Overview
October 27 - November 4, 2023
Click HERE for Current Bali Entry Requirements
Bali is a Magical place filled with temples, ocean shorelines, waterfalls, lakes, beautiful beaches and friendly people.
Also known as the Land of the Gods, Bali appeals through its natural beauty of volcanoes and lush terraced rice fields that exude peace and serenity. Bali enchants with its dramatic dances and colorful ceremonies, its arts and crafts, and its luxurious beach resorts. This exotic island has much to offer, from inspirational spirituality to fine dining, driving through exhilarating treks in the wild. Everywhere you will find intricately carved temples.
Your retreat will offer you Balinese massages, yoga, a Balinese cooking class, trekking through rice fields, viewing the many Waterfalls, Visiting the local monkeys and learing of the native customs. You will have the opportunity to meet with an authentic healer during your stay. Our past travelers have all enjoyed his insight and readings.
For, the Balinese, who embrace the Hindu religion, are devout people where a large part of their lives is dedicated to rites and ceremonies aimed at maintaining harmony in this world. Indeed, this relatively small island holds many surprises.
Itinerary
Day 1: October 27, 2023 - Arrive Bali
Arrival at Bali's airport in Denpasar (DPS) Please note most flights will depart the US on October 25 or 26. You will be met by your private driver and transferred to your hotel near the beautiful beach in Sanur. Since arrivals vary through the day enjoy time at your leisure to relax this day, you may opt to have your included massage after a long flight. Dinner at your leisure with those arriving through the day.
Hotel Sudamala in a suite for 2 nights. The hotel offers Yoga, a beach and pool.
You may opt to arrive a day or two early to get on schedule and to enjoy the beach area here or optional tours. These tours are a snorkeling adventure nearby or a full day tour to Nusa Penida island where you spend your day hopping around 4 picturesque beaches and some of the most special spots on the island. Stop first at the top of Kelingking Beach and admire the wonderful view of the white sandy beach. Take a close look at the curving coastline, which many visitors compare to the shape of a T-Rex. Then, move on to Angel's Billabong. Take a dip in a natural infinity pool created by a small gap in the cliff face.
If you seek an authentic encounter with the real Bali and yearn to sojourn where art lives, search no more. Situated at the southern end of serene Sanur, Bali’s cultured pearl and oft-kept secret, Sudamala Suites and Villas is an oasis for those who crave a refined retreat that melds world-renowned Balinese artistry and craftsmanship with mind-boggling attention to detail and timeless tropical modern luxury. This is the resort re imagined as a living work of art, with contemporary Balinese treasures at every turn and cutting-edge shows at Sudakara Art Space. Prime your palette with pampering in Sudajiva Spa, cultural connections, culinary explorations and journeys down roads less traveled. Or simply indulge in the ancient art of doing nothing, basking by a jewel of a pool beneath an ancient Joglo, cool breezes, cold drinks and warm smiles on tap.
Day 2: October 28 - Denpasar city tour - Art districts
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel then you will meet your driver and guide for the week. You will enjoy a tour of Denpasar city to visit the local market and the art center. Then your guide will whisk you to the consular district of Renon, home of the Bajra Sandhi monument. With a dramatic central spire, the monument is instantly recognizable, and contains photographs and diorama rooms which recount the rich and turbulent history of the Balinese people. Visit fascinating sites such as Puputan Badung Square, which commemorates the struggles of the Balinese against the Dutch colonial forces, and Jagatnatha, Denpasar’s largest temple with several unique design elements, followed by a visit to the Bali Museum. Dedicated to art and history, the museum dates from 1931.
Welcome dinner tonight at a local Balinese restaurant. (B, D)
Day 3: October 29 - Transfer to Munduk - Monkey Forest - Bedugul Botanical Garden - Tanah Lot Temple.
After breakfast check out of the hotel and visit some of the many splendid temples Bali is famous for.
The function of Taman Ayun Temple is a place to pray the god in their manifestation. It is according to the content of Babad Mengwi and the existence of temple building structure, especially the temple that is located in third area (Jeroan). According to Astadewata, the special God is worshiped in Taman Ayun Temple is the God in manifestation as a Wisnu God which his palace located in top of Mangu mount.
We start with the Monkey Forest to visit the many monkeys that reside in Bali at The Kedaton Monkey Forest. Walk through this area which is home to hundreds of monkeys, trees and scenery. Here you may have the opportunity to feed them bananas or peanuts. Next stop "Taman Ayun" at Mengwi. We arrive at our next destination near Munduk located in the highlands about 3,300 feet above sea level, so nighttime temperatures can be cooler. The award winning Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort offers some of the best views on the Island from its luxurious suites and villas spread out over 5 hectares. Outdoor infinity pools and a tropical jacuzzi provide scenic views of the surrounding coffee trees, rice fields and mountains down to the Bali Sea. The resort also boasts its own spa, two restaurants, and a coffee roastery.
Munduck Moding Plantation Resort and Spa for 2 nights in either a 1 or 2 bedroom villa. Dinner at your leisure tonight at the hotel. (B, L)
Day 4: October 30 - Cooking class - Offering class - Trekking
Enjoy breakfast at your leisure then head out for some nature. Start with a trek to the Red Coral Waterfall walking along the riverbank, continue to the Dayang area, home to a breathtaking concentration of terraced paddy fields then on the way you will have the option to visit a Dutch Colonial style house.
This afternoon your guide will take you to the local town to enjoy some leisure time and lunch. Back at the villas you will learn how to make the traditional Balinese offerings you have been seeing around the island. You will also learn the local Balinese dance with a dance class.
Tonight, enjoy a traditional Balinese cooking class using local ingredients and creating your own traditional dish for dinner. (B, D)
Day 5: October 31 - Depart for Ubud
After breakfast check out from the hotel. Today travel across the rice fields and twin lakes for scenic stops along the route. You will stop for a visit at the floating "Ulun Danu" Temple on Lake Bratan. You will also stop at a local crafts village to buy some fruits, and shop at the local craft market. Next, we will make a visit to see the beautiful botanical gardens and Jatiluwih rice terraces. Enjoy a wonderful local lunch at a unique rain forest restaurant in route. Our next stop is to enjoy a visit at the "Taman Ayun" Temple and Mengwi village. Arrive at your next hotel late afternoon.
Dinner at your leisure tonight in town or at the hotel. Hotel for 4 nights. 1 or 2 bedroom pool villas available as an upgrade. (B,L)
Day 6: November 1 - Ubud town tour
Enjoy a tour of the town of Ubud and tour the artist town. Famous for its wood carvings and crafts this little village is also the site of a few famous movies. “Eat Pray Love” is one of them. Enjoy shopping at the local crafts markets filled with clothes, handbags, jewelry and so much more. You may opt to stay in the Town of Ubud this afternoon or head back to the hotel for your included massage. We will also visit the Tegenungan waterfall. The remainder of the day and evening is at your leisure to enjoy the Spa, pool, and beautiful surroundings of our hotel.
Dinner is at leisure tonight. (B,L)
Day 7: November 2- Touring outside of Ubud
Today visit the tradition of Bali with one of the best Rice terraces at Tegallalang village. Take in the unique scenery of these layered rice fields. Then continue on to the Water temple of Tampak siring. Tirta Empul is a place for self-cleaning. (Not meaning physically but spiritually) You can get in the water for a spiritual cleansing of the holy water. Next you are off to the Coffee plantation for a taste of some local Balinese coffee. Our last stop is Kintamani, this beautiful region in East Bali seems far removed from Kuta's busy beaches. Mount Batur rises prominently above a vivid landscape of greenery; crystalline Lake Batur rests inside the active caldera. An Interesting village and Bali's highest temple cling to the rim of the active volcano. Perched above the village of "Penulisan" is Bali's highest temple. Pura Puncak Penulisan, rebuilt in 1926 after the volcano claimed the original Hindu temple. The climb of 333 steps provides excellent views of the coast and surrounding landscape. Statues inside the temple date back to before the 11th century. One highlight of today will be a scenic swing ride. Get your cameras ready ladies. Back to hotel with time to relax.
Dinner at your leisure tonight. (B, L)
Day 8: November 3 - Ubud – Uluwatu tour
* This morning you can choose to take an optional silver jewelry making class. Learn firsthand how to make your own silver piece with an expert jewelry making instructor. You will take home your creation.
Your last day in Bali is spent at your leisure for the early part. For those wishing to meet with a local and reputable healer you will set up the appointments with your guide. Then enjoy a visit to the famous "Pura Luhur Uluwatu" temple, it is an architectural marvel situated on the edge of 300 feet of steep rock facing the ocean. This temple has some of the most exquisite architecture in Bali and was first built in the 11th century. Just after sunset experience the Kecak and Fire Dance, something not to be missed.
Farewell dinner tonight as a group in town with your guide. (B,L,D)
Day 9: November 4 - Departure Day
Enjoy the day at leisure before departing home. Please note some flights leave later in the day so you can check out of the hotel and keep your luggage at the hotel while enjoying the spa, pool or a visit to town. (B)
Tour Details
Cost: $TBA based on Double Occupancy (Roommates can be provided)
Single Supplement: $TBA
Upgrade to a 2 bedroom pool villa in Munduk based on 2 persons sharing $135.00 Per personUpgrade to a 1 bedroom pool villa in Munduk based on 1 person in a single room $198.00SAVE 3% off the tour cost if you pay via check or ACH transfer
Deposit $500.00
Booking/final payment deadline is 60 days prior to departure.
Included:
- 8 nights’ hotel with taxes
- Daily breakfast
- 5 lunches, including 1 Rain Forest lunch
- 3 Dinners
- Entrance fees to all sites and temples visited as per itinerary
- Local Private Tour Guide and private driver
- Private transfers to all included sites and cities visited
- R/T airport transfer if traveling on tour dates and with others
- Kecak Fire Dance show
- Welcome Gift
- Offering making class
- Cooking class
- Dance Class
- 2 Massages
- Professional tour planning services
Not Included:
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- Airfare into Denpesara, Bali (DPS)
- Meals not listed in itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks with meals
- Gratuities for driver and guide
- Travel insurance
- Airport transfers if arriving early/departing late from group dates
- Optional Pre nights at Hotel Sudamala with airport transfers $TBA pp double. $TBA single Per night
Tour Gallery
FAQ
Entry Requirements: Visitors going to Indonesia require a current passport, valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from Ecuador. Citizens of the US, Canada, UK and Australia do not require a visa to enter Bali. Before traveling abroad it's a good idea to make two photocopies of your passport, your driver's license and your credit cards. Leave one copy at home with a friend or family member and bring one with you.
Time Zone: The time zone in Bali is GMT plus 8 hours. They do not follow daylight savings time.
Weather: The average temperature in October is 27°C (81°F), while the average low is 23°C (73°F), and the average high comes in at 31°C (88°F). Similarly to the consistent year round temperatures in Bali in general. Limited rain at this time of year.
Currency: The Indonesian Rupiah is the currency of Indonesia. The currency rankings show that the most popular Indonesia Rupiah exchange rate is the USD to IDR rate.The best way to get cash in the local currency is from an ATM. Keep in mind that most banks impose a fee every time a card is used at another bank's ATM, and that fee can be higher for international transactions ($3 - $3) so try and withdraw as few times as possible. Credit cards are accepted by most shops and restaurants however check with your credit card company regarding foreign exchange fees. You will also have a better chance making deals at local shops if paying with cash.
Electricity: Bali you can expect the 2 pin round socket and plug as used in larger parts of Europe. Voltage: 220 V
Frequency: 50 Hz Power sockets: type C / F
Taxes/Vat: Sales tax in restaurants ranges from – 10% – 15% – 21%. Tax is not charged on goods bought in a shop, although with alcohol and cigarettes tax is included in price.To be eligible for the VAT refund: Goods must be purchased from shop with “VAT Refund for Tourists” label across Indonesia by showing your passport, and you must have a valid tax invoice (a tax invoice attached with one payment receipt) from the shop. Goods which are excluded are as follows: food, beverage, tobacco products. Minimum VAT payment is Rp500.000 (five hundred thousand rupiah) in one valid tax invoice from one shop with the same purchasing date.
goods are purchased within 1 (one) month before departing Indonesia. Goods must be carried out of Indonesia as accompanied baggage within 1 (one) month of the date of purchase.
Health: No vaccinations are officially required of travelers to Bali.
Activity Level: This tour is Average plus. There is walking during the visits to temples and rice fields trekking on somewhat unlevel ground. There is swimming at your leisure if you choose. Hiking to waterfalls on uneven surfaces. At each stop we will be walking a good amount. To be able to fully enjoy the tour and participate in scheduled activities, you need to be able to walk, at a leisurely pace, up to 3 or 4 or so miles on some days. Please note most hotels do not offer elevators. You may need to climb the stairs if a first-floor room is not available. You should be able to stand unassisted for up to 30 minutes at times during the tours. You will need be able to keep up with the group without any assistance. At times you will need manage your own luggage. This trip is pretty easy for the average person however if you can't or choose not to participate in certain activities this is at your own discretion. However, it cannot affect the groups participation nor can any tours or activities or refunds be offered or changed due to an individual not being able or not wanting to participate.
