The Gate of Heaven Tour by VW Safari Classic Car

When it comes to exploring Bali’s stunning east, a tour that combines scenic views, cultural highlights, and a touch of vintage fun can make for a memorable day. The Gate of Heaven Tour by VW Safari Classic Car offers exactly that—an opportunity to see some of Bali’s most iconic sights from the comfort and style of a classic open-top Volkswagen. While the experience might not be perfect for everyone, it’s a charming way to soak in Bali’s natural beauty and traditional culture.

What we especially like about this tour is its focus on authentic scenic views and the novelty of cruising in a vintage VW “Thing,” which adds a little adventure to the day. The inclusion of Lempuyang Temple, often called the “Gate of Heaven,” provides one of Bali’s most photographed and spiritually significant stops. Plus, the chance to relax at Tirta Gangga Water Garden and by Virgin Beach means you get a well-rounded taste of east Bali’s highlights.

One potential downside to consider is the lack of a dedicated tour guide explaining the sites—some travelers feel it’s more about the ride than about in-depth learning. If you’re looking for a more educational or guided experience, this might not be your best fit. However, for those wanting a comfortable, scenic adventure with some great photo opportunities and local flavor, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, love scenic drives, and want to see Bali’s east in style—especially those who enjoy vintage vehicles and beautiful landscapes. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving an authentic, laid-back day out.

Key Points

• Vintage VW Safari Car: Enjoy Bali’s landscapes from an open-top classic vehicle, perfect for scenic photo ops.
• Spectacular Sites: Visit the famous Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga Water Garden, Virgin Beach, and Tenganan.
• All-Inclusive: Price covers entrance fees, a traditional Indonesian lunch, driver, petrol, parking, taxes, and service charges.
• Flexible & Private: Tour is designed for private groups with flexible timing and pickup options from multiple locations.
• Limited Guided Commentary: Some reviews note the experience is more about transportation than detailed explanations.
• Best for Scenic Lovers: Ideal for those who want stunning views and leisurely exploration rather than in-depth historical or cultural narration.

Imagine cruising through sleepy Balinese villages, rice terraces, and lush landscapes with the wind gently blowing through your hair — that’s exactly what the VW Safari Classic Car promises. The open-top vehicle is more than just transportation; it’s an experience in itself, offering 360-degree views of Bali’s natural beauty when the sun is shining. It’s a slow, relaxed way to absorb the environment around you, perfect for photographers and lovers of scenic vistas.

The tour begins with your pickup from one of 13 different locations, ranging from Seminyak and Ubud to Uluwatu and Sanur. The flexibility is convenient, letting you choose a pickup closer to your accommodation. Once on board, the driver — who is a professional English speaker — sets the tone for a comfortable journey, providing some local insights along the way, but with the expectation that this is mostly a scenic ride rather than a guided educational tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting Lempuyang Temple: The “Gate of Heaven”

Your first major stop is the Lempuyang Temple, arguably the star of this trip. Known for its dramatic gates framing Mount Agung in the distance, this temple is a must-visit for stunning photos and a spiritual experience. Expect to spend around 2 hours here, which gives you enough time to explore the complex, take photos, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Reviews highlight this as a “super educational” and visually captivating site. However, be prepared for some crowds, especially at peak times. The ascent to the temple involves stairs, but the effort is worth it for the views and the chance to see one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks.

Tirta Gangga Water Garden: An Ornamental Oasis

Next, you’ll visit Tirta Gangga, a water palace renowned for its decorative ponds, statues, and lush gardens. In about an hour, you can stroll through the spacious grounds, snap photos of the intricate architecture, and enjoy the tranquil environment. Many find Tirta Gangga a peaceful counterpoint to the more bustling temples, and some reviews appreciate the chance to relax here.

Virgin Beach: Beachside Relaxation

After a cultural morning, the tour continues to Virgin Beach for a one-hour visit. This stretch of white sand, fringed with rocky outcroppings and calm waters, offers a welcome break. Travelers can dip their toes in the water, lounge on the sand, or capture the scenic coastline. While some find the beach tranquil and beautiful, others note that with only an hour, the visit is more about a quick refresh than a full day at the beach.

Tenganan Traditional Village

The last stop is Tenganan, a traditional Balinese village renowned for its unique culture and crafts. Here, you’ll spend about an hour wandering local markets and observing traditional weaving and other cottage industries. It gives a glimpse into Bali’s rural life, though some guests may find this stop less engaging if they prefer more dynamic attractions.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s all-inclusive price of $83 per person covers quite a bit: entrance tickets, a traditional Indonesian set menu lunch, mineral water, petrol, parking, taxes, and a professional driver. This makes it easy to budget, with no hidden costs, and allows you to relax without constantly reaching for your wallet.

However, alcoholic beverages and sodas are not included, so if you want a cold drink during the day, you’ll need to purchase it separately. Personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional snacks aren’t covered either.

Transportation

The open-top VW Safari is the highlight for many. Its vintage charm offers stunning photo opportunities and the feeling of stepping back in time. The vehicle is spacious enough for a small private group, making it a comfortable ride, especially in good weather. Keep in mind, the tour is designed for private groups, which means a more personalized experience without the hustle of larger bus tours.

Timing and Flexibility

You’ll need to check availability for your preferred start time, as the tour is valid for one day with flexible arrangements. Pickup is included, and the tour lasts around 6 hours, making it a full but relaxed day out. If you’re into planning, confirming the exact pickup time and ensuring your schedule matches will help maximize your experience.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

A few reviews mention that the tour feels more like a scenic transport service than an educational or deeply guided experience. One traveler noted, “it was okay, but I felt like I only paid for the car ride,” pointing out that there’s limited commentary or storytelling during the stops. If your goal is to learn intensely about each site, this might fall short.

But if your priority is stunning views, cultural highlights, and a fun vintage vehicle ride, this tour delivers that in spades. It’s great for travelers who prefer a relaxed, photo-friendly, and picturesque day rather than a formal history lesson.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a beautifully scenic, comfortable, and uniquely stylish way to see Bali’s east, this tour ticks many boxes. The vintage VW Safari makes the experience memorable, and the chosen stops offer a well-rounded look at cultural, natural, and beachside attractions.

The value is clear: all costs are covered upfront, and the flexibility in timing and pickups adds convenience. However, without a dedicated guide explaining each site, some travelers might find the experience lacking depth.

This tour is best for visual lovers, vintage vehicle enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace with plenty of photos and stunning scenery. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for in-depth historical narration or a fully guided cultural experience, but if you want a charming, scenic day with a touch of nostalgia—this tour might just be the perfect choice.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but it’s not wheelchair accessible and might be challenging for those with back problems due to stairs at some sites.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including all stops, with flexible start times based on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning views. Comfortable clothing is recommended for walking around the sites.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at booking.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance tickets?
No, entrance fees are included in the tour price.

Is alcohol allowed on the tour?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included and are not permitted during the tour.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers some flexibility, but the stops are fixed. Check with the provider if you have specific requests.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The open-top VW and scenic stops provide ample photo opportunities.

Is this a guided tour?
It includes a professional English-speaking driver, but it’s more about transportation and sightseeing than guided commentary.

In the end, the Gate of Heaven Tour by VW Safari Classic Car offers a charming, scenic way to explore Bali’s east—especially if vintage vehicles and beautiful vistas are your thing. Keep your expectations balanced, and you’ll enjoy a relaxed, memorable day in Bali’s stunning landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: