If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Bali’s lush landscapes and tranquil temples without the hassle of large tour groups, the Private Bali Northern Trip promises an intimate, scenic adventure. This tour showcases some of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls and a legendary temple, carefully curated for those seeking natural beauty and cultural insight.
What we really like about this tour is its balance of nature and tradition—you get the serenity of waterfalls alongside the spiritual ambiance of Ulun Danu Temple. Plus, at only $36 per person, it offers solid value for a full day of exploration. However, some travelers have noted issues with English-speaking guides, so if clear communication is important, it’s worth considering.
This experience is ideal for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those who prefer the comfort of a private vehicle. If you’re after authentic Bali sights without the crowds or a rushed schedule, this tour will suit you perfectly.
Key Points
- Stunning Waterfalls: Sekumpul and Banyumala are some of Bali’s most beautiful, offering refreshing swims and unforgettable views.
- Cultural Highlight: Ulun Danu Temple provides a peaceful escape and insight into Bali’s spiritual traditions.
- Comfort and Convenience: Private transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off make the day smooth and hassle-free.
- Affordable Price: At $36, this tour bundles transportation, entry fees, and lunch, representing good value.
- Limited Group Size: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Early Planning Recommended: Book about 4-6 weeks in advance to secure your spot.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Starting Point: Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
- The Adventure to Sekumpul Waterfall
- The Serenity of Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
- What’s Included and What to Expect
- Considerations and Limitations
- Is This Tour Worth It?
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
- Our Top Picks in Ubud
- More Private Tours in Ubud
- More Tour Reviews in Ubud
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Ubud we have recnetly reviewed
Starting Point: Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Our journey begins at Ulun Danu Temple, a classic Bali sight perched on the shores of Lake Beratan. The temple is famous for its sweeping views over the highland lake and its spiritual significance as a water temple dedicated to the goddess of the lake. As we arrive, the cool mountain air and the shimmering water create a tranquil setting.
You’ll love the chance to wander around the temple complex, taking in the intricate Balinese architecture and learning about its role in local ceremonies. The view of the temple floating on the lake is especially photogenic—perfect for those Instagram moments. This stop typically lasts about an hour, with admission included in the tour.
What we appreciated was how this stop sets a peaceful tone for the day, balancing the natural scenery with cultural insight. Plus, the fresh mountain air and scenic backdrop instantly make you feel like you’ve left the hustle behind.
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The Adventure to Sekumpul Waterfall
Next, we head toward Sekumpul Waterfall, often called Bali’s most beautiful cascade. The drive up into the highlands is a highlight in itself, with lush, green scenery lining the way. Once at the base, you’ll start a trek that takes you through verdant rice terraces and jungle paths.
The highlight here? The seven waterfalls cascading into a single pool—a mesmerizing sight that will make you forget about your worries. The water is cool and invigorating, perfect for a swim if you’re brave enough. Plus, the natural water slide at Sekumpul adds a fun, adrenaline-pumping element.
This part of the tour is about three hours, giving plenty of time for photos, a dip, and soaking in the scenery. One reviewer shared, “the guide did not speak English at all whereas the offer description specified that an English-speaking driver guide would be made available; moreover, the driver did not know the terms of the offer,” indicating that communication can sometimes be a challenge. Be prepared for a bit of a language barrier, but the stunning views more than make up for it.
The Serenity of Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
The final stop is Banyumala Waterfalls, a hidden gem that remains relatively untouched by crowds. Tucked away in the north, it offers a peaceful, more secluded water experience. The walk down to the falls is gentle and scenic, with a refreshing forest ambiance.
Here, you’ll enjoy the gentle roar of the water, the lush surroundings, and the chance to relax after the more vigorous Sekumpul trek. It’s a quieter place that feels like a secret escape from Bali’s busier tourist spots. The waterfall pool is perfect for a calming swim or simply lounging and taking in the lush greenery.
This stop typically lasts about an hour and provides a beautiful, tranquil conclusion to your day.
What’s Included and What to Expect
The tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation and a professional driver who will pick you up from your hotel and drop you back at the end of the day—no need to worry about navigating Bali’s roads or taxis. Bottled water, snacks, and a lunch at a local restaurant are provided, making the experience comfortable and convenient.
All entrance tickets to the attractions are covered, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs once you’re on the tour. At $36 per person, this package offers good value when you consider the transportation, admissions, and included meals.
It’s worth noting that the total duration is about 10 hours, with roughly half the time spent traveling and the rest exploring. Travelers should bring extra clothes, a towel, and insect repellent—especially for the waterfall stops where moss-covered rocks and jungle humidity are common.
Considerations and Limitations
While the tour offers an excellent mix of scenery and culture, a notable downside, highlighted by some reviews, involves guide language skills. One traveler noted that the guide did not speak English at all, which could impact the experience if you’re looking for detailed explanations or cultural stories.
Plus, the tour is quite active—trekking to waterfalls can be physically demanding, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with some walking and uneven terrain. The early start and full-day commitment also mean it’s not ideal for travelers with limited time or energy.
Finally, booking well in advance—around 39 days on average—ensures you secure a spot, especially during high season.
Is This Tour Worth It?
Absolutely, if you’re after a value-packed day of natural beauty and cultural sights. The combination of stunning waterfalls, the peaceful Ulun Danu Temple, and the secluded Banyumala Waterfalls offers a well-rounded experience for a modest price. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate authentic scenery and don’t mind a bit of physical activity.
However, if clear communication with guides or highly structured tours are your priorities, you might want to explore options that specify English-speaking guides. Still, the visual payoff—spectacular waterfalls and serene temples—more than compensates for potential language hiccups.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip works well for nature lovers, adventurers, and culture enthusiasts looking for a private, guided day out. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid large crowds, enjoy authentic Bali scenery, and experience the quiet majesty of waterfalls and temples. It’s also a good choice for travelers who’d prefer a full-day, worry-free adventure with transportation and meals included.
FAQs
Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private activity, so only your group will participate, making for a personalized experience.
How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, including hotel pickup, travel time, and visits to all three stops.
What should I bring?
Extra clothes, a towel, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for waterfall treks.
Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, plus bottled water and snacks during the day.
Can I swim at the waterfalls?
Yes, especially at Sekumpul and Banyumala, you can take refreshing dips in the pools—just be cautious on slippery rocks.
What is the cost of this tour?
The tour costs $36 per person, which covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and water.
Is there any flexible cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
Experience Private Bali Northern Trip at North Waterfall
Final Thoughts
This private Bali northern trip offers a wonderful chance to see some of Bali’s best waterfalls and cultural sites without the crowds or fuss. For around $36, you get comfortable transportation, guided visits to stunning natural wonders, and a peaceful day in the highlands. It’s a fine choice for those wanting an authentic, scenic, and hassle-free experience.
While guide language issues might be a concern, the breathtaking views and immersive nature experiences make up for it. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour provides a genuine taste of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage.
If you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and memorable day exploring Bali’s northern gems—this tour is definitely worth considering.
