Bali - VEGIN’ OUT ON THE ISLAND OF GODS
$2995 per person June 29 - July 10, 2020
Single Supplement: $650
Single Supplement: $650
Explore Bali’s back roads and beyond as we take in the fascinating culture, countryside and cuisines of this enchanting island paradise!
Palm trees swaying gently on balmy tropical breezes, fine sandy beaches greeting azure warm waters and seas of emerald green rice terraces – this is Bali, a serene and staggeringly beautiful island in the Indonesian archipelago. Of all islands, the name Bali strikes travelers as almost mystical – and indeed, in many ways it is. Being a mostly Hindu island in the midst of the world’s largest Muslim country, Bali testifies to the vast and diverse country that is Indonesia. Our adventure here takes us from one side of the island to the other, and all the way to Java. You’ll experience rural villages, postcard-perfect beaches, pristine coral reefs rich with vividly colored marine life, local bazaars, and some of the best vegan cuisines on the island. With a special vegan cooking class, be guests of local children’s home, have meals with local families, enjoy festive nights with local music and dance. Also experience the island’s unique Hindu customs and traditions, that are deeply rooted in the people’s everyday lives. Known for its mesmerizing music, distinctive architecture, absorbing art, rich cultures, and deeply spiritual and very friendly people, Bali is truly a special place to those who experience it. Join us as we explore this Island of Gods – as Bali is also known, from famous sites, beaches, and temples to off-the-beaten-track locations. Discover and experience Bali with us on a magical journey into the heart and soul of this beautiful and mystical island! This is Bali and beyond and we look forward to sharing the wonders of this magical island with you on our VegVoyages’ Vegin’ Out on the Island of Gods adventure!
DAY 1 Sanur – South Bali
Selamat Datang! Welcome to Bali – the Island of the Gods! Today we’ll have our Orientation Meeting complete with tropical fruit tasting, where you’ll have a chance to get to know your fellow travelers as we discuss the adventure ahead. After orientation, we’ll enjoy delicious Balinese lunch before heading out for a relaxing aromatherapy massage. Then you’ll have time to freshen up before we meet up to learn about Balinese classical dance. As the sun sets over Sanur, we’ll enjoy a tasty vegan dinner of local island delicacies. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 2 Munduk – Journey into Bali’s hill country
After a delicious vegan breakfast, we’ll journey on one of the most scenic drives on the island passing paddy fields, small villages, and jungle-clad hillsides. During our travels, we’ll visit the sacred Pura Tirta Empul temple. Dating back to 926 AD, Hindus from across the country come here to bathe in its holy spring water. Leaving the temple, we’ll head up into the island’s stunning mountains on the back roads of Bali, to the heart of the hill country at our bungalows with stunning views! Then, we’ll hike out into the countryside to a lovely waterfall. Returning to our chalet for our Cultural Heritage Class, we’ll learn about the island’s rich history, customs, and traditional home architecture. As the sun sets over the paddies, we’ll enjoy a dinner of local Munduk favorites. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
“It was an amazing Bali trip! These guys really know what they are doing. They immerse you into the culture. It is like no other vacation we have ever been on.”
Regina & Greg Rhoa (Pennsylvania, USA)
DAY 3 Munduk – Journey into Bali’s hill country
Waking up to fresh mountain air, we’ll set out to explore the surrounding paddy fields, farms and forests learning about the culture, way of life and farming methods in rural Bali – including joining a local family at their home for lunch. Back at our bungalows, we’ll have today’s Cultural Heritage Class where we’ll learn about the unique form of Hinduism practiced here including how to make the ritual offerings we see throughout the journey. In the evening, we’ll join a noted Gamelan player and his family at their home for a colorful evening of music and tasty local dishes. We’ll also learn about the Gamelan instrument: how it’s made, how it’s played, its history, and its extraordinary sound. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 4 Pemuteran – On the sandy shores of Bali
Today, we’ll make our way to the sacred hot springs of Air Panas Banjar where sulfuric water is fed through 8 stone-carved mythical dragon-like snakes into a 3-tiered pool. After freshening up in the hot springs, we’ll visit an auspicious temple where we’ll learn about Balinese temple architecture and participate in a Hindu blessing. Our home for the next few days is on the shores of the Bali Sea at the northwesternmost tip of the island. Far from the crowds of South Bali, we’ll be staying in traditional bungalows near the beach at the doorstep of a beautiful coral reef. After lunch, we’ll be guests of an important marine conservation project that helps to restore the fragile reefs of Bali. After learning about the project, the plight of the coral reefs and the abundance of species that rely on them, we’ll head offshore into the Bay of Pemuteran to snorkel the restored reef with those who are working so hard to preserve it. For Dinner, since we’ve been having Balinese cuisine up until now, and since the chef where we stay is a great baker – prepare this evening for a taste of back home with vegan pizza, pasta, and fresh salads for dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
“Huge thank you for the amazing cultural exposure on our Bali adventure. I am now trying to find an Indonesian grocer near Toronto. It has been a pleasure to travel without the “cookie cutter” experience and get a real feel for a whole other world!”
Jennifer Brown (Toronto, Canada)
DAY 5 Pemuteran – On the sandy shores of Bali
Today we’ll spend our time out on boats and in the Bali Sea exploring the beautiful protected marine life-rich waters around Menjangan Island. Far from the crowds of South Bali, the gorgeous coral reef gardens off this protected area are truly a sight to behold! With its excellent coral reef wall that plunges over 50 meters deep, the reef offers a stunning spectacle of hard and soft corals along with a plethora of marine life, including parrot fish, butterfly fish, snappers, triggerfish, clownfish, sweetlips, angelfish, and sea turtles. After exploring the underwater world, you’ll have the afternoon free to rest, or snorkel at the lovely house reef near our bungalows, sunbathe, have a massage, catch up on some reading, lounge around the pool or just chill out at a local café. Later in the evening, we’ll join a local family at their house, and learn to make some of the famous Balinese dishes. Finishing the cooking, we’ll sit down together and enjoy the meal. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 6 Pemuteran – On the sandy shores of Bali
On the most northwesterly point of the island lies the picturesque Taman Nasional Bali Barat (West Bali National Park). Home to over one hundred and sixty species of birds, including the near extinct Bali Starling, and a wide variety of other wildlife from barking deer and banteng (wild buffalo), to wild boar and leopard cats, the park is a mixture of dry savannah, thick forests and mangroves. We’ll spend the morning learning about the mangrove and its importance in protecting the Bali coast with one of the parks foremost experts. After our exploration, we’ll join a local community who is hard at work in and has been very successful in promoting and encouraging the communities to do recycling. As the sun sets over the peaks overlooking the Bali Sea, we’ll meet beachside for our last night in Pemuteran where we’ll enjoy a colorful evening of traditional music and dance, sundowners, snacks and, of course, more food! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Palm trees swaying gently on balmy tropical breezes, fine sandy beaches greeting azure warm waters and seas of emerald green rice terraces – this is Bali, a serene and staggeringly beautiful island in the Indonesian archipelago. Of all islands, the name Bali strikes travelers as almost mystical – and indeed, in many ways it is. Being a mostly Hindu island in the midst of the world’s largest Muslim country, Bali testifies to the vast and diverse country that is Indonesia. Our adventure here takes us from one side of the island to the other, and all the way to Java. You’ll experience rural villages, postcard-perfect beaches, pristine coral reefs rich with vividly colored marine life, local bazaars, and some of the best vegan cuisines on the island. With a special vegan cooking class, be guests of local children’s home, have meals with local families, enjoy festive nights with local music and dance. Also experience the island’s unique Hindu customs and traditions, that are deeply rooted in the people’s everyday lives. Known for its mesmerizing music, distinctive architecture, absorbing art, rich cultures, and deeply spiritual and very friendly people, Bali is truly a special place to those who experience it. Join us as we explore this Island of Gods – as Bali is also known, from famous sites, beaches, and temples to off-the-beaten-track locations. Discover and experience Bali with us on a magical journey into the heart and soul of this beautiful and mystical island! This is Bali and beyond and we look forward to sharing the wonders of this magical island with you on our VegVoyages’ Vegin’ Out on the Island of Gods adventure!
DAY 1 Sanur – South Bali
Selamat Datang! Welcome to Bali – the Island of the Gods! Today we’ll have our Orientation Meeting complete with tropical fruit tasting, where you’ll have a chance to get to know your fellow travelers as we discuss the adventure ahead. After orientation, we’ll enjoy delicious Balinese lunch before heading out for a relaxing aromatherapy massage. Then you’ll have time to freshen up before we meet up to learn about Balinese classical dance. As the sun sets over Sanur, we’ll enjoy a tasty vegan dinner of local island delicacies. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 2 Munduk – Journey into Bali’s hill country
After a delicious vegan breakfast, we’ll journey on one of the most scenic drives on the island passing paddy fields, small villages, and jungle-clad hillsides. During our travels, we’ll visit the sacred Pura Tirta Empul temple. Dating back to 926 AD, Hindus from across the country come here to bathe in its holy spring water. Leaving the temple, we’ll head up into the island’s stunning mountains on the back roads of Bali, to the heart of the hill country at our bungalows with stunning views! Then, we’ll hike out into the countryside to a lovely waterfall. Returning to our chalet for our Cultural Heritage Class, we’ll learn about the island’s rich history, customs, and traditional home architecture. As the sun sets over the paddies, we’ll enjoy a dinner of local Munduk favorites. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
“It was an amazing Bali trip! These guys really know what they are doing. They immerse you into the culture. It is like no other vacation we have ever been on.”
Regina & Greg Rhoa (Pennsylvania, USA)
DAY 3 Munduk – Journey into Bali’s hill country
Waking up to fresh mountain air, we’ll set out to explore the surrounding paddy fields, farms and forests learning about the culture, way of life and farming methods in rural Bali – including joining a local family at their home for lunch. Back at our bungalows, we’ll have today’s Cultural Heritage Class where we’ll learn about the unique form of Hinduism practiced here including how to make the ritual offerings we see throughout the journey. In the evening, we’ll join a noted Gamelan player and his family at their home for a colorful evening of music and tasty local dishes. We’ll also learn about the Gamelan instrument: how it’s made, how it’s played, its history, and its extraordinary sound. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 4 Pemuteran – On the sandy shores of Bali
Today, we’ll make our way to the sacred hot springs of Air Panas Banjar where sulfuric water is fed through 8 stone-carved mythical dragon-like snakes into a 3-tiered pool. After freshening up in the hot springs, we’ll visit an auspicious temple where we’ll learn about Balinese temple architecture and participate in a Hindu blessing. Our home for the next few days is on the shores of the Bali Sea at the northwesternmost tip of the island. Far from the crowds of South Bali, we’ll be staying in traditional bungalows near the beach at the doorstep of a beautiful coral reef. After lunch, we’ll be guests of an important marine conservation project that helps to restore the fragile reefs of Bali. After learning about the project, the plight of the coral reefs and the abundance of species that rely on them, we’ll head offshore into the Bay of Pemuteran to snorkel the restored reef with those who are working so hard to preserve it. For Dinner, since we’ve been having Balinese cuisine up until now, and since the chef where we stay is a great baker – prepare this evening for a taste of back home with vegan pizza, pasta, and fresh salads for dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
“Huge thank you for the amazing cultural exposure on our Bali adventure. I am now trying to find an Indonesian grocer near Toronto. It has been a pleasure to travel without the “cookie cutter” experience and get a real feel for a whole other world!”
Jennifer Brown (Toronto, Canada)
DAY 5 Pemuteran – On the sandy shores of Bali
Today we’ll spend our time out on boats and in the Bali Sea exploring the beautiful protected marine life-rich waters around Menjangan Island. Far from the crowds of South Bali, the gorgeous coral reef gardens off this protected area are truly a sight to behold! With its excellent coral reef wall that plunges over 50 meters deep, the reef offers a stunning spectacle of hard and soft corals along with a plethora of marine life, including parrot fish, butterfly fish, snappers, triggerfish, clownfish, sweetlips, angelfish, and sea turtles. After exploring the underwater world, you’ll have the afternoon free to rest, or snorkel at the lovely house reef near our bungalows, sunbathe, have a massage, catch up on some reading, lounge around the pool or just chill out at a local café. Later in the evening, we’ll join a local family at their house, and learn to make some of the famous Balinese dishes. Finishing the cooking, we’ll sit down together and enjoy the meal. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 6 Pemuteran – On the sandy shores of Bali
On the most northwesterly point of the island lies the picturesque Taman Nasional Bali Barat (West Bali National Park). Home to over one hundred and sixty species of birds, including the near extinct Bali Starling, and a wide variety of other wildlife from barking deer and banteng (wild buffalo), to wild boar and leopard cats, the park is a mixture of dry savannah, thick forests and mangroves. We’ll spend the morning learning about the mangrove and its importance in protecting the Bali coast with one of the parks foremost experts. After our exploration, we’ll join a local community who is hard at work in and has been very successful in promoting and encouraging the communities to do recycling. As the sun sets over the peaks overlooking the Bali Sea, we’ll meet beachside for our last night in Pemuteran where we’ll enjoy a colorful evening of traditional music and dance, sundowners, snacks and, of course, more food! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 7 East Java - Across the Bali Strait
Catching our ferry over the Bali Strait, we’ll make our way to the island of Java where over the next two days we’ll be introduced to Javanese culture, geography and yes – tasty cuisine! Home to 60% of Indonesia’s population, much of the country’s history, politics and culture has been influenced by the island. On arrival, we’ll spend time at the town’s supermarket where we’ll buy gifts for kids at a local children’s home we’ll be guests of later in our journey. Settling in at our seaside hotel, we’ll meet in the garden for tonight’s cultural experience – i.e. an East Javanese Traditional Dance! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
“I had such a wonderful time in Bali. Learning about Balinese culture through its dance, food and religion was a highlight of the trip, in addition to experiencing the underwater splendor of the coral reefs of Bali Sea. Of course the food was absolutely divine and as always, my VegVoyages family added so many special touches that only they can provide.”
Francesca Lynne (California, USA)
DAY 8 East Java – The Majestic Volcano of Ijen
Before sunrise, we’ll begin our hike up Ijen. For those who have climbed this impressive crater – the words stunning, spectacular, amazing and awesome come to mind – and once you make the trek to the top of this active volcano through a beautiful forest reserve, you’ll understand why. With a 200-meter-deep turquoise blue acidic-lake at its center and sulfur clouds billowing around its moonscape scenery – Ijen is truly a surreal sight to behold! After enjoying the views from the top, we’ll head back for lunch where you’ll be introduced to the regional dessert classic – Cendol! Resting up from our hike, we’ll enjoy local favorites for our Javanese dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 9 West Bali – Villages Along The Indian Ocean
While in Bali we’ve learned about the island’s majority Hindu population and their culture, so over the next two days we’ll take time to learn about the other cultures that make up the rich tapestry of the island. This afternoon, we’ll visit two small villages that are home to Bali’s relatively tiny Catholic and Protestant communities where even in their places of worship a heavy Balinese influence is seen in their unique fusion architecture. As guests of the local communities, we’ll learn about their history and culture and join the kids from a nearby children’s home for a tasty vegan meal. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
“I never imagined how wonderful the trip could really be. Thanks for the blessing and sharing your love for Bali!”
James Burris-Fish (Oregon, USA)
DAY 10 Ubud – Bali’s Cultural Heartland
Today, we depart for the cultural capital of the island – Ubud! Arriving at our beautiful Balinese garden cottages set amongst rice paddies and green gardens, you’ll have time to freshen up, relax on your balcony or take a dip in the relaxing pool. Later, we’ll settle down for dinner and an evening of hypnotic Balinese music and dance. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 11 Ubud – Bali’s Cultural Heartland
After breakfast on your verandah overlooking the paddy fields, you have the day free to explore Ubud at your own pace. There are plenty of things to do in this charming town, take a leisure walk along the famous Monkey Forest street and Hanoman street, sip on delicious coffee at a local cafe, get some soothing massage, or catching up with your souvenir list and practice your haggling skill. Step out and enjoy Ubud town, before we meet at sunset for a colorful evening of snacks, refreshing drinks, dinner, music, and dance! (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 12 Ubud – Back to South Bali
Another amazing breakfast on your verandah, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the view or take a dip on the pool. We’ll meet up in the late morning to head back to Sanur where our adventure ends upon arrival in Sanur at around 11:30 AM. If your flight back home is on the same day, please arrange to have at a much later time than our arrival in Sanur, in case there is a delay on our travel. Thank you again for choosing VegVoyages Bali Adventure! (Breakfast)
“Thank you for going way beyond for us. We will be re-visiting this adventure for a long time to come. Many blessings!”
Ken & Beatrice Stemle (California, USA)
Catching our ferry over the Bali Strait, we’ll make our way to the island of Java where over the next two days we’ll be introduced to Javanese culture, geography and yes – tasty cuisine! Home to 60% of Indonesia’s population, much of the country’s history, politics and culture has been influenced by the island. On arrival, we’ll spend time at the town’s supermarket where we’ll buy gifts for kids at a local children’s home we’ll be guests of later in our journey. Settling in at our seaside hotel, we’ll meet in the garden for tonight’s cultural experience – i.e. an East Javanese Traditional Dance! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
“I had such a wonderful time in Bali. Learning about Balinese culture through its dance, food and religion was a highlight of the trip, in addition to experiencing the underwater splendor of the coral reefs of Bali Sea. Of course the food was absolutely divine and as always, my VegVoyages family added so many special touches that only they can provide.”
Francesca Lynne (California, USA)
DAY 8 East Java – The Majestic Volcano of Ijen
Before sunrise, we’ll begin our hike up Ijen. For those who have climbed this impressive crater – the words stunning, spectacular, amazing and awesome come to mind – and once you make the trek to the top of this active volcano through a beautiful forest reserve, you’ll understand why. With a 200-meter-deep turquoise blue acidic-lake at its center and sulfur clouds billowing around its moonscape scenery – Ijen is truly a surreal sight to behold! After enjoying the views from the top, we’ll head back for lunch where you’ll be introduced to the regional dessert classic – Cendol! Resting up from our hike, we’ll enjoy local favorites for our Javanese dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 9 West Bali – Villages Along The Indian Ocean
While in Bali we’ve learned about the island’s majority Hindu population and their culture, so over the next two days we’ll take time to learn about the other cultures that make up the rich tapestry of the island. This afternoon, we’ll visit two small villages that are home to Bali’s relatively tiny Catholic and Protestant communities where even in their places of worship a heavy Balinese influence is seen in their unique fusion architecture. As guests of the local communities, we’ll learn about their history and culture and join the kids from a nearby children’s home for a tasty vegan meal. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
“I never imagined how wonderful the trip could really be. Thanks for the blessing and sharing your love for Bali!”
James Burris-Fish (Oregon, USA)
DAY 10 Ubud – Bali’s Cultural Heartland
Today, we depart for the cultural capital of the island – Ubud! Arriving at our beautiful Balinese garden cottages set amongst rice paddies and green gardens, you’ll have time to freshen up, relax on your balcony or take a dip in the relaxing pool. Later, we’ll settle down for dinner and an evening of hypnotic Balinese music and dance. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 11 Ubud – Bali’s Cultural Heartland
After breakfast on your verandah overlooking the paddy fields, you have the day free to explore Ubud at your own pace. There are plenty of things to do in this charming town, take a leisure walk along the famous Monkey Forest street and Hanoman street, sip on delicious coffee at a local cafe, get some soothing massage, or catching up with your souvenir list and practice your haggling skill. Step out and enjoy Ubud town, before we meet at sunset for a colorful evening of snacks, refreshing drinks, dinner, music, and dance! (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 12 Ubud – Back to South Bali
Another amazing breakfast on your verandah, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the view or take a dip on the pool. We’ll meet up in the late morning to head back to Sanur where our adventure ends upon arrival in Sanur at around 11:30 AM. If your flight back home is on the same day, please arrange to have at a much later time than our arrival in Sanur, in case there is a delay on our travel. Thank you again for choosing VegVoyages Bali Adventure! (Breakfast)
“Thank you for going way beyond for us. We will be re-visiting this adventure for a long time to come. Many blessings!”
Ken & Beatrice Stemle (California, USA)
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Accommodations:
11 Nights Accommodations (all with private bathroom and hot/cold shower):
Accommodations:
11 Nights Accommodations (all with private bathroom and hot/cold shower):
- 1 night at a Resort in the Seaside town of Sanur
- 2 nights in traditional cottages in Bali’s beautiful hill country
- 3 nights in Boutique Seaside bungalows
- 2 nights at a Seaside Resort on the island of Java overlooking the Bali Strait
- 1 night at a local inn/homestay on Bali’s far less visited west coast
- 2 nights in Luxury Balinese Garden Cottages overlooking the rice paddies of Ubud
Vegan Meals Included:
33 meals (12 buffet breakfasts, 10 buffet lunches, 11 buffet dinners)
Also Included:
donna@greenearthtravel.com or call 301 229-5666
33 meals (12 buffet breakfasts, 10 buffet lunches, 11 buffet dinners)
Also Included:
- Vegan Welcome Package (include traditional Vegan Snacks, Batik hand fans, Bali Map and Postcard)
- Balinese Temple Attire
- 90 minutes Aromatherapy Massage
- Balinese vegan cooking class
- Balinese dance workshop
- All Entry Fees
- Balinese Social, Cultural, and Balinese Hindu Introductions
- Daily local language lessons
- Traditional Instruments workshop
- Traditional music and folk dance performances
- Learning and making traditional temple offering
- Participate in a Hindu ceremony
- Visit local temples
- Participate in a traditional bathing/cleansing ritual
- Trekking in a traditional rice field and coffee plantation
- Introduction to local Coral Reef Restoration Project
- Snorkeling trip to Menjangan Island (a protected island in Bali) with snorkel and fins provided
- Trekking in Bali Barat National Park
- Home cooked meals with local families
- Daily bottled water
- Complimentary juices on special festive evenings
- Complimentary cocktails and/or beers on special festive evenings
- Hiking Ijen Volcanic Mountain
- Support and visit a local children’s home
- Donation to local children’s home
- Donation to local Coral Reef Restoration Project
- All local guide fees
- Airport Pick Up*
- * Airport picks up is provided only if you arrive a day or two earlier than the tour date and staying at our hotel. If you would be arriving three days or much earlier, or if you will be staying at a different hotel for your extra night, please arrange for your own airport pick up.
- International Airfare
- Departure transfer
- Visa for Indonesia
- Gratuities
donna@greenearthtravel.com or call 301 229-5666
