IHG Travel Blog

Bali outdoor activities: Discovering island wonders

Fun Outdoor Activities in Bali: Mount Batur

Things to Do Outdoors in Bali

Bali is without a doubt one of the top travel destinations in the world. Nicknamed “Island of the Gods,” it is a center of beaches and forested volcanic mountains. With beautiful landscapes, friendly people and a long list of Bali outdoor activities to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to focus your time. If you want to venture outside of your Bali Hotel and Resort and see some of the Island’s natural wonders, here are some ideas to keep you entertained in paradise.

Ubud Monkey Forest

Flickr — Fabio Achilli

The Ubud Monkey forest is a Hindu temple and nature reserve in Ubud and is described as the heart of Bali. Its official name is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and it is one of the best Bali outdoor activities. Make your dreams a reality by feeding monkeys in an enchanted forest, something most never get the chance to do. The villagers view the Monkey Forest as a spiritual, educational and conservation center for the village, and it’s a place you absolutely cannot miss while in Bali. Admission is 40.000 IDR (just under $3 USD) for adults and 30.000 IDR (just over $2 USD) for children.

Pura Tanah Lot

Pura Tanah Lot is a pilgrimage temple located on top of a majestic rock formation in the middle of the ocean in the southwest of Bali. It’s popular for its cultural significance to Bali and the serenity and Zen it brings visitors. In Balinese mythology, it’s one of the seven temples that form a ring around the southwest part of the island. Visit Pura Tanah during low tide so you can achieve the full experience by walking across the water to the temple.

Dolphin Sightings at Lovina

One of the best Bali outdoor activities for dolphin sightings by boat is Lovina Bali. Visit Lovina’s rice paddy fields, hang out in cafes with live music and enjoy the beach scene. This is the perfect activity for early risers. You leave the beach at dawn and spend the morning watching the sunrise while searching for schools of happy dolphins. To say the least, it’s a picture-perfect activity and ideal for all types of visitors.

Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach is the most popular beach in Bali. You can find parties along the shores with locals and visitors alike. Kuta Beach is a great place to socialize, catch some rays and hang out without a worry in the world. Several restaurants reside along Kuta ranging from the well-known Hard Rock Café to pubs, providing a way to mingle while enjoying a bite to eat.

 

Nusa Dua Beach

Flickr — Adhi Rachdian

Typically reserved for luxury travelers, Nusa Dua Beach is dotted with pristine private beaches. Ideal for honeymooners or people looking to get away from absolutely everything without the crowds, the Holiday Inn Resort Bali Benoa is the perfect place to relax the weekend away in pure serenity.

Mount Batur

East of the Highlands in Bali lies Mount Batur in Kintamani. This volcano is active and can be a thrilling experience for adventure travelers. The climb to the summit is 1700 meters (or 1 mile) and provides breathtaking 360-degree views. It’s recommended to start as early as 4 a.m. to reach the peak in time for sunrise. This hike is relatively easy with well-marked paths, allowing all types of visitors the opportunity to enjoy scenic, bird’s-eye views of Bali.

 

Yoga in Ubu

Bali has a long history of involvement with Yoga. Although Indonesia is considered a Muslim country, Bali is an exception as most of its population practices Hinduism and considers Yoga a staple part of their religion and culture. In the small mountain village of Ubud, yoga has been practiced for hundreds of years and continues to this day to be the mecca of yoga for Bali. The Yoga Barn is Ubud’s most popular yoga practice located among beautiful mountain scenery and lush green rice fields. It’s the perfect place to unwind and connect your mind and body and soul.

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