Bali: Sidemen Trekking with Besakih Temple Tour/Rafting

If you’re eager to see Bali beyond its beaches and busy tourist spots, a day exploring the Sidemen Valley offers a genuine taste of rural Bali. This tour combines trekking through lush rice terraces, visiting cultural sites, and ending with an exhilarating rafting adventure. It’s designed for travelers craving a connection with traditional Balinese life amid stunning landscapes.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to walk through rice paddies that are still cultivated using age-old irrigation techniques—an authentic window into local life. Second, the guide’s deep knowledge enriches the experience, making the history and customs of the area come alive. On the flip side, the trek involves some uphill and downhill walking, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. Still, if you’re up for a full day of culture and scenic beauty, this tour ticks many boxes for an authentic Bali adventure.

This experience is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy walking and are comfortable spending a few hours outdoors. It’s perfect for those wanting to see Bali’s countryside, learn about irrigation systems, and get a feel for local village life—all wrapped into a single, well-rounded day.

Key Points

• Authentic Bali: Offers a genuine glimpse into rural life, rice farming, and traditional irrigation.
• Scenic Views: Stunning vistas of Mt. Agung and rice terraces during the trek and lunch.
• Cultural Insight: Visits to local villages and temples for a deeper understanding of Balinese traditions.
• Active Day: Moderate walking through challenging terrains like rice paddies and narrow bridges.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the landscape and local culture.
• Affordable Value: For $69, you get transportation, a guide, lunch, and a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Walk Through Bali’s Heartland

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable van for about 1.5 hours toward the eastern Bali region. This drive alone is worth mentioning—you’re treated to glimpses of Bali’s lush greenery and traditional villages, setting the tone for a day immersed in local life.

Strolling through Sidemen Village

The highlight of this tour is the walk through Sidemen Village, a charming spot that feels worlds away from Bali’s crowded tourist hubs. Here, you’ll take a break for coffee, tea, and a leisurely walk, soaking in the serene scenery of rice terraces and Mount Agung looming in the background. The walk lasts around three hours, with plenty of opportunities to observe local farmers plowing fields, planting seeds, and tending to their crops.

What travelers love is the chance to see varieties of plantation and understand how traditional irrigation systems, especially the Subak, operate—an age-old water management system unique to Bali. The tour passes through Beteng, the most popular Subak, which offers insight into this elaborate method of rice cultivation. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way our guide shared his knowledge of Sidemen and the rice terraces,” emphasizing how informative and engaging these explanations are.

Walking the Rice Paddies

The trek includes walking along unmarked paths across rice paddies, which can be uneven and challenging. We appreciated the opportunity to see local farmers at work—from plowing to harvesting—offering an authentic glimpse into their daily routines. The terrain involves some uphill and downhill sections and crossing a hanging wooden bridge designed for both motorbikes and pedestrians, adding a bit of adventure.

The scenery is breathtaking; the lush green paddies stretch toward the majestic Mount Agung, framing the landscape with natural grandeur. It’s a real privilege to witness this living landscape, especially since it’s still actively cultivated using traditional methods.

Visiting Temples and Villages

Along the way, the group passes by local temples used for prayer, which underscores the spiritual importance of rice farming communities. These quiet spots offer insight into Balinese Hindu traditions, and your guide will likely share stories and context about their significance.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Final Destination: Muncan Village

The trek concludes in Muncan Village, where you’ll hop into a vehicle for a scenic drive to a local restaurant nestled among rice fields with impressive views of Mount Agung. Here, a well-deserved lunch awaits—typically featuring local dishes with a view, making for a perfect meal after a morning of walking.

The Adventure Continues: Rafting

While the initial description mentions rafting, specific details about the activity are sparse, but it’s included as part of the overall experience. You can expect to finish your tour with an optional or included rafting segment—an exciting way to cool off and enjoy Bali’s waterways.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $69 per person, which for a full day of activity, transport, lunch, and guided insights, offers solid value. Plus, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, mineral water, and an English-speaking guide—all important for a hassle-free experience.

The tour operates for one day only, so it’s crucial to check the availability and starting times beforehand. Booking in advance is recommended, especially since small groups or private options are available, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What to Bring and Considerations

Packing a sun hat, long pants, a jacket, and swimwear (if you plan to swim after rafting) is advisable. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues, such as back or heart problems. It’s physically moderate, involving walking on uneven terrain, so be prepared for some effort.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

This experience is lauded for showcasing real Bali—not the touristy façade, but genuine rural life. One traveler raved about the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, noting, “I loved hearing you share your knowledge of Sidemen and its culture.” Such comments highlight how guides make the difference, turning a simple trek into an educational journey.

The lunch overlooking rice terraces adds a memorable touch, connecting you visually and gastronomically to the land. It’s a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries, fortified by a delicious meal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy walking and cultural exploration, this tour immerses you in Bali’s countryside and traditions. It’s also ideal for those wanting a more authentic, less commercial experience of Bali’s rice terraces and rural villages. If you appreciate scenic views, local craftsmanship, and traditional irrigation systems, this day out delivers.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a mostly relaxed, less physically demanding visit, this might not be the best fit. The trek involves some challenging terrain and uphill walking, so it’s best suited for active, curious travelers.

The Sum Up

This Bali day tour strikes a fine balance between adventure, culture, and scenery. It’s a great way to step outside the typical beach scene and see a side of Bali where local life, ancient traditions, and stunning landscapes blend seamlessly. For $69, you’re getting not just a walk through rice paddies but an immersive experience with expert guides who bring Bali’s history and culture alive.

If your travel style leans toward authenticity, outdoor activity, and learning about local traditions, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially appealing if you want to combine a scenic trek with cultural insight and a chance to enjoy Bali’s beautiful rural scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics convenient.

How long is the drive to Sidemen?
The van trip lasts approximately 1.5 hours each way.

What is the main focus of the trek?
The walk emphasizes rice terraces, irrigation systems, and local villages, offering a genuine look at rural Bali.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a local lunch with scenic views is included after the trek.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking on uneven terrain and some uphill sections, so it’s best for children used to walking.

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

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
The guide speaks English.

Are small groups available?
Yes, private or small group options are offered for a more personalized experience.

Will I get to see Mt. Agung?
Absolutely, the landscape offers beautiful views of Mount Agung, especially from the lunch spot.

What should I bring?
Sun protection (hat), long pants, a jacket, towel, and swimwear if planning to swim during rafting.

This tour offers a genuine slice of Bali, blending scenic beauty with cultural richness, all wrapped in a manageable 1-day adventure. It’s best for active travelers eager to understand Bali’s agricultural roots and village life—a memorable way to step into the island’s heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: