Bali: East Bali Highlights Private Tour

If you’re planning a day trip to discover the authentic charm of Bali’s east side, the East Bali Highlights Private Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty, spiritual sites, and cultural treasures. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary provided, it looks like an affordable way to experience some of Bali’s most iconic sights in a single day.

What we particularly like about this tour is its balance of scenic nature and cultural significance, all wrapped into a personalized experience with a knowledgeable local guide. The inclusion of snorkeling at the Blue Lagoon Beach and Tanjung Jepun is a definite highlight — it promises some of the clearest waters and vibrant marine life Bali has to offer. Plus, visiting the Pura Besakih Temple, known as the “Mother of All Temples,” provides an immersive spiritual experience that makes this tour feel meaningful rather than superficial.

A potential consideration is the full-day schedule—with up to 11 hours on the road and a packed itinerary, it might feel a bit rushed for some. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at each site might find this tour brisk. Still, for those eager to see a lot in one day and keen on a private, flexible guide, this tour suits adventurous travelers and first-time visitors alike.

This experience offers great value for a fraction of the cost of private tours in Bali, especially considering the personalized attention and inclusions like transportation, driver, and water. It’s best suited for curious explorers, snorkelers, and cultural enthusiasts who want an authentic, action-packed day without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Private Experience: At $41 per person, the tour provides great value for a comprehensive day showcasing east Bali’s top sights.
• Snorkeling Highlights: Two snorkeling sessions at Blue Lagoon Beach and Tanjung Jepun offer excellent marine viewing opportunities.
• Cultural & Spiritual Sites: Visiting Pura Besakih, Bali’s largest and most revered temple, and Tirta Ganga Water Palace gives insight into local traditions and architecture.
• Natural Beauty & Waterfalls: Gembleng Waterfall presents a lush, tranquil setting perfect for nature lovers.
• Flexible & Personalized: The private guide and small group size ensure a tailored experience and more attention.
• Full-Day Commitment: Expect an 8-11 hour journey, so be prepared for a busy day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel in Ubud, Candidasa, Mandira, Jasri, or Sidemen around 8:30 AM. The transportation is a new vehicle that can comfortably hold up to four passengers and their luggage, making for a smooth and comfortable ride. The driver, who speaks English, acts as both driver and guide, filling the day with local insights and practical tips.

The fact that unlimited mileage and petrol are included means there’s no worry about extra charges — just focus on the sights and sounds. The vehicle’s modernity and comfort are often praised in reviews, making this a hassle-free way to explore.

Blue Lagoon Beach & Snorkeling

The first stop at the Blue Lagoon Beach is a true highlight. This spot is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs — perfect for snorkeling. You’ll have about an hour here, giving you enough time to float among colorful fish and enjoy the tranquil setting. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see marine life like cuttlefish, angel fish, and moray eels, which can often be spotted near the reefs.

The second snorkeling session at Tanjung Jepun extends your underwater adventure. Here, the reef is just as inviting, and some reviews mention how the visuals are stunning. The chance to see diverse marine species makes it worthwhile, especially in such pristine waters.

Gembleng Waterfall & Nature Stops

After the underwater fun, the tour takes you inland to Gembleng Waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery and rice paddies, it’s an ideal spot to cool off, take photos, and appreciate Bali’s natural landscape. Many travelers mention the peacefulness of this waterfall, which offers a nice contrast to the busy beaches.

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Cultural & Religious Sites

Next, you’ll visit Pura Besakih, known as the “Mother of All Temples.” Clinging to the slopes of Mount Agung, this sprawling complex features stone terraces, towers, and sacred altars. It’s a significant spiritual site for Balinese Hindus, and the architecture and setting inspire awe. Reviewers note that the views of the volcano and surrounding countryside add to the experience.

Then, a stop at Tirta Ganga Water Palace provides a relaxing retreat with beautifully maintained gardens, fountains, and pools filled with sacred water. Built in 1948 by a Balinese king, it’s a tranquil place where you can appreciate the artistry and spiritual ambiance.

Lunch & Flexibility

A lunch break is included — details on the restaurant aren’t specified, but the itinerary suggests a convenient stop that allows you to recharge before continuing. Many travelers find this a welcome respite after a busy morning.

End of the Day

The tour concludes with the driver returning you to your hotel, often around 5 or 6 PM, depending on timing and traffic. The all-inclusive cost covers your driver, fuel, taxes, and water, which simplifies budgeting.

What Travelers Say

Based on reviews, visitors appreciate the well-organized nature of the tour and the personalized service of the guide. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the long day enjoyable and informative.” Others highlight how stunning the views at Pura Besakih and the waterfalls are, describing them as truly memorable moments.

Some mention the value for money, pointing out that the $41 fee includes so much — snorkeling, cultural sites, transportation — that it’s a real bargain compared to similar private tours. The small group size (max four participants) ensures more interaction and flexibility.

The snorkeling experiences get special praise, with travelers noting crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. A couple of reviews mention the possibility of spotting interesting creatures like moray eels, which adds an element of surprise.

Possible Drawbacks from Reviews

While most feedback is positive, some travelers mention a packed schedule that might feel rushed, especially if you want a relaxed pace at each site. The full-day length might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer less busy days or want to linger longer at certain stops.

The Practicalities: Value, Price, and What to Bring

At $41 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the inclusion of private transportation, a driver/guide, snorkeling gear, and entry to major sites. For budget travelers, it’s a cost-effective way to see a broad swath of east Bali’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple transport arrangements.

What to bring is straightforward: a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water. The tour explicitly discourages smoking, maintaining a respectful environment at spiritual sites.

The pick-up at 8:30 AM is convenient, and the tour is designed for small groups, enhancing the experience’s intimacy and flexibility. The activity is not suitable for non-swimmers, largely because of the snorkeling components.

The Sum Up

This East Bali Highlights Private Tour delivers genuine value for travelers eager to explore Bali’s natural and cultural richness without spending a fortune. The mix of crystal-clear snorkeling waters, majestic temples, and peaceful waterfalls offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to those curious about Bali’s diversity.

If you’re looking for a personalized, flexible day that balances adventure with culture, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for first-timers wanting to maximize their time or travelers who prefer a private guide to customize the day.

However, those seeking a more leisurely pace or wanting to linger longer at each site might find the schedule a bit full. Still, for most, the value, comfort, and variety justify the effort.

Ultimately, this tour is an excellent way to capture the spirit of East Bali in a single day — a journey that leaves many visitors with stories and photos that will remind them of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual soul.

FAQ

What is the price of this tour?
It costs $41 per person, which includes transportation, driver, fuel, taxes, insurance, and water.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 8 to 11 hours, starting around 8:30 AM.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pick-ups are available from Ubud, Candidasa, Mandira, Jasri, and Sidemen. Contact the provider for other areas.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Blue Lagoon Beach, Tanjung Jepun, Gembleng Waterfall, Pura Besakih Temple, and Tirta Ganga Water Palace.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling is part of the tour at Blue Lagoon Beach and Tanjung Jepun, with about an hour at each location.

How many people are in the group?
It’s a small group experience, limited to 4 participants for personalized service.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, snorkeling is part of the itinerary, so it’s not recommended for non-swimmers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is included, though specific details aren’t provided. It’s a good opportunity to rest and recharge.

In sum, the Bali East Bali Highlights Private Tour offers a thoughtfully curated day packed with natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun water activities—all at an accessible price point. Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of East Bali without the fuss of self-planning or multiple bookings.

You can check availability for your dates here: