Bali & Beyond - 18 Day Trip
Bali and the Komodos in one epic 18-day backpacking adventure!
Ready to see the best of Bali and the surrounding islands whilst giving back to the local community? Want to explore the stunning waters, incredible temples and epic markets? Of course you do!😎
Is there anywhere more dreamy in the world than Indonesia? With golden sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters. Spend your days visiting Ubud’s waterfalls and monkey forests or hit up the Gili Islands for the ultimate off-the-beaten-track experience. Head over to Indonesia’s quieter islands Lombok and the Komodo Islands. We’re giving you the very best with not just 1 but 2 TruExclusives. We take you to Indonesia’s best-kept secret...Mojo Island. Sleep under the stars on our very own liveaboard boat whilst we sail the Komodo Islands, the island hopper of dreams.
Travel Style
We’ve perfected the balance between culture, adventure, beaches and parties. A high level of inclusions at a low cost. Think of a Ferrari for the price of a Ford. Highlights, hotspots & hidden gems are crafted into each itinerary with our own TruExclusives. We stay in a variety of different accommodations such as hotels, hostels, homestays, beach huts & even boats. Maximum adventure, minimum hassle.
What's Included
Your Trip Planner
Bali & Beyond
18 Days
canggu - labuan bajo
Map
Bucket List
Itinerary
welcome to bali
Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime?! OBVIOUSLY. Arrive anytime at Denpasar airport where one of our super cool edgy travel ninja’s will meet you. Think superhero of the tour guide world. We’ll take you to our accommodation in Canggu. Check-in, chill out it’s been a long journey and you deserve it. Hey, why not even hit up the rooftop pool or take a walk a beach. It’s only a couple of minutes from our hotel. In the evening get ready and we’re off out for a welcome dinner and drinks and to meet the rest of your soon to be TruFam!
temple visits
Today we’re diving deep into the local culture of Bali and visiting 2 of its most famous temples - Taman Ayun - the beautiful garden temple and Tanah Lot - Bali’s most famous temple in the sea. Are they as pretty as you saw on scrolling through Instagram months before this treat! Baby, they’re BETTER IN PERSON! Don’t forget to pack those elephant pants you bought on your first night travelling and a T-shirt to cover your shoulders to show respect when visiting the temples. After learning a little bit more about Bali and it’s wonders, we head to a funky beach bar lounge. Grab a cocktail or Bintang (That’s Bali’s famous beer) and watch the sun go down. Head back grab a shower and your dancing shoes because we’re out to paint the town red! (Or our famous TruBlue colour!)
surf’s up!
Surf up and Shaka’s up!! We’re hitting the beach in Kuta! Never surfed before? NO PROBLEMO! We’ll have you standing up, riding those waves, doing backflips on the board in no time. Ok, maybe not to that extreme but you’ll deffo learn a thing or two! Spend the rest of the afternoon sunbathing on some of Bali’s best beaches, coconut in hand or head to the rooftop pool. We know, we’re fancy. Freshen up, scrub that saltwater out of your hair before we head out for a delicious dinner. (Our Tru Ninja’s know the best spots!) Have a drink or 6 and see where the night takes us!
ubud waterfalls
Today we’re off to Bali’s vibrant jungle town of Ubud. Think relaxation, artsy and ultimate ZEN VIBES! Along the way, we stop off at Bali’s most southern waterfall, Tegenungan. If you haven’t got a snap here.. I mean have you even been to Bali? Splash around, cool off before we head to our super cool hotel in the afternoon where we’ll be for the next 3 nights. Have a dip in the pool, grab a shower before we head out for the evening of live music! We can’t promise there won’t be any gyrating air guitars or dad dancing thrown about but hey, we’re on holiday right?
cooking class & monkey forest
Day 5 and we’re up and out as a local family and friend of the TruCrew is taking us around Ubud’s bustling food market. We’re learning about all the ingredients used in everyday Balinese cooking as well as ‘Canang Sari’ the local offerings made for the Gods. Bali has some of the most delicious foods in the world so it’s only right we learn to rustle up a couple. Will you be a world-renowned chef after this? You better Bali-eve it! Wayan, a TruTravels legend and his family show us the art of cooking Balinese food and of course, we overindulge after. You cooked it, so you deserve those calories of course! We spend the afternoon at Ubud’s sacred monkey forest where it’s believed that hundreds of monkeys live here to protect the ancient temples within. They're cheeky little creatures so keep a hold of your belongings! They're also known to jump in a selfie or two. We know, we know, they’re bananas! ;) After spending our day monkeying around we head back and get ready for dinner and drinks with the TruFam. First, drink to order? Monkey shoulder whisky obviously.
local markets & rice terraces
Today we head north to the scenic rice terraces of Tegalalang. A UNESCO World Heritage site. They’re pretty much on the cover of any magazine you’ve seen about Bali but boy they’re even more stunning in real life! We learn how these formations still play a very important role in the local's everyday life. Grab a snap, learn some heritage and culture. Win-win right? Next up we’re off to the region of Kintamani, we have lunch overlooking one of Bali’s active volcanoes. Mt Batur. Is this one of the best days in Bali? You betcha! It’s a blast! ;) We finish the afternoon wandering around the local market. Grab yourself a tacky souvenir, some knock off raybanz or just that keyring you promised your mum back home. Relax by the pool after an action-packed day before we head out for dinner with the crew.
head to the gili islands
IT’S TIME TO GET TROPICAL! You haven’t seen paradise until you’ve been to the Gili islands! We jump on the ferry then a short bus to the tiny island oasis of Gili Trawangan. Cars? Motorbikes? Not on Gili T! The island is so small it’s our very own slice of bliss. Turquoise clear waters, golden sandy beaches you’ll fall in love. Will you ever want to leave? It’s a no from us! Check in to our accommodation, sip cocktails by the pool or take a wander round the island. The sunset is like no other so we sit back and relax before we head out for dinner as a group. Although it’s a tiny island Gili T has some pretty darn lively nightlife. So get your best shit shirt on because we’re going OUT OUT!
island hopping adventure
Just when you think it couldn’t get any better.. We're exploring 2 of the Gili Islands! We’re taking you island hopping and to the best snorkeling spots around Gili Meno & Gili Trawangan! ALL ABOARD TRUFAM! The local marine life is some of the best in the world, unspoilt marine life and islands only accessible by boat adds up to healthy thriving waters. The Gili islands have coral conservation projects so check these out! Keep an eye out for a nearby turtle or two passing by. Gili Islands? Yeah, it’s the turtle package ;) We grab a beachside lunch on Gili Meno before we head back to freshen up before dinner and another big night in our new favourite place!
bike ride around gili t
The best way to see any island is by bicycle of course! Today we’re off to explore! Pushbike style. Feel the wind in your hair, the cool crisp fresh sea air. It’s perfection. Visit the famous Gili T swings, grab a smoothie along the way or explore Gili T’s most secluded hidden gem beaches before we stop for a beer to replenish our tastebuds and watch the golden orange sunset go down. Perfect.
travel to lombok
After the most amazing few days on the Gili Islands, it’s time to go off the beaten track as we make our way east to the sister island of Bali. We’re going to Lombok! We take the scenic route of course as we drive south to the beachside surf town of Kuta Lombok! After a bit of a travel morning, the afternoon is yours to spend as you please! Check into the hotel and have a relaxed afternoon by the pool or head out for a venture around the town. Whatever you decide Lombok is THE place to be.
Important note: The second half of this trip is truly unique and adventurous. A once in a lifetime experience as we take you to some less travelled and untouched parts of Indonesia, so prepare for a slight change in travel styles!
sasak village & waterfalls
Don’t go chasing waterfalls…. Sorry, we couldn’t help but sing that. Today we start the day by immersing ourselves in the local customs and culture of Lombok at the Sasak Village. This is your chance to learn all about local village life by one of our super cool and friendly local guides. Give traditional weaving a go, passed down from generation to generation they’re masters at it. Will you be weaving your nan a giant scarf for Christmas? Who knows after the skills you’ve picked up today! This afternoon we’re heading to 2 of Lombok’s scenic waterfalls only accessible by jungle trek. Cmon’, vamanos. Call yourself Dora the explorer. Trek through luscious green jungles, the most spectacular views and peaceful surroundings before cooling off by jumping in the falls. Did someone say.. EPIC!
lombok beach day
Calling ALL beach lovers! Today is your day! Grab your suncream, ya sunglasses and that itty bitty bikini you’ve been dying to wear! We’re off to visit some of Lombok’s most beautiful beaches. Forget the crowds, Lombok beaches are secluded, quiet and pristine. We set off to 2 different locations along the southern coastline where we spend the day on white sandy beaches. Grab a beer, sit back and relax. We grab a beachside lunch from a local restaurant then the afternoon is ours. Perfected your surfing skills in Kuta? Go on then show them off! Ride those waves baby! You know what that means? SHAKA’S UP and smile!
travel to sumbawa
We’re onto our next destination, Sumbawa Island! We travel by bus and ferry. Sumbawa is a far less developed, remote area of Indonesia than we’ve been to so far. It’s time to relax, hey it’s been a busy few days. Take a moment to appreciate a local experience and relax amongst it's beauty. Spend a peaceful afternoon on the beach unwinding or hit the pool to catch those rays. In the evening, we get ready for dinner and drinks with the rest of your TruCrew.
moyo island day trip
Today is a TruExclusive! Which means you’re not getting this anywhere else! We’re heading to the uninhabited island of Moyo. We’re well known here, so the locals take us into the heart of the island. They show all the hidden gems nestled within the jungle and onto one of the most spectacular waterfalls in all of Indonesia. Untouched and beautiful. Moyo’s falls may just be the highlight of your trip. Take a dip, a swim or flip your hair backwards in the water and get your friend to film. Whatever works for you ;) Moyo is a TruTraveller favourite so soak it all in! We enjoy lunch on the beach before we head back to the boat for a sunset sail back!
satonda island
Today we head off on our very own Liveaboard boat, an amazing Tru Exclusive. We will be on a converted traditional wooden boat which has been transformed for this journey of a lifetime! Sharing a dorm style room on the top deck, and having traditional style showers it's a Truly unique backpacking experience you won’t get anywhere else! The first part of our voyage has us stopping off at Satonda Island, grab a snorkel and mask and jump in! Check out the bay or the salt lake crater! Finish the day with a delicious local meal sitting on the deck as the sun sets for our first-night sailing. Fall asleep under the stars as we sail through the night. With little to no light pollution around the Komodo Island’s the sky has never been clearer. It's ultimate island hopping bliss.
komodo island hopping
Wake up and have breakfast looking out to mountainous views, look down and see crystal clear waters. You’re in paradise. How aboat it? ;) We’re in Komodo National park. Fill yourself up at breakfast because we’re sailing to Manta Point, home to families of Manta Rays. Snorkel up close with some of the friendliest creatures in the marine world. Although daunting in size, Manta Rays are harmless and thriving in the wild out here. We’ll be visiting Pink Beach. Yeah it’s really pink! Before taking a small trek on Padar Island for one of Indonesia’s most renowned viewpoints. This evening’s our last on the boat, so we have dinner cooked on board and 1 too many drinks! Sleep up deck, stay up all night listening to the waves, vow to become a sailor when you get home. You do you.
komodo dragons
Ladies and gentlemen, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! We’re heading into the Jurassic world of the Komodos. Komodo dragons are only found on 5 islands in the world! So count yourself lucky TruFam. We’re greeted by our local guides who inhabit the island before we set off in search of these prehistoric creatures. We take an educational tour and learn all about our dino friends and the life they live here in Indonesia. Is the trip going to drag-on? No way! It’s a fun-filled day before we head east as our time aboard draws to a close. I know we’re crying too. Say farewell to the Capt & crew before we check into our beautiful resort in Labuan Bajo, Flores. It’s our last night together so we’re out for a farewell dinner and a mojito or two.
chilled check out
It’s to time bid farewell, Adios, "Sampai" , goodbye! It’s been a wild trip and you’ve made memories of a lifetime. We hate to see you go, so let’s just say see you next time? Our Travel Ninja is on hand for all your needs. Travel related and sadness induced hugs. Whatever you need they’ll try their best to help you out. Until next time TruFam you bunch of legends!
Where you'll be staying!
Reviews
FAQs
Where does the trip start & Finish?
The trip begins in Denpasar, Bali and ends in Labuan Bajo, Flores.
What are the facilities on the Komodo boat like?
Does the Liveaboard have private cabins/rooms? - The accommodation is mixed sex, large dorm style room
Does the Liveaboard dock up at night? - For the first night we continue to sail through the night. The second we dock up close to Pink Beach.
Does the Liveaboard have bathrooms? - The liveaboard has 2 western toilets with a bucket flush and a traditional shower with a limited amount of freshwater to rinse off.
Does the Liveaboard have free drinking water? - Yes, fresh water is provided on the boat.
Does the Liveaboard have hand sanitizer? - Yes, the boats we use provide free hand sanitizer for all our customers.
What type of food is served on the liveaboard? - We serve a mix of traditional Indonesian food/fresh fruits catering to all dietary requirements.
What is the layout of the Live Aboard boat? - We have 4 main living/relaxing areas on the boat. On the front lower deck we have a small sun lounging area with bean bags. Behind this on main lower deck is the larger covered communal area. Here you can escape the sun, make tea and coffee and where we eat our dinner together family share style. On the front upper deck are we have another larger sun lounging area with more bean bags. Behind this on the upper deck there is the dorm style sleeping area. This is a large open area with lowered roof and bed mats arranged inside.
Which airport do I need to fly into?
You will need to fly into Denpasar international airport (DPS). Please note when booking a return flight on Day 18 that we recommend the earliest you can fly is around 2pm from Denpasar to allow for your journey back from Labuan Bajao (LBJ) which needs to be taken via internal flight.
What is the closest airport to the end destination?
Labuan Bajo (LBJ) is the closest airport to the end destination. From here you can catch internal flights back to Bali or limited international flights.
How do I get back to the start destination and is this included in the price? If not, how much is it?
You will need to book an internal flight from Labuan Bajo (LBJ) to Denpasar (DPS) – This can be booked for as little as 600,000 if you book early.
What kind of accommodation is included on this trip?
The accommodation for this trip is all twin/triple share private rooms apart from on our Live-aboard boat which is mixed sex open deck share.
How much is a night’s accommodation at our start hotel?
If you would like to book a pre-night please contact our sales team on info@trutravels.com.
What is the currency?
The currency in Indonesia is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Is my money protected?
Yep! You’re protected. TruTravels is both ABTA and ATOL registered meaning your money is safe. We also offer 1 free date change prior to 60 days before departure.
Most of the people that join us on tour are 18-thirtysomethings! We have no strict upper age limit on our tours but all of our tours are specifically designed for those of this age group which is worth noting when browsing through our website.
Yes! Let us know when you are booking your trip about any requirements you might have we can plan ahead and make sure this doesn’t affect your trip!
Yes, the majority of our travellers will be travelling on their own! Roughly 65% of our TruTravellers come solo! We have designed our trips specifically with solo travellers in mind, so you can be assured you’ll meet lots of others travelling alone like yourself along the way. This of course doesn’t mean our trips are only for solo travellers, but it does mean that you don’t need to worry you’ll be surrounded by a group that already knows each other.