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Explore Like a Local with These Top 12 Guided Tours in Bali

If you’re trying to plan the “perfect” Bali trip, I see you! I’ve watched so many visitors arrive with a list a mile long, only to burn out halfway through trying to cram in every waterfall, temple, and rice terrace. 

Bali’s beautiful, but let’s be real—it’s also big, busy in places, and not always the easiest to navigate on your own. As someone who lives here, I always tell friends visiting, “You’ll see more (and stress way less) if you join a guided tour.”

So, if you want to experience the island properly, here are the best guided tours in Bali you should consider. 

1. Bali Golden Tour

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Website: https://www.baligoldentour.com/
Location: Jalan Cekomaria Gang Taman IV, Banjar Ambengan No.1, Peguyangan Kangin, Kec. Denpasar Utara, Kota Denpasar
Contact: +6285100966391
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Pricing: $$

One of the more reliable tour companies I’ve come across here in Bali is Bali Golden Tour. I’ve recommended them a few times to visiting friends, and the feedback’s always been great.

They cover a solid mix of classic and niche day trips. Some of their most popular packages include the Bali Full-Day Ubud Tour, the Bali East Tour, and the Bali Waterfall Tour—all of which explore Bali’s historical temples, terraces, beaches, and forests.

Each tour includes a driver-guide, bottled water, and flexibility for photo ops. Plus, their guides are friendly and genuinely enjoy showing people around. For something more playful, they also offer fun VW Safari tours, with a vintage convertible for just under IDR 1,225,613 ($75). 

Pro Tip:

If you’re heading to Tirta Empul, ask your driver to drop you at Warung Sripadi for lunch instead of a tourist restaurant. Some of the best meals I’ve had were at these low-key local spots that don’t even have a menu.

2. Bali Sun Tours

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Website: http://www.balisuntours.com/
Location: Jl. Gunung Talang Jl. Graha Asih No.B 9, Padangsambian, Kec. Denpasar Bar., Kota Denpasar
Contact: +6281936109809
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: $-$$

When visiting friends, I always recommend Bali Sun Tours to them, as they want to pack as much Bali into a day without feeling crowded. 

They offer packages such as the Private Luxury Ubud Day Tour. This one includes the Ubud Monkey Forest, Tegalalang rice terraces, Tegenungan Waterfall, Tirta Empul Temple, and artisan villages for around IDR 687,000 ($38) per person.

Meanwhile, Nusa Penida Day Tour with Private Transfers explores Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and snorkelling spots like Crystal Bay. They offer this whole package starting from IDR 575,000 ($32) per person.

Pro Tip:

If you’re heading back through Ubud and want a proper meal after your Nusa Penida day trip, I suggest making a stop at Naughty Nuri’s Ubud for those legendary pork ribs and martinis. Seriously, locals and expats rave about them.

3. Pisan Bali Tour 

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Website: http://pisanbalitour.com/
Location: H7RR+PGG, Jl. Kedisan Kaja, Sebatu, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar
Contact: +6281339487955
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Pricing: $

Pisan Bali Tour is one of those guided tours I stumbled upon while exploring the Tegallalang area. It’s a smaller, family-run operator who genuinely loves what they’re doing.

One of their standout offering is the Ubud ATV Adventure & Waterfall Day—about 6-9 hours including rice terrace views, waterfall stops, and ATV off-road fun around Ubud’s lush hills. 

Another notable pick is the Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep & Lava Tour, where you ride up in a Jeep, catch sunrise above the clouds, and explore black lava fields near the volcano.

Pricing-wise, expect to pay around IDR 350,000 ($22) per person for the standard Ubud combo tour, which includes a driver/guide. You can also request a custom itinerary (I did once for a friend’s birthday trip!) and they’ll tailor the stops based on your interests.

Pro Tip:

I recommend visiting Teras Padi Cafe if you’re in the area near Gunung Kawi Sebatu. It’s just a couple of minutes’ short drive away and serves incredible nasi campur with lush rice field views. Their fresh mango juice is a lifesaver after a temple hike!

4. Agus Bali Private Tour

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Website: https://www.agusbali.com/
Location: Perumahan, Jl. Puri Nusa II Jl. Panti Anyar 1 No.31, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency
Contact: +6281337339984
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Pricing: $

If you’re after a more personal tour, Agus Bali Private Tour is a name I’ve heard pop up from a few returning travellers for good reasons. Agus himself is a local from Bali’s south, and he’s known for running tours that feel more like a friend showing you around.   

Their Best of Ubud Day Tour is a crowd favorite. You can expect stops at the Tegalalang rice terraces, Monkey Forest, Tegenungan Waterfall, and even a swing stop (yes, that Bali swing). 

They also offer Bali Gate of Heaven tours to Lempuyang Temple and the East Bali region. If you’re staying down south, you can also go for their Uluwatu Sunset Tour, which includes a seafood dinner in Jimbaran.

Pricing for private full-day tours starts at around IDR 735,000 ($45) per group (for 5 passengers), depending on your chosen itinerary. You’ll also find half-day packages for about IDR 490,000 – IDR 572,000 ($30-35), which is perfect if you want something short and sweet. 

Pro Tip:

You can ask Agus to drop you at Warung Bintangbali after a long day exploring Ubud. It’s a breezy garden restaurant just north of the rice terraces. It offers great local food, budget-friendly prices, and a stunning sunset view.

5. Bali 4U Tours

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Website: https://www.bali4utours.com/
Location: Jl. Raya Wanayu, Bedulu, Kec. Blahbatuh, Kabupaten Gianyar
Contact: +6281999761992
Opening Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Sunday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM

Pricing: $

If you’re the type who likes your Bali trip smooth and with zero stress, Bali 4U is one of those under-the-radar companies that offers a solid lineup of classic Bali adventures. 

They have the Kintamani Volcano & Hot Spring Tour, the Ubud Cultural & Craft Tour, and the ever-popular South Bali Beaches & Uluwatu Sunset experience. They also throw in unique combo options like Mount Batur sunrise hikes paired with coffee tastings.

For pricing, full-day private tours are IDR 735,000 – IDR 817,000 ($45-$50) per vehicle (seats up to 5), with options for custom itineraries and longer drives available at reasonable add-on rates. 

Pro Tip:

If your tour ends near Uluwatu, consider stopping by Bukit Cafe. It’s a chilled Aussie-run spot in Bingin with great smoothie bowls and top-tier burgers.

6. Nice Tour Bali (Nirwana Ceria Wisata Bali. PT)

Website: https://nicetourbali.com/
Location: Jl. Sekar Tunjung, Kesiman Kertalangu, Kec. Denpasar Tim., Kota Denpasar
Contact: +6282339926700
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Pricing: $

Nice Tour Bali has been around since 2013, quietly building a solid reputation for smooth day trips with a warm, local-style hospitality. Their top-selling full-day tours include the Bali Instagram Tour (Lempuyang, Tirta Gangga, Tukad Cepung).

They also have the Ubud-Kintamani Loop (Tegallalang, Tirta Empul, Volcano View, IDR 735,000), and the Nusa Penida Island Hopping, starting at IDR 1,062,000 (boat included). Among my favorites are the Tanah Lot & Sunset Dinner Tour (featuring seafood in Jimbaran).

Also, you can try their Balinese Culture & Village Tour (featuring traditional homes & lunch at a local warung), or the Lovina Dolphin Sunrise + Hot Springs (from IDR 980,000, with breakfast stops near the beach).

Pro Tip:

You may also want to visit Sari Organik Cafe in Ubud, just between Tirta Empul and Tegallalang. It’s a peaceful rice field walk accompanied by fresh juices and organic, local dishes, priced at only around IDR 20,000 ($1.50) to IDR 60,000 ($4).

7. Forever Vacation Bali – Premium Tours & Experiences

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Website: https://forevervacation.com/tours-in-bali
Location: Uluwatu St No.45, Jimbaran, South Kuta, Badung Regency
Contact: +16174042125
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Pricing: $-$$

I discovered Forever Vacation while searching for a trustworthy Nusa Penida day trip, and I was impressed. Customers praised their prompt replies, WhatsApp check-ins before your tour, and real follow-through on custom requests. 

So, you get the vibe that they’ve really put effort into the “vacation” part of their name. 

Plus, they also offer something different from the usual temple-waterfall route. This includes Bali’s Spiritual Cleansing at Tirta Empul or Night Market & Streetfood Tour, which might catch your eye. Local operators don’t commonly offer these, and that’s what makes them stand out. 

They also run a selection of unique tours you don’t see everywhere, like the Nusa Penida Snorkelling Adventure (swim near manta rays and turtles + beach views), and the Ultimate Monkey Forest Day Tour.

Pro Tip:

Keep an eye on their website for seasonal offers, such as 10-20% off bundles or tour combos. Promo codes may expire, but messaging them on WhatsApp can unlock current deals. Also, local operators often give quiet perks—just ask nicely!

8. Modi Dodi Private Driver Bali & Bali Tour Guide

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Website: http://www.madedodi.com/
Location: Perum Taman Uma Dewi Residence Gg2.2 Pasekan Baduk, Badung, Mengwi, Mengwi
Contact: +6281236769488
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Pricing: $

What makes Modi Dodi stand out is their “You Choose, We Drive” philosophy—your itinerary, your pace, no rigid schedule. They focus on fully customised, private driving tours, perfect for travellers who already have a list or just want to wing it with help from a friendly guide. 

Plus, Dodi’s team comes across as thoughtful, English-speaking locals who care about timing, traffic, and even help with small logistics.

They offer curated full-day packages like the Ubud Highlight Tour and North Bali Waterfall Tour, or East Bali Temple and Holy Springs. Custom routes are also welcome, and all you need to do is simply map your desired stops, and they’ll tailor the day accordingly. 

Pro Tip:

Let your driver know you’d like photo stops or short walks. Some drivers offer complimentary corner-of-the-road shots or know quiet viewpoints few tourists reach. 

9. Bali Sightseeing – Rukmana Bali Tour

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Website: https://rukmanabalitour.com/
Location: Jl. Mangut No.19, Carangsari, Kec. Petang, Kabupaten Badung
Contact: +6287862207901
Pricing: $

Rukmana Bali Tour is a family-owned company based in Petang, Badung, offering a range of services from Nusa Penida day trips to Tanah Lot sunset tours. 

Their Nusa Penida All-Inclusive Day Tour covers Broken Beach, Kelingking, Angel’s Billabong, Crystal Bay, fast boat transfers, lunch, and a local guide—all from about IDR 1,100,000 per person ($70).

Meanwhile, the Tanah Lot Sunset Tour costs around IDR 590,000 ($38) per person, and includes temple entry and pick-up/drop-off services. 

Pro Tip:

Take a stop at Warung Bebek Tepi Sawah, located near Tegallalang. Locals swear by their crispy duck, paired with rice field views. It’s the perfect spot to complete your Ubud itinerary.

10. Bali Trekking Tour

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Website: http://balitrekkingtour.com/
Location: Gang Jagadhita Jl. Silungan – Gelogor, Lodtunduh, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar
Contact: +6281238300909
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Pricing: $

Bali Trekking tour believes every sunrise should feel like a reward, not a hassle—and their packages reflect that. They take care of the hard parts so you can focus on the view, the moment, and maybe that first sip of volcano-top coffee. 

If you’re up for an epic sunrise adventure, their Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking includes round-trip pickup, a guide, and safety gear. Additionally, it includes a light breakfast and water, with tours starting from approximately IDR 811,000 ($49.60) for an 8-hour trek. 

However, if you prefer a bit more adrenaline, I suggest trying their Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Expedition. Same inclusions with their trekking package, but by 4×4 Jeep from IDR 808,000 ($49.40).

Pro Tip:

If you’ve got time before your pickup, consider swinging by Warung Dedari Batuk in Kintamani. It’s about 20 minutes from Toyabungkah, the usual starting point for Mount Batur treks. Their fried rice and banana pancakes are a comforting pre-trek bite!

11. Private Bali Tours

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Website: http://www.privatebalitours.com/
Location: Jl. Smki Jl. Ulun Suwi No.E7, Batubulan, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar
Contact: +6287860377327
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Pricing: $

Private Bali Tours kicks off strong with crowd-favorite packages like the Ubud Iconic Waterfall, Tegallalang & Swing Tour, the South Bali Beaches & Uluwatu Temple Tour, and the all-out Bali Instagram Tour (Gate of Heaven, swings, rice terraces) for around IDR 735,000 to IDR 817,000.

And if you’re into island hopping and snorkelling, their West Nusa Penida Island Tour and Blue Lagoon Snorkelling & Hidden Beach trip are also solid picks.

But what makes them perfect is how flexible and personal everything feels. Their full-day tours are more like a choose-your-own-adventure, where you can swap out stops, mix cultural sites with nature spots, or add extras like ATV rides.

Pro Tip:

Ask your guide to stop by the tiny Warung Madu Goa Gajah near Tirta Empul. Their honey-sweet tea by Temple Gardens is the perfect palate cleanser between sightseeing.

12. Bali Agung Tours

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Website: https://www.bali-agung-tours.com/
Location: Jl. Padang Galak No.88, Kesiman, Kec. Denpasar Tim., Kota Denpasar
Contact: +628174108800
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Pricing: $$

Bali Agung Tours and their “Balibuddy” team have been in the game since 1996, making them one of the island’s longest-running tour operators. 

Plus, I love that their tour packages cater to a range of interests and travel styles. For a quick yet immersive escape, try the 2-Day 1-Night – Go East Bali package (from IDR 1,307,000 per person), with stops at ancient temples, bustling markets, and villages.

If you’ve got a bit more time, the 3 Days 2 Nights – Bali Long Trip (starting at IDR 3,184,000) offers a well-rounded journey through cultural performances, scenic rice terraces, and refreshing waterfalls—complete with overnight stays in peaceful areas.

Pro Tip:

If you’re feeling a little “been there, done that” with Bali, try visiting the Tenganan Village. It’s one of Bali’s oldest and most culturally preserved communities, perfect for those interested in local traditions and handcrafted textiles.

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