Stopover Bali

Revel in the wonder of Bali on your way to Australia or New Zealand. A tropical paradise with a magical blend of culture, friendly locals, beautiful weather, astounding nature, and lively nightlife. With a great assortment of hotels to stay at, a Bali stopover is the ultimate tropical layover from the United Kingdom.

Bali is the Indonesian ‘Island of the Gods’ and leaves a deep impression on every visitor. Bali is also a popular holiday destination for many Australians. It is no surprise that Bali attracts visitors from all over the world. With a unique relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and many new and exciting experiences. Bali is a tropical island paradise with an ancient that has survived over time. It offers lush nature and wonderful beaches.

Best travel time

Bali has a tropical climate with two seasons: a wet season (between November and April) and a dry season (between May and October). The best time to visit Bali is between April and October. The temperature in Bali fluctuates between 21 and 22 degrees Celsius, but it is significantly cooler in higher regions.

To experience the paradisiacal nature of Bali, you must travel at the best time possible. Bali offers plenty of sunshine with mild temperatures. However, the landscape also needs a lot of rainfall. From November to March, the Balinese rain season begins and the island is provided with plenty of hydration.

While rain is not a reason to not visit, it does affect the visibility at some of the island’s most beautiful dive sites. This period also attracts a lot of mosquitoes. However, during this time of the year, Bali is less crowded. From April, the dry season begins and the warm temperatures and dry weather make the island an ideal time for all activities.

Over 20,000 temples

The atmosphere in Bali is relaxed and open, but there is also a certain mysterious tension as if life is controlled by higher forces over which we mortals have no control. The terrifying masks on the Hindu temples seem to point in this direction, although they are made of stone and are relatively harmless.

There are over 20,000 temples on the island. From small humble temples in the courtyard of each neighbourhood to large impressive temples. Such as the ‘Mother Temple’ Pura Besakih at the foot of the sacred Mount Agung or the Pura Tana Lot on the cliff high above the sea. This temple is extremely photogenic, especially at sunset.

Heavenly nature

Aside from its culture, Bali is blessed with rich nature. The Balinese love nature and flowers and plants play an important role in their lives. Admire lush climbing plants, ferns, heliconia, bromeliads, frangipani, and orchids. Tropical plants can be found everywhere in Bali.

Nature is exceptionally beautiful inland, at places such as the Bali Barat National Park in the northwest. Or in the mountainous Bedugul area on the volcanoes, Agung (3142 metres) and Batur (1717 metres). Here, you can marvel at stunning gorges and crater lakes. Throughout Bali, you can admire terraced rice fields and water gardens. Truly spectacular landscapes of tranquillity and pure beauty.

The most beautiful beaches

Bali is world-renowned for its stunning beaches. Most tourists visit the popular beaches in the south. The main seaside resort town is called Kuta. Here, you can find hundreds of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and souvenir shops. East of Kuta is Sunur which is a family-friendly destination. Kuta tends to attract a younger crowd.

Jimbaran Beach is more tranquil and famous for its seafood restaurants, the same applies to Nusa Dua on the peninsula to the south. North of Kuta, you will find Legian and Seminyak, and in the southeast, Candidasa. Lovina is located in the north and is becoming increasingly popular due to its black sand.

Highlights

Bali has something for everyone: culture, nature, entertainment, and pure tranquillity. There are many opportunities for sports enthusiasts including cycling, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, surfing, snorkelling, diving, mountain biking, rafting, sailing, and playing golf.

There is accommodation available in every price range. From smaller boutique hotels to five-star hotels, you will have no problem finding a hotel that suits your taste. There are a variety of restaurants on offer. Be sure to try some local favourites such as nasi goreng, satay, and of course an Indonesian rice table is a must-try! Even if Bali is a small island, there is a lot to experience!

Denpasar

Immerse yourself in the capital of Bali, Denpasar, and get to know the local lifestyle of the Balinese. Tree-lined streets and the affluent government district of Renon show a more distinguished side of the island. Here, you will find shopping centres and picturesque parks. There are also many local and authentic cafes and restaurants that will take you on a culinary journey with the local cuisine. The Denpasar Airport is Indonesia’s second-busiest international airport.

Ubud and Monday Forest

Within Bali, Ubud is an absolute must-do! It is one of those places where time just flies by as you are mesmerised by nature, the temples, and the culture. Many novels and films are set here due to the beautiful scenery. Tropical colours and exotic plants line the streets, as well as trendy shops.

One of Ubud’s highlights that shows how closely nature and people are in harmony here is the Monkey Forest. The dense, soothingly cool piece of the jungle is located in the heart of Bali and can be entered via three gates. Here, you discover three holy temples which are inhabited and guarded by a total of 600 long-tailed macaques.

The monkeys are trusting and friendly by nature, but they do like to steal fruit or other loose items that you may be carrying! Watch your valuables carefully, and if you do have some fruit with you just wait for the monkeys to approach you. It is truly a unique experience to get so close to these playful creatures.

Surrounding areas

Lombok

Lombok is the lesser-known neighbouring island of Bali. Many places here are still untouched by tourists. Featuring empty beaches, amazing nature, colourful reef for diving, and friendly locals. You can easily reach Lombok by boat or plane, whichever you prefer.

Feeling active?

Discover another part of Indonesia and climb Gunung Rinjani in Lombok, the second-highest volcano in all of Indonesia. Watching the sunrise at the summit is an unforgettable experience. The first rays of sunlight, with the backdrop of the Indian Ocean and the Indonesian Islands, are simply breathtaking.

Gili Islands

Even more beautiful than Bali are the Gili Islands. Located off the northwest coast of Lombok is a quintessential cinematic island adventure. Marvel at astounding reefs, white sandy beaches, tropical vibes, and warm weather. There are no cars or motorcycles on three of the islands, which reinforces the special secluded feeling here.

Each of these three islands has a unique selling point. Gili Trawangan is the largest and most popular island. Bursting with nightlife, there is a collection of beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. Gili Air and Gili Meno are quieter retreats with a focus on peace and relaxation. Gili Meno is the smallest and the most remote island.

Entry requirements

Details and information on the current regulations for a trip to Bali can be found here.