Day 1: Arrive in Bali
After landing in Bali, head to Ubud, the cultural heart of the island. It’s a 1-2 hour drive, depending on traffic, through scenic rice terraces and charming villages.
Spend the day settling in. Wander around Ubud, where you’ll find a mix of temples, local markets, and serene cafes. You can even catch a traditional dance at Ubud Palace in the evening.
Keep it relaxed—grab some Balinese street food or try a local restaurant for dinner. You’re just getting started.
Day 2: Explore Ubud
Wake up early and visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, home to hundreds of playful monkeys and ancient temples. Go in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Later, head to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. These iconic fields are some of the most beautiful in Bali. Walk through the terraces and stop by a café overlooking the landscape.
End the day with a visit to Tirta Empul Temple, famous for its holy water baths. You can cleanse yourself in the spiritual waters, a tradition locals have been practicing for generations.
Day 3: Sidemen Valley & Relaxation
Escape the bustling streets of Ubud and head east to Sidemen Valley, an area less visited by tourists. It’s about 1.5 hours away.
Hike through the rice fields, visit local markets, or just unwind in this peaceful village. The views of Mount Agung in the background are stunning.
Take the rest of the day to relax by your guesthouse pool or explore the nearby countryside at a leisurely pace. Sometimes, the best travel moments come from slowing down.
Day 4: Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
Ready for an adventure? Start the day early—real early. You’ll get picked up at 2 AM for a sunrise trek up Mount Batur, one of Bali’s active volcanoes.
The trek takes about 2 hours, and once at the top, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking sunrise over the island. After soaking in the views, head back down for breakfast and a much-deserved rest.
In the afternoon, relax at the Toya Devasya Hot Springs to ease away sore muscles while enjoying lake views.
Day 5: Gili Islands
Take an early ferry from Bali to Gili Trawangan, one of the Gili Islands, which takes about 2 hours. Gili T is known for its vibrant nightlife, diving, and crystal-clear waters.
After arriving, spend the afternoon getting your bearings. Walk or cycle around the island (no cars here!) or dip into the water for some snorkeling.
As the day ends, catch a sunset at one of the island’s beach bars. Life here moves slower, and that’s just fine.
Day 6: Snorkeling or Diving in the Gili Islands
Snorkeling or diving is a must around the Gili Islands. You might even spot some turtles! Guided snorkeling trips are available everywhere, making it easy to join in.
If you’re up for diving, there are numerous dive shops offering courses and trips to nearby reefs.
Finish the day relaxing on the beach, a cocktail in hand, before enjoying seafood by the water for dinner. It’s a simple and perfect way to spend the evening.
Day 7: Exploring Lombok
Say goodbye to Gili Trawangan and catch a local boat to Lombok, Bali’s lesser-known sister island. You’ll get a more authentic experience here, far fewer tourists, and some amazing nature.
Start by visiting Senaru Village, where you can interact with locals and learn about their culture.
From there, visit the nearby Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. These hidden gems are just a short hike away and are well worth it!
Day 8: Kuta, Lombok
Head south to Kuta, Lombok. Yes, there’s another Kuta, but this one’s a lot quieter. You’re in for a treat with some of the best beaches in Indonesia.
Spend the day hopping between beaches like Tanjung Aan and Mawun Beach. They’re as beautiful as Bali’s beaches without the crowds.
In the evening, stroll through Kuta’s small town center and grab dinner at one of the chill local restaurants. Enjoy your time here, because it’s the perfect spot to ease into Lombok’s relaxed vibe.
Day 9: Surf or Explore More of Kuta
If you’re a surf lover, Kuta is a fantastic place to catch some waves. Not into surfing? No problem. You can rent a scooter and explore the landscape, full of rolling hills and untouched beaches.
Make sure to check out Bukit Merese Hill for some epic sunset views. The short hike offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Spend your last full day unwinding. Take it slow and enjoy the quiet before your trip starts to come to a close.
Day 10: Return to Bali for Departure
After breakfast, catch a flight or ferry back to Bali. The ferry takes about 2 hours, or a flight will get you there much faster.
If your flight isn’t until later, use your extra time to explore Seminyak or Kuta in Bali, do some last-minute shopping, or visit Waterbom Bali, a fun waterpark.
When you’re ready, head to the airport. Indonesia has incredible energy, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. You’ll be taking home unforgettable memories.
Final Thoughts
This 10-day itinerary gives you a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation across Bali, the Gili Islands, and Lombok. It’s the perfect balance between popular spots and lesser-known gems.
You’ve got flexibility, too. If you fall in love with one spot, stay longer. Or if you’re up for more exploring, there’s plenty more to discover in Indonesia, a country that always has more to share.
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