2025 ‘Best Of North Bali’ Tour: An Honest All-Inclusive Review

2025 ‘Best Of North Bali’ Tour: An Honest All-Inclusive Review

Serene view of North Bali mountains and lakes

So, you are probably picturing Bali and seeing beaches, beach clubs, and maybe some yoga studios, right? Well, the northern part of the island is actually a completely different world, and it’s pretty incredible. We decided to check out the ‘Best of North Bali’ private tour, mostly because the all-inclusive tag was really appealing. You know, the idea of not having to worry about tickets or finding a good place for lunch is, like, a huge relief on vacation. Honestly, this trip is all about getting away from the crowds and seeing a side of Bali that feels a little more untouched. This review, then, is basically my honest take on whether this all-inclusive day trip is really worth it for your 2025 Bali plans. I mean, we really wanted to find out what that side of the island held for us.

What’s Included? Breaking Down the “All-Inclusive” Promise

Private tour car in front of a Bali gate

Alright, so first things first, let’s talk about what “all-inclusive” actually means in this context, because you know, it can mean different things. For this particular tour, it’s pretty much having your own air-conditioned car and a personal driver-guide for the entire day. That in itself is sort of a big deal, especially with Bali’s winding roads. The package also usually covers all the entrance fees to the main attractions, which, frankly, can add up if you’re paying as you go. You also get things like bottled water in the car, which is seriously a lifesaver in the heat. A huge bonus for us was that lunch was part of the deal; for instance, they took us to this little spot with an absolutely stunning view over the twin lakes. The food was good, local Indonesian stuff, and it was just really nice to not have to search for a place to eat. In other words, you are pretty much just paying one price for a totally seamless day out.

The Waterfalls of the North: A Truly Refreshing Stop

Sekumpul Waterfall with people looking small in comparison

Okay, you literally have to prepare yourself for the waterfalls up north. We went to what I believe was Sekumpul Waterfall, and it’s almost hard to describe how grand it is. The walk down is a bit of a workout, with lots of stairs and a little river crossing, so you definitely want to wear some decent shoes. But honestly, it is so worth the effort you put in. You can feel the cool mist on your skin from pretty far away, which is just an incredible feeling after walking in the humidity. Actually, the sound is what gets you first; it’s this deep, powerful roar that just fills the entire valley. The view that opens up at the bottom is just breathtaking, with multiple cascades of water pouring down these huge, green-covered cliffs. It’s the kind of place that really makes you feel small in a good way. You can actually swim in the pool at the base, and the water is incredibly cold but so, so refreshing. Seriously, this part of the tour was a massive highlight for us.

Sacred Serenity: Visiting Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple on the lake

After the waterfalls, the next big stop is often the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and it’s that iconic temple you’ve probably seen on postcards from Bali. You know, the one that looks like it is floating on a lake. Well, it pretty much does. Apparently, the cool mountain air up there is a really nice change from the hotter coastal areas. The temple itself is just stunning, set against the backdrop of the mountains and reflected perfectly in the clear water of Lake Beratan. Our guide, as a matter of fact, explained that the temple is dedicated to the goddess of the lake, who is really important for the island’s irrigation and farming. Knowing that little bit of context just makes the whole experience feel a bit more meaningful. Unlike some of the other really busy temples, this one had a very peaceful feeling, with beautiful gardens you can just stroll through. It’s just a very tranquil place, and getting photos there, of course, is a must.

Beyond the Itinerary: The Perks of a Private Guide

Friendly Balinese tour guide talking to tourists

Honestly, you could probably rent a car and drive to these spots yourself, but the real value of this tour is having a local guide. Our guide was this super friendly guy named Ketut, and he basically made our day so much better. For instance, he knew exactly when to arrive at the temple to avoid the biggest tour buses. On the way, he pulled over at this amazing roadside spot so we could take pictures of the rice terraces, a place we definitely would have just driven past on our own. He also pointed out a Luwak coffee plantation, and we decided to stop for a quick tasting, which was completely unplanned but really interesting. To be honest, having someone who can answer your random questions—like “what’s that fruit?” or “what’s happening in that village?”—is just fantastic. At the end of the day, it’s that personal connection and local insight that separates a good trip from a really memorable one.

Is This North Bali Tour Right for You?

A couple enjoying a scenic view in North Bali

So, you might be wondering if this private tour is a good fit for your style of travel. Frankly, if you are someone who enjoys a more relaxed pace and wants to see the natural beauty of Bali away from the main tourist hubs, then this is pretty much perfect. It’s absolutely great for couples or small families who value comfort and want a day that is completely taken care of for them. The photographers among you would also really appreciate the private car, you know, being able to stop whenever a great shot appears. On the other hand, if you are a backpacker on a very tight budget, this might feel a little pricey compared to renting a scooter and going it alone. Similarly to that, if your idea of a good time is rushing to see ten different places in one day, the more laid-back speed of a private tour might not be for you. Basically, it all comes down to what you are looking for in your day out.

“To be honest, what I remember most isn’t just one single sight. It’s the feeling of the cool mountain air, the sound of the waterfall, and the genuine conversations with our guide. It’s a completely different kind of Bali experience.”

  • You’ll love this tour if: You want a stress-free day, you appreciate natural beauty, and you enjoy learning from a local guide.
  • You might skip this if: You are on a very strict budget or you prefer a fast-paced, action-packed itinerary.
  • Key takeaway: This is a really amazing way to see the serene, natural side of Bali without any logistical headaches, you know?

Read our full review: [Best of North Bali Tour Review and Details]

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