See the best of Bali on this short but thrilling getaway. Your tour of this lush tropical island starts in the artistic and cultural center of Ubud. Then you'll soar high above the jungle treetops on a day trip to Bali Swing and enjoy a snorkeling excursion off the coast of Nusa Lembongan Island. Visit ancient temples, sample Indonesian seafood, experience Balinese-style nightlife, or relax on the beach in the resort town of Seminyak before the trip comes to an end.

Highlights

  • Snorkel with tropical fish off the coast of Nusa Lembongan Island
  • Go soaring through the jungle on swings and ziplines at Bali Swing
  • Learn about Balinese art in Ubud's museums
  • Relax on the beach and enjoy the nightlife in Seminyak
  • Sample crispy duck and other traditional Indonesian dishes

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Ubud & Explore local culture Ubud
Day 2 Day trip to Bali Swing Ubud
Day 3 Snorkel Around Nusa Lembongan Island Seminyak
Day 4 Enjoy a Free Day in Seminyak Seminyak
Day 5 Depart Indonesia, End of Trip  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Ubud & Explore Local Culture

Puri Kantor Temple in Ubud
A decorative temple in Ubud

Welcome to Bali! You'll arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport. A driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel in Ubud. During the drive, you'll enjoy views of the island's twisting roads, quaint villages, and terraced rice fields. Once you arrive in Ubud and check in at your hotel, you'll have the rest of the day and evening free to relax. Explore the town's boutiques and cafés, take a yoga class, visit Ubud Palace, or learn about Balinese art at the excellent Agung Rai Museum of Art or the Neka Art Museum.

Wander through Ubud Monkey Forest to see three historic temples and a native population of Balinese macaques—keep your distance and avoid direct eye contact, as the monkeys can get aggressive! Finish the day with a traditional Indonesian meal. Dishes to try, include bebek goreng (crispy duck) and satays of grilled beef, chicken, or shrimp.

Day 2: Day trip to Bali Swing

Swinging through Bali
Swinging through the jungle in Bali

Today you'll visit an ecotourism hot spot known as Bali Swing, an outdoor theme park filled with ziplines and rope swings. You'll be surrounded by lush jungle and steep cliffs, so get ready to embrace your sense of adventure. The park also features waterfalls, a swimming pool, and incredible views of the surrounding rainforest. Dine in a traditional Balinese restaurant for lunch, then continue to explore the area, visiting a local market before you return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Plan your trip to Indonesia
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Day 3: Snorkel Around Nusa Lembongan Island

Snorkeling in Nusa Lembongan Island
Snorkeling around Nusa Lembongan Island

Rise early today for a snorkeling adventure in paradise! First thing in the morning, you'll sail off to Nusa Lembongan Island, a half-hour boat ride from Sanur Harbor. You'll quickly discover Nusa Lembongan's charms, from its white-sand beaches to crashing waves perfect for surfing. The region is rich in marine life, too — during your snorkeling trip, you'll spot colorful fish and swim past majestic coral. Take some time to relax on the beach in the afternoon before transferring to your hotel in Seminyak. This evening is a great opportunity to try some freshly caught seafood prepared according to traditional Balinese methods.

Day 4: Enjoy a Free Day in Seminyak

Relax on the beach in Seminyak
Colorful umbrellas on the beach in Seminyak

On the last day of the trip, you'll be free to sightsee, explore, or relax. If you're interested in cultural history, take a quick cab ride to the centuries-old Pura Petitenget, a temple that was built to ward off evil spirits. If you'd prefer to enjoy the beach, take advantage of numerous beach clubs, many of which are outfitted with oversized bean bags and colorful umbrellas where you can order a tropical drink and relax with a book. Up for an adventure? Go on a scuba diving expedition, try horseback riding on the shore, or take a surfing lesson.

Seminyak comes alive at night, as the town has an abundance of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The nearby town of Kuta offers more of the same.

Day 5: Depart Indonesia, End of Trip

Goodbye Bali
Sunrise over the ocean in Seminyak

It's time to say goodbye to Indonesia. After breakfast, your driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you back to the airport in Ubud. Safe travels! 

More Great 5-Day Indonesia Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Indonesia? Check out these other 5-day Indonesia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.

Map

Map of Highlights of Bali - 5 Days
Map of Highlights of Bali - 5 Days