thrill awaits you with a beautiful two-hour rafting descent that will bring you closer to Ubud, the cultural and artistic capital where you will stay for the next two nights!
Welcome to the heart of Bali!- Activity 1-2h visit and 2h rafting
- Transfer with your English-speaking driver: 3h
- Meals included breakfast and lunch / dinner not included
- Overnight at Artini Dijiwa Ubud in premier room -
Day 10 Ubud: Cycling and Namaste!
This morning, the cycling team will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the starting point of your two-wheel ride! On the program, a very beautiful ride of about 2 hours on flat to slightly descending terrain through rice fields, temples, villages and plantations. Nothing better to enjoy the Balinese countryside!
And then you will return to Ubud to fully and freely enjoy the Balinese atmosphere.
You are in the artistic capital of Bali, but also the epicenter of well-being... massage and zenitude are therefore on the agenda today!
This afternoon is free, follow our advice for restaurants and places of interest in the village. We know where to eat the best homemade coconut ice cream! Here are some ideas of what you can do: Free visit of the royal palace or the craft market, making of offerings or traditional kites / Yoga, dance or cooking classes / dance performances / Visit of a school or a “Green” autonomous and sustainable village / Walks through the rice fields /... (not included)
Do not hesitate to contact us to discuss it or to improvise on site!- Transfer with your cycling team: 2 hours of driving (driver not available for the rest of the day)
- Activity: 2 hours of cycling
- Meals included: breakfast and lunch / dinner not included
- Night at Artini Dijiwa in Ubud in a premier room -
Day 11 Discovering Nusa Lembongan
This morning, you say goodbye to the city and head to the port of Sanur to take a speedboat to the island of Nusa Lembongan. Upon arrival, your driver will take you to your hotel. You’ll have the day free to explore the island’s most beautiful spots, such as the Lembongan mangrove by kayak or the Devil’s Tear cove. You can also enjoy the lovely beaches and their sunsets before returning to your hotel.
- Journey: 2h30 by car and 30 minutes by boat crossing
- Meals included: breakfast
- Accommodation in Nusa Lembongan, Paus Putih in a double room -
Day 12 Snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan
At the start of the day, you will take a boat and go snorkeling to discover manta rays off Nusa Penida, at Manta Point. Back on Nusa Lembongan, you will have the rest of the day free to continue exploring the island as you wish before returning to your hotel.
Note: Depending on the time of year, there can sometimes be strong currents around Nusa Penida. Follow your guide’s instructions and do not put yourself in danger. Activity not recommended for young children.- Meals included: breakfast
- Accommodation in Nusa Lembongan, Paus Putih in a double room -
Day 13 Return to the mainland
One last swim or a short massage at your hotel to enjoy Nusa Lembongan one final time?
Then you will head to the speedboat terminal for Sanur, where a local driver will take you to Jimbaran Beach, facing the sunset, to enjoy its rays one last time and say goodbye to the Island of the Gods that welcomed you over the past few days.
It’s your last evening in Bali, enjoy it and reflect on the memories of this trip.- Journey: 30 minutes by boat crossing then local driver for 40 minutes to your hotel in Jimbaran
- Meals included: breakfast
- Overnight in Jimbaran at Jimbaran Bay Beach 4* in a Puspanjali room -
Day 14 It’s only a goodbye
It’s time to depart.
Depending on your flight schedule, a local transfer will take you to Bali Airport for your return flight.
End of our services.
We hope you enjoyed your trip on the Island of the Gods.- 20 minutes by car
- Meals included: breakfast
Important: this itinerary may be modified at the guide’s discretion if mountain conditions, weather, or participants’ physical condition require it, and in the interest of safety.
Period & budget
When to travel?
The best period for travelling is during the following months:
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Price
Price from €1,490 per person based on 2 people in mid-season
The budget is an indication of the price per person, subject to availability. Your local agent will send you a customized quote with the exact price. The price can vary according to availability, level of services, period of travel, number of participants, booking time frame and other items.
Included
- All on-site transfers in a private vehicle with air conditioning, water on board, and your local English-speaking driver Altai in Bali and a local driver on Nusa Lembongan
- Accommodations as described in the program or similar depending on availability
- Breakfasts and meals as indicated in the details of each day
- Entrance fees to sites included in the program
- Activities described in the program with the specific equipment
- Local guides for certain hikes
- Mineral water during the trip
- A personalized digital travel book for your trip
- 24/7 telephone assistance
Not included
- International flights
- Drinks
- Meals not included in the trip (5 to 10 € per meal)
- Tips for local staff (3 to 4 € per participant per day)
- Optional activities during your free time
- Visas and travel insurance
Notes
Notes on the level:
- You need to be strong swimmers (able to kick and swim freestyle) to fully enjoy the snorkeling sessions (swimming with fins, mask, and snorkel), as some sites may have currents (ex. Crystal Bay, Manta Point). The snorkeling activity depends on weather conditions (wind, current, waves).
- The hikes are of moderate level, maximum 5 hours with +500m and -500m elevation gain.
Terms and conditions
Booking conditions
Invoice procedure
Cancellation policy
- Cancellation received more than 30 days prior to the departure date: a sum of €50 per person will be retained
- Cancellation received 30 to 21 days before the departure date: your deposit, 30% of the total trip price will be retained
- Cancellation received 20 to 14 days before the departure date: 50% of the total trip price will be retained
- Cancellation received 13 to 7 days before the departure date: 75% of the total trip price will be retained
- Cancellation received less than 7 days before the departure date: 100% of the total trip price will be retained
- Fixed airfares: if your airline ticket was issued in advance, often done to avoid significant surcharges, you will be charged 100% of any non-refundable fees if you wish to change or cancel your flight plan.
- Fixed in-country costs: early charges for firm bookings will be charged if you cancel or modify your trip.
- Insurance costs: if you have taken out comprehensive or cancellation insurance, the cost of insurance is due and cannot be refunded.
Changes to travel contract
Pricing
Contract transfer
Insurance
Practical info
Staff
There are several types of support available:
- English-speaking drivers , or local drivers (speaking little English). Drivers are the logistical backbone of your trip and will tell you about their island and the various places you will visit. They act as stewards but do not participate in activities, where you will have complete freedom.
- English-speaking guides. They can accompany local drivers and will guide you through activities and visits throughout your trip as described in your itinerary. Guides are not drivers.
- Local guides (speaking little English). Required for certain activities, they guide you only during those activities until they are completed.
Food
Dinners, lunches and breakfasts are taken in restaurants or at the hotel. Be careful not to drink water from an uncertain source. During excursions, water must always be treated, and in town, only bottled water should be consumed.
--> Your driver will provide mineral water every day to refill your flask/bottle in the morning and evening.
Accommodation
The accommodations are all listed in your itinerary and may be changed according to your preferences and budget.
Transportation
Transfers are made in private vehicles suited to the number of people on your trip.
Budget & exchange
Visit this website to check daily exchange rates: http://www.xe.com. Euros and dollars are accepted and can be exchanged into local currency without any problem at the airport and in the many exchange offices on the island.
Cost of an average meal in Java: between €3 and €8; in Bali, the food is better and restaurants are more expensive, so plan for between €4 and €11 at most. There are many Visa and Mastercard ATMs in Bali (Denpasar, Ubud, Sanur) that allow you to withdraw rupiah, which will make purchases easier. Each withdrawal is limited to about €100, but you can do it several times in a row.
Purchases: Buy local handicrafts responsibly and be aware of wildlife and plant conservation. Travelers should generally avoid pressuring vulnerable populations to sell traditional or heritage objects (unless made specifically for tourists). Agreements for species protection (CITES) – which aim to protect over 2,500 animal species and 30,000 plant species – prohibit the trade of skins, ivory, scales, corals, shells, as well as the import of live exotic animals.
Tips
It is always appreciated to give tips when you are satisfied with the service from guides and drivers. A daily amount of €3 to €4 per participant is reasonable.
Vital equipment
The following list is indicative and aims to be as complete as possible.
- Cap or hat for the sun
- A bandana, scarf, or shemagh to protect the neck
- A pair of sunglasses, level 3 or 4
- 1 or 2 thermal underwear tops (short or long sleeves)
- Cotton t-shirts (short and long sleeves) OR equivalent (casual shirts, technical quick-dry t-shirts…)
- 1 lightweight fleece or equivalent
- 1 warm fleece or equivalent
- A breathable waterproof windbreaker with hood, such as Gore-Tex or MTD+
- A rain poncho
- 1 or 2 long shorts
- 1 comfortable hiking pants (ideally with removable legs)
- 1 spare pair of pants (hiking pants, jeans, or equivalent)
- 1 swimsuit
- 1 pair of waterproof, comfortable trekking shoes with high ankle support and non-slip soles
- 1 pair of sneakers or lightweight shoes for easy stages and evenings
- 1 pair of water sandals for snorkeling or swimming (especially for those who prefer not to wear fins)
- Thick socks for hiking
Passport
Visa
Health information & recommendations
Weather
The climate is equatorial. Due to its position straddling the equator, Indonesia experiences a relatively uniform climate throughout the year, with variations greatly moderated by maritime influences. The seasons are therefore less pronounced. However, generally speaking, the south is cooler and drier. Average temperatures range between 24 and 35°C.
Electricity
The electrical current is almost always 220V, except in some places where it is still 110V. Make sure to check before plugging in a foreign electrical device.
Sustainable tourism
Altaï Travel works towards more responsible tourism and is committed to organizing trips that respect fair and sustainable principles.
Harmonizing practices ensures:
- Fair distribution of economic benefits
- Improvement of working conditions for local teams and raising their awareness of environmental protection
- Informing travelers about respecting local populations and the environment, and collecting their feedback upon return
- Avoid leaving trash behind: dispose of it in bins or take it with you
- Use drinking water sparingly (prefer showers over baths and report leaks) and avoid wasting it (prefer biodegradable soaps for washing, etc.)
- Avoid damaging cultural sites: do not touch statues, do not move stones or objects, etc.
- Prefer exchanges over gifts (gifts that are too valuable relative to the local standard of living can destabilize the local economy)
- When walking, especially in fragile ecosystems, observe wildlife from a distance, stay on paths, minimize trampling, and do not take “souvenirs”: refrain from picking rare flowers or collecting fossils, etc.
- In some hotels, you may have individual air conditioning. To avoid excessive energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, it is strongly recommended to turn it off whenever you are not in the room.