What to do in Bali: the must-see experiences on the Island of the Gods.

The island of Bali hides a concentration of remarkable sites that few destinations can match. Between its ancient temples, dense tropical forest, and exceptional agricultural landscapes, visiting Bali is like traveling through centuries of history in the open air. A few stops are essential, to be included in any tailor-made itinerary.

Among the southern Bali's most iconic sites, Tanah Lot stands apart. This Hindu temple perched on a rock facing the ocean is accessible on foot at low tide and offers one of the island's most photographed sunsets. Access is from the Tabanan regency, about an hour from Kuta. Plan one to two hours for the visit, arriving in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden light.

A few kilometers further south, the Uluwatu temple overlooks a steep cliff that plunges into the Indian Ocean. Built in the 11th century, it hosts every evening a Kecak dance performance — a traditional dance with enchanting chants that enacts the Hindu epic Ramayana. This dance performance, performed at sunset facing the sea, is one of the island's most powerful experiences. Remember to wear a sarong to access these sacred places, and arrive early to find the best seats.

Rising to 1,717 meters on a still-active volcano, in the Balinese night, to witness an exceptional sunrise: climbing Mount Batur is one of the island's most remarkable adventures. The hike lasts about two hours from the volcano's base and is accompanied by a local guide. From the summit, the view extends over Lake Batur and the surrounding terrain. It is advised to depart around 4 a.m. to arrive before dawn and enjoy the spectacle in all its intensity.

In the north of Bali, in Lovina, another morning experience awaits travelers: setting off on a boat before dawn to observe wild dolphins in their natural habitat, on a calm sea gilded by the first rays of the sun. An ideal excursion for families, far from the bustle of the island's south.

About 45 minutes by boat from Sanur, Nusa Penida deserves a full day, if not more. Its spectacular cliffs, beaches like Kelingking Beach and its crystal-clear waters make it one of the most striking getaways in the region. Under the surface, the diving spots around the island are among the best in Indonesia: colorful corals, tropical fish and manta rays at the mythical meeting point of Manta Point.

For those who prefer calm beaches and premium accommodations facing the sea, the south of Bali—and especially Nusa Dua—offers translucent waters and an exceptional setting for families. Taking a bit of serenity in this backdrop, between palm trees and turquoise waters, is one of the best reasons to never want to leave.

The Kecak dance at Uluwatu temple may be the most famous, but other performances deserve your attention. The Legong dance, the Barong, or the Wayang Kulit (shadow theatre) are as many expressions of Balinese culture that can be discovered in Ubud, where dance shows take place almost every night in royal palaces and active temples.

These performances are accessible to everyone and constitute powerful moments of sharing, to soak up the island's soul in an exceptional setting.

Tips from our Travel Planners: book your seats in advance for the performances at Uluwatu temple, especially in peak season, and pair this evening with a visit to the surroundings in the late afternoon to optimize your itinerary.

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To best organize your stay, the travel period is a key parameter. Bali Island experiences two distinct seasons. The dry season, from April to October, is the ideal time to visit Bali: the sky is clear, the roads are passable and the conditions at diving spots are excellent. The rainy season, from November to March, also has its advantages: the vegetation is lush, prices are more competitive and cultural sites are considerably less crowded. Showers, often short and localized, generally do not spoil an entire day.

Did you know? Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, usually falls in March. This day of total silence, when the entire island stops for 24 hours, with roads closed and lights off, is a truly unique spiritual experience to have on a Bali trip.

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