Best Things To Do & Activities In Bali

This Indonesian island is known as a paradise on Earth and that description couldn’t be any closer to the truth. Bali is abundant in diverse landscapes including tropical forests, active volcanic mountains, beaches, coral reefs, and rice paddies.

There are many reasons why people choose to visit this world-renowned vacation spot. Some come for the ancient mysticism, yoga, and relaxing retreats. Others come to explore the breathtaking nature and highest biodiversity of marine life. Traditional culture, highly developed arts, and exciting nightlife adventures are just a few other things you can find here as well.

Regardless of what you come to Bali for, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Bali during your stay, this list will provide you with everything you need to know.

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Attractions in Bali

There are so many iconic places to visit in Bali during your stay, however, with limited vacation time, you’ll want to focus on the best this island has to offer. From cultural and historic landmarks to beautiful outdoor oasis’, here is everywhere you’ll want to experience in Bali.

Ubud Monkey Forest (Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary)

The perfect destination for families and animal lovers is here at the Ubud Monkey Forest. Experience over 180 tree species and 700 Balinese macaques in this sacred forest sanctuary. In this culture, monkeys are believed to protect the area and its 3 surrounding Hindu temples away from evil spirits. There are many amazing sights to see at this sanctuary with opportunities for tours as well.

TourTeller’s Pick! – Top Things To Do in Bali

Tegenungan Waterfall (Air Terjun Tegenungan)

A short distance from Ubud lies a white cascading waterfall that will take your breath away. If you’re wondering what to do in Bali to soak up some of the beautiful areas it has to offer, the Tegenungan waterfall is a must-see location. This sacred Balinese spring offers visitors a chance to swim and hike in one of the most cultural landscapes on the island.

Hike & Discover Bali

Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah)

Explore one of Bali’s holiest Hindu sites dating back to more than 1,000 years at Goa Gajah. With a hidden temple that lies within a historical cave featuring carvings of mythological creatures, this experience is unlike any other in the world. With private and group tours available, this is an amazing hands-on way to experience Hindu culture.

Mt. Agung (Gunung Agung)

If you’re up for an exciting physical adventure, Mt. Agung is the place for you. This active volcanic mountain towers over 9,000 feet and can be climbed in just one long, challenging day.

A tour guide is required for this adventure and can only be done when the volcano is not experiencing volcanic activity. How far you go is up to you, however, if you make it to the top you will experience views of Bali like no other.

Gate of Heaven (Lempuyang Temple)

The Gate of Heaven is one of the most iconic landmarks of Bali. Located at the Lempuyang Temple, this landmark was once a sacred transition place from Earth to heaven. There are many tour opportunities to this location or you can choose to experience this spiritual realm on your own. Either way, it is one area you won’t want to miss.

Saraswati Temple (Pura Taman Saraswati)

If you’re interested in nature, spirituality, and culture, one of the best things to do in Bali is to visit the Saraswati Temple. Dedicated to a Hindu goddess, this temple features amazing water gardens and lotus ponds, ornate carvings, and occasionally Balinese dance performers. Both worshippers and visitors enjoy all that this location has to offer.

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Activities in Bali

After you visit the most popular attractions on the island, you may be wondering what the best things to do in Bali for fun are. The best attractions are typically enjoyed in the surrounding natural environments, but there are also some amazing local parks and shows to attend as well. 

White Water Rafting

Discover Balinese nature on an adventure unlike any other with a white water rafting experience. As you travel down the Ayung River, you will explore many jungle surroundings and natural landscapes while you embrace rapids along the way. This activity is great for all ages and those traveling in a group who are up for a fun and challenging adventure.

Compare White Water Rafting Activities

Snorkeling & Diving

The shores of Bali are part of the Coral Triangle, an area with the highest diversity of marine life. If you love the ocean and want to experience the abundance of marine corals and creatures in this location, snorkeling and diving should be on the top of your list. There are many experiences available to choose from and most of them include guided group tours.

Best Watersports in Bali

Waterbom Bali

Experience nothing but fun at the Waterbom Bali waterpark, suited for all ages. Enjoy numerous waterslides, relaxing garden views, or sunbathing in the gazebos at this popular park. If you’re traveling with children, this is a great way to keep them engaged and having fun.

Bali Safari And Marine Park & Bali Zoo

To immerse yourself in the surrounding Balinese wildlife, a visit to the Bali Safari and Marine Park and Bali Zoo are highly recommended. See the country’s unique wildlife in their natural habitats on a safari tour with an included visit to a freshwater aquarium at Bali Safari Park.

If you prefer to experience wildlife in a more controlled environment, the Bali Zoo has everything from exotic birds, mammals, insects, reptiles, and more. Tickets are easily accessible to both locations.

Uluwatu Kecak Fire & Dance Show

If you decide to visit the Uluwatu Temple during your stay in Bali, you won’t want to miss out on this famous fire and dance show. Experience Balinese culture and storytelling actively and engagingly through fire and dance performances. This show is praised by all who visit and is highly recommended for a memorable Bali experience.

Bali Treetop Adventure Park (Ziplining)

One of the top things to do in Bali for fun is to visit this ziplining park. This is a great opportunity for families of all ages to experience aerial views of the majestic nature that Bali has to offer. With 9 different circuits and 95 rope challenges, this is an amazing hands-on way to explore the outdoors. 

Tours in Bali

One of the best things to do in Bali is to participate in guided tours. Navigating vacation experiences on your own can be stressful, but with a tour, all adventures can be easily enjoyed thanks to the planning of the local guides. Here are some of the best tours to join during your stay in Bali.

Mount Batur Trekking Tour

Follow a guide through a 3-hour climb to the top of Mount Bakur. Most tours to this beautiful active volcanic mountain take place during sunrise for the best views on the mountain top. If you enjoy hiking, physical challenges, and breathtaking scenic views, then the Mount Batur trekking tour is right for you.

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Nusa Penida Tour

If you’re keen on visiting another amazing island right off the shores of Bali, join in on a Nusa Penida tour. With an abundance of natural landscapes including waterfalls, beaches, and other hidden gems, this tour is great for those looking to escape the business of Bali. Many tours offer private access and sightseeing beyond anything you could discover on your own.

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Electric Bike Tour

Explore the surrounding area of Ubud on a fat-tire electric bike tour. Cruise through rice fields and learn about the culture and history of Bali in a personal and physical experience guided by locals. This upgraded bike tour gives you the feel of a bike experience without having to do much of the physical movements on your own.

Ijen Blue Fire Trek Tour

For those who love to hike and experience areas that cannot be seen any other way, the Ijen blue fire trek tour is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Follow a guide through Mount Ijen to view natural blue flames glowing above the crater lake. This trekking experience gives you access to a sulfur lake, volcanic mountains, and a beautiful night hiking tour.

Best Of Bali Tour

If you’re wondering what to do in Bali and your time there is short, take a guided tour to experience the best of Bali on an easy-going day trip. Trust a local guide to give you the full experience of Bali by visiting iconic landmarks and beautiful landscapes without having to plan anything yourself.

For a simple and enjoyable trip, this tour provides access to everything you want to see to feel the full Balinese culture.

Best Of Ubud Tour

For a traditional experience of Bali, immerse yourself in an Ubud tour that highlights the most iconic locations in the area. From rice fields to waterfalls, a local guide will take you to all the best landscapes and landmarks that Ubud has to offer. This is a great way to get a personal feel of the area and learn about the surrounding history from a local point of view.

TourTeller’s Pick! – Best Things To Do in Bali