I have spent more than 6 months exploring Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” a place that is bound to steal your heart with its perfect mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures.
If you’re looking for more than just lounging on its sunny beaches or sipping cocktails by the pool, you’re in for a treat. In this guide, I share with you an array of unique experiences that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
From catching sunrises atop active volcanos and making your own silver jewellery, to exploring vibrant marine life, Bali is full of unique moments waiting to be experienced.
So let’s dive straight in with my top list of 17 unforgettable experiences in Bali that will make your trip even more incredible. Let’s get started!
Prepare for your trip to Bali
🏡 Book your accommodation in advance – find the best hotel deals for Bali here.
🤿 Find the best tours in Bali – book your adventures in Bali for an unforgettable holiday.
☂️ Travel Insurance – make sure you’re covered before your trip! I always use SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance which is super affordable and flexible.
💳 Travel cards – Get a Wise or Revolut bank cards to avoid overseas charges and save money on your travels.
1. Watch the Sunrise from Mount Batur
Imagine the feeling of standing atop an active volcano while you watch the sunrise above the horizon, bringing the landscape to life.
That’s what you get with a sunrise trek to Mount Batur, one of the most magical experiences you can have in Bali. While the 2 AM wake-up call may sound daunting, the stunning view from the peak—paired with a hot cup of coffee—makes it all worthwhile.
We ascended the peak on foot which was challenging at times and very sweaty 😅 but a great accomplishment overall! You can check out the hiking tours here.
There is also the option for a sunrise jeep tour to Mt. Batur which takes you directly to the viewing platform for a more relaxed ascent, and it’s just as fun and exciting experience. Either way, the sunrise views over Mount Agung, the biggest volcano in Bali, are absolutely worth it!
And if waking up at 2AM doesn’t sound appealing to you at all, there’s also the option to book a sunset tour to Mount Batur that guarantees just as epic views from the top of the volcano minus the early wake up call.
2. Make your own silver jewellery
A silver-making workshop gives you the opportunity be involved in the process of creating your own unique piece of Balinese silver jewellery, a special souvenir you won’t be able to find at the mass-produce markets!
It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and get involved in the process to crate your own one-of-a-kind memento. We loved seeing and learning about all the steps required to create a silver piece, from melting the silver to forging it and designing your jewellery of choice.
We now wear our rings everywhere we go and we’re looking forward to going back to create some more!
It really is one of the must-do unique experiences you can do in Bali that leaves you not only with a stunning handmade ring (or other jewellery of you choice) but also a memorable souvenir and a fun story to share back home. You can check out the silver workshop that we did here.
3. Swim with dolphins in Lovina
This may just be the highlight of your Bali trip!
Lovina, in the north of Bali, is home to hundreds of dolphins who go out hunting plankton each morning near the coast, creating the perfect opportunity to spot and swim with these incredible creatures.
It’s truly an experience of a lifetime and for me, it was one of the best moments of my life that I’ll never forget.
However, not everyone has the best experience on the dolphin tours in Lovina and the company you go with makes the biggest difference!
So don’t go with just any company, do your research and make sure you pick one that actually care s about the wellbeing of the dolphins and your experience! We went with Lovina Ocean Tours and absolutely loved it!
4. Take a Balinese Cooking Class
Trying local dishes is one of my favourite things about travelling! So why not take it to the next level and get involved in the process of preparing authentic local dishes? Joining a Balinese Cooking Class is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Balinese culture and learn new culinary skills.
You’ll start by picking fresh ingredients straight from the garden, then learn to prepare authentic Balinese dishes under the guidance of locals. You’ll have fun creating fragrant spice pastes and perfectly grilled satay, all while gaining insights into local traditions and way of life.
And the best part is that you get to eat your home-cooked meal in a beautiful farm setting, surrounded by the very fields where your ingredients came from.
Plus, you’ll walk away with recipes to recreate the flavours of Bali back home, keeping the memories from your trip alive! There are many cooking classes available to book through out Bali, however, this cooking class in Ubud is one of the most popular, high-rated ones!
5. Bike tour through Ubud’s Tegallalang rice terraces and local villages
The Tegallalang rice terraces are one of the most touristy places in Ubud and for a good reason. However, there are ways to escape the crowds and explore the rice terraces in a more peaceful and unique way – such as hopping on an electric bike tour.
This half-day bike tour takes you past lush rice paddies and charming local villages that are off the tourist trail. Paired with a traditional Balinese lunch that gives you a taste of local flavours to complement the amazing views on the ride.
It’s a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Tegelalang rice terraces from a different perspective, combining adventure, culture, and cuisine all in one day.
6. White water rafting & ATV tour
If you’re looking for a fun day out filled with adventure, this is for you! White water rafting on the Ayung River is one of the most fun things to do in Bali for adventure-seekers.
t offers a perfect blend of excitement and exploring the natural beauty of the island as
you pass by dramatic waterfalls and beautifully carved stone walls that represent stories of Balinese mythology.
And to boost your adrenaline even more, you can pick the option that includes an ATV tour which takes you through jungle paths and rice paddies along Bali’s rugged terrain. And of course after a full morning of adventure you’ll get to enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the river.
It’s the perfect way to spend a fun day in Ubud and a great bonding activity to do with friends and family! This is the best and most popular white water rafting tour in Bali that is highly recommended.
7. Manta rays snorkelling trip in Nusa Penida
First of all, visiting Nusa Penida is a must-do on your trip to Bali, if you have the opportunity to do so. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to, and in my opinion, totally lives up to the hype!
And the fact that here you can snorkel or dive with manta rays makes this island even more magical! I recommend this private snorkelling boat trip in Nusa Penida with which you get to skip the crowds and swim with the mantas before all the tourists boats arrive, for the most unique and magical experience observing these gentle giants glide gracefully beneath the water.
The trip also includes a stop at Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay and Toyapakeh Wall which are beeming with coral and underwater life with countless tropical fish. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to swim with some curious turtles!
This is definitely one of the most unique experiences in Bali, especially if you love marine and wildlife encounters. Just be warned that the waters where you can find the mantas can be a bit rough, so I’d recommend this only if you’re a good swimmer.
And if you’re looking to spend a few days away from Bali, check out my complete 3-Day Nusa Penida Itinerary to avoid the crowds and have the best experience!
8. Chase Waterfalls in North Bali
While Ubud’s waterfalls are some of the most popular on the island, it’s actually North Bali that is home to some of the most stunning and remote waterfalls, tucked away amidst lush jungles.
These waterfalls often involve scenic hikes through tropical forests, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in Bali’s natural beauty.
Some of the most beautiful waterfalls to explore in North Bali are:
Sekumpul Waterfall
Often considered the most beautiful waterfall in Bali, when you visit Sekumpul Waterfall, you’ll also have the chance to see two more beautiful falls along the way—Fiji Waterfall and Hidden Waterfall.
You can book an all day waterfall trekking tour that takes you through all three waterfalls as well as some additional spots.
Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Hidden in a peaceful jungle setting, the Banyumala is one of the few waterfalls where you can jump in for a refreshing swim.
In the same area as the main waterfall, you’ll find two smaller ones that most people overlook and therefore are the perfect peaceful escape to relax and take in your surroundings.
This organised day trip which combines visiting Banyumala Twin Waterfalls as well as some other must-see places in Munduk.
9. Swim with turtles and marine life in Amed
The coastal town of Amed in East Bali is a snorkelling paradise, known for its clear waters, colourful coral reefs and diverse.
It’s a breath of fresh air in comparison to the more popular areas of Bali like Ubud, Canggu and Uluwatu, with far less tourists around.
It’s the perfect place to spend a couple of days by the beach. For the best chance to spot turtles, head to Lipah beach where they usually hang out in the morning. I’ve written a detailed guide with the best snorkelling spots in Amed so check that out for everything you need to know for your visit. It’s definitely one of the most unique experiences in Bali that you can add to your trip.
And if you prefer a hassle-free trip where everything is already taken care for you, a snorkelling tour in Amed is a great option to explore the best snorkelling spots in Amed by boat. This way you’re even more likely to spot turtles as the boat captains are experts at knowing the best spots to find the turtles.
10. Watch a Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple
The Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple is one of the most beautiful and unique Balinese performances, revolving around traditional Balinese song, dance and storytelling.
The temple is set on a dramatic clifftop, and thanks to its rich history, it’s considered one of the most significant temples in Bali. The stunning sunset views over the ocean combined with the fire dance make this one of the most beautiful and unique experiences in Bali.
You can either book your Kecak Dance entrance tickets just for the show (and pay for your temple ticket at the entrance). Or you can book a skip-the-line afternoon tour that includes a visit to the temple with your personal guide who will show you around (keep the infamous Uluwatu temple monkeys at bay) before it’s time for the Kecak dance performance.
Whichever option you decide to go for, make sure to book your tickets in advance as they always sell out fast!
11. Visit some of Bali most beautiful and spiritual temples
No trip to Bali is complete without visiting at least one of its most beautiful and spiritual temples, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich culture and serene landscapes.
These are some of the most beautiful and significant temples to consider visiting on your trip:
Tirta Empul Temple
Famous for its sacred spring waters, this temple near Ubud is a place of purification for Balinese Hindus. Here you can participate in the traditional cleansing ritual by bathing in the freshwater pools while admiring the serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
An ancient temple near Ubud, known for its unique entrance carved with intricate motifs and its historical significance. The site includes a meditation cave, a small but beautiful waterfall, and lush surroundings, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in history.
12. Take a yoga class or have a spiritual experience in Ubud
Bali is one of the most spiritual places in the world and there are so many yoga and wellness chalets and studios dotted across the island. However, Ubud is undoubtedly the spiritual heart of Bali and the perfect place to live out your Eat, Pray, Love fantasies and indulge in spiritual practices.
My favourite yoga chalet in Ubud is The Yoga Barn which hosts a variety of practices daily. From various styles and levels of yoga classes, to meditation and sound bath, and fun and different workshops such as Cacao Ceremony and African Dance, Radiant Light Therapy and so much more. It really is the best place to find some peace and quiet and try something new and good for the body, mind and spirit.
Another fun option to consider is taking part in a Puppy Yoga Class where you share your matt with a cute little companion (yes, it’s just as fun and chaotic as you can imagine!)
As well as this full-day Eat, Pray, Love tour which includes a visit to the Tegallalang rice terraces and a yoga class, and can be combined with palm reading, water cleansing ceremony and other spiritual activities for a full day of relaxation and connecting with yourself.
13. Visit the UNESCO Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Less crowded than the popular Tegallalang terraces near Ubud, Jatiluwih offers a more peaceful and authentic experience. It’s the perfect place to slow down and soak up the beauty of Bali’s countryside.
As part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these stunning green fields showcase Bali’s centuries-old subak irrigation system, part the island’s deep agricultural traditions.
If you want to explore without breaking a sweat, I’d totally recommend hopping on an electric bike guided tour. It’s such a fun and easy way to take in the scenery while learning a bit about the area and Bali’s farming traditions.
It’s one of those off-the-tourist path experiences that will make your trip that much extra special!
14. Hand-pick your own strawberries from a strawberry farm
Not many people know this, but there’s a tiny town in the north of Bali, near Munduk, where you’ll find small farms growing some of the most delicious strawberries at an affordable price.
It’s a fun activity to add to your itinerary if you’re in the area and love indulging in some fresh strawberries that you’ve hand-picked yourself. The added effort makes them all that more sweet and delicious!
We went to the Hidden Strawberry Garden but there’s also other ones in the area that you can visit.
Travel tip: The strawberry farms are located in the same area as the Handara Gate (a popular photo spot) and the beautiful Ulun Danu Batur Temple.
You could combine visiting these two places on the same day as the strawberry farm for a full day of exploring.
15. Experience a Traditional Balinese Spa
After all your adventures in Bali, you must treat yourself to some pampering in traditional Balinese style. There are some incredible massage and spa places in Bali that are going to make you feel like you’re in heaven!
From flower baths to traditional massages, a spa day is the perfect way to recharge your batteries and enjoy a chilled day.
This riverside luxury spa resort is one of the most beautiful ones in Ubud and offers a variety of treatments suited to your preference that are guaranteed to leave you relaxed and rejuvenated.
And if you want to treat your significant other to a pamper day, a romantic private day tour that includes a must-experience floating breakfast, jungle swing and a spa treatment surrounded by the lush jungle in Ubud may just be the ideal choice for you. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself and your loved one to an unforgettable day together.
16. Spend the day at a day club or luxury gym
Another fun way to unwind and have a relaxed day is spending the afternoon at a day club. There are so many places to choose from, it’s almost impossible to pick just one.
You could spend the afternoon sipping cocktails at a beach bar with ocean views like Luna Beach Club or chilling in a jungle day club in Ubud such as Tis Cafe or Cretya—either way, it’s the perfect excuse to relax and just enjoy the moment.
If you’re more in the mood to mix in a little wellness and you’re in the Canggu area, you’ll have to check out Nirvana Life. Grab a day pass and you get access to everything: a functional gym, classes, spa facilities, and the dreamiest pool with sun loungers and magical sunset views.
Honestly, it’s such a treat and the perfect way to recharge while still feeling a little fancy.
17. Try out Balinese coffee in Munduk, North Bali
If you love coffee you should add visiting a coffee plantation in Bali to your must-do list. It is said that some of the best coffee in the world comes from Indonesia and Bali. So a tasting session of a few of the best Balinese varieties may just be the perfect treat for any coffee lover. You may also want to try some of the most famous Balinese coffee – the Luwak coffee.
NOTE: Please only do this at ethical and sustainably-run plantations and cafes where they do NOT cage the animals – I give examples of ethical places further down.
The Luwak coffee, also known as civet coffee, is one of the most unique and expensive coffees in the world, originating from Indonesia. It’s made using coffee cherries that have been eaten and partially digested by a small mammal called civet (luwak).
The beans are collected from the animal’s droppings, cleaned, and processed to produce a smooth, less acidic coffee with a distinct flavour profile. While it’s a sought-after delicacy, I want to emphasise the importance of only visiting or buying Luwak coffee from ethical coffee plantations that don’t exploit and cage the animals.
The best sustainable places I’ve found are Eco Cafe 2 and Eco Cafe Golden Valley, both located in Munduk, in the north side of the island, and offering sustainably produced Luwak coffee from wild civet cats.
Final thoughts
From adventure activities and nature encounters to spirituality and wellness practices, Bali has a variety of unique and fun activities to offer for everyone!
I hope you have an amazing time in Bali & that you get to do as many of the experiences in this guide as possible.
If you have any questions, feel free to send me a message, I’ll be more than happy to help!
Read my other Bali blogs
I’ve spent over six months (and counting) exploring Bali in search of the most beautiful places and experiences. These are some of my most popular guides about Bali that will be helpful for planning your trip!
⋙ Kanto Lampo Waterfall, Bali – The Only Guide You Need
⋙ 6 Amazing Snorkeling Spots in Amed, Bali
⋙ Gunung Kawi Temple in Tampaksiring, Bali – All You Need to Know
⋙ 5 Best Adventure Activities in Bali for an unforgettable trip!
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