Day 3 New Bali

Bali and Java Island Adventure Bike Tour

This cycling journey takes you across the vibrant islands of Java and Bali, blending rich culture, stunning nature, and unforgettable experiences. Starting in the cultural heart of Yogyakarta, you’ll explore ancient temples like Borobudur and Prambanan, then cycle through rice paddies, traditional villages, and volcano landscapes as you cross Java’s diverse terrain. Along the way, you’ll meet local artisans, witness age-old batik traditions, and enjoy authentic Javanese hospitality.

The adventure continues through dramatic highland routes, tropical plantations, and along coastal roads that lead to pristine bays and hidden beaches. You’ll ride through lush forests, past dragon fruit farms, and even camp under the stars on a remote beach—complete with grilled fish and the sound of waves.

From Java, you’ll ferry across to Bali, where a slower rhythm awaits. Stay on the peaceful north coast, snorkel vibrant reefs, and relax to birdsong and the breeze. Traditional Balinese massages, beach lounging, and serene gardens offer time to recharge. The tour ends in the lively coastal town of Sanur, with time to shop, stroll, or simply soak in the last moments of island life.

Perfectly paced and full of variety, this tour is designed for active travelers who want to see Indonesia beyond the guidebooks. With moderate daily rides, cultural encounters, and plenty of scenic highlights, it offers a deep and personal way to explore the beauty and spirit of Java and Bali—two islands, countless memories.

Tour Type

Guided

Lodging

Casual+ hotels

Start

Ubud

Finish

Denpasar

Level

moderate

Avg. Daily Distance

37 km / 23 mi

Cycling Days

8

Group size

Min. 4, Max. 8

Fly-In

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)

Fly-Out

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)

Highlights

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Enjoy Scenic Coastal Rides

Bali is known for its beaches and lush green tropical landscape. Enjoy cycling through some of the most beautiful scenery on Bali and Java.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.

Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Ubud

Arrive at the Ngurah Rai Airport and be whisked to Ubud, where we gather for a welcome cocktail to celebrate the start of a fantastic journey through the tropical paradise that is Bali. Once bike fitting is complete, we will take a short excursion into the heart of Ubud’s artist village. We stroll together through its galleries and lively streets, and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a charming café.

Meals:
Accommodation: Hotel Saren Indah
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Day 2: Ubud

We ease into our adventure today with a relaxed and scenic ride—after all, there’s no need to conquer jungles on day one. Setting off from our hotel, we pedal gently through lush rice fields and quiet backroads, soaking in the tranquil beauty of Bali’s countryside.

Our route leads us to a riverside launching point, where we trade our bikes for rafts and enjoy a peaceful float through stunning tropical scenery. The rafting is gentle but thrilling, offering a unique perspective on the island’s untouched natural beauty.

After drying off, we hop back on our bikes for a short ride into Ubud, winding through narrow alleys and past the famous Monkey Forest. In the evening, there’s time for a leisurely stroll through Ubud’s vibrant streets—perhaps browsing artisan shops or sipping a cool drink. It’s the perfect start to our journey, with just enough adventure and plenty of time to unwind.

Road surface: 22km asphalt / 3km concrete

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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling Distance: 27 km / 17 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Saren Indah
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Day 3: Ubud

Today, we take things at a leisurely pace, choosing not to uproot any coconut palms but instead to immerse ourselves in Bali’s serene countryside. We cycle through lush rice fields and quiet, traditional villages, where daily life flows gently to the rhythm of nature. Along the way, we pass some of the island’s steepest rice terraces—an impressive sight—before stopping at a local glassblowing workshop to watch artisans at work. Our ride leads us to the beautiful Mengening Temple, set against a stunning natural backdrop. Here, we take a refreshing dip in the temple’s sacred spring water and enjoy a delicious banana leaf lunch in a peaceful setting. With full hearts and full bellies, we continue through the rice fields on a gentle descent back to Ubud. The evening is ours to explore—Ubud’s vibrant streets, tempting warungs, and local specialties like babi guling or smoked duck await.

Road surface: 35km asphalt / 2km concrete rice field paths

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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling Distance: 37 km / 23 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Saren Indah
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Day 4: Bedugul

Today marks our first real climb into Bali’s highlands, and it’s the perfect chance to work off any lingering babi guling from last night. We begin with a gentle ride along rice terraces and through coconut groves, with a brief stop to peer into the dramatic canyon of the Ayung River. As we continue, the landscape shifts—lush coffee plantations and dense mountain forest surround us as we ascend toward the rim of a long-extinct volcano. It’s a challenging but rewarding ride, gaining over 900 meters in elevation. Fortunately, our support minibus is never far behind, ready for anyone who prefers a lift during the steeper sections. We arrive in the cool mountain air of Bedugul, where our charming bungalows offer sweeping views over the island’s interior. Surrounded by nature and serenity, it’s the perfect place to relax and reflect on today’s scenic journey.

Road surface: 30km asphalt

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 30 km / 19 mi
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Day 5: Bedugul

Today, we trade our bikes for hiking boots to give our legs a break and immerse ourselves in Bali’s lush mountain scenery. After a short bus ride, we begin our trek through fertile farmland bursting with tamarillo, passion fruit, oranges, and mango. The path soon leads us into dense forest, where the soundscape shifts from birdcalls to the powerful roar of waterfalls. Crossing a bamboo bridge, we reach a hidden cascade, its natural pool offering the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. Surrounded by thick jungle, we savor a delicious nasi campur lunch, a traditional mix of rice and local specialties. Energized, we press on along narrow paths through ancient trees to another impressive waterfall. If luck is on our side, we might spot the elusive kopi luwak beans along the way. A visit to a small, family-run coffee farm rounds off the day before we return to our mountain retreat by bus.

Trekking distance: 6km / 3.7mi

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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cycling Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
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Day 6: Pemuteran

Today promises a thrilling descent as we leave the highlands and head toward Bali’s north coast. We begin with a visit to the serene Bratan Temple, beautifully set by a mountain lake, before cycling nearly 30 kilometers downhill through misty clove plantations and charming mountain villages. The ride offers breathtaking views of terraced rice fields cascading down the hillsides. If time allows, we will pause at a local café to sample authentic kopi luwak, one of the world’s rarest coffees. A tasty lunch by the sea revives us before we continue our gentle ride to the hotel. Once there, we can cool off with a swim in the Bali Sea or relax by the pool. As the sun dips into the horizon, we catch a glimpse of Java—our next adventure waiting just across the water. The day combines rich culture, stunning nature, and the perfect touch of relaxation.

Road surface: 35km asphalt

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 55 km / 34 mi
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Day 7: Pemuteran

After several exhilarating days, today is all about slowing down and soaking in the serenity. Our hotel on Bali’s peaceful north coast is a true haven—surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the soft rustle of palm leaves, and the rhythmic lull of the sea.

We can spend the morning lounging by the pool or strolling along the quiet beach, where time seems to move a little slower. For those eager to explore, a nearby reef offers a vibrant underwater world—think parrotfish, coral gardens, and curious anemones waiting to be discovered with a snorkel. In the afternoon, we will treat ourselves to a traditional Balinese massage, letting every muscle unwind under skilled hands. Whether you are napping in a hammock or floating in the sea, today is about finding stillness and recharging—body and spirit.

Meals: Breakfast
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Day 8: Ijen Volcano Base Camp

This morning, we hop back on our bikes and pedal toward the western tip of Bali, bound for the wild beauty of West Bali National Park. The ride takes us through quiet villages, stretches of farmland, and into the more untamed bushland. With a bit of luck, we might catch a glimpse of macaques leaping through the trees or spot tropical birds flitting above the canopy.

Once we reach the coast, we board a boat to Menjangan Island, a snorkeling paradise. Mask and snorkel in hand, we dive into crystal-clear waters alive with parrotfish, anemonefish, and dazzling coral gardens along dramatic underwater cliffs. After drying off and soaking in the views, we continue cycling along the park's edge toward Gilimanuk. There, it is time to bid farewell to Bali. A short ferry ride carries us across the Bali Strait to Java, where a transfer takes us to our base camp at the foot of mighty Mount Ijen.

Road surface: 35km asphalt

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 35 km / 22 mi
Accommodation: Rante Guesthouse Paltuding
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Day 9: Banyuwangi

Before dawn, we set off from camp to hike or ride ( depending on what you choose) the 400 meters up to the rim of the Ijen crater.

As the sky begins to lighten, torn clouds of sulfurous steam drift across the eerie green crater lake, creating a scene that feels plucked from myth—a bubbling cauldron beneath a witch's spell. From the top at 2,280 meters, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of neighboring volcanoes Raung and Semeru.

After soaking in the sunrise spectacle, we mount our bikes for a spectacular 35-kilometer descent through misty jungle, coconut groves, and sprawling coffee plantations. The ride is pure exhilaration, and midway, we pause for a swim in a crystal-clear pool beneath a waterfall—a refreshing break in the tropical heat. Back on the bikes, we continue to Banyuwangi, where we can mingle with local traders at the bustling market before transferring to our comfortable hotel for the night.

Road surface: 30km asphalt, 5km various plantation paths

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 35 km / 22 mi
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Day 10: Rajegwesi Bay

Today begins with a short transfer to the magical De Djawatan Forest, where we stroll beneath towering, moss-draped trees that feel straight out of a fantasy film. From here, we cycle past quiet Javanese villages, stopping at a traditional batik workshop to watch artisans create vibrant sarongs using age-old techniques. The asphalt soon gives way to narrow plantation paths as we weave through dragon fruit fields—bright bursts of color in the landscape. We cross a canal bridge and make our way toward the coast, where the remote Rajegwesi Bay awaits. After pitching our tents near the beach, there's time for a refreshing dip in the ocean. As the sun sinks low, we gather around a beachside grill for freshly caught fish, the scent mixing with the salty sea air. With the waves gently crashing and stars overhead, we wind down another unforgettable day in Java.

Road surface: 35km asphalt, 5km paved paths, 10km plantation paths

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 50 km / 31 mi
Accommodation: Java Turtle Lodge
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Day 11: Banyuwangi

This morning, we wake to the sound of waves and the salty breeze at Rajegwesi Bay. There is time for one last swim in the gentle surf or to watch the traditional fishing boats return with their overnight catch—tuna, squid, and sometimes even small sharks. After soaking in the morning beach vibe, we hop on our bikes and begin a relaxed ride through rural Java. We pass through quiet villages and fertile plantations, where locals wave as we pedal by. The route takes us toward Pulau Merah, or the “Red Island,” known for its wide stretch of golden sand and striking offshore islet. It is the perfect spot to unwind, soak up some sun, and savor the final coastal moments of our journey. Around mid-afternoon, we load our bikes and travel by bus back to Banyuwangi. Tonight, we settle into the comfort of our hotel and look back on all the adventures we have shared.

Road surface: 12km asphalt, 13km various plantation paths

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 25 km / 16 mi
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Day 12: Sanur

As the first light of dawn breaks over the sea, we gather on the beach to watch the sun rise above Bali—the “Island of the Gods”—shimmering in the distance. It is a quiet, reflective moment, marking the end of our journey across Java. After a hearty breakfast, we board the ferry and slowly leave Java behind, watching the island's lush coastline fade from view. There is a tinge of melancholy, but also deep satisfaction as we cross the Bali Strait. Once we reach West Bali, our bus awaits to take us south, weaving through scenic landscapes and lively villages until we arrive in Sanur.

Here, we check into our comfortable hotel and have the rest of the day free to relax, stroll along the beach promenade, or toast to the unforgettable experiences we have shared. Bali welcomes us once again, this time as seasoned travellers enriched by our journey.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Artotel Sanur (4-Star)
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Day 13: Sanur

After breakfast, the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might choose to unwind by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or wander along Sanur’s scenic 5-kilometer beach promenade. Lined with cafés, market stalls, and local art shops, it is the perfect place to soak in the coastal charm, pick up last-minute souvenirs, or simply sit with a cool drink and watch the waves roll in. If you are feeling active, a leisurely bike ride or a dip in the sea are great options too. Whether you spend the day relaxing, exploring, or reflecting on the journey behind you, today is about savoring the final moments of your adventure in Bali.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Artotel Sanur (4-Star)

Day 14: Departure

If you're not quite ready to return, why not stay a little longer? Bali has endless possibilities for extending your journey—whether it's relaxing by the beach, diving into the vibrant culture, or hopping over to nearby islands like Nusa Penida, Lombok, Lembongan, or even Komodo. We are happy to help arrange an extension that suits your mood, whether it is more adventure or pure relaxation. For those flying home, we will provide a comfortable group transfer from your hotel in Sanur to the airport. No matter what you choose, today marks the end, or perhaps just a pause, of a truly unforgettable journey through Bali and Java.

Meals: Breakfast

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Dates and Prices

Single Supplement

From US $460



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Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

trip leader

Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

shuttle

A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.

Luggage Transfer

Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.

Airport pickup and drop

Enjoy a hassle-free start and finish to your journey.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

refreshments

Refreshments and mineral water while cycling.

entrance

Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.

Exclusions

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

Bikes

When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

Bike Image

Polygon XTrada 5 bike or similar

mountain

Included in your trip price

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival

Your tour begins in Denpasar which is served by Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Our local team will pick you up from the airport.

Departure

Your tour ends in Denpasar which is served by Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). We'll drop you off at the airport at the end of the tour.

Weather

The climate in Bali and Java is tropical and warm year-round, but divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy (or wet) season. Each has a distinct impact on travel experiences, especially for outdoor activities like cycling.

Dry Season (May to September) is the most favorable time to travel through Bali and Java. The weather is sunny, humidity is low, and rain is rare—making it ideal for cycling, snorkeling, hiking, and exploring cultural sites. Clear skies and cooler nights add to the comfort. These months are considered the high season, so expect more travelers and a lively atmosphere.

March, April, and October mark the transition between dry and rainy periods. The weather is generally pleasant, with occasional short showers, especially in the afternoons. It's a great time to visit for those looking to avoid peak-season crowds while still enjoying mostly dry conditions and vibrant landscapes.

Next comes the rainy Season (November to February & December) which is considered the off-season for travel. Rain can be heavy and frequent, often falling in short, intense bursts followed by humidity. While the landscape is beautifully lush, wet conditions can make cycling routes slippery and less enjoyable. Travel is still possible, especially for those interested in cultural immersion or relaxation, but outdoor adventures may be limited.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Good

April

Good

May

Best

June

Best

July

Best

August

Best

September

Best

October

Good

November

Mixed

December

Offseason

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

What to Pack

Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.

Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear

  • Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
  • Padded cycling shorts.
  • Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
  • Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
  • Synthetic cycling socks.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
  • Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker.
  • Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).

Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

  • Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
  • Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
  • Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
  • Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
  • Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.

Other Necessities

  • Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Plug socket adaptor.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
  • Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Pack light to leave room for shopping.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.

Visa Information

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Insurance

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.

Can I use my credit card insurance?

Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.

Is proof of travel insurance required?

Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.

Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?

We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

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