Cycle Bali
8 Days Starting in Ubud and ending in Sanur
Visiting: Ubud, Mount Batur/Kintamani, Bedugul Lake, Lovina, Tanah Lot/Canggu Beach, Sanur
Tour operator:
Tour code:
TIXC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
14-99 years
Tour operated in:
EnglishActivities:
Tour Overview
It’s all about two wheels in Bali, and this action-packed cycling trip takes in some of the island’s best spots in the highlands and on the coast. Hit the road in Ubud and wind your way south, into a world of lush green rice fields, smouldering volcanoes, family-run warungs, community projects, caves, temples and tiny villages. With the chilled-out beaches of Lovina and Sanur on the horizon, and a slew of adventure activities on offer throughout – such as a hike up Mt Batur – this is an unforgettable journey for cyclists and adventurers alike.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ubud
Location: Ubud
Accommodation: Hotel
Om Swastiastu! Welcome to Ubud, the arts and cultural centre of Bali. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. Afterwards, perhaps head out to Gianyar night market. It's an informal setup, but a great way to get a taste of the local culture and cuisine.
Optional Activities:
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Day 2: Ubud
Location: Ubud
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Our first ride takes you to the Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung) then cycle an undulating 10 kms along quiet roads through Ubud’s rice paddies and an insight into local life, including a rest stop at the surreal Tegallalang Rice terraces. Continue on through Bali’s verdant countryside before experiencing our first taste of traditional Balinese cuisine at a local family-run warung (Indonesian café)
From here we cycle on a further 10kms to the thousand-year-old Tirta Empul temple. Dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu God of water, this one of the largest water temples in Indonesia. As a holy site only local Balinese can bathe in the waters but you are free to explore the temple grounds, including the peaceful Jeroan section or the calm waters of the Koi Pool.
After visiting Tirta Empul we slowly make our way back to Ubud, (approx. 16 kms, mostly downhill) taking quiet roads back past lush rice fields. This evening why not enjoy all that laid-back Udud has to offer, from a traditional Balinese Kecak dance to sampling local delicacies at the Night Market.
Ride distance: approx. 38 kms / 24 miles on mostly undulating roads, with an elevation gain of approx. 580m / 1900ft
Included Activities:
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Day 3: Mount Batur/Kintamani
Location: Mount Batur/Kintamani
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Start the day early, driving (approx. 1hr) from Ubud to Penelokan in the shadows of Bali’s mighty volcano, Mount Batur. Cycle around the undulating caldera of the mountain past black lava fields still evident from 1968 eruption (with around 2km of cycling on a lava road) before returning to the quiet asphalt road then stopping for lunch. From here you can see glorious Mt Batur, as well as the shimmering Lake Batur at its base.
In the afternoon, you can laze at the hotel or take the option of hopping into a boat for a quick visit to a most unique local village, Trunyan. What sets this village apart from others is its fascinating way of dealing with the deceased; instead of the conventional Hindu tradition of cremation, bodies are put under the 'Kayu Menyan' tree which is said to absorb the odour. Be warned though, this can be a challenging experience.
Ride distance: approx. 44 kms / 27 miles on mostly undulating roads, with an elevation gain of approx. 1040m / 3410 ft
Day 4: Bedugul Lake
Location: Bedugul Lake
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Cycle from Kintamani to Bedugul today (approximately 55 km).
There's the option of climbing Mt Batur beforehand. Those that choose this optional activity will get up in very early morning (3 am) for the climb, which reaches 1717 metres above sea level. It's quite chilly at this early hour – usually somewhere between 8°C and 12°C, so dressing in layers is essential to deal with the sharp rise in temperature later on. A 15-minute drive leads to the starting point, and the climb itself takes around two hours, with an additional 30 minutes to get to the summit if you choose (refreshments are available at the top). The sunrise rears its head at around 6:15 am, after which many cheeky monkeys show up in search of food. You can also visit the nearby cave, where the Balinese come to worship twice a year; from here you can see the steam of the crater rise.
For those not doing the optional climb you can sleep in a little before the ride to Bedugul begins. Today's ride starts out flat before a slight uphill but it's worth it! From here you enjoy over 30kms of mostly downhill, cycling past orange and coffee plantations all the way to our lunch stop.
After lunch it's an uphill ride to Bedugul, a sleepy village at the edge of the crater lake of Bratan (Lake of Holy Mountain). An area of great natural beauty, at 700m above sea level it makes for a refreshing change from Bali's constant humidity.
Ride distance: approx. 44 kms / 27 miles, with a mixture of uphill and downhill roads, with an elevation gain of approx. 550m / 1820ft
Optional Activities:
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Day 5: Lovina
Location: Lovina
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Cycle from Bedugul to beachside Lovina today (approximately 52km). The roads are mostly downhill and has some beautiful views to enjoy.
Along the way visit one of the main temples in Bali, Ulun Danu Baratan. Appearing to ‘float’ on the lake, the 500-year-old temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the water goddess, and ceremonies are held here in the name of water supply to Central Balinese farmers. Spend around an hour checking out the temple, then ride on the traditional market– a good place to pick up a mangosteen to snack on (or a durian, for those who can handle the aroma!).
Continue cycling through this beautiful countryside, stopping to admire the other two crater lakes of Buyan and Tamblingan before stopping at the most scenic waterfall in Bali – Munduk waterfall. Set among lush forest it is a wonderful place to cool off before cycling onwards through cloves plantations all the way down to the unique black volcanic sand shores of the Bali Sea and laidback Lovina.
Ride distance: approx. 42 kms / 26 miles, with a mixture of uphill and downhill roads, with an elevation gain of approx. 450m / 1475ft
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 6: Tanah Lot/Canggu Beach
Location: Tanah Lot/Canggu Beach
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Avoid the long uphill from the coast to the centre of the island by starting with a short drive (approx. 1hr) to Pupuan Village. From here jump on your bike and ride (approx. 17 kms) the undulating roads to the beautiful Belimbing Rice Terrace, possibly the most photogenic rice terrace in Bali.
Coast downhill (approx. 10kms) before joining a busy road to the small village of Meliling (approx. 11kms) before continuing south a further 18kms to Tanah Lot, and a visit to the legendary Tanah Lot Temple (which translates literally 'island on the sea'). It's a popular but beautiful spot to see the sunset. Your accommodation tonight is short drive from Tanah Lot and a short walk to nearby Canggu and Batu Bolong surf beaches.
Ride distance: approx. 45 kms / 28 miles, with a mixture of uphill and downhill roads, with an elevation gain of approx. 400m / 1310ft
Day 7: Sanur
Location: Sanur
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast
Leaving the coast and avoiding the congested and dangerous roads that lead to nearby Denpasar we drive north and up (approx. 1hr) to Luhur Batukaru temple, the start of your ride today and the last ride we do in beautiful Bali.
Once again cycling through the beautiful landscape of rice terraces, palm trees and lush green forest we make our way to the small village of Jatiluwih, home of the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih Rice Terrace, for a short rest stop before continuing downhill for lunch and our final stop for the day, Marga village. From here we bid farewell to our bikes and support crew and drive the final leg to sleepy Sanur (approx. 1.5hrs)
The afternoon is at your leisure in Sanur. Stroll along the beach, take a dip in the calm waters, or grab a well-earned drink in one of the small local bars.
Ride distance: approx. 30 kms / 19 miles, mostly downhill roads, with an elevation gain of approx. 330m / 1090ft
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 8: Sanur
Location: Sanur
Meals Included: breaksfast
The trip comes to an end today, with no further activities planned.
Sanur is a convenient place from which to embark on further travel. Perhaps head east and get off the beaten track on our Bali & Lombok: Hike, Bike & Raft trip.
Optional Activities:
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What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel (7 nts) -
Ubud - Pura Tirta Empul Temple
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Ubud - Pura Danau Bratan
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Munduk - Waterfall walk
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Tanah Lot Temple
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Meals
7 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 1 dinners
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
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International Travel
Included Activities
- Ubud - Pura Tirta Empul Temple
- Ubud - Pura Danau Bratan
- Munduk - Waterfall walk
- Tanah Lot Temple
Transport
- INCLUDED BIKES
- On this trip we use full suspension mountain bikes that are best suited to the mixed terrain. The bikes are Polygon Siskiu D7 (2018 & 2019 model) with lockable full suspension, 10 speed Shimano XT & Deore groupset (36/26t front, 11-36t rear), and Hydraulic disc brakes
- While there are occasions when we use local public transport such as trains, buses or taxis to cover long distances or attend non-cycling activities, we predominantly use the bicycle as our main form of transport. On most of our trips we also have a support vehicle as secondary transport for travelling longer distances, avoiding hazardous areas to cycle, as a backup should we have any incidents and of course as an option for those that would prefer not to cycle for an hour or a day. In most regions, the support vehicle will be a minivan, but may range in size up to a full-sized coach or overland vehicle. Your main piece of luggage is transported in the support vehicle. Our bikes do not have panniers or bags on them, so we recommend a small backpack or a cycling jersey with rear pockets to carry any essentials you’ll need with you.
- INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
- You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
- While we’re confident in the quality and suitability of the bikes we include, we do recognise that sometimes you just need the comfort of your own bike to enjoy the ride. If you are thinking of bringing your own bike on this trip, please advise us at time of booking and take note of the below information. If you do choose to bring your own bike, please note that we will not being carrying a spare bike for you.
- SUITABLE TYPE OF BIKE
- Although the surfaces of the roads we travel on are generally good there are occasionally gravel or potholed sections of road/track. As such, we recommend a 'mountain' or 'hybrid' style bike with plenty of gear selections for easy cruising. For more details on the type of roads we’ll be riding on see the ‘Physical Rating’ section of your Essential Trip Information. Please contact your booking agent if you have any questions about the suitability of your bike.
- We usually cannot accept tandem bikes on our trips as they are often too large for our transport. In some destinations we can make an exception. Please ask your booking agent if you are interested in bringing a tandem bike.
- BEFORE THE TRIP
- We recommend that you have a full service of your bike performed by a trained mechanic to help minimise any issues you may have during the trip. Please also ensure that you have specific and adequate cover for loss, damage or theft for your bike under your travel, home and contents or specialist insurance policy.
- DURING THE TRIP
- Your bike will be transported in the same way as our included bikes, usually in the support vehicle or on the bike trailer. While we endeavour to take the best care we can, you should recognise that transported bikes do get the occasional bump or scratch along the way. The same applies when we take other forms of transport, such as a train, where we are unable to pack the bikes ourselves. Your bike will be secured in the same way as our included bikes. This can occasionally be outside the vehicle (where the bikes are locked together).
- In order to reach our destination, it is necessary for us to travel via various modes of transportation, including planes and trains. Any extra costs involved with transporting personal bikes are your responsibility. This includes (but is not limited to) additional transport costs and customs/import fees.
- While our mechanics can usually assist with minor repairs, you are responsible for the safety and upkeep of your own bicycle. This includes conducting regular safety checks of your bike during the trip and cleaning your bike. In addition, any parts that require replacing are your responsibility. Most destinations have access to only limited spares along the way and access to bike shops can be days apart. Therefore, please ensure you bring any spare parts that you may require (especially specialist parts).
- TRANSPORTING YOUR BIKE TO/FROM THE DESTINATION
- Your preferred airline should have no problem carrying your bike, but many will charge an extra fee. Contact them before departing to discuss their arrangements for transporting bikes.
- A well-padded bike box (obtainable from a bike shop) is usually the best method of plane transportation. We recommend that you accompany your bicycle on the flight. Unaccompanied bicycles have been known to spend some extra days in the hands of customs authorities.
- Many taxis are not large enough to transport a bike box/bag so you may be delayed waiting for a suitably sized vehicle.
- INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
- You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Accommodation
- Hotel (7 nts)
Important Information
- 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights apart from Night 3 (Kintamani) and Night 6 (Canggu) of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. Please note that some room configurations have two single beds, although a double bed will always be requested.
- 2. Bicycle hire is included in your trip price. Please advise your height at time of booking so as we can organise a suitable sized bike.
- 3. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
- 4. On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
Mode of Transport
- INCLUDED BIKES
- On this trip we use full suspension mountain bikes that are best suited to the mixed terrain. The bikes are Polygon Siskiu D7 (2018 & 2019 model) with lockable full suspension, 10 speed Shimano XT & Deore groupset (36/26t front, 11-36t rear), and Hydraulic disc brakes
- While there are occasions we use local public transport such as trains, buses or taxis to cover long distances or attend non-cycling activities we predominantly use the bicycle as our main form of transport. On most of our trips we also have a support vehicle as secondary transport for travelling longer distances, avoiding hazardous areas to cycle, as a backup should we have any incidents and of course an option for those that would prefer not to cycle for an hour or a day. These vehicles range from a minivan in most regions up to a full sized coach or overland vehicle in others.
- Your main luggage is transported in the support vehicle
- INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
- You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE
- While we’re confident in the quality and suitability of the bikes we include, we do recognise that sometimes you just need the comfort of your own bike to enjoy the ride. If you are thinking of bringing your own bike on this trip, please advise us at time of booking and take note of the below information. If you do choose to bring your own bike, please note that we will not being carrying a spare bike for you.
- SUITABLE TYPE OF BIKE
- Although the surfaces of the roads we travel on are generally good there are occasionally gravel or potholed sections of road/track. As such, we recommend a 'mountain' or 'hybrid' style bike with plenty of gear selections for easy cruising. For more details on the type of roads we’ll be riding on see the ‘Physical Rating’ section of your Essential Trip Information. Please contact your booking agent if you have any questions about the suitability of your bike.
- We usually cannot accept tandem bikes on our trips as they are often too large for our transport. In some destinations we can make an exception. Please ask your booking agent if you are interested in bringing a tandem bike.
- BEFORE THE TRIP
- We recommend that you have a full service of your bike performed by a trained mechanic to help minimise any issues you may have during the trip. Please also ensure that you have specific and adequate cover for loss, damage or theft for your bike under your travel, home and contents or specialist insurance policy.
- DURING THE TRIP
- Your bike will be transported in the same way as our included bikes, usually in the support vehicle or on the bike trailer. While we endeavour to take the best care we can, you should recognise that transported bikes do get the occasional bump or scratch along the way. The same applies when we take other forms of transport, such as a train, where we are unable to pack the bikes ourselves. Your bike will be secured in the same way as our included bikes. This can occasionally be outside the vehicle (where the bikes are locked together).
- In order to reach our destination, it is necessary for us to travel via various modes of transportation, including planes and trains. Any extra costs involved with transporting personal bikes are your responsibility. This includes (but is not limited to) additional transport costs and customs/import fees.
- While our mechanics can usually assist with minor repairs, you are responsible for the safety and upkeep of your own bicycle. This includes conducting regular safety checks of your bike during the trip and cleaning your bike. In addition, any parts that require replacing are your responsibility. Most destinations have access to only limited spares along the way and access to bike shops can be days apart. Therefore, please ensure you bring any spare parts that you may require (especially specialist parts).
- TRANSPORTING YOUR BIKE TO/FROM THE DESTINATION
- Your preferred airline should have no problem carrying your bike, but many will charge an extra fee. Contact them before departing to discuss their arrangements for transporting bikes.
- A well-padded bike box (obtainable from a bike shop) is usually the best method of plane transportation. We recommend that you accompany your bicycle on the flight. Unaccompanied bicycles have been known to spend some extra days in the hands of customs authorities.
- Many taxis are not large enough to transport a bike box/bag so you may be delayed waiting for a suitably sized vehicle.
- INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE
- You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
To complete this trip it is important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed).
This trip is designed for those who love to get active. While prior training may not be necessary, a moderate level of fitness will help you get the most out of the activities on this trip.
The optional hike to the Mt Batur crater is demanding and can vary a great deal depending on the weather. Be sure to bring strong, sturdy walking shoes. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.