Snorkeling Manta Rays, Land Tour Tembeling Pool & Kelingking

A Close Look at the Snorkeling Manta Rays, Land Tour Tembeling Pool & Kelingking

If you’re after a balanced day exploring Nusa Penida—underwater encounters and scenic land views—this tour promises a well-rounded adventure. While we haven’t joined it ourselves, reviews point to a compelling mix of marine life, breathtaking vistas, and authentic local guides.

What makes us like this experience? First, the chance to snorkel with manta rays in Manta Bay is a major draw. Second, the variety of stops—from Kelingking Beach to Tembeling Forest—means you’ll get a taste of the island’s diverse natural beauty. Third, the affordable price tag of around $18.44 per person offers great value for such a full-day outing.

That said, a word of caution: the snorkeling portions are relatively brief, with some reviewers feeling that the time in the water can feel a bit rushed. Plus, since it’s a shared tour, expect to join other travelers for boat rides and land visits, which may impact your sense of exclusivity.

This trip suits adventurous travelers eager to see Bali’s iconic spots without breaking the bank, especially those comfortable with group dynamics and a packed itinerary.

Key Points

• Affordable Price – At just over $18, this tour offers a lot of value, combining both land and sea experiences.
• Diverse Highlights – From manta ray snorkeling to scenic viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and Tembeling Pool.
• Guided Local Experience – Led by knowledgeable guides such as Wayan, who bring insight and friendliness.
• Group Size and Atmosphere – Small groups keep the experience friendly, but be prepared for shared boat and car rides.
• Brief Snorkeling Time – Expect around 10-15 minutes per snorkeling stop, so manage your expectations accordingly.
• Ideal for Social Travelers – Perfect if you enjoy meeting new people and sharing adventures.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at Banjar Nyuh Harbor or your hotel, with options for an optional hotel pick-up (extra charge). The tour operates as a shared activity, meaning you’ll join a group of up to 49 travelers—ideal for those who enjoy socializing. The transportation for the land portions is via shared car, and the boat rides are on a shared vessel, which helps keep costs low but might reduce some exclusivity.

Snorkeling with Manta Rays at Manta Bay

Your first major highlight is snorkeling at Manta Bay, where the chance to see these gentle giants is the main attraction. Reviewers mention that the guides do a good job of organizing the group efficiently, with about 15 minutes allocated per stop. One visitor, Ben, appreciated that they were joined by a group of around 16, which seems to be a typical size.

However, some reviews, like Viorel’s, express disappointment with the snorkeling duration—about 10-15 minutes—feeling it was a bit rushed, and that the Manta Bay stop wasn’t as rewarding as hoped. This stop is largely dependent on the ocean conditions and wildlife activity, which are outside the tour’s control, so patience is key.

Gamat Bay and Wall Bay – Underwater Diversity

Next up, Gamat Bay offers clearer waters and more fish, giving snorkelers a chance to see vibrant marine life up close. A reviewer described it as “a new experience with the fishes,” suggesting it’s a lively, colorful spot. Wall Bay then rounds out the underwater tour, featuring impressive coral walls and abundant marine life, making it a favorite among underwater enthusiasts.

It’s worth noting that the snorkeling is brief, but the guides share useful tips and ensure safety, which enhances the experience. The highlights here are not just the fish but the opportunity to witness coral formations and underwater landscapes that change with each stop.

Lunch Break at Nusa Penida

Post-snorkeling, a lunch stop at a local restaurant provides a much-needed break. For many, this is appreciated as a chance to refuel and discuss the morning’s adventures. The review from Frank highlighted that the meal was at a local spot, giving a taste of real Balinese cuisine, which adds value to the experience.

Kelingking Beach: The Iconic Viewpoint

No visit to Nusa Penida is complete without photos at Kelingking Beach. From the top, you’ll be treated to one of the most famous vistas in Bali—the T-Rex-shaped cliff overlooking the turquoise sea. You won’t be able to descend to the beach itself, which is a common frustration but understandable given the steep terrain and safety considerations.

Reviewers like Sheena appreciated the breathtaking views but also noted that the area can be crowded, especially during peak times. Still, the photo opportunities and the dramatic scenery make it a must-see stop.

Tembeling Beach and Forest: A Hidden Gem

The final stop takes you to Tembeling Beach and Forest, a relatively untouched part of Nusa Penida. Here, you’ll experience a natural pool inside the jungle, perfect for a refreshing swim. To reach it, you’ll park at the main road and take a short motorbike taxi ride—an added adventure that a few reviews mentioned as a delightful, unique aspect of the trip.

It’s a quiet, peaceful spot, ideal for a quick dip and some Instagram-worthy photos. The natural surroundings and the jungle pool are often praised as the tour’s most exclusive find, especially compared to the busier beaches elsewhere on the island.

Wrapping Up with Scenic Views

The tour concludes back at the meeting point, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on a day packed with diverse scenery—from marine life to cliffside vistas and lush jungle pools. The combination of underwater excitement and land exploration makes this a well-balanced choice for those wanting a snapshot of Nusa Penida.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the reviews and itinerary, this tour offers a great budget-friendly introduction to Nusa Penida’s highlights. While some may find the snorkeling time limited, the guides seem attentive and knowledgeable, making the most of each stop. The views at Kelingking and Tembeling Pool are genuinely breathtaking and worth the trip alone.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere and don’t mind sharing the journey with others. The price point makes it an attractive option for those wanting a full day of exploration without splurging on private tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

• Budget-conscious travelers seeking a comprehensive day in Nusa Penida.
• Those eager to see manta rays in their natural habitat.
• Adventurers who enjoy both marine and land-based scenic spots.
• Visitors who are comfortable with short snorkeling sessions.
• Tourists who appreciate engaging guides with local knowledge.
• Social travelers looking to meet new friends during their trip.

FAQs

Is hotel pick-up included?
Hotel pick-up is available for an extra charge, but the tour also starts directly at Banjar Nyuh Harbor, making it flexible for those staying nearby.

How long is the snorkeling at each stop?
Snorkeling stops generally last about 10-15 minutes, depending on ocean conditions and crowd flow, so don’t expect long underwater sessions.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, waterproof camera or GoPro, and a sense of adventure. Some guides offer GoPro footage, which is a bonus for capturing the day.

Can I see manta rays?
There’s a good chance, as Manta Bay is one of the main stops. However, sightings depend on ocean activity, so it’s not guaranteed.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Be comfortable with sharing a boat and land vehicle with others.

How busy does the tour get?
While the group size is small (up to 49 travelers), some stops like Kelingking Beach can be crowded, especially during peak hours.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Most agree it’s the chance to see manta rays and enjoy the iconic viewpoints like Kelingking and the secret Tembeling Pool.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, generally, it’s family-friendly, but always check with the provider about age restrictions for snorkeling and walking around steep areas.

Final Thoughts

This Nusa Penida day tour offers a solid balance of marine adventure and scenic discovery. For just over $18, you get a taste of the island’s best spots, guided by friendly locals who know their way around. While the snorkeling is brief, the underwater encounters and stunning land views compensate with memorable moments and excellent photo ops.

It’s a great pick for social travelers, budget explorers, or anyone looking to tick off Bali’s iconic sights without the fuss of private tours. The mix of guided land and sea activities ensures you’ll return with a well-rounded impression of Nusa Penida’s natural beauty.

If you’re after a fun, affordable day packed with views and marine life, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to manage expectations about snorkeling duration, but rest assured that the guides do their best to make every stop worthwhile.

Happy exploring, and enjoy all that Nusa Penida has to offer.