A Private Day Tour To Explore North Part of Bali

If you’re dreaming of escaping Bali’s busy southern beaches and diving into the quieter, more traditional side of the island, this private day tour of North Bali offers just that. It’s tailored for travelers who want to see stunning sights without the hassle of planning each stop, all while enjoying the comfort of a private driver and a flexible schedule.

What attracts many is the chance to visit iconic sites like Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, combined with hidden gems such as Leke-leke Waterfall. Plus, the price—about $86 per group of up to four—makes this a surprisingly affordable way to experience Bali’s lush landscapes and cultural highlights.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is quite full, lasting about 8 to 10 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy day of sightseeing. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced experience, you might find this a bit rushed. But if you love hitting the highlights with an expert guide and plenty of photo opportunities, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to explore beyond Bali’s more touristy spots, especially those interested in photography, nature, and Balinese culture.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience with an English-speaking driver and personalized attention
• Stunning scenic stops including temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, and lakes
• Great value at $86 for a full-day tour for up to four people
• Photo assistance from your driver, making sure you capture your Bali memories
• Includes transportation, petrol, parking, and water — no hidden fees
• Lunch, entry fees, and shopping are not included, allowing you to customize your day

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the North Bali Private Tour

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

This tour is a curated journey through Bali’s peaceful northern landscapes. With a dedicated driver at the wheel, you’ll move comfortably from site to site, enjoying the scenery and learning about each place’s significance. You’ll get a taste of Bali’s spiritual side, its agricultural traditions, and natural beauty—all in one day.

The 10-hour length offers enough time to visit each spot without feeling overly rushed, although it’s a tight schedule. The private nature means you can ask your driver to linger longer at spots you love or skip one if you prefer to focus on others.

Visiting Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Your first stop is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, often called one of Bali’s most picturesque temples. Perched on the edge of Lake Beratan, it looks like it’s floating on the water, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light. This water temple isn’t just a pretty picture; it’s a symbol of Balinese water management and spiritual life.

Travelers note that this spot “offers stunning lake and mountain views,” perfect for photography. The temple’s traditional architecture, with multi-tiered shrines, adds to its charm. Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes here, enough to walk around and enjoy the scenery.

Handara Gate: The Iconic Photo Spot

Next, you’ll visit Handara Gate, a major Bali photo spot, located at the entrance of the Handara Golf & Resort. Its intricate Balinese architecture framed by lush greenery makes for an ideal Instagram shot. The gate’s popularity is undeniable, with many travelers commenting on the “beautiful architecture” and “scenic backdrop.”

While it’s a short stop—generally about 15–20 minutes—its visual impact is significant. The driver can help you get the perfect shot, making this a highlight for photography lovers. Keep in mind, the area can be busy, so early visits can sometimes offer quieter moments.

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Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: A UNESCO Heritage Site

One of the tour’s standouts is the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. These expansive, terraced fields are a testament to Bali’s traditional Subak irrigation system, which UNESCO recognizes for its remarkable preservation.

Walking through the terraces, you’ll notice the intricate water channels and the lush greenery that stretches as far as the eye can see. The views are truly captivating—ideal for photos or simply soaking in Bali’s farming traditions. Be prepared to spend at least 45 minutes here, the perfect chance to walk, take photos, or just breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Leke-leke Waterfall: A Hidden Gem

For nature lovers, Leke-leke Waterfall offers a chance to see Bali’s more untouched natural side. This waterfall is smaller and more secluded than some other Bali falls, but that’s part of its charm. The water flows gently into a shallow pool, surrounded by dense greenery, giving a cinematic jungle feel.

Travelers describe it as “like stepping into a scene from a jungle film,” with lush forest all around. The walk to the waterfall can be an adventure in itself, with some uneven steps and muddy patches, so good footwear is recommended. Expect around 30 minutes here, but you might linger longer if you want to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Wanagiri Twin Lake View: Panoramic Highpoint

Your final stop is Wanagiri Twin Lake View, offering panoramic vistas of Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. This scenic lookout provides sweeping views of the twin lakes amid highland forests, making it a perfect spot for sunset or just a moment of awe.

This spot is often praised for its “breathtaking views” and the opportunity to capture stunning photos. You’ll likely spend around 20–30 minutes here, enough for a quick walk around and photo-taking.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The Ride and Group Size

Traveling in a private car means you won’t be jostling with crowds, and the driver’s experience ensures smooth navigation through Bali’s sometimes narrow roads. The group is limited to four people, making the experience intimate and manageable.

The price—$86 per group—includes the driver, petrol, parking fees, and mineral water, which adds up to good value considering the all-day service. You only pay extra for meals, entry tickets, or shopping.

Timing and Flexibility

Check the availability for your preferred start time—this tour lasts 8 to 10 hours, and the driver can help adjust the schedule. Early starts tend to avoid crowds at popular sites, especially at Ulun Danu Beratan and Handara Gate.

What’s Not Included

Lunch, entrance tickets, and shopping costs are not included. This offers flexibility but also means you should plan a budget for meals and entries. Many travelers bring snacks or plan a stop at a local warung (small eatery) for authentic Balinese food.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a full day of sightseeing, are comfortable with some walking, and relish scenic views and cultural sites. It’s not ideal for those seeking a very relaxed pace, as the itinerary is packed.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private Bali North tour offers a well-balanced mix of nature, culture, and photo opportunities. We loved the way it showcases Bali’s less crowded but incredibly beautiful sites, making it perfect for travelers eager to go beyond the usual beach scene.

The added benefit of an English-speaking driver helping you snap photos and providing insights is invaluable, especially if you want to focus on enjoying rather than navigating. The cost provides good value for a full-day, personalized experience, especially considering the scenic diversity.

The main drawback? It’s a full, potentially tiring day, and the price excludes entrance fees and meals. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or are on a tight budget, you might want to plan additional spending.

This experience is best for curious, active travelers who love stunning vistas, cultural sights, and the convenience of a private guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for small children?
Yes, as long as your children are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking. The itinerary involves some walking and uneven paths, especially at the waterfall.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, your driver can assist in adjusting the schedule if needed, but the main stops are fixed based on the tour description.

How early should I start?
Check availability for starting times; early starts can help beat crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially at the waterfalls.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You have the flexibility to choose where and when to eat, allowing for local food experiences or quick snacks.

Does the price include entrance fees?
No, entrance tickets are not included, so budget extra for that. Your driver can advise on ticket prices and where to buy them.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The scenic locations and photo assistance from your driver make this tour ideal for capturing Bali’s beauty.

How much walking is involved?
Most stops involve some walking—at the rice terraces, waterfall, and viewpoint—but it’s manageable for most travelers in good health.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Availability depends on the day, so it’s best to check and reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

This private North Bali tour provides a wonderful way to see the island’s quieter, more authentic side. With scenic views, cultural sites, and natural waterfalls, it offers a well-rounded experience perfect for those craving picture-perfect moments and cultural insights without the hassle of planning.

The personalized service, combined with good value for the full-day adventure, makes it an attractive choice for small groups or families. Keep in mind the full schedule and potential extra costs—planning ahead will ensure you make the most of this memorable trip.

In the end, if you’re eager to explore Bali’s lush, serene landscape and capture some stunning photos, this tour will leave you with lasting memories of Bali’s natural and cultural wonders.

Remember: Always check the latest availability and confirm what’s included before booking. Whether you’re after a picture-perfect day or an in-depth exploration of Bali’s north, this tour offers an excellent introduction.

You can check availability for your dates here: