Bali Combination Tour: What Locals & Smart Travelers Actually Do (Not the Overhyped Stuff)

If you’re planning a “bali combination tour” and want something that doesn’t feel like a copy-paste tourist trap, then you’re in the right place. I’ve been helping friends (and clients) plan trips around Bali for years, and lemme tell you, the right combo tour can either feel like magic... or like you're stuck in a van with strangers for 10 hours wondering why you didn’t just go to the beach instead.

So yeah, combination tours in Bali are awesome—when done right. But “right” really depends on what you wanna get out of it. Some people want waterfalls and temples. Others are more into snorkeling + beach lounging. And then there’s the “let’s cram everything into one day” crowd (don’t do that to yourself, your legs will hate you).

Anyway, here’s what I’ve learned the hard way. Real talk, with real suggestions. Zero fluff.

Check also our post about Bali island 

What Is a Bali Combination Tour, Really? (And Why You Should Care)

Okay, so let’s start with the basics. A Bali combination tour usually means a day trip (or half-day) where you hit up multiple spots in one go—think temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, beaches, and maybe some adventure stuff like ATV rides or white-water rafting.

These are usually marketed as “Ubud + Tanah Lot + Coffee Tour” or “North Bali Adventure: Gitgit Waterfall + Lovina Dolphins.” You get the idea.

But here’s the thing most travel brochures won’t tell you: not all combo tours are created equal. Some are just a checklist of spots. Others are actually curated to make sense together—shorter drives, better timing for lighting/photos, smoother transitions between locations. That second one? That’s gold.

I always tell people to choose themes, not just locations. Like:

• Nature + Culture (e.g., rice terraces + temples + coffee farms)
• Adventure + Relaxation (e.g., white-water rafting + beach massage)
• Instagram + Tradition (e.g., Handara Gate + Ulun Danu Temple + local market)

You’ll enjoy it way more when the vibe flows naturally.

The Best Bali Combination Tours (According to Locals + Seasoned Travelers)

Alright, let’s get into the juicy stuff. I’m gonna break this down into types of travelers. Because one size doesn’t fit all—especially not in Bali.

H3: If You’re a First-Timer Who Wants the “Classic Bali” Experience

Let’s be honest—you probably wanna see the rice terraces, temples, monkeys, and some epic views for your first trip. And I get it. I’ve taken SO many family members on this exact combo:

• Tegalalang Rice Terraces in the morning (go early, it gets packed by 10am)
• Tirta Empul Temple for a water blessing—it’s actually really chill if you get a good guide
• Lunch at Kintamani overlooking Mount Batur (the buffet is meh but the view? 10/10)
• Quick stop at a coffee plantation (yes, the Luwak coffee thing—but also check out their spice gardens)
• Finish at Tegenungan Waterfall or Goa Gajah Temple

If you’re doing this one, get a private driver. The group tours rush you, and trust me, you’ll wanna take your time at a couple spots.

Tangent: One time my aunt tried to bathe fully clothed in the Tirta Empul holy spring. We didn’t realize till halfway through the blessing. Bless her soul. Lesson learned—pack extra clothes.

If You’re Chasing Waterfalls (Literally)

Waterfall lovers, this one's for you. Northern Bali is stacked with the good stuff, but it takes time to reach. So combine smart:

• Start with Banyumala Twin Waterfall – gorgeous, quieter than most
• Then Sekumpul Waterfall – this one’s a trek, but hands down the most stunning in Bali
• End with a soak at Banjar Hot Springs or a visit to Brahma Vihara Arama (a Buddhist monastery with a chilled-out vibe)

You’ll be in the car a lot, so pack snacks. Also, wear proper water shoes—the rocks are no joke.

And yeah, this one’s best with a guide who knows the trails. Some of the waterfall hikes aren’t super well-marked, and GPS can get wonky in the jungle.

For Beach Bums Who Still Wanna Explore a Bit

You can totally combine lazy beach days with cultural bits—it’s all about location. If you’re staying down south (Seminyak, Jimbaran, Uluwatu), here’s a mellow but solid combo:

• Morning at Padang Padang Beach (get there before the influencers do)
• Brunch somewhere in Bingin—try Cashew Tree or Bukit Cafe
• Midday visit to Uluwatu Temple – killer clifftop views
• Catch the Kecak Dance at sunset (book ahead)
• Dinner at Jimbaran Bay with your feet in the sand

Don’t cram too much here. Let it be slow. You’re at the beach, after all.

Couples or Honeymooners? Go Romantic AF

Alright lovebirds, here’s a combo that sets the mood without being cheesy:

• Early morning Mount Batur sunrise hike – yes, it’s early af, but totally worth it
• After the hike, hit a natural hot spring nearby—like Toya Devasya
• Head to Tirta Empul or Gunung Kawi Sebatu (underrated temple, super peaceful)
• Lunch with a view at Tegukopi or Akasa Kintamani
• Optional: afternoon flower bath spa in Ubud

This one’s a full day but doesn’t feel rushed if you plan it out right.

And look, don’t do the Batur hike if you're not into early mornings or have weak knees. It’s a decent climb. I’ve seen folks get halfway up and turn around. No shame, just know what you’re in for.

Insider Tips for Planning a Bali Combination Tour Without Regret

Not gonna lie—this is where a lot of folks mess up. Planning sounds easy, but Bali’s roads, traffic, and weather can throw a wrench into even the best-laid itineraries. So here’s the stuff I wish people knew:

Always Check Driving Time, Not Distance

Google Maps might say “35km,” but that can easily be 2 hours with traffic and narrow roads. Bali’s not a highway-friendly place. Plan your combo tours in clusters—Ubud spots together, North Bali stuff together, South Bali in one day, etc.

Don’t Overstuff the Itinerary

I get the FOMO, I really do. But 3-4 good stops is better than 7 rushed ones. You’ll enjoy the trip WAY more if you can chill at each place for a bit.

My rule? Max 2 major spots and 1-2 minor ones per day. You’re not checking boxes; you’re making memories (cheesy but true).

Weather Matters More Than You Think

Rainy season (Nov–March-ish) can ruin waterfall access, cause temple flooding, or just mess up your whole vibe. So if you’re doing combo tours during that time, go for indoor-friendly or semi-covered spots.

Also, always pack a poncho or compact umbrella. Trust me.

Should You Book Combo Tours Online or DIY It With a Driver?

Both options work, but here’s how I break it down for folks who ask:

Online tours (like from GetYourGuide or Viator) are great if:

• You don’t want to plan every detail
• You’re traveling solo and want group vibes
• You like set timing and clear inclusions (like lunch, entrance fees)

But I personally prefer hiring a private driver, especially when I’m with friends or family. It gives you flexibility, you can change your mind mid-tour, and the local drivers often know better spots than what’s online.

Typical driver fee? Around IDR 600k–800k/day ($40–55 USD), depending on route and how long you go.

Ask for recommendations. I’ve met some hilarious, knowledgeable drivers who doubled as photographers and restaurant critics. Worth every cent.

Combo Tour Ideas That People Don’t Think Of (But Totally Should)

This is the fun part. These combos aren’t your usual brochure stuff—but they slap, if you know what I mean.

Culture + Surf

• Start in Canggu with a morning surf lesson (plenty of beginner schools)
• Midday drive to Taman Ayun Temple
• End at Tanah Lot Temple for sunset
• Optional: beer or fresh coconut at the warung on the cliffs nearby

H3: Jungle + Chocolate (Seriously)

• Early visit to Sangeh Monkey Forest – quieter and less chaotic than Ubud’s
• Chocolate workshop at Pod Chocolate Factory
• Afternoon stop at Campuhan Ridge Walk
• Chill with coffee at Seniman Coffee Studio in Ubud

Market + Cooking Class + Massage

This one’s a vibe for chill days:

• Morning at Ubud Traditional Market
• Local cooking class (lots include a market tour and meal)
• Afternoon massage at Karsa Spa or Tjampuhan Spa

Common Mistakes People Make on Bali Combo Tours

Let’s keep it real—these are the most common regrets I hear from travelers after combo tours:

• Underestimating traffic. Always budget extra time.
• Wearing the wrong shoes. You’d be shocked how many temples and waterfalls involve stairs and slippery rocks.
• Skipping meals thinking you'll “find something.” Pack snacks or pre-plan lunch stops.
• Booking group tours for stuff that needs time. Temples, waterfalls, and cultural sites are better with time to wander.

How to Customize Your Own Bali Combination Tour Like a Local

Here’s the process I use when I’m helping folks (or myself) plan a new combo day:

1. Pick a region. Ubud? North Bali? Bukit Peninsula?
2. Choose 1-2 must-see locations. Don’t overload.
3. Check driving routes and traffic times (use Google Maps in real-time mode, even a day before).
4. Mix active + chill. Don’t do three hikes back-to-back unless you’re training for something.
5. Ask locals for input. Your driver, your villa host, that warung auntie—they know what’s up.

You can even write it out like this:

“Tirta Empul at 8am → Kintamani lunch at 11:30am → Coffee farm by 1pm → Tegenungan Waterfall 3pm → Back in Ubud by 5:30pm.”

That’s a solid plan. Doesn’t feel rushed. Leaves space for detours (you’ll definitely want to stop for photos).

Unexpected Bali Combination Tour Pairings That Actually Work

Some of the best days in Bali have been when I strung together places that didn’t seem to “go together” at first—but somehow flowed perfectly once we did it. That’s what makes this kind of travel so cool. You’re not locked into one theme—you can vibe-shift throughout the day if you plan it well.

Volcano + Beach Club Vibe (Yeah, You Can Do Both)

This combo is weird on paper but works surprisingly well if you start early:

• Mount Batur Sunrise Hike (yes, it’s a 2:30am pick-up. No way around that.)
• Breakfast and soak at Toya Bungkah Hot Springs—it feels earned after the hike
• Chill drive back through Bangli and stop at a local warung for real Balinese food (not the tourist kind)
• Mid to late afternoon? Land at La Brisa Beach Club in Canggu for sunset drinks, music, and maybe a dip

It's like going from National Geographic to a DJ set in one day. Surprisingly satisfying.

Just… maybe nap in the car on the way down. You’ll be cooked after Batur. No shame.

Art Lover’s Day in Ubud That Doesn’t Feel Like a School Trip

This one’s for folks who dig culture, crafts, and more chill-paced discovery.

• Start at the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) — underrated, peaceful, and full of legit Balinese paintings and sculpture
• Then head to Setia Darma House of Masks & Puppets — this place is wild, like a museum-meets-jungle-vibe
• Lunch in Mas Village (check out Warung Makan Bu Rus or Dewa Malen)
• Stop at a woodcarving studio or silver workshop — a lot of families have been doing this for generations, and the demo is way more fun than it sounds
• Late afternoon coffee at Seniman Coffee Studio or Zest (depends if you want coffee or full-on health cafe vibes)

This combo works if you want to learn something without feeling like you’re stuck in a museum tour group with matching hats.

Family-Friendly Combo That’s Not Just for Kids

Traveling with kids? You don’t have to settle for boring or overhyped places. This is one combo that’s worked really well with families I’ve helped:

• Morning at Bali Zoo or Bali Safari and Marine Park — go early to beat the heat and crowds
• Lunch nearby (there are kid-friendly cafes like Bebek Tepi Sawah with space for them to roam)
• Afternoon at Tegenungan Waterfall (there’s enough space for them to splash around a bit safely)
• End at Sukawati Art Market — great for souvenirs, cheap sarongs, and some real-life local color

Bring a change of clothes. Between the zoo, the waterfall, and the market, someone will get muddy, sweaty, or both.

Also: if your kids get car sick, plan routes with fewer winding roads. Northern Bali is not it for that.

Ubud + Sidemen = Quiet Magic

If you’ve been to Ubud and you’re craving even more of that peaceful, lush vibe—but without the crowds—Sidemen is your next move. Here’s how to string them together:

• Start with morning yoga or a walk at Campuhan Ridge
• Light breakfast at Alchemy or Sayuri Healing Food Café
• Head east to Sidemen Valley — the drive is beautiful
• Check out Gembleng Waterfall or take a short rice field trek with a local
• Late lunch at Warung Dapur Kapulaga or Wapa di Ume Sidemen
• Head back to Ubud before dark or crash overnight in Sidemen for extra chill vibes

I’ve had guests tell me this was their favorite day in Bali—and it’s not even on most tour maps. That’s the power of picking the right combo.

What to Pack for a Smooth Bali Combo Tour Day

Let’s talk gear. I’ve seen people show up to combo tours with sandals, no water, and a phone on 12%. Don’t be that person. You’re gonna be out and about, possibly in remote places, and Bali weather is sneaky.

Here’s my go-to checklist, and yeah, I’ve learned most of this the hard way:

• Small daypack or crossbody bag – something comfy to carry for hours
• Refillable water bottle – lots of places offer free refills
• Portable charger / power bank – phone batteries die fast with maps and pics
• Change of clothes – if you’re hitting waterfalls, temples, or the beach
• Sarong – some temples provide them, some don’t. Always good to have one
• Sunscreen + bug spray – Bali sun hits different, and mosquitoes are no joke
• Slip-on shoes or hiking sandals – some places require shoe removal; others need grip
• Snacks – especially if you’re heading somewhere remote (north Bali, waterfalls, etc.)

I usually keep all this packed and ready in a bag during my trip. Makes spontaneous day trips way easier.

How Much Does a Bali Combination Tour Cost? (Ballpark It With Me)

Alright, let’s talk cash. Combo tours range a lot depending on how you do them. Here’s the rough breakdown:

DIY With a Driver:

• Private driver: IDR 600k–900k per day (~$40–$60)
• Entry fees: Usually IDR 20k–75k per location (~$1.50–$5)
• Meals/snacks: IDR 100k–250k (~$7–$15)
• Extra stuff (souvenirs, coffee tasting, etc): up to you

Total for a couple? Around $60–$100 for a whole day of exploring, not bad at all.

Group Tour (Booked Online):

• Group combo tour: Usually IDR 500k–1.2m per person (~$35–$80)
• Includes transport, some entry fees, guide
• Meals are sometimes included, sometimes not

These are super convenient but less flexible. Good if you’re solo or on a tight timeline.

Hot take? If you’re two or more people, it almost always makes more sense to hire your own driver and plan your own route. It feels more “yours,” and you can ditch a spot if it feels meh.

When’s the Best Time of Day for Combo Tours? (Spoiler: Early Wins)

I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again—start early. Like, no later than 8:30am. Earlier if you’re hitting popular spots.

Why?

• Better light for photos (morning sun >>> midday glare)
• Less traffic, especially through Denpasar/Ubud/Canggu routes
• Cooler weather, which makes temples and trekking way more pleasant
• Fewer tourists clogging up your waterfall shots

Even for beach combo days, I recommend a slow morning start (coffee and breakfast by 7:30am) so you can get your exploring done and still be sipping coconut by 4pm.

Late starts = regret. I’ve done it. You’re sweating, stuck in jams, and everything’s packed. Trust me on this one.

How to Find a Good Bali Driver for Custom Tours

I can’t count how many people have asked, “Do you know a good driver in Bali?” And yeah, I do—but honestly, there are tons of great ones. You just need to know what to look for.

Here’s how to pick a good one:

• Ask your hotel or villa staff – they usually have a go-to guy (or gal) who’s been vetted
• Look at Google Maps reviews of tour drivers in your area—yes, you can find them there now
• Facebook travel groups (like “Bali Travel Planning”) have real-time recs
• WhatsApp is king in Bali. Most drivers will coordinate and confirm everything via chat

Good signs?

• Clear communication
• Honest about traffic and timing
• Doesn’t pressure you to go to “tourist shops” or commission stops
• Willing to adapt the plan mid-day if needed

I always tip extra when a driver feels like a guide and a chill travel buddy. The good ones make your day 10x better.

Let me know if you want more super-specific combo tour ideas for your area of stay (like Seminyak vs Ubud vs Lovina). There’s a ton more I could share—like the best combos for rainy season, budget-friendly routes, or foodie-focused itineraries.

I’ve got years’ worth of experience piecing these together for people, and I’ve seen what makes or breaks the day. So yeah, let’s make your Bali trip the kind you’ll still be talking about a year later—no stress, no wasted days, just good vibes and even better views.