Itinerary - Exclusive Indonesia: Bali and Lombok

Round trip flights are not included in the package, so you can choose from where and when you want to fly. This is to give you maximum freedom of choice!

We'll take the afternoon to settle in - and recover from jet lag! We find ourselves on the beach for the first Indonesian sunset - so we get our trip off to a great start! - and then we go together in search of the most characteristic restaurant we can find and taste some typical dishes. The choice is really wide, but to start there is no doubt: coconut rice for everyone!

To beat jet lag effectively? Keep it simple: dedicate a day to rest and recharge. That's exactly what awaits us in Seminyak—a perfect oasis for rejuvenation. Whether it's lounging on the expansive beach, exploring local shops for unique souvenirs, or indulging in a Balinese massage, the choice is yours. And for the adventurous souls, nearby Kuta offers a surfer's haven with gentle waves perfect for beginners. Expect some laughs as we navigate the surf! The day is ours until sunset, a perfect time to unwind with a cocktail at a beachfront bar. And why not try a Balinese arak-based concoction for an extra boost of energy before hitting the dance floor?

Good morning, Bali! Waking up in this earthly paradise adds a special sweetness to the day. After getting ready, we're all set to embark on our island exploration. Loading our backpacks into the minivan, we head north towards our ultimate destination, the island of Menjangan. But first, we have some must-see stops along the way.

Our journey kicks off with a visit to the iconic Tanah Lot, a stunning Hindu temple perched on an islet just off Bali's southeast coast. Built in the 16th century, this temple pays homage to the guardian spirits of the sea and is shrouded in myths of sea serpents. During high tide, the temple appears almost submerged, but during low tide, we can stroll to it with minimal splashing.

Next on our itinerary is a visit to the breathtaking Belimbing rice fields, a true marvel of nature! After a satisfying meal, we continue our journey until we reach our own slice of paradise: the island of Menjangan.

Time to delve into another realm of Indonesia: the underwater world. The island of Menjangan, a true paradise on earth, is renowned for its vibrant marine life teeming beneath the waves. Interestingly, the name "Menjangan" stems from the Javanese language, meaning deer. Yes, besides the kaleidoscope of colourful fish, we may also catch sight of the wild deer that roam the island, sometimes appearing along the shoreline. It's all about patience, and we have plenty as we spend the day snorkeling and enjoying boat excursions. As the sun sets, we eagerly await the magical moment on the beach, perhaps accompanied by the graceful deer. Could there be a more perfect conclusion to yet another captivating day in Indonesia?

Unfortunately, it's time to bid farewell to this enchanting corner of paradise. But fret not, as our next destination promises to be equally captivating. Today, we journey to Ubud, a picturesque town nestled among the gentle slopes leading to Bali's central mountains. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and iconic rice terraces, Ubud is a hub of historical and artistic significance, embodying Bali's ancient culture.

Before reaching Ubud, we have the option to pause for a couple of "journey break" stops, perhaps exploring local markets or marveling at the renowned Jatiluwih rice fields. The choice is ours: proceed directly or savour the journey with a stop?

In the evening, Ubud offers a plethora of culinary delights, as it is hailed as the culinary capital of Bali. A special challenge awaits: who among us can uncover the finest traditional Balinese cuisine restaurant? (Coordinator excluded, of course!)

Mystical, special, and utterly unique—these words perfectly encapsulate the essence of Sideman, a charming Balinese town. Nestled amidst rice fields and verdant foliage, Sideman exudes a tranquil atmosphere unlike any other on the island, making it one of Bali's most enchanting and magical areas.

During our visit, we'll have the privilege of stepping into a local home to witness traditional weaving techniques firsthand. We'll meander through the serene rice fields, immersing ourselves in the unhurried rhythm of daily life. Exploring exotic plantations, we'll uncover the intricacies of the exclusive Subak irrigation system. A hands-on traditional cooking class awaits, followed by the opportunity to savour Jamu, a traditional herbal drink, along with a sumptuous lunch.

As the afternoon approaches, we'll journey back to Ubud, perhaps seizing the opportunity to partake in a rejuvenating yoga lesson. What do you say?

Today, we're set to explore the city of Ubud, a treasure trove of temples and cultural wonders. Our itinerary begins with a visit to Pura Taman Saraswati, followed by a tour of the majestic Puri Saren Palace. For nature enthusiasts, options abound: a stroll through the Botanical Garden or along the scenic Campuhan Ridge, offering panoramic views of the valley. Alternatively, we can journey to the Tirta Empul temple just outside Ubud, engaging in a purification ritual to connect with our inner spirituality.

No visit to Ubud is complete without a stop at the iconic Monkey Forest, where mischievous monkeys reign supreme. As we attempt to forge friendships with these playful creatures, let's remain vigilant—monkeys are known for their thievery, and we may find ourselves bartering for our belongings in exchange for treats!

As evening approaches, we'll meander through the bustling market, browsing local handicrafts and contemplating souvenir purchases. Is it time to bring home a piece of Ubud's charm?

Today, we embark on a journey to Lombok, an island east of Bali renowned as a surfer's paradise. After a ferry ride, we'll head straight to our accommodation at Mandalika Beach, where we can drop off our backpacks and immerse ourselves in the surroundings. With the afternoon free, we have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters and unwind before our island exploration in the days to come. A delectable fish-based dinner awaits us, providing the perfect fuel for a restful night's sleep!

While many are familiar with the popular Gili Islands near Bali, fewer have experienced the serene beauty of the Gili Islands of Lombok! Tucked away southwest of Lombok, these untouched gems offer a tranquil escape from the world's hustle and bustle. Today, we're in for a full immersion in these peaceful waters, perfect for relaxation and snorkeling—complete with masks and snorkels provided!

We'll hop into a minivan and journey to the Sekotong area, where we'll board a fast launch bound for Gili Nanggu, Gili Kedis, and Gili Tangkong. Here, amidst the untouched beauty, we'll savor a delicious local lunch before continuing our underwater exploration. After a day of discovering the vibrant marine life, we'll return to our rejuvenated hotels, ready to unwind and reflect on our unforgettable adventure.

Good morning, fellow WeRoaders! As we enter our tenth day of adventure, a world of possibilities awaits us. Today is all about freedom and flexibility, allowing us to tailor the day to our desires. Whether it's unwinding at the hotel, lounging on one of the nearby beaches, or delving into the rich culture and traditions of Lombok, the choice is ours to make.

For those craving a cultural experience, why not venture to a traditional Sasak village renowned for its exquisite terracotta and ceramics? Afterwards, we can journey south to the breathtaking Mawun beach, where pristine sands and azure waters beckon. A stop at a traditional restaurant for lunch sets the stage for further exploration, leading us to the renowned Tanjung Aan beach. Stretching endlessly before us, this heavenly coastline offers the perfect backdrop for swimming, relaxation, and perhaps a bit of wave-watching as surfers take on the challenge.

What do you think? Sounds like a splendid day ahead, doesn't it?

Today we return to the starting point: a transfer, a ferry and another transfer await us, so let's make ourselves comfortable and show off our best travel playlist! We arrive in Canggu in the afternoon and prepare for the evening: a last dinner all together to toast our adventure and off we go, we launch into the Balinese nightlife, ready to enjoy these last hours in pure WeRoad style, to the fullest!

Check-out and goodbye – until your next WeRoad adventure!