Duration: 10 hours and 30 minutes (approximately)
Highlights: Jatiluwih and Tanah Lot area
Language: The tour is originally in Indonesian and English

You ever get that feeling like you're standing in the middle of a painting? That’s exactly what happened to me the first time I did the Jatiluwih and Tanah Lot tour. Honestly, I thought I had seen all that Bali had to offer. Beaches, temples, rice terraces—you name it. But this particular Bali tour package opened my eyes to the beauty that lies beyond the obvious Instagram shots. Let me walk you through my day, so you know exactly what you’re in for, and I’ll throw in some tips I wish someone had told me before I went!

1. Bali Coffee Plantation: Where I Got Caffeinated (And Educated!)

We kicked off at 8:00 a.m., which might sound early for a vacation, but trust me, you’ll want the extra time to take it all in. Our first stop is the Bali Coffee Plantation, and boy, was I in for a treat. I love coffee, but trying Luwak coffee—which, if you didn’t know, is made from beans that have been digested and…well, you can Google the rest—was a unique experience. The locals really know their coffee. They’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking the beans to roasting them right on the spot. The variety of flavors was insane—think everything from vanilla to coconut-infused coffee.

Here’s the thing though, don’t feel pressured to buy a bunch of coffee (unless you want to, of course). Take your time, sip on the free tastings, and enjoy the view. The plantation is often surrounded by lush greenery and, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot some tropical birds flying around.

2. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: Reflections on the Water

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple—ah, where do I begin? Picture this: a temple that seems like it's floating on a lake with mountains towering in the background. If you’re into photography, this is one of Bali’s most iconic spots. I got there when the sun was high, so the temple’s reflection on the water was crystal clear. It's magical.

But here’s a heads-up: it can get crowded. We had to wait a bit to get that perfect photo where it looks like no one else is around. Still, it’s worth it. Also, if you're prone to motion sickness, the drive up to the temple is a bit windy, so pack some ginger or motion-sickness meds. Learned that one the hard way!

3. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: A Lunch with a View

After all that temple-hopping, lunch couldn’t have come soon enough. We had a meal overlooking the famous Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and let me tell you, food just tastes better with a view. These terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. The rice paddies stretch on for what feels like miles, with every inch perfectly carved into the landscape.

As we ate, our guide explained how the locals have been farming rice here for centuries using a traditional irrigation system called Subak. It’s amazing to think that these fields have been sustaining communities for so long. Plus, the food was fresh, locally sourced, and delicious—everything from grilled chicken to rice cooked in banana leaves.

4. Walking Through the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Post-lunch, we took a stroll through the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. And when I say “stroll,” I mean it. You could easily spend hours wandering through the paths, but I recommend doing just enough to get a feel for the landscape. There’s something so calming about the way the terraces cascade down the hills, each layer perfectly reflecting the sky.

Just make sure you wear good shoes, the paths can get muddy, especially if it’s rained recently. And if you're like me and prone to mosquito bites, bring some bug spray. I didn’t, and I paid the price with a few itchy souvenirs!

5. Tanah Lot Temple: The Perfect Sunset

Last, but definitely not least, was Tanah Lot Temple. By the time we got there, the sun was starting to set, casting this incredible golden light across the water. Tanah Lot is perched on a rock just off the coast, and when the tide is high, it looks like it’s floating. It’s breathtaking. But here's the thing—everyone knows it’s breathtaking, so it gets crowded.

My advice? Get there early, find a good spot, and just relax. We found a quiet corner and watched the waves crash against the rocks as the sun dipped below the horizon. It was one of those moments where everything feels right with the world, you know? It was a beautiful way to end the day.

The Jatiluwih and Tanah Lot Tour is one of those experiences that stays with you. From the peaceful temples to the jaw-dropping landscapes, it’s a full day of beauty, history, and culture. If you’re planning on doing this tour, my biggest tip is to take your time. Soak it all in. Bali is best experienced when you slow down and appreciate the details—whether it’s the craftsmanship of a temple or the way the light falls on the rice terraces.

Also, don’t forget sunscreen. I know that sounds basic, but trust me, the Bali sun is unforgiving if you’re not prepared!