Saba Beach: Horse Riding & Turtle Release Experience

If you’re looking for a day in Bali that combines scenic ocean views, meaningful conservation efforts, and a taste of local culture, this tour might just be the right fit. Offering a blend of horseback riding on the beach, an educational sea turtle release, a visit to a hidden waterfall, and a stop at a local coffee plantation, it’s designed for travelers eager to connect with Bali’s natural and cultural charm.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure with learning—you get to trot along Bali’s stunning Saba Beach, then deepen your understanding of sea turtle conservation efforts. Plus, the chance to visit a secret waterfall adds a refreshing touch of wild Bali. One possible downside? The tour’s full-day duration and multiple stops might feel a bit rushed if you’re not used to early mornings or long excursions.

This tour works best for active travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, wildlife, and cultural insights but may not be ideal for those with mobility issues or young children under one year. Overall, it’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive, memorable day out that reflects Bali’s natural beauty and ongoing conservation efforts.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines scenic riding, wildlife education, and nature exploration.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides enhance the experience with local knowledge.
• Value for Price: At $107, it includes transportation, entrance fees, and activities, offering good value.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple pickup points and the option to reserve and pay later.
• Seasonal Variability: Turtle release depends on season and availability.
• Physical Activity: Suitable for those comfortable with moderate activity, but not for mobility-impaired travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup & Horseback Riding on Saba Beach

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup from several central Bali locations such as Ubud, Kuta, and Denpasar. The tour typically lasts around eight hours, fitting neatly into a full-day itinerary. The first highlight is the horse riding along Saba Beach, where you’ll feel the warm sun, hear the gentle surf, and see stunning coastal views. The ride lasts about an hour, and guides are usually friendly and knowledgeable, making sure everyone feels comfortable.

Travelers have raved about how the guides actively engage with guests—one remarked, “Wayan was an absolutely fantastic tour guide and driver for us, making sure we were enjoying ourselves while also joining in activities.” That friendly, personal touch makes a big difference, especially when balancing the fun and safety of riding on uneven sand.

Learning About Sea Turtle Conservation

After the ride, you’ll visit the Saba Asri Sea Turtle Conservation, where a guided tour introduces you to the life cycle and protection efforts for sea turtles. The focus here is on education—understanding the importance of conserving these gentle creatures and their habitats.

The highlight at this stop is the release of baby turtles into the ocean. This is a touching and memorable part of the day, and many visitors find it surprisingly emotional. As one reviewer put it, “The turtle release was just magical,” and that sense of giving back to nature adds a special dimension to your Bali visit.

However, it’s worth noting that turtle releases are seasonal and depend on availability, so your experience might vary slightly depending on the time of year.

Discovering Tegenungan Waterfall

Next, you’ll head to a hidden waterfall—a true find for nature lovers. The Tegenungan Waterfall is a lush, scenic spot where you can walk, take photos, and relax amidst Bali’s verdant greenery. The guided tour here lasts about 1.5 hours, which leaves plenty of time for photo ops and enjoying the cool mist of the water.

Reviews describe this part as quite enjoyable, with one traveler mentioning that their guide was accommodating and gave them space to enjoy the scenery solo. It’s an excellent chance to cool off and connect with Bali’s more untouched natural side.

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Concluding with Coffee Culture

The final stop is at a local coffee plantation, where you’ll learn about traditional coffee-making processes. From picking beans to brewing, the experience offers a glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural tapestry. You’ll also get to sample some of Bali’s best brews—perfect for coffee lovers and those interested in local flavors.

Many reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the guides are during this segment, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

Transportation is included with hotel pickup and drop-off. The vehicle is comfortable, and the small group size ensures a more personal experience. Depending on your pick-up location, your driver may contact you beforehand to confirm times, and you’ll be picked up about 10-15 minutes before scheduled.

Duration & Timing

The 8-hour tour begins with pickup (check availability for specific start times), and includes all activities, so plan to start early. The itinerary is tightly packed, but each stop is designed to be manageable and not overly rushed.

Cost & Value

At $107 per person, the price covers guiding services, entrance fees, activity equipment, small refreshments, and an educational certificate—a fair value considering the inclusion of hotel transport and the effort to blend adventure with education. No lunch is included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

What to Bring

Comfortable clothes and flip-flops are recommended for the beach and waterfall. Cash is useful for souvenirs or extra snacks, and personal medications should be on hand. Don’t forget a garbage bag—keeping Bali clean is everyone’s job.

Considerations & Limitations

This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, babies under one year, or those over 200 lbs/91 kg or 70 years old. Weather can also impact activities, especially outdoor ones like the waterfall and turtle release.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a very positive picture. Guests consistently praise knowledgeable guides like Wayan and Ajik, who go above and beyond to make the day enjoyable. The stunning views along the beach and at the waterfall are also a common highlight.

One reviewer noted, “Letting the turtles loose was super cute, and it was great to get an introduction to the world of turtles first.” In another, “The horseback riding on the beach was perfect,” exemplifying how memorable these moments are.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, wildlife, and culture. It’s ideal if you’re looking for an authentic encounter with Bali’s natural beauty and want to support conservation efforts.

However, if you’re seeking a very relaxed day or have mobility limitations, this may not be the best fit. Also, if you are traveling with very young children or seniors over 70, you might want to look for alternatives.

Final Thoughts

In Bali, this tour offers an excellent way to blend scenic beauty, education, and fun into one memorable day. From the romantic shoreline horseback ride to the heartwarming turtle release, and the discovery of a hidden waterfall, you’ll experience many facets of Bali’s natural environment.

The guides’ local expertise and the well-organized itinerary ensure you get value for your money, making it an experience that will stay with you long after your trip ends. Whether you’re an animal lover, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer, this tour hits many notes without feeling rushed or superficial.

For those wanting to see Bali beyond the usual tourist spots, this could be exactly the kind of authentic, enriching experience you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from several locations, with drivers generally contacting you beforehand to confirm timing.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect around 8 hours, making it a full-day activity packed with diverse experiences.

What is the price and what does it include?
The tour costs $107 per person and includes professional guides, entrance and activity fees, transport, small refreshments, and an activity certificate.

Can I participate if I can’t ride a horse?
Since horseback riding is a core part of the experience, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity. Not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Are the turtle releases seasonal?
Yes, the availability of turtle releases depends on the season and conservation program schedules.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat afterward.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, meaningful glimpse into Bali’s stunning coastlines, wildlife, and culture. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to enjoy beautiful scenery, learn about conservation, and take home lifelong memories—all within a comfortable, guided setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: