Bali: Tanah Lot, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces & Waterfalls Day Trip

Summary

Tanah Lot temple at sea, cool Banyumala swim and lush rice terraces north Bali

You’ll feel sea spray at Tanah Lot Temple, swim beneath Banyumala’s twin falls, walk through Jatiluwih’s layered rice fields with your local guide, and pause by Ulun Danu Beratan’s lakeside shrines. Expect real moments: muddy paths, spicy lunches, soft rain on your skin — plus private car pickup and lunch included.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing along a narrow road in North Bali when our guide, Made, slowed down so we could catch the first glimpse of Tanah Lot Temple. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks was louder than I expected — you could almost taste the salt in the air. There were families lighting incense by the shore and a woman selling tiny woven offerings. Made told us how this “temple in the sea” is still used for ceremonies; he pointed out a fisherman balancing on slippery stones nearby. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it felt better just to watch for a minute.

The drive up into the hills was longer than I thought — maybe an hour or so? We passed through villages where kids waved at our van and old men sat outside warungs drinking sweet coffee. At Banyumala Waterfalls, the air changed; it was cooler and smelled like wet leaves. The path down was muddy (I nearly slipped twice), but when we reached the pool, it was worth it. Cold water on my skin, sunlight flickering through the trees — I’m not sure if I actually swam or just floated there for ages. Lunch after that tasted extra good — fried rice with chili sambal and slices of fresh pineapple. Made laughed when I asked for more spice (“You sure?” he said).

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces looked unreal from above — all those green layers curving around the hillsides. Our guide explained how the Subak irrigation system works; he seemed genuinely proud of how local farmers keep it going. We wandered along one of the paths while a light rain started falling (not enough to soak us, just enough to make everything smell even greener). Somewhere between watching a farmer adjust his hat and seeing two ducks chase each other through a flooded field, I realized how quiet it was compared to Ubud or Seminyak.

Last stop: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple by the lake. The clouds hung low over the water and people were taking photos everywhere but somehow it didn’t feel crowded — maybe because everyone spoke softly here? Made showed us where locals leave flowers for Dewi Danu, goddess of the lake. I fumbled my offering but nobody minded. On the way back to our hotel, Bali’s sky turned pink behind us and I kept thinking about that cool waterfall swim hours earlier.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore North Bali's Scenic Highlights

• Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
• View Twin Lakes Buyan and Tamblingan
• Enjoy panorama of Twin Lakes
• Swim at Banyumala Waterfalls
• Tour Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
• See Batu Bolong rock formation
• Visit Tanah Lot Temple

Top questions

How long does this Bali day trip take?

The tour lasts about 10–12 hours including all stops from pickup to drop-off.

Is swimming allowed at Banyumala Waterfalls?

Yes, swimming is encouraged at Banyumala Waterfalls; bring your swimsuit and towel.

Are entrance fees included in this tour?

Yes, all entry fees are covered as part of your booking.

Does this tour include lunch?

Yes, lunch is provided during your day trip.

Is hotel pickup available for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup is included with your private car and driver/guide.

Can infants join this Bali tour?

Specialized infant seats are available upon request for safety.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup in an air-conditioned van with an English-speaking driver-guide who also helps with photos along the way; bottled water; all fuel and parking fees; entry tickets to every site; time to swim at Banyumala Waterfalls (bring your swimsuit); plus a tasty local lunch before returning in comfort in the evening.