2 day tour and snorkel to meet Manta Rays in Nusa Penida

Planning a trip to Bali and craving an adventure that combines extraordinary marine life with breathtaking landscapes? This 2-day Nusa Penida tour promises just that — a mix of scenic sightseeing and the thrill of swimming alongside gentle manta rays. While it’s a packed itinerary, the highlights are the chance to see manta rays up close and explore some of Bali’s most iconic spots, all within an organized, well-reviewed package.

What we particularly love is how this tour balances adventure and scenic beauty with safety and comfort. The professional guides, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, make sure you get the most out of each experience while feeling secure. One slight consideration is the weather dependency — if the skies turn unfavorable, the snorkeling activities could be canceled or rescheduled. Still, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and a bit of active exploration.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager to snorkel with manta rays in their natural habitat. It’s also ideal if you want a comprehensive look at Nusa Penida’s top attractions without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Families with moderate fitness levels will find the pace comfortable, while anyone with a passion for scenic views and marine encounters will find it rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic Manta Ray Encounters: Swim with graceful manta rays in clear waters, a truly unforgettable highlight.
• Scenic Landmarks: Visit iconic spots like Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Crystal Bay for stunning photo opportunities.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable guides ensure safety, local insight, and a smoothly run experience.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The schedule balances sightseeing and snorkeling, with enough time to enjoy each spot.
• Value for Money: At approximately $107.67, you get multiple activities, snorkeling gear, and even GoPro photos.
• Weather Flexibility: If conditions aren’t ideal, the tour offers quick land-based alternatives or rescheduling options.

This tour is designed for those who want to maximize their time on Nusa Penida, blending sightseeing with underwater encounters. It starts early, with departure at 6:00 am from the meeting point, setting the tone for a full day of exploration. The itinerary is carefully curated to showcase the island’s most photogenic and iconic locations, each with unique charms.

Day 1: Landmarks and Coastal Beauty

Pasih Uug Beach — The Natural Cliff

We found this spot to be a jaw-dropping introduction to Nusa Penida’s rugged landscape. Famous for its dramatic cliffs and natural infinity pools, Pasih Uug (also called Broken Beach) offers spectacular views and a sense of the island’s wild beauty. Our guide explained the geology behind the formations, adding depth to the visual feast. Expect about an hour here, with admission included, making it a perfect quick stop for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Angel’s Billabong — A Natural Coral Basin

Next, we visited Angel’s Billabong, a naturally formed crystal-clear water basin on the coast. The water’s transparency makes it ideal for photographers, but caution is advised on slippery rocks. The guide emphasized safety, especially if you plan to dip your toes or take photos. With around an hour allocated, this stop offers a tranquil moment amid the rugged coast.

Kelingking Beach — The Iconic Clifftop View

Arguably the most famous spot on the island, Kelingking Beach’s jaw-dropping cliffs resemble a T-Rex’s head and offer panoramic views that are hard to beat. While the trek down is steep and challenging, standing atop the cliffs provides a sense of being on the edge of the world. We spent about an hour here, soaking in the view and taking plenty of photos.

Crystal Bay — Snorkeler’s Paradise

The day wraps up at Crystal Bay, known for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a prime spot for snorkeling, with colorful fish and the chance to spot turtles — if luck is on your side. The tour includes snorkel gear, and you’ll have an hour to explore the underwater world. Many travelers comment on the beauty of the coral reefs and the peaceful vibe of the bay, making it a great way to unwind after a busy land day.

Day 2: More Scenic Spots and Marine Encounters

Pantai Diamond and Atuh Beach — East Coast Gems

Our second day starts with visits to Pantai Diamond and Atuh Beach. We loved the way Atuh Beach looks from above — the cliffs facing east create a striking backdrop, especially in the early morning light. The guide explained that the best views are around 05:30, so an early start is recommended if you want the perfect shot. These beaches are renowned for their undisturbed natural beauty and are relatively less crowded.

Rumah Pohon (Tree House Molenteng)

This attraction offers a chance to enjoy a bit of novelty — a tree house perched on a tree that appears to be hanging in the air. It’s a fun spot for photos and for those who enjoy a tiny thrill, as the structure is somewhat challenging to access. With about an hour here, you get a chance to appreciate the effort to blend adventure and landscape.

Teletubbies Hill — Green Dunes Galore

The rolling green dunes of Teletubbies Hill are perfect for relaxed wandering and panoramic photos. The name might sound whimsical, but the views are genuine and expansive, giving you that true sense of open space.

Snorkeling with Manta Rays at Manta Bay

The highlight of the tour is the snorkeling session to meet manta rays, a truly surreal experience. The guides are experienced and attentive, with a focus on safety and respect for the marine life. The waters here are calm and clear, perfect for witnessing these gentle giants glide effortlessly through the water. The tour provides snorkel gear, fins, and even GoPro footage, so you can capture the moment without worry.

According to a review, the experience of seeing manta rays was “lovely,” and the guide, Pak Ali, was praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating — making the experience even more enjoyable. This encounter can be life-changing, and the guides go out of their way to ensure you get the best possible view.

Practical Details and Value

The entire experience is priced at around $107.67 per person, which covers transportation, guided tours, snorkeling gear, GoPro photos, and some meals. The inclusion of snacks like mineral water and breakfast adds to the value, especially considering how much terrain and activity you cover.

The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience compared to larger group tours. It’s important to note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point. The tour starts early, at 6:00 am, to maximize daylight and avoid crowds at popular spots.

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some locations involve walking or climbing. However, guides are attentive and aim to keep everyone comfortable.

Final Thoughts

This Nusa Penida 2-day tour offers an impressive combination of scenic vistas, cultural landmarks, and marine adventures. The highlight for many travelers will be the opportunity to swim alongside manta rays, a moment that stays with you long after the trip ends. The carefully curated stops like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong give you a taste of Nusa Penida’s natural grandeur, while snorkeling and underwater experiences make it truly memorable.

The guides, especially noted for their friendliness and professionalism, enhance the overall value of the trip. The inclusion of GoPro footage and snorkeling gear means you can relax and focus on the experience rather than logistics.

For those looking for a well-organized, authentic Bali adventure encompassing nature, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of land and sea experiences, enjoy scenic vistas, and are eager to encounter marine life in its natural environment.

FAQs

Is the snorkeling trip suitable for beginners?
Yes, the snorkeling activity is generally suitable for beginners as the waters around Manta Bay are calm and clear. Guides are experienced and mindful of safety, making it accessible for most.

What should I bring for the tour?
You’ll want to bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. While snorkel gear and fins are provided, bringing your own mask if you prefer might enhance comfort. Pack light but include water shoes for rocky spots and waterproof camera if you have one.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrive at the meeting point — Manta Snorkeling Nusa Penida — on your own.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent snorkeling or other activities, the tour offers quick land-based alternatives or rescheduling options. Refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to bad weather.

How many people are in a group?
The tour typically accommodates up to 15 travelers, which helps ensure a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellation within 24 hours is non-refundable.

What’s the best time to see the best scenery or wildlife?
Early mornings are recommended for the best views at Atuh Beach and Teletubbies Hill, with some sites like Atuh Beach looking particularly stunning at sunrise.

To sum it up, this 2-day Nusa Penida tour stands out as a well-rounded, value-packed experience that balances scenic beauty with unforgettable marine encounters. It’s perfect for travelers who want authentic, guided insights into Bali’s stunning east coast and underwater worlds, making it a worthwhile addition to any Bali itinerary.