Private Bali Tour: Best of Bedugul and Tanah Lot Temple

Exploring Bali’s spiritual and natural highlights in a single day sounds ambitious—and it is. This private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Bali’s revered temples, lush rice terraces, and coastline, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, personalized experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll get a private guide, ensuring a tailored and flexible journey. Second, the stops include some of Bali’s most iconic sites, from the floating Ulun Danu Temple to the breathtaking Tanah Lot sunset. Lastly, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you can relax and focus on enjoying each moment.

That said, since Bali’s roads can be busy, especially around Seminyak and Canggu, you’ll want to start early and be prepared for a full 10-hour day. This tour is perfect for those who appreciate cultural insights, natural beauty, and a more intimate exploration than group tours typically provide.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private guide tailored to your interests
• Visit Bali’s most photogenic temples and landmarks, including Tanah Lot and Ulun Danu Bratan
• Flexible itinerary allows for some customization based on your preferences
• Includes all entrance fees and bottled water, offering good value for the price
• Ideal for culture lovers and photography enthusiasts
• Duration of approximately 10 hours makes for a full but manageable day

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting the Day at Taman Ayun Temple

The tour kicks off around 8:00 am with hotel pickup, and your first stop is Taman Ayun Temple, built in 1634 by the Mengwi Empire’s king. This royal temple is surrounded by a large fish pond, giving the impression of a floating palace on water. Its multi-tiered roof architecture is a textbook example of traditional Balinese design. As one reviewer points out, it’s a “beautiful temple building with Balinese architecture”, and a great introduction to Bali’s spiritual sites.

Spending about 45 minutes here, you’ll get a chance to stroll around peaceful grounds, take photos of the intricate carvings, and learn about its history as a family temple dedicated to ancestors. The inclusion of admission tickets in the price makes this hassle-free.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Lake

Next up is Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, a “floating” temple on the calm waters of Lake Beratan. This site is especially photogenic at any time of day, but the early morning or late afternoon light enhances its charm. It’s heavily revered as a water temple dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, which underscores the importance of water for Bali’s irrigation and agriculture.

Expect around an hour here, during which guides often share stories about the temple’s significance, adding depth to your visit. Reviewers often highlight this as a “must-see” and express admiration for the picture-perfect views.

Bali Botanic Garden – A Green Escape

The tour then moves to Bali Botanical Garden, a peaceful spot perfect for nature lovers. Here, you’ll find a lush environment filled with mature trees and plant conservation efforts. About 45 minutes are allocated, giving you a chance to breathe in fresh air and enjoy the greenery—an excellent break from temple sightseeing.

Guests have appreciated the garden’s role in preservation and conservation, and its peaceful atmosphere makes it a popular stop for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – UNESCO World Heritage Site

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Jatiluwih, home to Bali’s widest rice terraces. Recognized by UNESCO for its traditional Subak irrigation system, Jatiluwih exemplifies Bali’s cultural commitment to maintaining its rice farming heritage.

Spending about 1.5 hours here, you’ll walk among terraced fields that seem to stretch endlessly, and you’ll understand why many consider this one of the most beautiful landscapes on the island. A reviewer notes that “the rice terraces are breathtaking and a glimpse into Bali’s agricultural pride.” The views here are arguably some of the best on the trip, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple

The final stop is Tanah Lot, Bali’s most iconic sea temple. Access is only possible at low tide, so timing is everything. Visiting around late afternoon allows you to enjoy the spectacular sunset, as the temple’s silhouette against the fiery horizon is unforgettable—though, as one reviewer mentioned, cloudy weather can sometimes obscure the view.

Spend about an hour here, soaking in the atmosphere and capturing photos. The experience is often described as romantic and quintessentially Balinese. The admission fee is included, and the guide can help you navigate the best spots for photos.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers all taxes, fees, entrance tickets, plus bottled water and air-conditioned transport. The hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience, especially if you’re staying in Ubud or nearby.

Lunch is optional—if you choose to add it, you’ll need to pay separately. Some reviews mention that lunch options might not be gourmet, but the scenic view overlooking rice terraces compensates for that.

The tour operates as a private activity, meaning you’ll have your own guide and vehicle, which enhances flexibility and intimacy. It’s a great way to explore without feeling rushed or crowded.

The Real Experience: Insights from Reviews

One reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable guides—calling out Kanu as a “fantastic guide,” and emphasizing that his storytelling added depth to the visit. Another pointed out that the driver was kind and accommodating, even allowing small modifications to the itinerary, which speaks to the tour’s flexibility.

However, not all feedback is perfect. A comment noted that “you can’t do north and south on one day”, suggesting that the tour is best for those focused on the central and southern sites. Also, some found the lunch options less appealing, so packing a snack might keep you energized throughout the day.

An emphasis on timing is important, especially at Tanah Lot, where weather can impact the view. Arriving early or late in the afternoon is recommended for the best sunset experience.

The Practical Side: Transportation and Timing

The air-conditioned minivan keeps you comfortable during the approximately 10-hour journey. Starting at 8:00 am, you’ll cover multiple sites without feeling rushed, thanks to the private guide’s ability to adjust the pace.

Considering Bali’s traffic, especially around popular tourist spots, the flexibility of a private tour is invaluable. Booking 13 days in advance, this tour tends to fill quickly, so planning ahead is wise.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for culture seekers and photography lovers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring Bali’s most famous temples and landscapes. If you prefer a personalized experience over a crowded group, the private guide will make your day more engaging and tailored.

It’s also suitable for families or couples seeking memorable scenic views, with the added benefit of comfort and ease. However, those hoping to see all of Bali’s highlights in one day might find it a bit too ambitious, given the island’s traffic and distances.

The Sum Up

This private Bali tour offers a balanced combination of culture, scenic beauty, and personalized service at a reasonable price point. The well-chosen stops allow you to see Bali’s most photogenic temples and landscapes while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and a dedicated guide.

While the itinerary is quite full, the flexibility to customize parts of the day means you can focus more on what interests you most. The inclusion of all entrance fees and bottled water makes it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Bali’s spiritual core.

If you’re looking for a manageable, authentic experience that highlights Bali’s natural and spiritual beauty, this tour will serve you well—especially if you value guides who are knowledgeable and engaging.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is flexible enough for families and older travelers. Just consider your comfort with a full-day outdoor excursion.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and possibly a light jacket or raincoat depending on the weather.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows for some flexibility to prioritize certain sites or skip others.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is optional and must be paid separately if you choose to add it.

How early should I book?
Booking at least 13 days in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular and tends to fill quickly.

What if I don’t want to see all the sites?
Your guide can adjust the schedule, focusing on your preferred locations to make the most of your day.

Will I see a sunset?
Yes, the tour is timed to arrive at Tanah Lot near sunset, but weather conditions can affect the view. Arrive early or late for the best chance at clear skies.