AWay From Home – Bali Village Tour

Rating: 5.0
Review Count: 15
Location: Ubud, Indonesia
Price: $189.00 per person
Duration: Approximately 2 days, 1 night
Supplier: AWay Wanderlust

Introduction

This 2-day private tour in Manggis offers a rare chance to step outside Bali’s bustling tourist spots and into the heart of local village life. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews suggest it’s an immersive experience that delivers a genuine taste of traditional Balinese culture.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to learn and participate in age-old customs like making arak and palm sugar. Second, the chance to enjoy home-cooked east Bali meals—authentic, flavorful, and served in a relaxed setting. Lastly, the chance to stay overnight in a natural, unspoiled environment, sleeping without air-conditioning and waking up to the sounds of village life.

One potential downside? It’s not suited for travelers uncomfortable with bugs, insects, or river bathing, nor does it cater to special dietary needs like vegan or gluten-free diets.

This experience is perfect for those who crave authentic cultural encounters, enjoy hands-on activities, and are open to a simple, yet deeply meaningful, adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Life: Live alongside a genuine Balinese family and participate in daily chores and traditions.
• Cultural Activities: Discover the process of making arak, palm sugar, and traditional offerings.
• Genuine Home-Cooked Meals: Four traditional east Bali dishes included, with an emphasis on local flavors and communal dining.
• Unique Accommodation: Stay in a traditional Balinese house with no air con, immersed in nature.
• Hands-On Experiences: From cooking classes to offering prayers, each activity is designed for full participation.
• Personalized Tours: Private transfers and small group settings ensure an intimate connection with the local community.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: A Day in Manggis Village

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel — whether you’re staying in Ubud, Sanur, or other top areas around Bali. The drive to Manggis, in east Bali, takes about an hour, giving you a scenic taste of Bali’s lush landscape en route.

Once in the village, your first highlight is a traditional Balinese breakfast. Expect local flavors served in a humble, community-style setting that’s far from touristy cafes. The reviews describe the food as authentic and satisfying, perfect for fueling your day.

Next, the tour takes you on a waterfall trek. The water here is often described as beautiful, with some reviewers mentioning scenic jungle walks that lead to hidden waterfalls—great for nature lovers wanting a break from the island’s beaches.

A highlight is the arak distillation process. You’ll learn how this traditional spirit is crafted, with tastings included. From reviews, it’s clear that the guide Gede, or Gede’s family, go out of their way to make guests feel welcomed and involved. Expect a warm, family-oriented vibe.

Following this, it’s time to recharge with a traditional Balinese lunch. The food, often described as delicious with home-style flavors, is a pivotal part of the experience, giving you the energy for the afternoon activities.

Afternoon activities include river bathing, which is both scenic and refreshing. Some reviews mention bathing in the river as a highlight, soaking in the tranquility and natural surroundings. Be prepared for outdoor bathing with minimal privacy—if that’s a concern, you can opt for the in-house bathroom instead.

Post-bath, the tour continues with making offerings and participating in a prayer ceremony. This hands-on activity involves learning how locals prepare for rituals, a detail praised by reviewers as genuine and respectful of tradition.

Later, the group gets involved in a Balinese cooking class. You’ll prepare your own rice and traditional dishes, culminating in a Balinese-style feast called Megibung. Reviewers mention the communal dining experience as a fun and authentic aspect, with plenty of laughter and sharing.

The night wraps up with a relaxed session of local arak tasting, combined with stories about culture and tradition. Guests have described this as a warm, social way to end the day, often staying up late chatting with local families.

Day 2: Deepening the Connection

Waking up early, you’ll enjoy a simple traditional breakfast—nothing fancy, but packed with local flavors. The morning then involves working alongside villagers—cutting grass, feeding cows, and learning how to produce brown sugar by hand. Multiple reviewers appreciated this hands-on approach, describing it as memorable and educational.

After your work, you’ll cool down by the river again before heading into the afternoon for another authentic Bali lunch. The food quality consistently impresses guests, who often mention the freshness and homemade taste.

Before departing, you’ll visit a coffee plantation for tasting local brews, adding a flavorful ending to your stay. This part of the tour is appreciated for its scenic views and the chance to sample Bali’s famous coffee varieties.

Finally, after farewells, the group departs for your hotel, enriched by a true understanding of Bali’s rural heartbeat.

Why the Price Reflects Value

At $189 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience that combines culture, authentic food, and unique activities. Reviewers repeatedly mention the personalized service, enthusiastic guides (Gede and Mira), and the opportunity to connect deeply with local families—elements that justifying the price.

The tour includes all meals, drinks, activities, and accommodations, ensuring no hidden costs. The private transfers from central Ubud and neighboring areas mean convenience and comfort, especially after a long day of activities.

Given the small group size and private nature, you’ll get plenty of attention and opportunities for meaningful interactions—something large group tours often lack. The food alone, involving a cooking class and four traditional meals, adds immense value, especially considering the depth of cultural exchange.

The Authenticity and Atmosphere

Guests repeatedly praise the warm hospitality of the host families. Staying overnight in a simple, traditional Balinese house means experiencing village life in its raw form—no air conditioning, no frills, just genuine living. The rooms are modest, about 2.5 by 2.5 meters, with only the essentials, but this rustic setup is part of the charm.

The tour is designed to highlight local customs—from offerings to prayers—and provides plenty of opportunities to participate. Reviewers have shared stories of joining Balinese ceremonies and feeling like part of the community.

Nature lovers will appreciate the jungle treks, river bathing, and scenic views, while culture enthusiasts will find the workshops on making offerings, arak, and palm sugar particularly enriching.

Practical Considerations

• The tour starts early at 6:00 am, so prepare for a full day.
• The accommodation is very basic, with no wardrobe or air conditioning, so pack accordingly.
• River bathing involves minimal privacy; if that’s uncomfortable, the in-house bathroom is available.
• The tour is not suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions, as no gluten-free or vegan options are provided.
• Be prepared for bugs, insects, and natural surroundings—reviewers suggest this isn’t for the insect-averse.
• The entire experience is private, perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking intimacy and personal attention.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous travelers, culture lovers, and those eager for genuine local experiences. If you enjoy hands-on activities, authentic meals, and staying in simple but welcoming accommodations, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s especially ideal for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Bali beyond the beaches and resorts.

However, if you prefer luxury amenities or require dietary accommodations, you might find this experience less suitable. Guests with insect sensitivities or discomfort with outdoor river bathing should also consider carefully.

The Sum Up

The AWay From Home Bali Village Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the island’s rural and cultural soul. You’ll leave with more than memories—you’ll have learned traditional crafts, shared meals with locals, and stayed in a setting that most travelers never glimpse.

This experience is truly about connection—to the land, the community, and its customs. Its value shines through the authentic activities, heartfelt hospitality, and the chance to see Bali from a different perspective.

If you’re craving a meaningful, immersive journey that highlights the real Bali’s simplicity and warmth, this tour could be your perfect escape from the tourist trail.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from Ubud, Sanur, Gianyar, Candidasa, and surrounding areas, making logistics hassle-free.

What is the tour duration? It lasts about two days, with an early start at 6:00 am and ending after the second day’s activities.

Are meals provided? Yes, all meals—two breakfasts, two lunches, and dinner—are included, featuring traditional east Bali dishes.

What about accommodations? You’ll stay overnight in a traditional Balinese house, approximately 2.5 by 2.5 meters, with basic furnishings and no air conditioning.

Can I participate in local ceremonies? Yes, guests have the opportunity to join prayers and ceremonies, adding to the cultural richness.

Is this tour suitable for children? While most travelers find it enriching, the outdoor nature, river bathing, and rustic setting may be less appealing for very young children or those sensitive to insects.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated? Not specifically; the tour does not provide gluten-free, vegan, or other specialized options, so plan accordingly.

In summary, this Bali village tour offers a rare, heartfelt peek into the island’s rural traditions, perfect for those seeking authenticity and meaningful cultural exchanges. With knowledgeable guides, stunning natural scenery, and delicious homemade food, it’s a journey that truly highlights the soul of Bali.