Custom travel to Bali

Bali is one of Indonesia's most enchanting islands, where terraced rice paddies meet thousand-year-old Hindu temples, where tropical beaches dialogue with sacred volcanoes, and where every region reveals its own character. From the emerald rice paddies of Tegalalang to the black beaches of Amed, from Hindu ceremonies in Ubud to Uluwatu surfing, through the paradise islands of Nusa Penida and the Gilis, the island offers cultural and natural diversity that makes it one of Southeast Asia's most loved destinations.

Highlights

  • Ubud: rice terraces, temples, Balinese art
  • South: Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu (surf and beach clubs)
  • East: Sidemen, Amed, Tirta Gangga
  • Neighboring islands: Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Gili
  • North: Munduk, Lake Batur, sunrise on the mountain

Sample itineraries

Essential Bali

Duration : 10 days

Route : Ubud (4 nights) → Sidemen (2 nights) → Uluwatu or Seminyak (3 nights) → departure

Bali, Nusa Penida, and Gili

Duration : 14 days

Route : Ubud (4 nights) → Sidemen (2 nights) → Amed (2 nights) → boat to Gilis (Gili Air or Trawangan, 3 nights) → boat back to Bali → Seminyak or Canggu (2 nights) → departure

Bali wellness and yoga

Duration : 12 days

Route : Ubud (5 nights, yoga retreat and treatments) → Munduk (2 nights, nature and waterfalls) → Uluwatu (4 nights, retreat and beach) → departure

When to go

Bali is ideally visited April to October: dry season, stable temperatures (26-30 °C), little rain, sunny skies. May-September is the most pleasant high season. July-August is very busy (European and Australian holidays). Rainy season (November-March) is still doable but more humid: short tropical afternoon showers, sometimes overcast skies, but even greener landscapes. January-February is the most humid. The Galungan ceremony (twice a year) and Nyepi (Balinese day of silence, March) are unique moments but require planning.

  • Low dry season (April – June) — All regions, perfect conditions everywhere
  • High dry season (July – September) — Beaches, Nusa Penida diving, Batur hike
  • Shoulder season (October – November) — Ubud, emerald rice paddies, wellness retreats
  • Rainy season (December – March) — Ubud (few tourists), Nyepi in March (day of silence)

Practical information

Bali is generally very safe — main risks are driver scams (negotiate beforehand), pickpocketing in busy tourist zones, and scooter traffic (very dangerous for novices). A few cultural codes: covered clothing mandatory in temples (sarong and selendang provided on-site or bought for €5-10), women having their period not admitted to temples (by tradition), remove shoes before entering homes and some restaurants. Tipping (10% in restaurants, 20,000-50,000 IDR for drivers and guides) is appreciated. Tap water not recommended — prefer bottled water (or LifeStraw filter). A few Indonesian words (terima kasih = thank you, selamat pagi = good morning) always appreciated.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for a Bali trip?

April to October offers the best conditions: dry season, stable temperatures (26-30 °C). May-September is optimal. Rainy season (November-March) is still doable but more humid. January-February is the most humid.

How long for a Bali trip?

Minimum 10 days for Ubud + south + an additional stop (given jet lag). 14 days allow a grand tour: Ubud + Sidemen + Amed + Gili + Seminyak. 21 days to add Nusa Penida or a Java/Lombok extension.

What budget for a custom Bali trip?

As a guideline, €1,800-€2,500 per person for 10-12 days in comfort, excluding flights. For an upscale trip with exceptional private villas: €4,800-€9,000. Paris-Denpasar flights: €700-€1,400.

Do I need a visa to travel to Bali?

Electronic visa (e-VOA) for $35 mandatory for stays under 30 days. Apply online before departure or at the airport on arrival. Passport must be valid 6 months beyond return date.

How do I get around in Bali?

Private driver throughout the stay is by far the best option (flexibility, comfort, local knowledge). Scooter possible for the experienced. Fast boat for Nusa Penida or the Gilis. No reliable public transport. Grab and Gojek (local Ubers) in urban zones.

Should I rent a scooter in Bali?

Possible but not recommended for novices. Traffic is dense, tropical rains sudden, accidents frequent. Prefer the private driver (often cheaper in the end, safer, more practical). International license mandatory if you rent.

Which neighboring islands to visit from Bali?

Nusa Penida (30 min boat, legendary cliffs, manta rays), Nusa Lembongan (peaceful, diving), the Gilis (lively Trawangan, family Air, romantic Meno). For further: Komodo (dragons, diving, 4 days minimum), Java (Borobudur, volcanoes), Sumba (luxury and culture).

Is Bali safe for a trip?

Generally very safe. Main risks are taxi or driver scams (always negotiate beforehand), pickpocketing in busy zones, and scooter accidents (top risk). Solo female travelers are safe.

How to pay in Bali: card or cash?

Cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and large shops in tourist zones. Cash (rupiah) remains useful for markets, drivers, tips, and villages. ATMs abundant but high foreign banking fees: withdraw in large sums.

Is Bali suitable for a family trip?

Absolutely. Safety, warm welcome for children, kid-friendly experiences (Ubud monkeys, beaches, snorkeling, ethical elephant sanctuaries), many family villas with private pool. Favor Ubud + Sidemen + Sanur or Lovina for a first family trip.