Bali Full-Day The Gate of Heaven Tour by VW Safari Classic Car

If you’re looking for a way to experience Bali beyond the usual tourist spots, this full-day tour by VW Safari offers a charming mix of culture, natural beauty, and authentic local life. Featuring a vintage Volkswagen safari car, this adventure delivers a relaxed yet immersive journey through Bali’s eastern region, with personalized service and exclusive access to some of its most revered sites.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, the unique open-top VW Safari makes for a fun, nostalgic ride with plenty of chances to snap photos and enjoy the breeze. Second, the knowledgeable guides ensure you get insightful details about each stop, enhancing your understanding of Bali’s history and traditions. Third, the private nature of the tour means you’ll have a flexible, intimate experience without the crowds. The only potential consideration? The tour’s early start and full day might be a long day for some, but the sights and stories are well worth it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave a personalized, enriching experience—whether you’re a first-time Bali visitor or someone wanting to see the island’s quieter, traditional side. If you enjoy cultural sites, scenic drives, and a touch of adventure in vintage vehicles, this outing will tick all those boxes.

Key Points

• Private tour means no large groups—just you and your party
• The VW Safari offers a memorable, open-air ride with plenty of photo opportunities
• Includes all entrance tickets and a local Indonesian lunch
• Focuses on cultural and natural highlights in Bali’s eastern region
• Knowledgeable guides provide insights and personal attention
• A full-day experience lasting around 9 to 10 hours, perfect for a comprehensive outing

The Itinerary: From Iconic Temples to Secluded Beaches

Visiting the Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple

This is undoubtedly the star attraction of the tour. Lempuyang Temple, often called the “Gate of Heaven,” is famous for its stunning views and spiritual significance. Perched at an elevation of 1,175 meters, it offers a dramatic backdrop for photos with the temple’s gates framing Mount Agung in the distance. The review mentions that this site pre-dates many other Hindu temples on the island, adding to its allure.

Travelers often note that climbing to the main temple involves some uphill effort but that the experience is worth it, especially with a friendly, informative guide. One reviewer, Darrien_D, highlighted that their guide, Keta, was exceptional — explaining each part of the trip and sharing insights about local traditions seen during their visit. Expect to spend around two hours here, soaking in the serenity and snapping memorable photos.

Tirta Gangga Water Garden: A Royal Retreat

Next, you’ll visit Tirta Gangga, a former royal water palace built in 1948. The site impresses with its elaborate water features, statues, and lush gardens. Walking around, you’ll see the reflective ponds and ornate steps leading to the water temples. The guide’s commentary adds context about the last king of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem, and the history behind this beautiful complex.

Most visitors agree that Tirta Gangga is a peaceful escape and well worth the hour spent exploring. It’s a perfect spot for quiet reflection or picturesque photos, and the included admission ticket makes it easy to enjoy without extra hassle.

Virgin Beach: Bali’s Hidden Gem

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to Virgin Beach, known for its clean, quiet sands and clear waters. Unlike the crowded beaches in Bali, Virgin Beach offers a tranquil spot to unwind. Despite being featured in travel guides, it remains relatively uncrowded, especially with a tour that includes flexible timing.

Travelers have appreciated that the tour allows about an hour here, giving enough time for a swim, relaxing on the sand, or simply enjoying the scenery. The review mentions that visitors love the less touristy vibe and the chance to experience a more authentic, peaceful Bali beach.

Tenganan Traditional Village: Bali Aga Culture

Your last stop is Tenganan Village, a Bali Aga (original Bali) community with a distinctive layout and crafts. Wandering through the walled compound, you’ll observe traditional architecture and explore unique handicrafts that are still made in the traditional way. The village’s symmetrical design and local crafts give a tangible sense of Bali’s diverse cultural tapestry.

The review underscores that guides are well-informed, sharing stories about local customs and the village’s history, which enriches the visit. About an hour is allocated here, enough to appreciate the architecture, talk to local artisans, and purchase handmade souvenirs if desired.

Additional Passes and Scenic Drives

Throughout the journey, you’ll pass notable sites—though specific names aren’t listed, the guide mentioned passing famous temples, palaces, beaches, and salt mining areas. These scenic drives through sleepy villages, rice terraces, and local markets provide a genuine feel for rural Bali life, far from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots.

The open-top VW Safari itself enhances this experience, with travelers reporting that the vehicle is both “cool” and comfortable, especially with the friendly driver who is also an excellent guide. The shared stories and local insights add depth to the scenic views.

Practical Details: Comfort, Value, and Convenience

This private tour, priced at $100 per person, offers excellent value considering the inclusions: all entrance tickets, a traditional Indonesian lunch, petrol, parking, taxes, and hotel transfers. The cost is reasonable for a full-day, personalized experience that covers multiple key sights.

The vehicle is a vintage VW Safari, perfect for capturing fun photos and enjoying the Bali breeze. The open-air design and friendly driver make for a relaxed atmosphere, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, provided they are comfortable with a full-day outing.

The tour’s flexible schedule and hotel pickup/drop-off make it convenient, especially if you’re staying in Seminyak or nearby. The only caveat? It involves a long day with some uphill walking at Lempuyang, so a reasonable level of mobility helps.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the price are all entrance tickets, the indonesian set lunch, and professional English-speaking driver. Extras like personal expenses or souvenirs are not included, so bring cash if you plan to buy crafts or snacks.

Travelers should also pack sunscreen, a towel, changing clothes, and a camera — the sites are picture-perfect, but the sun can be strong, especially if you’re outdoors for several hours.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Most travelers book about 43 days in advance, and the tour offers a free cancellation policy if booked at least 24 hours in advance. Weather might cause some cancellations, but you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who not only escort you around but also share personal stories and local customs, making the experience more meaningful. One traveler mentioned that their guide, Keta, explained each site thoroughly and even shared a village tradition that happens once a year, which added a special touch.

The vintage VW Safari attracts admiration, with visitors saying it’s “so cool” and offers a fun contrast to more modern, enclosed transport. The open-air feeling and the chance to chat with the driver create a more intimate and relaxed vibe.

The tour’s balance of cultural, historical, and natural sites ensures a well-rounded experience. Some travelers appreciate the quiet, scenic drives that showcase Bali’s rural beauty—rice terraces, local markets, and salt mining areas—giving a glimpse of everyday life.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for culture enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. If you enjoy personalized service and want to avoid large group crowds, this private tour will suit you well.

It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate vintage vehicles and want to add a touch of fun and nostalgia to their Bali trip. Those with limited mobility might want to consider the walking involved at some sites, but overall, it offers an accessible full-day experience.

Final Thoughts

This Bali full-day tour by VW Safari stands out for its genuine, well-rounded approach to experiencing Bali’s eastern treasures. The combination of spectacular temples, lush water gardens, tranquil beaches, and cultural villages makes it an excellent choice for travelers craving an authentic slice of Bali.

The tour’s personalized nature, combined with local guides and an iconic vehicle, offers a memorable and intimate insight into Bali’s diverse landscape and traditions. The value for money is clear, with all major sites covered and a traditional Indonesian lunch included.

Whether you’re looking for stunning photo opportunities, culture, or simply a scenic escape from tourist crowds, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s best suited for those who seek a flexible, educational, and fun day exploring Bali’s less-visited gems in style.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind it’s a full day with some walking and uphill climbs at Lempuyang Temple. It’s best for those with moderate mobility.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour provides convenient pickup and drop-off service from hotels or villas in the area, making it seamless to start and finish your day.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Most bookings are made in advance, and it’s typically scheduled to maximize daylight for temples and outdoor sites. An early start helps avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available — just advise at the time of booking. The included set menu lunch offers authentic Indonesian flavors.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, covering four main stops and scenic drives. It’s a substantial but rewarding day.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, changing clothes, a camera, and plenty of water. The open-top VW Safari makes for great photos, but protection from the sun is recommended.

This detailed review hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect and helps you decide whether this Bali adventure fits your travel style. It offers a perfect blend of culture, scenery, and fun, all in a memorable vintage vehicle.