Bali Kintamani Tours

This Bali Kintamani tour is often praised for its comprehensive approach to showcasing Bali’s most captivating sights—combining art, tradition, natural beauty, and spiritual sites into a full day of exploration. Although I haven’t personally experienced this exact itinerary, reviews indicate it offers a well-rounded snapshot of Bali’s diverse charm, all at an accessible price point of just $35 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it balances cultural insights with spectacular scenery—think temples, rice terraces, and a volcano. Second, the inclusion of visits to arts villages and local crafts gives travelers a chance to connect with Bali’s artistic soul. Third, the value is hard to beat when considering the number of stops and the personalized service, including an English-speaking driver. The only potential drawback? The day can be quite packed, so if you prefer a slow pace or more time at each site, you might find it a little rushed.

This tour suits travelers who want a snapshot of Bali’s essence in a single day—those eager to see temples, experience local crafts, and enjoy stunning landscapes without the stress of planning each stop. If you’re after a well-organized, culturally rich experience with good value, this might be your ideal Bali day trip.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of cultural, natural, and spiritual sights
• All-inclusive private transportation with fuel covered
• Visits to major temples, a volcano, and arts villages
• Inexpensive price point for a full day of sightseeing
• Guided by friendly, knowledgeable English-speaking drivers
• Some reviewers suggest it’s a busy schedule, so prepare for a full day

An In-Depth Look at Bali Kintamani Tours

The Experience Starts with Traditional Dance and Artistic Insights

The tour kicks off with a visit to watch the Barong & Kris Dance, a quintessential Balinese performance that tells the myth of the fight between good and evil. The dance features the magical protector of the villages, the Barong, with his ornate fanged mask and flowing mane, battling Rangda, the witch of darkness. Reviewers highlight how seriously Balinese locals take these performances, seeing them as more than mere entertainment—more like a living expression of their beliefs.

One reviewer praised the guide Wayan for his capable and caring attitude, which made the performance even more engaging. The dance isn’t just about watching; it’s about feeling the spiritual energy and cultural significance behind each move.

Exploring Ubud’s Artistic Heart

Next, the tour makes a stop in Ubud, the well-known arts hub of Bali. Here, you’ll visit fine art galleries showcasing traditional and Western-influenced paintings, including styles from artists like Blanco and Snel. Interestingly, some villages like Batuan have maintained their traditional painting styles—dark, crowded scenes filled with legendary figures, monsters, and daily life themes—unaffected by Western influence. This contrast makes for a fascinating insight into Bali’s evolving artistic landscape.

Adding to the culture, a brief visit to Celuk Silver Village offers a taste of Bali’s renowned jewelry craftsmanship. Travelers can even participate in a short jewelry-making class, adding a practical and memorable touch to the day.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights at Kintamani Highland

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the visit to Kintamani, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur from the Penelokan viewpoint. The landscape here is dramatic: black volcanic rock juxtaposed with lush greenery and expansive water below. The cool mountain air offers a refreshing break from the Bali heat, and the scenery is a favorite among visitors, as one reviewer noted, “You can see the rural landscapes close to the lake, with views that are simply stunning.”

On a clear day, you’ll get a perfect vantage point to appreciate Bali’s volcanic activity and natural beauty. This stop offers a peaceful contrast to the busy temples and art villages, making it a moment to breathe and take in Bali’s wild, untouched side.

Coffee and Spiritual Cleansing

From the highlands, the tour proceeds to a Coffee Luwak Plantation—a must for coffee aficionados curious about Bali’s unique civet coffee. While some reviews remark that the plantation visit is interesting but somewhat mediocre, it still provides insight into Bali’s coffee culture and the chance to taste freshly brewed local coffee.

Next up is a visit to Tirta Empul Temple, a sacred site famed for its holy spring waters believed to have healing properties. The temple’s long history—over a thousand years—adds a spiritual depth that travelers find meaningful. The main attraction is the rectangular pool fed by the spring, where visitors often participate in ceremonial bathing. The temple’s continued use for health and prosperity rites shows how deeply spiritual traditions are woven into Bali’s daily life.

The Final Stop: Goa Gajah — The Elephant Cave

Ending the day, the tour visits Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, an ancient site with significant art and mythology. Its ornate reliefs and historic structures provide a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual past. The cave’s rediscovery in the 20th century and subsequent restoration make it a fascinating site for history buffs and those interested in archaeology.

Practical Aspects and Value

The tour is priced attractively at $35 per person, which offers excellent value considering the number of stops and inclusion of private transport with fuel. The vehicle is a comfortable private car, ensuring a relaxed experience, especially after long walks or scenic stops. The driver acts as your guide, sharing insights and making your journey smooth.

Notably, the tour is fully private, meaning no crowded groups—perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized experience. While a guide can be requested, the driver’s role is to assist and inform, making this a flexible and relaxed way to explore.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides, like Wayan, are knowledgeable and friendly—adding a personal, caring touch that enhances the experience. Travelers commonly mention how the stops are well-paced, with enough time to enjoy the scenery and explore the sites.

One potential consideration is the busy schedule; some might feel that the itinerary is quite packed, leaving little time for lingering at each site. If you prefer taking your time, you might want to discuss this with your driver beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Bali Kintamani tour is ideal for travelers wanting an affordable, all-in-one day of sightseeing that hits the highlights without the hassle of planning. It suits those interested in Balinese culture, art, and spirituality, as well as fans of spectacular scenery. It’s especially good for visitors who want a balanced mix of activities—from temples and rice terraces to arts villages and scenic viewpoints.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a slow pace, or a very detailed deep dive into specific sites, this tour might feel a little rushed. It’s best suited for those eager to tick off Bali’s major sights in a single day, with the comfort of private transportation and a friendly guide.

Final Thoughts

This Bali Kintamani tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Bali’s essence—combining spiritual sites, artistic expressions, and natural wonders. The value for money is particularly appealing, especially with the inclusion of private transport and all fuel fees. Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and the high quality of the scenery and cultural experiences, making it a reliable choice for those new to Bali or short on time.

The tour’s busy schedule might be a downside for some, but for most, that means experiencing a diverse range of sights in just one day. Whether you’re interested in the mythology of Balinese dance, the serenity of sacred springs, or panoramic volcano views, this trip delivers.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to get a comprehensive taste of Bali without the headache of organizing multiple excursions yourself. Perfect for curious travelers who want to connect with Bali’s soul in a meaningful, efficient way.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and transported by private vehicle, with all fuel fees covered, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free day.

Can I request a guide?
A guide can be requested; currently, the tour is assisted by an English-speaking driver who can share insights along the way.

How long does the tour last?
The entire day is approximately 10 hours, allowing you to see many highlights without feeling overly rushed.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $35 per person, offering good value considering the number of sites visited and the personalized service.

Are there any additional costs?
Lunch, food, drinks, and entrance fees to sites other than Tirta Empul (which is included) are not covered and should be prepared for separately.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the full-day schedule and walking involved, especially at sites like rice terraces and temples.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle are recommended. Some sites may require modest clothing, so bring a scarf or shawl if needed.

To sum it up, if you’re after a cost-effective way to see the best of Bali in a single day—combining culture, nature, and spirituality—this tour by Bali Hai Tours offers a balanced and memorable experience. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to absorb Bali’s diverse charms with a friendly guide and flexible itinerary.