Classic Bali & Lombok

Travelers will be arriving at different times during the day so feel free to arrive at the joining point at any time as there are no planned activities, apart from our group meeting at around 6pm and an optional dinner afterwards.

Our drive today ascends from the lowlands through rice fields, villages then lush tropical jungle and we get the chance to stop at the Angseri Hot Springs to bathe in therapeutic waters surrounded by natures beauty (approx 2.5 hrs). Following this we continue upwards for another 30 minute drive over the mountains and into the caldera surrounding the town of Bedugal. Surrounded by serene crater lakes and majestic mountains over 2,000 metres tall, we spend the afternoon exploring the sights including the Ulun Danu Temple Complex, founded in the 17th century by the King of Mengwi and dedicated to the gods of the lakes, before continuing to our overnight stop at Munduk.

At 813 meters above sea level, the village of Munduk is surrounded by coffee plantations and boasts a temperate climate, much cooler than the beach areas. Tonight we get to experience true Balinese hospitality with a local dinner.

Leaving Munduk this morning we travel along small local mountain roads winding through jungle and terraced rice paddies, pausing at Blantih Village to see how traditional coffee is made. Our next stop is Tampaksiring for the chance to visit Tirta Empul Temple with its bubbling spring said to hold magical curative powers.

Our final destination today is Kintamani, perched 1500 meters above sea level on the edge of a crater overlooking Lake Batur with Mount Batur towering above. You may need warmer clothes here as the temperature is often much cooler then the coastal regions. Take a wander through town and mix with the locals, visit the market and marvel at the variety of local produce for sale.

This morning we have the option of a 2 hour guided hike up Mt Batur to view this active volcano and the panoramic views of Bali spread out below. Following this a visit to the 22 temples that make up the 14th Century Besakih Temple complex, the preeminent Hindu Temple in Bali. Over 70 festivals are held here each year so don't be surprised to be caught up in one of these amazing events. Lava flows from the devastating 1963 eruption of Mt Agung narrowly missed the temple adding divine mystery to the location. A short drive then takes us back down to our resort on the coast and to the legendary beaches of Candidasa for a swim and some time to relax.

In Candidasa we have the option of visiting the water temple Tirta Gangga. If you prefer to spend your time in the water you could take a diving course or swim off the white sand beach. This is also a great place to have a massage or check out some of the more secluded beaches

Travel 3.5 hours to the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, the town of Ubud. Along the way we visit Monkey Forest so keep your valuables close as these cheeky creatures are bound to grab anything that isn't nailed down.

Surrounded by scenic rice fields, small villages, art and craft communities, ancient temples and palaces it's easy to see why Ubud has inspired painters, sculptors, poets, musicians and writers from all over the world. You too will be inspired by the laid back way of life, the beauty and the scenic splendor that is Ubud. Get to know the town on an orientation walk provided by your CEO.

Perhaps it's time to refine you culinary skills with an optional Balinese Cooking Tour. This evening we have the option to enjoy a display of traditional Kecak dance or maybe try Gianyar night market for some local cuisine. You could also take a stroll through the rice fields, chow down on some organic food or white water raft. Just outside of Ubud you could visit the Bali Zoo, the Bird Park or the Elephant Park to get a taste of the South East Asian wildlife. You might even see the rare Komodo Dragon!

From Ubud to the ferry harbour Padangbai. In ca. 4,5 hours the Ferry will bring you to Lembar. It takes about 2,5 hours to drive to the village of Tetebatu on the slope of the Rinjani volcano. In the afternoon you can explore the area, the ricefields - tabacco fields and the small village.

Enjoy a spectacular drive through the middle of Lombok. You will travel through parts of the forest on the slopes of the Rinjani mountains and continue through the dry, eastern part of the island. Once on the north side, you will drive up the slope of the Rinjani Volcano once more in order to arrive in Senaru for the night.

In the morning you will hike through this valley situated at the base of Mt Rinjani. During the hike, you will be visiting local villages along the way where the people are happy to greet you with warm hospitality and welcome to their houses. We will end our hike at a secluded waterfall for a refreshing swim.

Today we drive approximately 4 hours to a harbour from where small outrigger boats will transport us to the Gili islands after around 30 minutes at sea.

With a tiny population, no cars, an industry consisting of tourism, coconut plantations and fishing, and surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches, pristine waters and coral reefs, the Gili Islands are the ideal location to relax, enjoy the sun, sand and sea and let go of all your cares and worries. If you feel particularly energetic your CEO can organise an optional snorkeling trip.

Please note there is limited fresh water available on the Gilis and electricity is supplied by generator so showers use salt water and rooms are typically fan only (no air-con).

Approximate travel time:
Senaru - Gilli Island: 2 hours drive followed by a 30 minute ferry

We return by fast boat to Bali today and transfer to Sanur. We spend our final evening dinner together, reflecting on our adventure under a Balinese sunset.

You can depart at any time today.