Bedugul and Singaraja Tour

Exploring Bali’s Northern Charm: An Honest Review of the Bedugul and Singaraja Tour

If you’re looking to see a different side of Bali beyond the usual beaches and resorts, the Bedugul and Singaraja tour offers an intriguing glimpse into the island’s lush mountains, serene lakes, and historic towns. This full-day adventure covers some of Bali’s hidden gems, from the bustling Candi Kuning market to the tranquil Lake Beratan and the waterfalls of Munduk. With round-trip hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees included, it promises convenience and a taste of authentic Bali — but is it worth your time and money?

One aspect many travelers appreciate is how this tour balances natural beauty with cultural insights. You’ll get to walk through tropical rainforests, admire stunning lakes, and explore traditional markets, all alongside a knowledgeable guide. However, some travelers have noted that the day can be quite long and that certain stops might feel rushed, especially if traffic or weather conditions aren’t ideal.

This tour is best suited for those eager to see Bali’s northern landscapes without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s ideal for travelers who value guided experiences, appreciate scenic drives, and want a mix of nature, culture, and history in a single day. If you’re seeking a comprehensive sampling of Bali’s lesser-known spots, this tour could be a great fit — just be ready for a full, sometimes fast-paced day.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit traditional markets, lakes, and waterfalls away from the tourist crowds.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and an experienced guide make for hassle-free travel.
• Natural Beauty: Expect lush rainforests, scenic lakes, and impressive waterfalls.
• Cultural Insights: Discover Bali’s local temples and historic towns like Singaraja.
• Value for Money: For $70.52, the tour includes entrance fees, transportation, and guide services, making it a good deal.
• Potential Drawbacks: The long day might feel rushed, and weather conditions can impact some scenic stops.

An In-Depth Look at the Bedugul and Singaraja Tour

Starting Point: Comfortable Pickup & Early Start

Most travelers are picked up from their hotels around 8:30 am, which means your day begins bright and early. The tour company, Tour East Indonesia, handles the logistics smoothly, confirming pickup times when booking. Expect a small group—max 15 travelers—which keeps the experience intimate and allows the guide to tailor some stops to the group’s interests.

The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a relief given Bali’s tropical heat, especially mid-morning. Reviews mention the guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing insights about local customs, geography, and history. One reviewer specifically praised guide Windri for her sensitivity and well-informed commentary, adding a personal touch to the day.

Journey Through Bali’s Central Mountains

As the bus winds through Bali’s inland roads, you’ll notice the scenery shifting from coastal resorts to lush green plantations. The highlights begin with the transition from busy south Bali to the more tranquil north. Expect to see fields of cabbages, maize, and potatoes, with the terrain gradually becoming more mountainous and moss-covered as you ascend.

Candi Kuning Market: A Vibrant Feast for the Senses

Your first stop is the Candi Kuning fruit and flower market, set amid the mountains at 850 meters altitude. It’s a lively place filled with vendors selling exotic orchids, roses, and strawberries. Photos here will surely make your friends jealous, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the market at its peak. Reviewers love this stop for its authenticity; it’s a real local hub rather than a tourist trap. One guest mentioned the stall owners were friendly and eager to share their produce, adding to the overall charm.

Lake Beratan & the Water Temple

Next, you’ll visit Lake Beratan, a peaceful crater lake filled with water from the extinct Mount Batukaru. The lake is postcard-perfect, with mist often lingering over the water in the early morning. Here, the highlight is the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, a water temple built on a small island on the lake. Visitors will find it picturesque and serene, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to learn about Balinese spiritual practices. As one reviewer pointed out, the temple’s setting is simply beautiful, and locals still use it for worship.

Munduk’s Twin Lakes & Waterfalls

After exploring Bedugul, the tour heads towards Munduk Village, famous for its twin lakes and waterfalls. The walk to Gigit Waterfall is one of the more highly praised parts of the trip. Expect a leisurely stroll through dense rainforest, with some reviewers noting it’s a pleasant walk—not strenuous, but enough to enjoy the lush greenery. The waterfall itself is described as spectacular by those who visited, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Coastal Drive & Historic Singaraja

Traveling along the coast of Lovina, you’ll pass Bali’s distinctive black sand beaches—an unusual sight for most visitors. There’s a chance to stop for a quick photo or a snack before heading into Singaraja, Bali’s old capital. The town’s colonial architecture and laid-back atmosphere offer a different flavor from busy Ubud or Kuta. While some reviews mention that the lunch stop at Lovina Beach is a bit basic, others enjoyed the open-air, quiet restaurant setting with a buffet, noting it’s a reasonable way to recharge.

Optional: Exploring Lovina & More

Though the main itinerary doesn’t include a dolphin cruise, some travelers might find that a worthwhile addition if time allows. Others simply enjoy the coastal views and relaxed vibe.

Concluding the Day

The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to your hotel, often arriving in the early evening. Reviewers appreciate that the tour doesn’t feel rushed, and some mention that their guides were attentive to their needs, making sure everyone stayed comfortable and informed throughout.

Value & Practical Considerations

For $70.52 per person, this tour offers quite good value considering the inclusions: transportation, entrance fees, and a guide. Many reviewers highlighted the professionalism of the guides, with some praising Windri for her comprehensive knowledge and friendliness. The small group size makes the experience more personal and flexible.

But remember, this is a full 10-hour tour, so expect a long day. Some reviews note that the pace can be a bit brisk, especially if traffic is heavy or the weather turns rainy. A few guests felt the waterfalls weren’t as impressive as they hoped, but most agreed that the scenery and cultural stops made up for it.

Food & Dining

Lunch isn’t included, so you should budget extra for a meal—most stops have local restaurants with buffet options or cafés. Several reviewers enjoyed their meals, noting the setting at Lovina Beach was particularly pleasant. Keep in mind that some stops might be busy or touristy, so choosing your lunch spot wisely can enhance your experience.

Group Size & Booking Details

The tour caps at 15 participants, which tends to keep things intimate and manageable. Confirm your pickup details when booking, and note that additional charges may apply for cruise passengers or those staying outside the main pickup areas.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This journey suits those eager to see Bali’s less-visited northern side and appreciate scenic drives, waterfalls, and cultural sites. It’s ideal if you value guided commentary and a streamlined way to visit multiple spots in one day. Be prepared for a somewhat full schedule — it’s a long, but rewarding day out.

This tour isn’t the best choice if you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely day or want to focus solely on beaches. Also, if weather turns sour, some outdoor stops might be less impressive, so always check the forecast.

Final Thoughts

The Bedugul and Singaraja Tour offers an authentic peek into Bali’s mountainous landscapes, lakes, and historic towns. It’s a well-rounded experience for those who enjoy natural beauty, cultural insights, and scenic drives, all at a reasonable price. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help make the day memorable, though it’s worth noting the long hours and potential for a hurried pace.

If you’re someone who wants to see Bali’s northern treasures without the hassle of planning, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially suited for travelers who prioritize meaningful experiences over rushing through sights, and who are prepared for a full day of exploration.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from major hotels in Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, Jimbaran, and Nusa Dua areas, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, starting around 8:30 am and returning in the early evening.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fees to the attractions, and an English-speaking licensed guide.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You should budget extra for dining at local restaurants along the route.

How many people are in the group?
The tour limits group size to a maximum of 15 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find some stops like walking to waterfalls a bit challenging.

To sum it up, the Bedugul and Singaraja Tour offers a comprehensive look at Bali’s north, combining scenic vistas, cultural sites, and authentic markets. It’s a strong choice for curious travelers who want a guided day of discovery, provided they’re prepared for a full schedule and variable weather. Whether it’s the stunning lakes, lush rainforests, or historical towns, this tour delivers a worthwhile experience that showcases Bali’s diverse beauty beyond the beaches.