Bali Travel Guide | Friends Trip

Personalized for these inputs:

Destination: Bali, Indonesia
Trip length: 7 days
Trip dates: September 09 - September 16
Travel style: travelling with friends
Budget: $
Accommodation: villa
Activities: gastronomy, nightlife and entertainment, outdoor adventures

Key Facts

location: Southeast Asia
currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
religion: Balinese Hinduism
population: 4,184,999
language: Indonesian

electricity: 230V/50Hz, Type C and F plugs?
time zone: Central Indonesian Time (UTC+8)
country code: +62
internet access: Widespread availability of internet access, varying speeds, and costs
climate: Tropical climate

Useful Phrases

Language: Indonesian

hello

Halo (ha-lo)

goodbye

Selamat tinggal (seh-lah-maht ting-gahl)

yes

Ya (yah)

Tidak (tee-dahk)

how much

Berapa harganya ini? (beh-rah-pah har-gahn-yah ee-nee)

please

Tolong (toh-long)

thank you

Terima kasih (te-ree-ma ka-seeh)

excuse me

Maaf (mah-ahf)

Introduction

Bali, Indonesia, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and rich culture. September marks the end of the dry season, making it an ideal time to visit with warm temperatures and lower chances of rain. Bali's history is steeped in tradition, visible through its temples, colorful ceremonies, and intricate arts and crafts.

For budget travelers exploring Bali with friends, there are plenty of affordable accommodations, delicious street food, and budget-friendly activities like surfing in Kuta, exploring Ubud's art scene, or hiking Mount Batur for a breathtaking sunrise.

Getting There

Getting to Bali, Indonesia is mainly done by air as it's an island. Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar is the main gateway, serving numerous international flights. For budget travelers, consider looking for connecting flights or budget airlines for cheaper options.

While Bali doesn't have a railway system, buses and shuttles are available for intercity travel. Traveling around the island can be done by renting a scooter or using local taxis. To get around affordable if traveling with friends, opt for shared shuttle services or rent a car together for more flexibility and cost-sharing.

September is the beginning of the dry season in Bali, so weather should not significantly impact travel plans during that time. However, it's always good to check the weather forecast closer to the date of travel to stay informed. Enjoy your trip to Bali!

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Bali, Indonesia, enjoys a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season from April to September and the wet season from October to March. September typically falls towards the end of the dry season, offering warm and sunny weather, perfect for beach activities and exploring the island's lush landscapes.

During September 09 to 16, visitors can expect balmy temperatures averaging around 27-30°C (81-86°F) with low humidity levels. Rain showers are less frequent during this time, making it an ideal period for outdoor adventures like trekking, surfing, or visiting cultural sites. However, occasional short rain showers can still occur, so it's good to pack a light rain jacket just in case.

Itinerary

Day 1

Immerse in Bali's vibrant gastronomy scene with a day full of culinary delights and local flavors.

Sunset Beach Dinner
Enjoy a romantic evening beachside dinner watching the mesmerizing Bali sunset. Try fresh seafood and local delicacies while feeling the ocean breeze.
Night Market Adventure
Embark on a culinary adventure at a bustling Balinese night market. Sample a variety of street foods, from sate skewers to traditional sweets, amongst the lively local atmosphere.
Sunset Cocktail at Rock Bar
Experience a breathtaking sunset with cocktails at the iconic Rock Bar located on a cliffside. Sip on refreshing drinks while overlooking the Indian Ocean and enjoying the stunning views.

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Day 2

Experience the exciting nightlife of Bali with lively entertainment options and vibrant atmospheres.

Dance the Night Away at Sky Garden
Get ready for a night of non-stop dancing and entertainment at Sky Garden, Bali's renowned nightclub. Experience multiple levels of music, themed parties, and vibrant atmospheres.
Watch Traditional Kecak Fire Dance
Witness a mesmerizing traditional Balinese Kecak Fire Dance performance under the starlit sky. Immerse yourself in the cultural storytelling and rhythmic chants of this captivating art form.
Enjoy Live Music at Laughing Buddha Bar
Relax in the cozy ambiance of Laughing Buddha Bar while enjoying live music performances ranging from reggae to rock. Savor refreshing drinks and mingle with fellow travelers in this laid-back setting.

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Day 3

Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures exploring Bali's natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities.

White Water Rafting on Ayung River
Experience the adrenaline rush of white water rafting on the scenic Ayung River. Navigate through thrilling rapids surrounded by lush tropical forests and cascading waterfalls.
Sunrise Trek to Mount Batur
Embark on an early morning trek to Mount Batur for a breathtaking sunrise view from the summit. Enjoy the rewarding hike through volcanic landscapes and witness the colors of dawn over Bali.
ATV Quad Biking Adventure
Explore Bali's rugged terrain on an exhilarating ATV quad biking adventure. Ride through muddy tracks, lush rice paddies, and traditional villages for an action-packed outdoor experience.

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Day 4

Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation with spa treatments and peaceful surroundings in Bali.

Spa Day at Fivelements Retreat Bali
Immerse yourself in a day of ultimate relaxation at Fivelements Retreat Bali. Enjoy luxurious spa treatments, holistic wellness experiences, and serene surroundings nestled by the Ayung River.
Yoga Session at The Yoga Barn
Revitalize your mind and body with a rejuvenating yoga session at The Yoga Barn. Find inner peace and harmony in the tranquil yoga studios surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty.
Balinese Massage at Jaens Spa Ubud
Treat yourself to a traditional Balinese massage at Jaens Spa Ubud. Relax and unwind with skilled therapists using ancient techniques to release tension and promote overall well-being.

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Day 5

Explore Bali's cultural heritage through visits to temples, traditional villages, and local markets.

Visit Tirta Empul Temple
Immerse yourself in Balinese spirituality with a visit to Tirta Empul Temple, known for its sacred spring water pools used for purification rituals. Witness devotees performing traditional ceremonies and gain insight into local religious practices.
Explore Penglipuran Village
Step into the traditional way of life at Penglipuran Village, famous for its well-preserved Balinese culture and architecture. Wander through quaint streets lined with traditional houses and experience the community's harmonious customs.
Shop at Ubud Art Market
Indulge in a shopping spree at Ubud Art Market, a bustling hub of Balinese handicrafts and souvenirs. Explore stalls filled with intricate artwork, textiles, and local crafts while immersing yourself in the vibrant market atmosphere.

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Day 6

Discover Bali's stunning beaches and water activities, from surfing to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

Surfing at Dreamland Beach
Ride the waves at Dreamland Beach, a surfer's paradise known for its consistent breaks and golden sands. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, enjoy the thrill of catching waves in the warm waters of Bali.
Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon Beach
Explore the underwater world at Blue Lagoon Beach, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to snorkel among colorful fish, turtles, and spectacular coral formations.
Jet Ski Adventure at Tanjung Benoa
Feel the adrenaline rush with a thrilling jet ski adventure at Tanjung Benoa. Speed across the aquamarine waters and enjoy the panoramic views of Bali's coastline for an exciting water activity experience.

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Day 7

Celebrate the end of your Bali trip with a farewell sunset cruise or beach party with your friends.

Sunset BBQ Cruise
Conclude your Bali adventure with a memorable sunset BBQ cruise along the coastline. Enjoy delicious local cuisine, refreshing drinks, and panoramic views of the sea as you bid farewell to Bali in style with your friends.
Beach Bonfire Party
Gather your friends for a lively beach bonfire party under the starlit sky. Dance, mingle, and create lasting memories as you enjoy music, drinks, and the warm atmosphere of a beachside celebration.
Fire Dance Show at Kuta Beach
Witness an enchanting fire dance performance on the sands of Kuta Beach. Experience the mesmerizing movements and symbolic storytelling of Balinese culture in this captivating farewell celebration.

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Accommodations

For an affordable villa stay in Bali from September 9 to 16, consider Seminyak, known for its budget-friendly villas with shared amenities and close proximity to the beach. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com offer a range of budget villas in Seminyak perfect for group trips. Look for accommodations like Villa Kayu, Villa Kibbi, or Villa Sapphire for wallet-friendly options with cozy atmospheres and convenient locations.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a mix of budget-friendly villas and a vibrant atmosphere, consider staying in Canggu. This neighborhood offers plenty of affordable villa options, close to hip cafes, surf spots, and nightlife. Check out websites like Agoda and Hostelworld for budget-friendly villa stays in Canggu suitable for groups traveling on a low budget.

Food and Drink

Bali offers a diverse culinary scene with traditional dishes like Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Babi Guling (suckling pig). Don't miss trying local delicacies like Satay and Balinese sambal. For budget-friendly options, head to local warungs (small family-owned eateries) for authentic flavors.

For affordable dining, explore popular spots like Warung Nia in Kuta for delicious Balinese fare or Kopi Kultur in Ubud for great coffee. Tipping in Bali is not mandatory but appreciated, typically 5-10% of the bill. Be mindful of Bali's spice levels if you have a sensitive palate.

Expect to find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options in Bali, especially in Ubud. Embrace local customs like removing your shoes before entering a restaurant, and enjoy the vibrant street food scene for tasty snacks.

Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng, meaning fried rice, is a beloved Indonesian staple dish made with stir-fried rice, topped with a variety of savory ingredients such as shallots, garlic, tamarind, chili, and sweet soy sauce. Often enjoyed with a fried egg on top, it's a flavorful and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine.

Satay

Satay, known locally as Sate, consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually chicken, beef, or lamb, served with a deliciously spiced peanut sauce. This popular street food is a delightful combination of tender, succulent meat and the fragrant aroma of smoky grilling, making it a must-try Indonesian delight.

Rendang

Rendang, a slow-cooked beef dish, is simmered in coconut milk and a flavorful mixture of lemongrass, galangal, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and chilies. The result is tender, juicy beef in a rich, aromatic sauce that highlights the complex and harmonious blend of Indonesian spices.

Gado-Gado

Gado-Gado is a traditional Indonesian salad made from a colorful assortment of boiled vegetables, eggs, tofu, and tempeh, drizzled with a luscious peanut sauce. This refreshing and nutritious dish offers a delightful medley of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that make it a delightful treat for the senses.

Soto

Soto, a fragrant and comforting Indonesian soup, features a flavorful broth infused with lemongrass, turmeric, and lime leaves, as well as a variety of ingredients such as chicken, beef, or offal. Served with rice and an array of condiments, Soto is a soul-warming dish enjoyed throughout the country.

Attractions and Activities

Bali, Indonesia offers a vibrant mix of activities for travelers on a budget. Indulge in a culinary adventure by exploring local street food markets like Pasar Malam. Enjoy the lively nightlife at Kuta Beach with beachfront bars and clubs. For outdoor enthusiasts, hike up Mount Batur for a sunrise trek or surf the waves at Uluwatu Beach.

These activities can be enjoyed year-round, making Bali an ideal destination for a fun-filled trip with friends.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Discover Bali's hidden gems with these off-the-beaten-path experiences. Explore the abandoned plane in South Kuta or trek through the remote village of Sidemen for a glimpse of traditional Balinese life. Daredevils can cliff jump at Angel's Billabong in Nusa Penida for an adrenaline rush.