Sunrise to Sunset – The Ultimate Bali Itinerary for a One Day Adventure

Bali is a dream destination filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. But what if you only have one day to explore the island? Don’t worry! With the right itinerary, you can experience the best of Bali from an epic sunrise over the mountains to a golden sunset by the ocean.

This guide takes you on an action packed one day adventure, covering iconic landmarks, scenic views, cultural gems, and delicious Balinese cuisine.

6:00 AM – Witness a Stunning Sunrise at Mount Batur

Start your day early with a breathtaking sunrise trek up Mount Batur, one of Bali’s most famous volcanoes. The 2-hour hike takes you to the summit just in time to see the sky light up in shades of orange, pink, and gold.

Why It’s Worth It:

• Unparalleled sunrise views over Bali, Lombok, and the surrounding volcanoes.
• A rewarding adventure with a moderate trek through nature.
• Enjoy a hot coffee and eggs cooked in volcanic steam at the summit.

Tips for the Best Experience:

• Book a guided sunrise trek for safety and convenience.
• Bring a light jacket, as the morning air can be chilly.
• Wear comfortable hiking shoes for a smooth trek.

9:30 AM – Breakfast at a Jungle Café in Ubud

After an energizing trek, it’s time to refuel with a delicious Balinese breakfast in Ubud. Head to a hidden jungle café surrounded by lush rice fields for a peaceful morning meal.

Recommended Cafés:

• Zest Ubud – Known for its organic, plant-based dishes and scenic views.
• Cafe Pomegranate – A unique open-air café in the middle of the rice fields.
• Clear Café – Famous for its healthy smoothie bowls and fresh juices.

Try the Nasi Goreng (Balinese Fried Rice) or the Banana Pancakes, and enjoy a strong cup of Balinese coffee before continuing your journey.

10:30 AM – Explore the Tegalalang Rice Terraces

No trip to Bali is complete without seeing the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO-recognized landscape known for its stunning green terraces and traditional subak irrigation system.

What to Do Here:

• Walk through the lush rice paddies and snap some amazing photos.
• Try the Bali Swing, offering incredible views of the jungle.
• Visit a local farmer and learn about traditional rice farming.

Pro Tips:

• Mornings are the best time to visit, as it gets hot by noon.
• Support the local farmers by donating a small tip for entering the fields.

12:00 PM – Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Head to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, where you can see playful long-tailed macaques in their natural jungle habitat.

Why You Should Visit:

• Over 1,000 monkeys roam freely in this sacred forest.
• Explore ancient temples and moss-covered statues hidden within the jungle.
• A great way to experience Bali’s wildlife up close.

Important Tips:

• Avoid eye contact with the monkeys, as they may see it as a challenge.
• Keep your belongings secure, as the monkeys love to grab sunglasses and snacks!

1:00 PM – Lunch with a View at a Balinese Warung

By now, you’ve worked up an appetite! Enjoy a traditional Balinese lunch at a local warung (family-run restaurant) with stunning jungle or rice field views.

Recommended Dishes:

• Babi Guling (Suckling Pig) – A must-try Balinese specialty.
• Ayam Betutu (Slow-Cooked Chicken) – Full of rich, aromatic spices.
• Lawar (Spiced Vegetable Salad) – A perfect vegetarian option.

For the best authentic Balinese flavors, check out:

• Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka (Ubud)
• Bale Udang Mang Engking (Ubud)
• Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku (Ubud)

3:00 PM – Discover the Beauty of Tegenungan Waterfall

Cool off at Tegenungan Waterfall, one of Bali’s most popular waterfalls located just outside Ubud.

Why It’s Worth Visiting:

• A short and easy trek leads to a powerful cascade surrounded by jungle.
• You can swim in the refreshing natural pool at the base of the falls.
• Perfect for photography and relaxation after a long morning of exploring.

Travel Tips:

• Visit earlier in the afternoon to avoid large crowds.
• Bring a swimsuit if you want to take a dip.
• Wear non-slip sandals, as the rocks can be slippery.

5:00 PM – Sunset at Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fire Dance

End your adventure with a breathtaking sunset at Uluwatu Temple, perched on a dramatic clifftop 70 meters above the Indian Ocean.

What to Expect:

• Golden hour views over the vast ocean.
• Witness the famous Kecak Fire Dance at sunset.
• Explore the sacred sea temple and its mythical monkey guardians.

Tips for the Best Experience:

• Arrive by 5:00 PM to secure the best sunset spot.
• Watch out for cheeky monkeys, as they love stealing hats and sunglasses!
• Book your Kecak Dance ticket in advance to get the best seats.

A Perfect Day in Bali

From volcanic sunrise views to golden sunsets by the ocean, this one day Bali itinerary captures the island’s best experiences in just 12 hours. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture lover, or a nature enthusiast, this sunrise to sunset tour gives you a taste of everything Bali has to offer.

Have extra time? Extend your trip with a romantic dinner at Jimbaran Beach or a night market tour in Seminyak!

Are you ready to explore Bali in a day? Start planning your adventure now!