Bali: Dolphin Watching, Waterfall, Wanagiri and Ulun Danu

Planning a day in Bali that combines wildlife encounters, natural beauty, and cultural sights? This Bali tour offers a balanced mix of all three, giving travelers a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat, explore a secret waterfall, enjoy breathtaking lake views, and visit a stunning temple—all in one day. It’s designed for those craving an authentic taste of North Bali’s diverse scenery, without breaking the bank.

What we love about this experience is the early morning dolphin cruise—there’s something truly special about watching these playful creatures at sunrise. Plus, the visit to Banyumala Waterfall feels like uncovering a hidden treasure, and the panoramic photo opportunities at Wanagiri Hill are unbeatable. The one possible downside we note is that the schedule is quite packed, meaning you’ll need to get up early and keep pace with a busy itinerary. That said, if you’re eager to maximize your Bali trip and love varied experiences, this tour is a good pick.

Who will enjoy this? It’s perfect for travelers who want a full day of diverse sights, don’t mind an early start, and appreciate a blend of nature, culture, and wildlife. Families, couples, or solo explorers who enjoy discovering Bali’s lesser-touristed spots will find it especially rewarding.

Key Points

Early morning dolphin watching offers a magical start to the day.
Visiting Banyumala Waterfall provides a peaceful, refreshing natural escape.
Panoramic views at Wanagiri Hill give excellent photo opportunities.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple combines scenic beauty with cultural significance.
All-inclusive price of $86 delivers good value for a full-day adventure.
Private group ensures a more personalized experience and flexible pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

We’ll walk through what to expect from each leg of this tour, highlighting what makes it a worthwhile adventure—and what might be less ideal for some travelers.

Starting Early: The Pickup and Journey

The day kicks off bright and early, with hotel pickups at around 3:30 AM. While that’s not everyone’s favorite, it does mean you’ll maximize your daylight hours. The tour is designed for those who value seeing Bali’s sights at their most tranquil—dawn at Lovina Beach is especially peaceful. The ride to Lovina is in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the early start more comfortable, especially considering the tropical heat later in the day.

Dolphin Watching at Lovina Beach

The highlight for many is the two-hour boat ride to see dolphins in their natural environment. The traditional boat adds a genuine touch to the experience, and the early morning silence gives you a chance to really appreciate the surroundings. Guests report that dolphins often come close to the boat, surface multiple times, and sometimes jump out of the water. You’ll love the chance to snap photos as they come up for air—so bring your camera.

According to reviews, some travelers find the boat ride a bit crowded or busy, but most agree the chance to see dolphins in the wild is worth the early wake-up call. A few note that dolphin sightings can never be guaranteed, but the abundant wildlife and the scenic sea conditions make the effort worthwhile.

Banyumala Waterfall: Nature’s Hidden Gem

After the dolphin cruise, the tour heads inland to Banyumala Waterfall. This spot is known for its striking twin waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. It’s a peaceful oasis with a cool, refreshing atmosphere—perfect for a quick swim or just taking in the stunning scenery. The path to the waterfall is manageable but involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Guests have praised the serenity and beauty of this waterfall, often describing it as a “hidden paradise.” The water is cool but invigorating, making it a perfect spot to relax after the early morning start. Because it’s less commercialized than some other waterfalls, it feels more authentic and less crowded.

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Wanagiri Hill View Lake: Scenic Photo Stops

Next, the tour visits Wanagiri Hidden Hill, a popular vantage point for panoramic views of Lake Tamblingan and Lake Buyan. The views are spectacular, and the natural setting provides many good photo opportunities—so bring your camera.

Visitors appreciate the opportunities to take pictures at multiple spots with the lakes and lush hills in the background. Some reviews mention it’s a bit crowded at peak times, but generally, the scenery compensates for the crowds. It’s a great chance to pause, breathe, and soak in Bali’s lush landscape.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: A Cultural Icon

The last major stop is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, one of Bali’s most iconic sights. This floating temple on Lake Beratan is famous for its photogenic setting and spiritual ambiance. The temple complex is well-preserved, and the views of the lake and mountains add to its magic.

Reviews often highlight how beautiful the temple looks at different times of day, especially in the morning light. Expect about an hour here, enough to walk around, take photos, and appreciate its significance. The temple is a cultural symbol, and visiting it makes for a memorable conclusion to your day.

Bali’s Famous Lunch

The tour includes a Balinese lunch—a chance to enjoy local flavors in a relaxed setting. The meals are typically traditional Indonesian dishes, and guests report that the food is both tasty and satisfying. It’s a welcome break after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

The tour wraps up around 4 PM with hotel drop-offs in Ubud, Kuta, or Denpasar. While the early start may be tiring, the full day’s worth of sights and experiences often makes it worth the effort.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s balance of wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural sights makes it particularly appealing. Watching dolphins at sunrise is a unique experience—most tours don’t include such an authentic wildlife encounter early in the morning. The hidden Banyumala Waterfall offers a quiet, scenic escape, unlike more crowded waterfalls.

The scenic stops at Wanagiri Hill and the Ulun Danu Temple provide memorable photo ops and cultural insights. The inclusion of lunch and private transportation simplifies logistics, making this a great value for a full-day adventure.

Transport and Group Size

The tour is conducted in a private group, ensuring a more personalized experience. The private car with good A/C keeps you comfortable during transfers, especially important given Bali’s tropical climate. The included driver is generally knowledgeable, adding a layer of local insight without overwhelming.

Cost and Value

At $86 per person, the price covers all major entrance fees, a shared dolphin boat ride, lunch, mineral water, and transportation. When you consider the variety of sights packed into this day, it offers solid value—especially compared to arranging each element separately.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re an early riser eager to see dolphins in the wild, this tour is ideal. Nature lovers will enjoy the hidden waterfall and scenic lake views, while culture buffs will appreciate the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a diverse experience in one day without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

Families with kids might find the early start challenging but rewarding, especially if they enjoy wildlife and natural scenery. Solo travelers and couples looking for an active, varied day will also find plenty to love.

Final Thoughts

This Bali tour offers an engaging and rewarding way to see some of the island’s most distinctive sights in a single day. The early dolphin watching is a highlight—an experience many travelers find unforgettable. Coupled with the serene waterfall, spectacular viewpoints, and iconic temple, it’s a tour that captures Bali’s diverse charm.

The value for money is clear, given the number of highlights included, and the private group setting adds a personalized touch. While the schedule is tight and the early wake-up might not suit everyone, for those who want a comprehensive Bali experience, it’s hard to beat this combination.

If you’re after a day that blends wildlife, natural beauty, and culture, and you don’t mind an early start, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins at around 3:30 AM from your hotel lobby, depending on your location.

Is it suitable for children?
While not specifically stated, the early start and busy schedule might be less ideal for very young children. It’s best for older kids who enjoy active outings.

How long is the dolphin boat ride?
The dolphin watch lasts approximately 2 hours from the start of the boat ride.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and lightweight clothes are recommended. Don’t forget your hat and sunscreen for outdoor stops.

What is included in the price?
Private A/C transport, petrol, parking, an English-speaking driver, entrance fees, shared boat ride, lunch, and mineral water.

Is the tour flexible?
It’s a fixed itinerary, but it is a private group—so the guide can sometimes accommodate minor adjustments.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to early morning start and active sightseeing.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
The data doesn’t specify, but typically local Indonesian lunches can accommodate dietary preferences if notified in advance.

How do I book this tour?
Through GetYourGuide or directly via the tour provider, Asia Bali Tour, with flexible reservation and pay-later options.

In summary, this Bali day tour packs a lot into one trip—wildlife, waterfalls, mountain views, and temples—all in a comfortable, private setting. It’s perfect for those wanting to see North Bali’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop. The early start might be demanding, but the unique experiences and stunning sights make it a worthwhile adventure for most eager explorers.

You can check availability for your dates here: