A 10-day itinerary for Bali and Nusa Penida showcases a wide range of activities and attractions, including jungles, temples, markets, beaches, waterfalls, lush rice paddies, and other incredible sights.
If you find yourself feeling uninterested in exploring the main island of Bali, there are several smaller islands close by, such as Nusa Penida. Nusa Penida is known for its large cliffs, beautiful coastlines, and excellent snorkeling spots.
Discover the best of Bali with this 10-day itinerary, beginning in Ubud and finishing in the Bukit Peninsula, also known as the Uluwatu area, with a stop at Nusa Penida island along the way.
Overview of Contents: Learn more about this suggested Bali travel plan. Where to Begin • Day 1: Explore Ubud • Day 2: Visit Terraces and Temples in Ubud • Day 3: Discover Waterfalls in Bangli • Day 4: Take a Day Trip to Bedugul • Day 5: Travel from Ubud to Sanur • Day 6: Explore West Nusa Penida • Day 7: Discover East Nusa Penida • Day 8: Go Snorkeling in West Penida • Day 9: Visit Uluwatu • Day 10: Further exploration of Uluwatu. Additional Tips for Traveling in Bali and Nusa Penida, including recommended accommodations in Ubud, Bali private drivers and tours, and a detailed itinerary map. When is the best time to visit Bali?
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This Bali itinerary was created by someone who is married to a Balinese person and frequently visits the island. They consider Bali their second home and have spent a lot of time exploring the area.
Certain Bali travel guides may suggest dividing your trip into segments and allocating 2 days to each region of the island. However, this approach may not be ideal as it does not allow for enough time to truly immerse yourself in an area and constantly changing accommodations can reduce the time available for sightseeing.
Therefore, this travel plan for Bali includes 5 days in Ubud, located in the central part of the island, 3 days in Nusa Penida island, and 2 days in Uluwatu in the southern part of Bali. This itinerary allows for exploring attractions in central and north Bali, the southern peninsula, and many of the top sights in Penida.
To visit most of the attractions on this Bali trip plan, you will require some form of transportation. Renting a scooter is a convenient option in Bali, or you can opt for a private car and driver for 10 hours of exploring the sights.
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🏝 Beginning the Journey
The complete itinerary for Bali focuses on activities on both Bali island and the nearby smaller island of Nusa Penida.
Travel to Bali by flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), which is easily accessible from various budget airlines that have high customer ratings. AirAsia frequently offers affordable flights from Singapore (SIN), Bangkok (DMK), or Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Bali for 1 million IDR ($70 USD) or lower.
If you are in Australia or New Zealand, you have the option to fly directly to Bali from airports such as Adelaide, Cairns, or Perth. The prices for these flights are comparable.
You have the option to browse and book flights to Bali through Skyscanner.
Upon your arrival in Bali, it is recommended to arrange a private taxi transfer from the airport to Ubud. Reservations for this service can be made in advance through GetYourGuide.
Arrive at your hotel in Ubud and relax before embarking on your exciting tropical adventure.
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• Day 1: Exploring Ubud
○ Visit to Monkey Forest
Start your day by visiting the renowned Monkey Forest in Ubud. Have a memorable experience taking pictures with the Balinese macaques who reside in the lush jungle. With hundreds of monkeys living there, you'll have the chance to interact with these creatures, who are generally welcoming to visitors.
Located near the monkey forest, the Ubud art market offers a variety of unique handmade souvenirs such as wood carvings, paintings, coconut bowls, rattan hats, bags, and more. Visitors are encouraged to negotiate for better prices as some vendors may initially set their prices higher than usual.
○ Palace in Ubud
Located on a street corner, this elegant palace dates back to the 1800s and features stunning stone carvings and inner courtyards in the Balinese style. A visit here only takes about 15 minutes, but it is definitely worth it!
Located near the Ubud palace, the Saraswati Temple is just a short 3-minute walk away. The temple is known for its intricate doors and walls, which provide perfect opportunities for photography.
Looking for accommodation in Ubud? Consider staying at Adiwana Unagi for a luxurious experience or Umah Dajane for a more budget-friendly option.
The Ubud Monkey Forest is
Market for Art in Ubud
Ubud Palace is
Temple dedicated to Saraswati
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• Day 2: Exploring Ubud's Terraces and Temples
○ Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The most well-known rice terraces in Bali can be found at Tegalalang, which is only a short 15-minute drive north of Ubud. Visitors can follow footpaths that allow them to walk through the valley and get a close-up view of the terraces.
Gunung Kawi Sebatu Water Temple is a lesser-known temple in Bali that is not as popular as other temples. However, it is considered one of the most beautiful and easily accessible from Ubud. The temple features a lovely koi pond, garden, and courtyards to wander through, and is just a short 5-minute drive north from Tegalalang.
Tirta Empul Temple is a well-known temple located in the Tegalalang region of Bali. Visitors, both tourists and locals, visit this temple to participate in the Hindu spring bathing ritual. Even if you're not interested in the ritual, you can still appreciate the unique architecture of the buildings and explore the nearby art market.
Located in Bali, the Gunung Kawi Temple is a secluded site that is over 1,000 years old. Visitors can explore ancient funeral shrines that have been intricately carved into the cliffs, providing a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
○ Goa Gajah Temple
If you're starting to feel tired of visiting temples, you can check out Goa Gajah Temple, a unique cave temple built in the 9th century. It is known for its unusual doorway that stands out among other temples in Bali.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces are agricultural landscapes
Temple of the Sacred Springs, located at Gunung Kawi
Temple of Holy Water
Temple of Gunung Kawi
Temple of Goa Gajah
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• On the third day of your trip, visit the Bangli Waterfalls.
○ Begin your exploration at the Goa Giri Campuhan Waterfall, located in the northern part of Bangli. This hidden waterfall requires you to pass through a few unique caves to access it. It is a lesser-known gem and offers a secluded and adventurous experience.
○ Kuning Waterfall is a distinctive waterfall and swimming spot situated in a deep ravine within the jungle. The descent to reach it is steep, but once there, visitors can relax and swim in the natural pools at the base of the waterfall.
Tibumana Waterfall was once a hidden gem, but it has become increasingly popular in recent years with the rise of Instagrammers visiting the site. Despite the increase in visitors, it is still a worthwhile destination to explore.
○ Taman Sari Waterfall is a nearby waterfall located just a short distance from the Tibumana entrance. It is a small two-tiered waterfall that is not crowded, and can be easily reached in 5-10 minutes.
Be cautious of the slippery rocks at Goa Rang Reng Waterfall. This waterfall has three different sections, but the first one is the most preferred by many. It is a large, sloping cascade that resembles a natural Slip N Slide.
Campuhan Waterfall in Goa Giri
Yellow Waterfall
Tibumana Waterfall is a natural
Taman Sari Waterfall is a natural
Waterfall named Goa Rang Reng
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• On the fourth day, take a day trip to Bedugul.
○ Visit Sekumpul Waterfall.
Travel two hours north of Ubud to Sekumpul, which is known for being one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in Bali. The lush jungle and stunning rice terraces surrounding the waterfall are guaranteed to be a memorable highlight of your trip to Bali.
The Fiji Waterfall is a three-tiered waterfall that hikers can enjoy as a bonus during their trek. It is located just a short 10-minute walk away from the Sekumpul waterfall.
The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple is a famous pagoda temple located in the center of a lake in Bali. The unique aspect of this temple is that it is situated on a former volcanic crater, making it an iconic photo spot. Additionally, the lake it is built on is the second largest in Bali.
The Bali Botanic Garden is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists visiting Bali. It is located near the lake temple and features trees and plants that resemble those seen in Jurassic Park. The main attraction is a massive Banyan tree that is believed to be centuries old.
Head towards the southern part of Bali to visit the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, known for their vast and stunning rice fields. Explore the area by walking along the designated trekking trails and admire the picturesque scenery.
Sekumpul Waterfall is a natural
Waterfall in Fiji
Bratan Temple, also known as Ulun Dan
Bedugul Botanic Garden is a botanical
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are a popular tourist destination
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On the fifth day of your trip, consider hiring a private driver to take you from Ubud to Sanur. Along the way, make a stop at the Mas wood carving village. Balinese wood carvings are highly regarded in Southeast Asia, and the artisans in Mas are known for their skill. Keep in mind that some pieces can be expensive, so it's important to do some research and negotiate before making a purchase.
Located at Kemenuh, the Butterfly Park is a small sanctuary that houses a variety of butterflies. One of the main attractions of this park is the opportunity to hold an Atlas Moth, which is known to be the largest moth species in the world. Additionally, visitors can also observe giant stick bugs that originate from Borneo.
The Tegenungan Waterfall is a popular tourist destination in Bali, known for its high number of visitors. While it may not be the best choice for a peaceful getaway, it is a good place to stop for lunch and worth a visit as you will likely be passing by it.
Bali Bird Park & Reptile Park is home to over 1,000 birds and reptiles, including colorful parrots and impressive Komodo dragons. The park's design is inspired by the ancient Angkor Wat, creating a harmonious environment for the wildlife. Visitors can also visit Batuan Temple as an alternative attraction in the area. Overall, both parks are well-maintained and worth a visit.
○ Travel to Sanur
Continue driving to the Sanur region (around 20-30 minutes from the bird park) and settle into your next accommodation. Relax and prepare for the boat ride to Nusa Penida island the next morning!
Accommodation options in Sanur include the luxurious Andaz hotel or the budget-friendly Blanjong Homestay.
Artwork made from wood in the Balinese
Kemenuh Butterfly Park is
Tegenungan Waterfall is a natural attraction that
Bird Park in Bali
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• Day 6: Exploring West Nusa Penida
○ Travel to Nusa Penida
Wake up early and board a morning boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida. The trip by speedboat is quick, taking around 45 minutes. Upon reaching Penida, rent a scooter or arrange to meet a local driver to begin your sightseeing adventure!
○ Kelingking Beach is a stunning cliff spot that is highly popular for its picturesque views in Bali. For those seeking adventure, consider hiking down to the beach and back up, but make sure to bring enough water to stay hydrated.
○ Paluang Cliff
Located close to the well-known Kelingking cliff is Paluang Cliff, which offers a less crowded viewpoint. It is a quick and convenient stop to add to your Bali trip, only taking a few extra minutes to visit.
Pererenan Cliff is a lesser-known cliff location that many tours overlook. For those who are curious, there is a steep path that leads down to the base of the cliff, where you can relax in a beautiful natural pool.
Banah Cliff Point is a lesser-known location that offers a quick and easy hike with a rewarding view. Descend the stairs leading to the western edge of the cliffs to witness the stunning Banah rock and the white cliffs.
After a day of exploring, make your way to Tembeling Beach for a relaxing end to the day. You can choose to walk the entire trail or opt for a motorcycle taxi for a quicker journey. At the beach, you'll find a rejuvenating natural pool and a sea cave that offers a stunning view of the towering cliffs.
Accommodation options in Penida include the luxurious MAUA Hotel and the more affordable Unicorn Bungalow.
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Travel by speedboat from Bali to Nusa Penida.
Pinky Beach
Paluang Cliff is a popular
Pererenan Cliff is a geographical
Banah Cliff Point
Beach named Tembeling
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• On the seventh day of the trip, visit East Nusa Penida to explore stunning beaches.
○ Diamond Beach
Experience the breathtaking views of Diamond Beach from above before descending the stairs to the pristine white sand below. Many consider this beach to be one of the most spectacular in the world.
Located just a short 2-minute walk away from Diamond Beach is Atuh Beach. While it may not be as popular on social media, it is still a fantastic spot to unwind on the sandy shores and enjoy some food and drinks.
The Rumah Pohon Treehouse is a collection of three wooden tree houses located near Diamond Beach, only a short 5-minute drive away. The location is stunning, and guests have the option to spend the night in one of the tree houses for a unique experience.
○ Teletubbies Hill
Located along the drive north from Diamond Beach, Teletubbies Hill is a scenic stop where you can admire the cone-shaped hills that resemble those from the children's show. The best time to visit is shortly after the rainy season, when the hills are a vibrant green color.
The Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple is a Hindu temple located inside a large cave. Visitors must crawl through a small opening in the rock to enter, but once inside, they will find that the temple is much larger than anticipated. It is an interesting and unique stop on the itinerary, offering a different experience from other attractions in the area.
Beach made
Beach named At
Treehouse on Stilts
Teletubbies Hill is a
Temple located in the Giri Putri Cave.
– Day 8: Snorkeling + Exploring the West Side of Penida Island
– Snorkeling Experience
Start your day early with a 2-3 hour snorkeling adventure on the western coast of Penida Island. Shared tours are available for approximately 150k IDR per person and can be booked through Nusa Penida Explorer (contact: +62 818-0533-3747). During the tour, you'll have the chance to observe vibrant corals, clownfish, and possibly encounter manta rays and turtles if you're fortunate.
Angel's Billabong is a beautiful tide pool where you can swim and relax when the tide is low. However, it can be dangerous during high tide when the waves are large, so be cautious when visiting.
○ Cracked Cove
This location is a remarkable natural formation in the shape of a horseshoe, created by the erosion of the coastline. Occasionally, visitors may witness manta rays swimming near the surface of the water in this area.
Crystal Bay is a beautiful beach known for its stunning sunsets and convenient amenities. Visitors can relax on sunbeds and enjoy food and drinks from the nearby shacks. It's a great spot to unwind after exploring the sights of Penida island.
○ Return to Bali
Return to the port and catch an evening boat from Nusa Penida to Sanur. After arriving in Bali, travel to the Uluwatu region and check into your new hotel to get ready for the next part of your Bali trip.
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Exploring the underwater world at Gamat Bay through
Angel's Billabong is a natural infinity pool
Damaged Shoreline
Crystal Bay
Travel back to Bali from Nusa Penida on a speedboat.
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• Day 9: Uluwatu
○ Visit Balangan Beach
Explore Balangan Beach on the southwest coast of Bali, known for its soft white sand. Enjoy stunning views of the blue water and coastline from the cliff overlooking the beach.
Padang Padang Beach is a popular destination despite being tucked away below a cliff. It can become quite crowded by midday, offering beautiful white sand, excellent surfing opportunities, and even more monkeys to see. It has everything necessary for a fun and enjoyable time.
○ Suluban Beach is a unique beach located inside a cave. What I enjoy the most about this place is the restaurant situated above the cave, offering a stunning view of the cliffs running along the coastline.
The Uluwatu Temple is located on a large cliff in Bali and is a popular spot to watch the sunset. Visitors should be cautious of the monkeys at the temple, as they have a reputation for attempting to steal belongings, including sunglasses.
Looking for accommodation in Uluwatu? Consider the luxurious Green Escape Resort or the more affordable Tempekan Hotel for your stay.
Beach in Padang Padang
Eating establishment located at Suluban Beach
Temple of Uluwatu
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• Day 10: Uluwatu
○ Karang Boma Cliff
Karang Boma Cliff is a steep cliff located near Uluwatu, offering a less crowded and more natural experience compared to other tourist spots. There are no safety fences here, allowing visitors to enjoy unobstructed views of the waves crashing on the rocks below. It's a great place to make a quick stop on day 10 of your Bali itinerary.
Nunggalan Beach is a personal favorite destination in Bali for many. Despite the challenging trek down the cliffs, visitors are greeted with a spacious beach that is often uncrowded. Additionally, there is a shipwreck on the beach that provides a unique photo opportunity.
Green Bowl Beach is a beautiful beach with white sand and a few large caves, making it a great place to enjoy the sunset. However, accessing the beach requires descending steep stairs.
The Oneeighty Cliff Pool is a popular club in Bali known for its stunning glass pool located right on the edge of a cliff. While it is part of a luxury hotel, visitors can pay a fee to use the pool for the whole day and also receive a credit for food and beverages. It's a fantastic spot to end your trip to Bali!
Boma cliff located in Karang
Shipwreck at Nunggalan Beach
Beach with a
Cliff Pool at Oneeighty
Additional travel tips for Bali and Nusa Penida are provided here. I trust that this Bali itinerary has assisted you in organizing your upcoming trip.
Make sure to take a look at my comprehensive Bali Travel Guide and Nusa Penida Travel Guide for helpful tips, information, photos, and more, all available for free!
Accommodation in Ubud: The Kayon Resort
Adiwana Unagi Suites offers luxurious accommodations for
Serayu Cottage
Umah Dajane Guesthouse
For those looking to discover Bali in a private vehicle with a driver for added comfort and security, I highly recommend using GetYourGuide.
The cost for a full day of driving and sightseeing in Bali for 1-5 passengers is 675k Rupiah ($47 USD). This price includes the car, driver, and petrol for up to 10 hours. It's a fantastic offer.
You have the option to book a private driver for Nusa Penida through this company. We have had positive experiences using GetYourGuide for various tours and activities globally. We highly recommend them.
Check out the Stippl Itinerary Map, which is a map within the Stippl travel app. This map helps you plan your trips, manage your budget, and offers additional features for travelers.
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Determining the best time to visit Bali depends on your specific preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip.
Bali experiences its rainy season from November to April. The daytime weather can be hot and humid, reaching temperatures of 90-95 °F (32-35 °C). However, this season is less crowded for tourists and the rain typically falls at night.
During the months of May to August, the temperatures are lower and there is more wind and sunshine. This is considered the most pleasant weather. It is also the peak season, so there are usually more people around.
The attractions listed in this Bali schedule are stunning all year round, but I believe the optimal months for taking photos are from March to May, following the conclusion of the rainy season. During this time, the majority of the island is lush with green vegetation.
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There are three comments on the article. One reader expresses gratitude for the free 10-Day Bali Itinerary & Nusa Penida Highlights, thanking the author for saving them time and appreciating their blog.
1. When visiting Nusa Penida, should we reserve a hotel in Sanur or on the island itself? 2. I will be traveling with my partner and our 2-year-old child. Can you suggest some hotel options based on your itinerary? 3. With 11 days to spare, where should I consider spending an extra day? Is it possible to visit the Lempuyang Temple near the Amed area during my trip?
Hello Aroon, I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip! When visiting Nusa Penida, you have the option to stay in Sanur and take a day trip to the island, or stay for a couple of days on Penida itself to explore more. It is recommended to spend at least two days and one night on Penida to fully experience it, but a day trip is still worth it if you're short on time. Check out my Nusa Penida travel guide for some suggestions on activities. When in Ubud, a good midrange hotel option is SenS Hotel near the town center, while a budget option is Ubud Glassy Villa. In Sanur, you can consider staying at Parigata Resorts or Puri Hiromi, and for Nusa Penida, The Sagara is a good choice. For Uluwatu, Bingin Bienvenue or a similar family-friendly accommodation is recommended. If you have an extra day, you could visit Lempuyang temple and other attractions on a day trip from Ubud or Sanur. Here are some more ideas for things to do in East Bali. I hope this information is helpful to you!
I found this article very helpful in organizing my family vacation to Bali. Thank you so much!
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Personal Introduction
Hello! I'm David Leiter, an American who has been living a nomadic lifestyle for the past 9 years. My wife, Intan, and I primarily reside in Bali, but we love exploring various destinations worldwide. Feel free to join us on our adventures!
Explore various travel destinations and activities such as visiting the Mason Elephant Sanctuary in Bali, hiking Mount Dukono Volcano in Maluku, and taking a day trip to the Blue City of Chefchaouen in Morocco. Learn how to visit iconic landmarks like Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Navagio Beach Shipwreck in Zakynthos, and the Temples of Bagan in Myanmar. Discover hidden gems like the Kelingking Beach T-Rex Cliff Hike in Bali, Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida, and the Banggai Islands in Sulawesi. Plan your adventures with travel guides for places like the Lamanai Ruins in Belize, Queen Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor, and the Fitz Roy Hike in Patagonia. Get tips and recommendations for exploring destinations like Koh Tao Island in Thailand, the waterfalls of Indonesia, and a 7-day itinerary for Bhutan. Stay connected by subscribing to the newsletter for the latest updates on blog posts, travel tips, and guides. Let's keep in touch!
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