If you think Bali is just about sipping coconuts by the pool, you’re seriously missing out. The island has a bunch of stunning landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and experiences that will make you think it’s worth all the sunburn. From climbing a volcano before breakfast to watching fire dances at sunset, Bali is the kind of place that balances it all perfectly. If you’re wondering why to visit Bali, these highlights will give you the answer. Skip the beach club for now — here are five of the best tours in Bali you don’t want to miss!
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
Waking up at 2 AM might not sound like vacation goals, but trust me, climbing Mount Batur in the dark with only a flashlight and your questionable coordination is an experience you’ll brag about forever. The trek itself takes about two hours, and just when you’re ready to curse your life choices, the sun rises over the mountains and Lake Batur. Suddenly, it all feels like the best idea you’ve ever had (happened to me, lol).
You can book private Bali tours for this trek. Your guide will usually bring you a simple breakfast along the way. Nothing fancy, just boiled eggs cooked by the volcano’s steam (uh, volcano-cooked eggs are a thing). Wear decent shoes, bring a jacket, and maybe some coffee candy for energy. The trail is popular, so don’t expect a private hike, but honestly, that’s comforting if you’re a bit scared of the dark. Everyone’s out there together, huffing and puffing, waiting for that golden view.
Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fire Dance
Perched dramatically on a cliff 70 meters above the sea, Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s key cultural landmarks. If you go around sunset, you’ll get the full cinematic experience. The temple itself is stunning, but the real magic begins when the Kecak Fire Dance starts. Dozens of men chant in rhythm while dancers act out scenes from the Ramayana. It’s like an outdoor theater, but with a way much better backdrop than Broadway.
My personal advice: Arrive early to grab a good seat for the performance, and keep an eye on your belongings because Uluwatu’s monkeys are professional pickpockets (No, I’m not joking). A sarong is required to enter the temple, but don’t worry, they provide them at the gate. If you want to see Uluwatu’s cliffs from a different view, some operators even offer Bali helicopter tours nearby — definitely not your everyday temple visit. This is also one of the most popular stops for cultural tours Bali has to offer!
Ubud Rice Terraces & Swing
I bet you’ve seen this everywhere. In fact, Ubud rice terraces are probably the most Instagrammed spot in Bali. The rice terraces are green, wide, and beautiful to walk through. They are also a part of Bali’s traditional farming system called subak. Walking the small paths between the fields feels calm, and you’ll often see farmers at work.
If you want something more playful, try one of the big swings that send you flying over the terraces. I’m not a huge fan just because I’m scared of heights, but it’s nice for the photos, though! There are also small cafés nearby where you can sit with an iced coffee and enjoy the view. No wonder it’s listed among the best places to visit in Bali. Just expect a little mud on your shoes by the end.
Surfing in Canggu
Canggu is one of the best spots in Bali to learn surfing. While the pros head to Uluwatu or Padang Padang, Canggu is the spot where everyone (even beginners who can barely balance on a scooter) can give it a try. The waves are friendly for beginners, and there are plenty of surf schools ready to help.
Lessons usually start with some sand practice (aka flopping on the beach in front of strangers), but soon enough, you’ll be riding baby waves and looking pretty good. Even if you decide surfing isn’t for you, Canggu’s beaches are still a great hangout for sunsets, beach bars, and people-watching. You can even add Bali boat tours to your day if you want more time out on the water. Maybe just stay longer for a sip of coconut water, a plate of nasi goreng, and a sunset.
Traditional Balinese Cooking Class
Joining a cooking class is a great way to learn more about Balinese culture. Most classes start with a visit to the local market, where the teacher shows you local spices, vegetables, and fresh herbs. Then you cook dishes like satay, spicy sambal, and Balinese curry together.
The best part is eating what you’ve made at the end. Even if your chopping skills are terrible, the food still tastes good. Plus, you learn about the stories behind the dishes and why food is so important in Balinese life. It’s a culture you can taste, what’s better than that? And if food is your thing, you can also explore some of the best restaurants in Nusa Dua for another food adventure!
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Bali really has something for everyone. You can hike up a volcano, watch a traditional dance, swing over rice fields, catch your first wave, or join a cooking class with locals. These are great ideas for Bali for first timers, but they’re just as enjoyable if you’ve been before. From cultural tours in Bali to outdoor adventures, the island shows again and again why it’s one of the best places to visit. When planning your Bali tours, try to mix both fun and culture — you’ll go home with great memories!
