Snorkeling & Trekking at West Bali National Park

Discovering Bali’s Natural Wonders: Snorkeling & Trekking at West Bali National Park

This Bali tour offers a blend of underwater adventures and jungle exploration, making it a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see the island’s diverse ecosystems. Spanning two days, with a combination of snorkeling at Menjangan Island and trekking through West Bali National Park, it promises an authentic experience that highlights Bali’s vibrant marine life and lush landscapes. The tour is designed for those who love active days, close encounters with wildlife, and immersive nature experiences.

One of the things we really appreciate is how well-organized and varied the itinerary is. From drifting over coral reefs to walking through monsoon forests, each part of the tour feels like a different world. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup makes logistics smooth, especially if you’re staying in Ubud or surrounding areas. However, be aware that the tour involves a fair amount of physical activity—so it suits those with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy being outdoors.

This experience tends to attract adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and those looking to combine water and land activities in one trip. If you’re after a well-rounded, affordable, and authentic way to encounter Bali’s natural beauty, this tour could be perfect. Just remember, it’s not a luxury or highly exclusive experience—what you get is genuine, guided exploration built around Bali’s spectacular wildlife and scenic spots.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: Combines snorkeling at Menjangan Island with jungle trekking in West Bali National Park.
• Wildlife spotting: Chance to see electric clams, scorpionfish, starfish, eels, wild chickens, monkeys, and lizards.
• Expert guides: Guides are knowledgeable and helpful, especially for first-time snorkelers.
• All-inclusive value: Includes transportation, park entrance fees, water, and food at some points.
• Authentic experiences: Opportunities to visit temples and natural habitats off the usual tourist trail.
• Well-organized: Pickup from hotels and clear, manageable itinerary make for a smooth trip.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Snorkeling at Menjangan Island

The highlight of this day is the boat trip from Banyuwedang Beach to Menjangan Island, renowned for its world-class snorkeling sites. The boat ride itself is short, around 30 minutes, but it’s a pleasant start—crisp sea air, gentle waves, and the promise of underwater treasures. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who will lead you through some of the best coral reefs Bali has to offer. As we’ve read from reviews, guides like Made Taro and his team are praised for their patience and helpfulness, especially for those new to snorkeling.

Expect to drift along reef walls teeming with colorful fish, electric clams, starfish, eels, and large reef fish. The reef garden is a true spectacle—corals in intricate shapes, schools of fish darting overhead, and the chance to see elusive creatures like scorpionfish. Reviewers have mentioned the unforgettable experience of seeing Menjangan’s marine life, with one stating that the spots shown by guides were “amazing”.

For those interested in cultural sights, there’s an option to visit local temples like Gili Kencana, Segara Giri, and Kelenting Sari, which add a spiritual dimension to the day. The trip includes around four hours of snorkeling, plenty of time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the underwater scenery.

Day 2: Trekking in West Bali National Park

The second day shifts gears to land, beginning with a visit to the temple complex of Jayaprana & Layon Sari—a romantic spot reflecting Bali’s legendary love stories. From there, the trek takes you into the monsoon forest, where you can observe herbal leaves used for medicine and survival, and spot wildlife such as monitor lizards, wild chickens, birds, and monkeys.

This part of the tour is about panoramic views and natural discovery. You’ll cross a small river, which is only flowing during the rainy season, adding a bit of adventure to the walk. The guide will point out various plant species and explain their uses—valuable info for nature enthusiasts. Reviewers have appreciated the helpfulness and patience of guides, especially for unfamiliar hikers.

Next, the trek leads through a mangrove forest, offering a different ecological perspective. The drive back to your hotel wraps up this immersive day. The entire trekking experience lasts about three hours and includes binoculars, bottled water, and an expert guide.

Why this tour works for travelers

The combination of marine and terrestrial adventures makes this tour a well-rounded way to see Bali’s natural beauty. The boat rides and snorkeling are accessible and suitable for beginners, thanks to guides who prioritize safety and comfort. The chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat—from elusive reef creatures to jungle animals—is a highlight that adds genuine value.

The inclusion of hotel pickup and transportation from areas like Pemuteran and Pejarakan simplifies planning. You won’t need to worry about logistical details or arranging separate transport, which is a big plus for busy travelers. The price point of $40 per person for two days’ worth of activities, including park entry and equipment, offers impressive value—especially in a destination where guided tours can often run much higher.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a difference—they’re not just knowledgeable but also patient, accommodating, and eager to ensure everyone has a memorable experience. The food and water provided during snorkeling add to the comfort, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about supplies.

What to Consider Before Booking

While the tour is broadly suitable for most travelers, some considerations are worth noting. The physical activity involved—especially trekking through forests and crossing small rivers—means you should be comfortable with a moderate level of exertion. It’s a good idea to wear appropriate footwear for hiking and bring sun protection.

Weather can impact the experience, particularly during the jungle trek or boat ride; if it rains heavily, parts of the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Luckily, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you some flexibility if weather conditions are poor.

Lastly, the tour size is capped at about 100 travelers, which keeps things manageable and ensures that guides can provide personalized attention, but it might also mean early booking is advisable during peak seasons.

The Bottom Line

This snorkeling and trekking tour at West Bali National Park delivers a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife viewing, and cultural insights—all at a very reasonable price. The focus on authentic encounters, combined with knowledgeable guides and a thoughtfully planned itinerary, creates a memorable experience without feeling rushed or overcrowded.

It’s particularly well-suited for active travelers eager to explore both Bali’s underwater worlds and lush forests in a single trip. Whether you’re a snorkeling novice or a jungle enthusiast, this tour offers genuine value, stunning sights, and opportunities to see Bali’s ecosystems in action.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, budget-friendly, yet authentic adventure that highlights Bali’s natural beauty, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $40 fee covers land transportation from your hotel (in Pemuteran or Pejarakan), boat rides, park entrance fees, snorkeling equipment, water, soft drinks, and a knowledgeable guide. Food is also provided during specific points of the tour.

How long is the snorkeling activity?
Snorkeling at Menjangan Island lasts about four hours, giving you plenty of time to explore multiple spots and enjoy the marine scenery.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and helpful, especially for those new to snorkeling or hiking. They focus on safety and comfort, making it accessible for beginners.

What wildlife might we see?
Expect to see electric clams, starfish, eels, reef fish, wild chickens, monkeys, monitor lizards, and various bird species. Some reviewers even saw deer fighting on Menjangan Island!

What should I bring?
Comfortable swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), insect repellent, hiking shoes, and a camera. Water and snacks are provided, but bringing extra water or a small backpack is helpful.

What is the weather usually like?
The tour is weather-dependent; clear days are ideal for snorkeling and trekking. In rainy season, some activities may be canceled or rescheduled. The tour offers full refunds or alternative dates if canceled due to weather.

How many people typically join the tour?
Groups are limited to 100 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable experience with personalized guide attention.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, air-conditioned vans or suitable vehicles are used for land transfers, with pickup from hotels arranged in advance.

Can I visit temples during this tour?
Temples like Gili Kencana, Segara Giri, and Kelenting Sari can be visited if you opt for a private boat, adding a cultural element to your day.

This tour offers a fantastic way to get closer to Bali’s natural environment, balancing adventure with cultural insights—ideal for those seeking an active, authentic experience without breaking the bank.