Dolphin Tour – Waterfall – Wanagiri Hill – Temple on the Lake – Free WiFi

Planning a visit to Bali and eager to cover some of the island’s most photogenic and memorable sights? This Dolphin Tour – Waterfall – Wanagiri Hill – Temple on the Lake offers a well-rounded day of exploration, perfect for first-timers or those looking to see Bali’s northern highlights without the hassle of self-driving. Spanning from early morning pickup to sunset, it’s designed to give you a taste of Bali’s natural beauty, cultural spots, and some truly stunning vistas.

What we particularly like about this tour is its all-in-one approach—you’ll experience the thrill of spotting wild dolphins, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and snap pictures at picture-perfect hill viewpoints and lakeside temples. Plus, the tour’s private nature means you get a tailored day with flexibility, which is always a plus. That said, one potential downside is the limited WiFi during the day, which could be a concern if you’re trying to stay connected, especially with teenagers or work needs.

This tour is a good fit for travelers who want a convenient, guided day that hits many of North Bali’s highlights with minimal planning. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic photo stops, cultural visits, and a bit of adventure—all wrapped into one cost-effective package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines wildlife, waterfalls, scenic hills, and temples for a well-rounded experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Private tour options allow for some customization based on your interests.
• Cost-Effective: At $40 per person, the price covers multiple impressive sights, but some activities like dolphin rental are paid separately.
• Early Start: Begins at 4:00 am, perfect for catching wildlife and avoiding crowds at popular sites.
• Limited WiFi: Noted as a challenge by some travelers, so plan accordingly if connectivity is essential.
• Perfect for First-Time Visitors: Offers a snapshot of Bali’s natural and cultural treasures with minimal hassle.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Early to Catch Dolphins at Lovina Beach

The tour kicks off bright and early at 4:00 am, with pickup arranged from your Ubud accommodation. The first highlight is Lovina Beach, renowned for its wild dolphins. The two-hour drive from south Bali offers a scenic start, giving you a glimpse of rural Bali and its lush landscapes. Once there, you can opt for an outrigger boat ride costing around 200,000-250,000 IDR per person. We love that this part feels authentic—there’s no staged dolphin show here; you’re genuinely watching wild dolphins in their natural environment.

This activity is about 1.5 hours of your day. While the admission is free, the boat ride is an additional expense, which can be a worthwhile splurge if dolphins are your main goal. Some reviews mention that this early start allows for better chances of seeing dolphins, and the calm morning waters make the experience more enjoyable.

Visiting Aling-Aling Waterfall

Next, the tour moves to Aling-Aling Waterfall, a stunning cascade tucked away in North Bali. The waterfall offers a peaceful spot for photos, swimming, or simply soaking in the lush surroundings. It’s a favorite stop for nature lovers, though note that admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to pay at the entrance if you want to go closer or swim.

Traveling here takes about two hours, so be prepared for a scenic drive through Bali’s mountainous terrain. The waterfall’s beauty lies in its pristine, less crowded environment, offering a stark contrast to the busier southern beaches.

Wanagiri Hidden Hills and Twin Lake Views

After the waterfall, you’ll visit Wanagiri Hidden Hills, a popular selfie spot perched above twin lakes. It’s a compact stop—around 30 minutes—but packed with photo opportunities of panoramic views. This spot is all about capturing that perfect Instagram shot, so bring your camera or phone fully charged.

Many visitors comment on the breathtaking vistas, making it a highlight for landscape and nature photography. While the admission ticket isn’t included, the view alone justifies the stop.

Handara Iconic Gate

Next up, the famous Handara Gate provides one of Bali’s most recognizable photo backdrops. The gate’s traditional Balinese architecture frames lush greenery and mountain views, making it a favorite for travelers wanting an iconic shot. Again, about 30 minutes is enough time here to take your photos, soak in the atmosphere, and learn about local architecture.

Lake Beratan and the Small Temple

Your last stop is Lake Beratan, home to a small, picturesque temple on the water. The peaceful setting and reflections on the lake make for stunning photos and a serene experience. The tour allows roughly an hour here, giving enough time to explore the temple area and enjoy the scenery.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

The tour is private—meaning only your group will participate—which offers a more relaxed experience. The pickup time at 4:00 am means an early start but also the chance to beat crowds and enjoy the sites in cooler, less busy conditions.

The cost is $40 per person, which covers transportation, the guide, and most stops. The dolphin boat ride is paid separately, and you should budget for this if it’s a priority. The group discounts make it an economical choice for families or groups.

While the tour is mostly suitable for most travelers, note that WiFi access can be spotty, as noted by one reviewer, which could be frustrating if you’re trying to stay connected or share your photos instantly. The tour’s duration is approximately 7 to 10 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviewers

One Tripadvisor reviewer described the experience as “en général : camping très sympha,” indicating a positive, relaxed vibe, despite language differences. However, they did mention that WiFi was a problem, with only one person in their group able to connect at a time, which made coordinating or sharing moments more challenging.

Another traveler appreciated the stunning views and the variety of sites, but noted that some activities like the dolphin boat ride and entrance fees are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, guided day that hits many of Bali’s natural and cultural highlights. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic views, wildlife spotting, and photo opportunities in a manageable itinerary. The early start suits those eager to maximize their day and avoid crowds.

If you prefer a more flexible, independent trip or need WiFi connectivity throughout your day, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Bali north tour offers good value for money, especially considering it covers a range of attractions—from wildlife to waterfalls to temples—all in one day. The private aspect adds comfort and flexibility, making it a convenient option for groups or families.

While the early start might be a challenge for some, it is well worth it for the tranquility and better chances of spotting dolphins and enjoying peaceful scenic stops. The stunning views at Wanagiri Hill, Lake Beratan, and the iconic gate are enough to keep anyone snapping photos for days.

This tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it a compelling choice for travelers who want a memorable, hassle-free day exploring northern Bali.

FAQs

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour begins early, at 4:00 am, to maximize wildlife viewing and avoid crowds at the popular sites.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, it offers pickup from your Ubud accommodation, and transportation is part of the package.

Are the stops flexible or customizable?
This is a private tour, so there is some flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests, but the main stops are fixed.

How much does the dolphin boat ride cost?
The boat rental at Lovina Beach costs around 200,000-250,000 IDR per person, paid separately from the tour.

Is WiFi available during the tour?
WiFi is limited, and at least one reviewer noted only one person could stay connected, so plan accordingly.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops are between 30 minutes and 2 hours, with the waterfall being the longest at about 2 hours.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring your camera, some cash for entrance fees and the dolphin boat ride, sun protection, and a light jacket for cooler mountain areas.

Is this suitable for children or elderly?
Generally yes, but keep in mind the early start and some walking involved at certain stops; check with your group’s comfort level.

This day tour packs in a diverse set of sights that showcase Bali’s natural beauty and cultural charm. With careful planning and an open mind, you’ll come away with unforgettable memories and plenty of stunning photos—just remember to bring your patience for WiFi!