Private Tour to Trunyan Village “Skull Island of Bali”

Exploring Trunyan Village and Skull Island of Bali: An Authentic Cultural Journey

If you’re craving more than the typical Bali tourist trail, a private tour to Trunyan Village and Skull Island offers a fascinating peek into Bali’s lesser-known traditions. This journey isn’t your average sightseeing trip—it’s an authentic, thoughtfully curated experience that combines natural beauty, intriguing customs, and cultural depth. With round-trip transfers and lunch included, it’s designed for those who want a hassle-free day immersed in Bali’s unique lifestyle.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances the curiosity of visiting Bali’s “Skull Island” with the chance to explore a traditional Bali Aga village and enjoy local specialties. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference—offering insights that bring the experience to life. The one potential drawback? Some might find the ride to the more remote locations a bit bumpy or long, but that’s part of the adventure.

This tour is perfect for travelers who are intrigued by Bali’s cultural diversity, appreciate authentic experiences, and want a comfortable, well-organized day out. It’s suitable for most ages and mobility levels, thanks to private transportation and a flexible itinerary. Let’s take a detailed look at what makes this tour a compelling choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Insight: Visit an unspoiled Bali Aga village and see the distinctive way locals treat their deceased.
• Unique Cemetery Visit: Explore Bali’s open cemetery on Skull Island, where bodies decompose above ground without being buried underground.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes round-trip private transfers, lunch, and guided commentary—making it a stress-free experience.
• Scenic Natural Stops: Enjoy breathtaking views at Kintamani Highland and sample Bali’s famous coffee, including the Luwak brew.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides ensure respectful, engaging tours with local insights and personalized touches.
• Balanced Duration: About 8 to 10 hours, perfect for a full-day adventure without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Trunyan Cemetery – The Heart of the Cultural Discovery

Your day begins with a visit to Trunyan Cemetery, located just outside the village of Trunyan, one of Bali’s Bali Aga villages. Unlike traditional Indonesian burial sites, this cemetery is truly remarkable. Bodies are laid out on bamboo platforms or on the ground, decomposing naturally without being buried underground. This practice is unique and respectful, rooted in the local customs that have persisted for generations.

A guide will accompany you, ensuring you understand the significance of this ritual. As one reviewer noted, “The guide, Wayan, really made the trip exceptional,” explaining how the locals treat their deceased with solemnity and ceremony. You’ll see skulls, bones, and decomposing bodies—yet surprisingly, many mention there’s no strong smell, thanks to the natural environment and respectful practices.

Kintamani Highland – A Perfect Lunch Spot

After absorbing the profound cultural experience, you’ll head to the Kintamani Highland for lunch at the Grand Puncak Sari Restaurant. Here, the views of Bali’s active volcano and lush landscape are spectacular. The menu offers a mix of Balinese, Indonesian, Asian, and Western cuisines, catering to diverse tastes. Reviewers repeatedly praised the quality of the buffet and the breathtaking scenery—one called it “a really nice buffet lunch with an amazing view.”

Kumulilir – Coffee & Tea with a View

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Kumulilir, a renowned coffee plantation. Here, you can relax with a cup of traditional Balinese coffee, tea, or sample the famous Coffee Luwak. The setting is lush and tranquil, offering a perfect spot for an afternoon break. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to taste local brews—some described it as “an experience to remember,” especially those who enjoy coffee tasting.

Optional Upgrades: Tailor Your Experience

While the core tour is already engaging, you can choose to upgrade with additional stops like Mount Batur sunrise jeep tour, waterfalls, hot springs, Tirta Empul Temple, Besakih Temple, or Penglipuran Village. These options allow you to customize your day for deeper cultural or natural exploration, making the trip even more memorable.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $109 per person, this tour packs a punch in terms of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and convenience. The inclusion of round-trip private transfer, lunch, bottled water, and coffee/tea ensures there are no hidden costs, and you won’t have to worry about navigating Bali’s sometimes confusing roads or finding suitable restaurants.

Travelers often mention how guides like Widana and Wayan make all the difference, explaining things clearly and offering a friendly, personalized experience. One reviewer even noted, “Putu was an excellent guide, prompt, reliable, and very knowledgeable.”

The combination of authentic cultural exposure and beautiful scenery makes this tour a fabulous choice for those who want to go beyond the typical Bali beach holiday and see a side of Bali few travelers encounter.

The Experience of the Guides and the Small Details

Guides like Wayan and Putu have received glowing praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make visitors comfortable. Many reviews mention how these guides go beyond just pointing out sights—they explain the customs, answer questions, and sometimes share local stories, making the entire day feel personal.

One traveler shared, “Our guide, Dwiana, was extremely knowledgeable and made us feel very comfortable. This was a very interesting and unique experience.” Another praised the guides for their language skills and professionalism, which enhances the overall quality of the trip.

Transport & Timing

The tour uses air-conditioned minivans that comfortably seat your group, allowing for a smooth ride through Bali’s scenic countryside. The full day lasts about 8 to 10 hours, which includes plenty of stops and time at each location. Some guests noted that the drive to Trunyan can be bumpy, so those prone to motion sickness might want to prepare accordingly.

Flexibility & Personalization

Since it’s a private tour, guides are able to adapt plans slightly based on your interests or timing needs—be it spending more time at a particular site or skipping certain parts if you prefer. Many reviews mention how guides like Putu or Wayan tailor the experience, making it feel less like a cookie-cutter trip.

Reviews & Authenticity

With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 58 reviews, the tour is clearly well-received. Travelers love the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the authentic experiences. One reviewer called it “a deeper look at Bali’s culture,” emphasizing the value of seeing places like the Skull Island cemetery that most travelers miss.

Some critical comments mention early pickup times or bumpy rides, but these are minor considerations compared to the overall quality and authenticity of the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who want to understand Bali beyond the beaches and resorts. It’s perfect for those interested in culture, tradition, and natural scenery, as well as anyone who appreciates well-organized, private excursions with local guides.

It’s suitable for most ages and fitness levels, as the stops are not overly strenuous, although expect some bumpy roads. It also caters to photographers and history buffs alike, thanks to the combination of striking scenery and unique cultural sites.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. This private Bali tour offers a comprehensive, respectful, and fascinating window into Bali’s lesser-known customs. The combination of Skull Island’s haunting beauty, the warmth of the Bali Aga village, and the scenic stops for coffee and lunch makes it a well-rounded day.

If you’re looking for a meaningful experience that combines cultural insight with natural beauty, this tour delivers. It’s especially valuable for those who prefer guided, private experiences that allow for deeper engagement without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

For travelers eager to see a side of Bali few visitors get to witness, this tour is a thoughtful, educational, and visually stunning option—well worth the price.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since it’s a private experience with comfortable transportation, most ages can enjoy it. However, some walking or bumpy roads may be less comfortable for very young children or elderly travelers.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip private transfers are included, with air-conditioned minivans ensuring a smooth ride across Bali’s scenic countryside.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, making it a full-day experience that covers multiple sites at a relaxed pace.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at Kintamani Highland and coffee or tea at Kumulilir are part of the package, providing local flavors and scenic views.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the core stops are fixed, you can upgrade your experience with additional sites like temples, waterfalls, and villages, tailoring the day to your interests.

Is the cemetery visit respectful?
Absolutely. The cemetery is a sacred site for locals, and guides ensure visitors are respectful and informed about its customs and significance.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and respectful attire are recommended. Bring a camera for the stunning views and memorable moments.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour requires good weather, if canceled due to rain or fog, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In all, this tour offers an authentic, scenic, and respectful look at Bali’s unique funeral practices, traditional villages, and natural beauty, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting to go beyond Bali’s beaches.