Bali is a paradise waiting to be explored, and one of the best ways to experience its beauty is through Bali road trips. Whether you’re craving stunning coastal views, lush rice terraces, ancient temples, or hidden waterfalls, a road trip in Bali offers an unparalleled adventure. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best Bali road trip routes, must-visit destinations, essential travel tips, and everything you need to know for an unforgettable journey to make the most of your Bali Tour Packages.
Bali road trips allow you to break free from the typical tourist hotspots and discover the island at your own pace. Renting a scooter or car lets you explore hidden beaches, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes without being rushed by tour schedules. From the laid-back vibes of Ubud’s jungle roads to the thrilling coastal drives of Uluwatu, or the serene mountain passes of Bedugul, Bali’s diverse terrains make for incredible self-drive experiences. Check out the routes and some expert Bali Travel Tips to make the most of your blissful Bali Tour.
Top Bali Road Trip Routes
To help you plan the ultimate adventure, here are the best Bali road trip routes tailored to different interests and travel styles:
1. Ubud to Kintamani: Culture, Rice Terraces & Volcanoes
- Start: Ubud
- End: Kintamani
- Distance: 40 km
- Recommended Duration: 1-2 days
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for clear views of Mount Batur
- Highlights:
Tegallalang Rice Terraces – Iconic emerald-green rice paddies are perfect for a morning stroll.
Tirta Empul Temple – A sacred water temple where locals perform purification rituals.
Kintamani – A highland retreat offering panoramic views of Mount Batur and its crater lake.
Batur Natural Hot Springs – A perfect spot to relax with views of the volcano.
This Bali road trip route is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in Balinese culture. Be prepared for winding roads and cooler temperatures as you ascend towards Kintamani.
2. Seminyak to Uluwatu: The Ultimate Coastal Drive
- Start: Seminyak
- End: Uluwatu
- Distance: 50 km
- Recommended Duration: 1 day
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset
- Highlights:
Jimbaran Bay – Famous for its golden beach and seafood dining spots.
Padang Padang Beach – A hidden gem ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Uluwatu Temple – Perched on a cliff, this temple is perfect for sunset views and watching the traditional Kecak Fire Dance.
Suluban Beach & Uluwatu Surf Spots – A haven for surfers and beach lovers alike.
This road trip in Bali offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery and incredible beachside cafes.
3. Sanur to Amed: East Bali’s Hidden Gems
- Start: Sanur
- End: Amed
- Distance: 80 km
- Recommended Duration: 2 days
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for clear mountain views
- Highlights:
Goa Lawah Temple – Also known as the Bat Cave Temple, one of Bali’s sacred sites.
Tirta Gangga – A beautiful water palace with intricate fountains and koi ponds.
Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven) – One of the most photographed spots in Bali.
Amed Beach – A quiet coastal village known for snorkelling and diving.
This Bali road trip route takes you through the less touristy, authentic side of the island, making it perfect for travellers looking for tranquillity and scenic landscapes.
4. Lovina to Bedugul: Waterfalls, Lakes & Temples
- Start: Lovina
- End: Bedugul
- Distance: 50 km
- Recommended Duration: 1-2 days
- Best Time to Visit: Morning to enjoy fresh mountain air
- Highlights:
Gitgit Waterfall – One of Bali’s tallest waterfalls, surrounded by lush jungle.
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – A floating temple on Lake Beratan with breathtaking scenery.
Twin Lakes (Buyan & Tamblingan) – A peaceful nature retreat with stunning viewpoints.
Strawberry Farms in Bedugul – Pick fresh strawberries while enjoying cool mountain air.
This Bali road trip is perfect for nature lovers looking to escape the crowds.
5. Canggu to West Bali National Park: A Journey into the Wild
- Start: Canggu
- End: Pemuteran
- Distance: 120 km
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 days
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season for better road conditions
- Highlights:
Medewi Beach: A peaceful surfing destination away from touristy crowds.
West Bali National Park: Bali’s only national park, home to unique wildlife and trekking trails.
Menjangan Island: One of Bali’s best snorkeling and diving locations with vibrant coral reefs.
For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Bali road trips take you to the island’s wild side.
Essential Road Trip Tips for Bali
- Choose the Right Vehicle – Scooters are great for solo travelers, but a car is better for long journeys and comfort.
- Download Offline Maps – Bali’s internet can be unreliable, so having an offline map like Google Maps is advisable.
- Drive Safely – Bali’s roads can be narrow, winding, and filled with unexpected obstacles, so drive cautiously.
- Carry Small Cash – Some remote areas don’t accept cards, and you’ll need cash for parking fees and entrance tickets.
- Respect Local Customs – When visiting temples, wear a sarong and be respectful of religious practices.
- Plan for Traffic – Popular routes can get congested, so start early to avoid the rush.
Summing Up Bali Road Trips
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, beach lover, or culture enthusiast, Bali road trips offer something for everyone. With diverse Bali road trips routes ranging from coastal drives to magical mountain escapes, you can craft an itinerary that suits your travel style.
So, grab a map, rent a vehicle, and hit the road to explore the magic of Bali beyond the tourist hubs. A road trip in Bali will give you the freedom to discover hidden gems, make spontaneous stops, and create unforgettable memories.
