Bali Downhill Natural Cycling Tour & visit Volcano

Thinking about exploring Bali beyond the usual tourist spots? This Bali Downhill Natural Cycling Tour offers an immersive way to see rural Bali, meet locals, and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Batur. It’s a popular choice for those who want a mix of adventure, culture, and nature without feeling rushed.

What we love about this tour? First, the mainly downhill ride makes cycling accessible and fun, even for those with moderate fitness. Second, the opportunity to see Bali’s untouched countryside and traditional villages—far from crowded tourist hubs—is genuinely refreshing. Third, the stops at scenic viewpoints and local temples give insight into Balinese life and culture.

A potential consideration? The long travel time from places like Nusa Dua could be a bit tiring, especially if you’re not used to long car rides. Still, many find the journey part of the adventure, with comfortable transportation and scenic drives helping pass the time. This tour suits those who enjoy active days, authentic experiences, and stunning scenery—and it’s especially great for families or small groups looking for something different.

Key Points

• Mainly downhill cycling makes the ride accessible for most fitness levels.
• Authentic rural Bali scenery with rice paddies, temples, and traditional homes.
• Expert guides and small groups ensure safety and personalized attention.
• Varied stops for cultural insight, scenic views, and delicious local food.
• Long transfer times from some areas, like Nusa Dua, are part of the experience.
• Good value at $50 per person for a full day of adventure, culture, and scenery.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a full day of cycling, cultural discovery, and scenic vistas, all set against the backdrop of Bali’s lush landscapes and volcanic peaks. Priced at $50 per person, it delivers excellent value considering the number of stops, guided expertise, and the intimate group sizes—usually just 4 to 6 travelers.

With pickup included, the journey begins early with a visit to the Warung Tepi Sari, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Balinese breakfast of pancakes, omelets, fresh juice, and coffee. This sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead, giving you energy to take in the sights.

The Kintamani Highland

Next, you’ll travel to the Kintamani Highland to gaze upon the crater lake of Mount Batur—a view many describe as the most stunning in Bali. This spot offers grand, panoramic vistas of volcanic landscape and lush surroundings, perfect for photos. Visitors often mention how this view captures the essence of Bali’s natural beauty, and it’s a highlight many rave about.

Starting Point and Bike Setup

From there, the group heads to Balai Desa Pekraman Pukuh, your starting point for cycling. Here, you’ll choose a bicycle suited to your comfort, and guides will explain safety rules and cycling etiquette. The process of settling in and adjusting your bike is straightforward, with guides like Augus praised for their friendliness and patience—one reviewer noted how well he connected with kids and made them feel safe.

The Downhill Ride Through Bali’s Countryside

The core of this experience is the mostly downhill cycling along small village roads. The journey is carefully designed to be smooth and scenic, avoiding traffic-heavy routes. Travelers often comment on how relaxing and enjoyable it is, with spectacular views of rice paddies, traditional homes, and temples appearing at every turn.

One reviewer noted, “The course is mainly downhill so it was no problem for the children, and we felt so safe throughout,” highlighting the tour’s suitability for families. The ride includes brief stops at points like Manukaya, where you can walk through rice fields and watch farmers harvesting rice—an authentic glimpse into local life.

Cultural and Scenic Stops

Throughout the ride, you’ll stop at various points of interest, including large temples and local homes, giving you a window into Bali’s spiritual and cultural traditions. One traveler reflected, “We loved visiting the coffee plantation and the Balinese home. Kadek is very knowledgeable and a good guide.” These stops aren’t just sightseeing; they’re opportunities to connect with Bali’s enduring local customs.

The Rice Paddy Walk

One of the tour’s most cherished moments is walking through a rice field. If lucky, you might see farmers actively harvesting, which many reviews say is a “photo opportunity you don’t want to miss.” It’s a peaceful, slow-paced moment that lets you really appreciate Bali’s agricultural roots.

Lunch and Rest at Banjar Laplapan

After cycling, the group enjoys a traditional Balinese lunch at Banjar Laplapan. The meal includes local dishes, with options suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and meat lovers. Ice cream or fresh Balinese fruits round out the meal, providing a well-deserved break and energy boost. Reviewers praise the quality of food and the friendly atmosphere, making this meal a highlight of the day.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Small group size (max 6 participants) means you get personalized attention from guides like Kadek, who are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The guides actively manage safety, especially on tricky parts or when participants need a little encouragement. One reviewer shared, “Ketec looked after us, was very informative and knowledgeable,” which highlights how guides go beyond just leading the ride—they’re genuinely invested in your experience.

The route’s focus on downhill riding makes the tour accessible and fun for a variety of fitness levels. Several travelers mention how their children, even those initially nervous, felt at ease thanks to the calm pace and attentive guides.

Authentic, un-touristy scenery is a key draw. Instead of crowded spots, the tour takes you through quiet villages and lush rice paddies, giving you that feeling of discovering Bali’s countryside firsthand. This is a huge plus for travelers tired of tourist traps and seeking genuine cultural interactions.

The views of Mount Batur are often described as breathtaking, especially from the Kintamani viewpoint. Many reviews mention how memorable this sight is, with one guest saying, “It’s the most stunning view in Bali.”

Analyzing the Value

For $50 per person, you’re getting a well-rounded day that combines active adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. The price includes breakfast, lunch, guide service, bike rental, and entrance fees at key stops—making it a cost-effective way to experience Bali’s countryside in a meaningful way.

While the tour duration is about 7 hours, it doesn’t feel rushed. The long drive from some areas, like Nusa Dua, might seem like a drawback, but many find the scenic journey itself adds to the experience. The group size keeps things intimate, and having a car following along offers peace of mind—especially if someone isn’t feeling well or needs a break.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Comfortable clothing and footwear: You’ll be cycling, walking, and possibly standing in rice paddies, so dress appropriately.
• Bring sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essentials since much of the ride is outdoors.
• Money for extras: While meals and main stops are included, souvenirs or additional drinks are on your own.
• Expect a moderate physical level: The tour is mostly downhill, but a reasonable fitness level helps you enjoy it more comfortably.
• Stay in Ubud: The tour start point is conveniently located for those staying nearby, and it’s a pleasant town to base yourself in.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who love nature, culture, and authentic scenery. Families with kids are welcome, thanks to the downhill route and safety measures. It’s also perfect for those who want a relaxed, small-group adventure away from crowds, with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural stops. If you’re looking for a combination of adventure and insight into local Bali life, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Bali Downhill Natural Cycling Tour is a fantastic way to see the island’s countryside, experience Balinese culture, and enjoy stunning volcano views—all on a mostly downhill ride suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. The small group format, knowledgeable guides like Kadek and Augus, and authentic stops make it feel personal and genuine.

You’ll love the peaceful rural scenery, the opportunity to walk through rice paddies, and the spectacular views at Mount Batur. Plus, the included meals and cultural visits add depth to the experience that many similar tours lack. It’s a well-priced, memorable day out that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation.

While the long drive might be tiring for some, many find it part of the charm—offering glimpses of Bali’s diverse landscape and everyday life. This tour is best suited for active, curious travelers eager to explore Bali beyond the typical tourist spots, with a taste for authentic experiences and beautiful scenery.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start the day without arranging your own transportation.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including visits, cycling, and meals.

What is the group size?
Groups are kept small, typically 4 to 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Can I do this tour if I’m not an experienced cyclist?
Yes, because the route is mainly downhill, it’s suitable for most fitness levels, and guides help with bike adjustments and safety.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Yes, the lunch at Banjar Laplapan accommodates different dietary preferences.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include a scenic lookout at Kintamani, a traditional Balinese home, rice paddies, temples, and a local coffee plantation.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, many reviews mention how children enjoyed the leisurely downhill ride and felt safe with the guides’ supervision.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing, bring sun protection, and consider bringing extra money for souvenirs or extra drinks.

This Bali cycling tour offers a genuinely authentic look at Bali’s countryside, combining adventure with cultural discovery. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Bali’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace—on two wheels, with plenty of opportunities to connect with local life.