There is no other place like Bali. Famous for the pretty beaches, rich culture, bargain shopping, stunning nature and sports life, the Indonesian island offers just about everything that families could want in a tropical getaway. People are warm and welcoming, and there are many exciting things for all ages to see and do. If you are planning your next family holiday, here are some attractions for an unforgettable time.
The sacred monkey forest sanctuary
(Credit/monkeyforestubud.com)
Going to Bali without visiting the Monkey forest is like not going to Bali at all. The Ubud Monkey Forest is a Hindu temple and nature reserve in Ubud and is described as the heart of Bali. The type of primate you are going to see is called long-tailed macaques. If you are brave, you can feed them with bananas, but be prepared to be jumped on if you do. The monkeys aren’t afraid to climb you like a tree, especially if you’ve got food. Speaking of trees, the forest itself is pretty impressive, with 115 species of trees, some of them of spiritual importance to the Balinese.
Bike around the rice fields
(Credit/Flickr)
One of the most relaxing and eco-friendly ways to see Bali’s rice paddies is from the saddle of a bike. On a cycling eco-tour, you and your family will enjoy a mostly downhill ride, surrounded by mountains and rice terraces. Be sure to plan for a stop at the most famous and photogenic spot, the rice terraces of Tegalalang. Located just north of Ubud, these rice paddies cascade down a steep hill and are dotted with palm trees, making them one of the island’s most beautiful spots around.
Climb Mount Batur at sunrise
Worth the early morning start (Credit/Wikimedia Commons)
Adventurous family? Then hike Bali’s most active volcano standing at 1717 metres above sea level. The trek to sunrise point should take around two and a half hours and is a relatively easy climb, suitable for most persons, as well as children aged six or older. At the top of the mountain you will be impressed by the beautiful colours of the sunrise and will enjoy a light breakfast of fruit and eggs boiled in volcanic steam. There will be plenty of time to relax and take photos of the incredible scenery.
River rafting
Rushing down the rapids Bali’s rafting is the perfect family adventure activity. In central Bali you will find two great rafting rivers, the Ayung and the Telaga rivers, both located north of Ubud. The rivers can be rafted all year round, but the wet season is when lots of water flow through the rivers and the journey becomes challenging. If your family is looking for fresh air, fresh water and fresh environment, this is the right option to see Bali’s natural beauty while sharing the fun and thrills with your loved ones.
Sea walks
No diving experience necessary (Credit/Seawalker)
The Seawalker tours can be enjoyed by all ages from 10 years up. No diving experience or swimming skills are necessary. These ‘walks’ utilise a specially-designed helmet that is connected to oxygen tanks aboard a boat, providing participants with a constant flow of air to breathe underwater. The tour is an eye-opener for those with no prior underwater experience, and it will also provide your family the opportunity to interact with marine life.
Tanah Lot Temple
One of the most photographed temples on Bali Island (Credit/Pixels)
Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali’s most important landmarks, famed for its unique offshore setting and sunset backdrops. A 16th century Hindu temple that was built to pay homage to the guardians of the sea, Tanah Lot Bali resembles a life-size floating Bonsai garden, the iconic sea temple sits atop a rocky islet with its tiered pagoda’s nestled in amongst lush green trees. At low tide you can sure foot it along the rocks to a cave at the base of the temple where Balinese guardians exchange blessings for a small donation. The temple offers a feast for kids senses, a cultural introduction to Bali and one worthy of a brief visit.
Written by: Caroline Beber