The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Guide: Hiking, Surfing, and Diving in Bali
The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Guide: Hiking, Surfing, and Diving in Bali
The island
of Bali has long been known as a paradise for surfers and beach lovers. But
it's also a haven for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, with an abundance of
hiking trails, surf breaks, and dive sites waiting to be explored. If you're
looking for an active and exhilarating vacation, Bali is the place to be.
Here's a guide to the best outdoor adventure activities in Bali, and how to
plan your ultimate trip.
Disclosure: This article contains Amazon and Booking.com affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. I would highly appreciate if you purchased / booked through one of these links. It helps support the blog and allows me to continue to make such content for you guys and share all of my thoughts with you :) Thank you for your support ❤😘
Hiking in Bali
Bali is home to several stunning hiking trails, from gentle walks through rice paddies to challenging climbs up volcanoes.
Mount Batur
One of the most popular hikes is Mount Batur, a 1,717-meter active volcano that can be summited in about two hours. The trek begins in the dark, with hikers setting off at around 3 am to reach the summit in time for sunrise. The trail is well-maintained and not too difficult, but the steep climb in the dark can be challenging. At the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a sense of achievement.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Another
great hike is the Campuhan Ridge Walk, a 9-kilometer trail that winds through
the lush greenery of Ubud's rice terraces. The trail is relatively easy and
suitable for all fitness levels, and offers breathtaking views of the
surrounding countryside. Along the way, you'll pass traditional Balinese
villages and temples, and can stop for a refreshing drink at one of the many
cafes that line the trail.
Gear: Bring Hiking boots, hiking poles, headlamp and sunscreen. If you are looking for boots, I can highly recommend the Salewa Ms Mountain (for Men) or Salomon Alphacross 3 (for Women).
Tours:
Check out GetYourGuide which has a great selection of tours.
Accommodation:
The Lava Bali Villa & Hot Spring is a really cool place.
Surfing in Bali
Bali is a
surfer's paradise, with world-renowned breaks like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and
Kuta Beach. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, there's a wave
for everyone. One of the best places to learn to surf is Kuta Beach, which
offers consistent waves and plenty of surf schools. If you're looking for a
more challenging wave, head to Uluwatu, which is known for its fast and hollow
barrels.
If you're an experienced surfer, consider taking a boat trip to the nearby island of Nusa Lembongan, which offers some of the best surf breaks in Bali. The island is home to three main breaks: Playgrounds, Lacerations, and Shipwrecks. Each break offers a different type of wave, from fast and hollow to long and mellow.
Surf Camps
There are a lot of great options for Surf Camps. During my travels I have met some surfers and collected the following recommendations: Dreamsea Bali (Youtube), Wave House Surf Camp Canggu, The Surf and Chill House Canggu, Mojo Surf Camp
Diving in Bali
Bali is also a popular destination for divers, with an abundance of marine life and colorful coral reefs.
Tulamben
One of the best dive sites is Tulamben, which is home to
the USAT Liberty shipwreck. The shipwreck is located just off the shore and can
be explored by divers of all levels. The site is also home to a variety of
marine life, including schooling fish, reef sharks, and octopuses.
Menjangan Island
Another great dive site is Menjangan Island, which is part of the Bali Barat National Park. The island offers clear water and vibrant coral reefs, and is home to a variety of tropical fish and sea turtles. If you're lucky, you may even spot a manta ray or a whale shark.
Nusa Penida
For more experienced divers, the Nusa Penida area offers some of the most exhilarating dive sites in Bali, with a chance to swim with giant manta rays and the elusive mola mola (ocean sunfish). The currents in this area can be strong, so it's recommended for advanced divers only.
Masks:
Snorkels:
Fins:
Dive Computer:
Accommodation. I can highly recommend Trawangan Dive Center for accomodation (if you choose the rooms by the private pool) - they also offer awesome dives / dive guides for good prices. If you prefer a bit more comfort check out this gem which I fell in love with during my stay: Gili Treehouse .
When to Go
The best time to visit Bali for outdoor activities is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The weather is warm and sunny, with little to no rain, making it perfect for hiking, surfing, and diving. The wet season, which runs from November to March, can still be a great time to visit Bali, but the rain can make hiking trails slippery and surf conditions unpredictable.
How to Get Around
The most
convenient way to get around Bali is by renting a scooter or hiring a driver.
Scooters can be rented for as little as 50,000 IDR (about $3.50 USD) per day,
and offer the flexibility to explore Bali at your own pace. If you're not
comfortable driving, you can hire a driver for the day or for the duration of
your trip. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also available in
Bali, but can be more expensive than renting a scooter or hiring a driver.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bali is a paradise for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, with an abundance of hiking trails, surf breaks, and dive sites waiting to be explored. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced adventurer, Bali has something for everyone. With the right gear, tours, and accommodations, you can plan the ultimate outdoor adventure trip to Bali and make unforgettable memories.
Comments
Post a Comment