Bali Jungle Trekking and Lake Canoeing Tour

Two lakes, one jungle hike, and fewer crowds. This North Bali day trip from Ubud pairs Wanagiri Peak trekking with canoeing on the twin lakes of Buyan and Tamblingan, then wraps with a fresh-water swim at Banyumala. I love the small-group feel (max 10) and the way the day is paced with breaks and local touches.

I also really like that you get practical support, like walking sticks on uneven ground, plus a guide who keeps things moving and explains what you’re seeing—everything from forest plants to temple and waterfall context. And on the water, the canoe time is built to feel calm, not rushed.

One consideration: some popular add-ons depend on where you’re picked up, and entrance fees are extra for places like Handara Gate and Beratan Lake. Also, expect the trekking to be physically challenging at points if your footing isn’t great.

Key things I’d plan around

• Small-group max 10 makes the hike and canoe feel more personal than a bus tour
• Walking sticks provided for uneven jungle trails and slippery spots
• Buyan + Tamblingan canoeing is the slow, scenic break in the middle of the day
• Banyumala Twin Waterfalls swim turns the tour from sightseeing into a reset
• Handara Gate / Beratan Lake only come with certain pickup areas, and fees are separate

North Bali’s Twin Lakes: why this itinerary feels like a detour worth taking

Most Bali day trips pull you toward the same photo lines and beach crowds. This one points north, toward cooler hills, forest paths, and the calmer mood around the twin lakes—Buyan and Tamblingan. You start near Wanagiri Peak, work your way down through jungle trails, then spend time on the water before ending at Banyumala Twin Waterfalls.

What makes it work is the mix. The walking is active. The canoeing is gentle. The waterfall stop is a reward. And the temple visit adds a layer beyond scenery, especially if you enjoy understanding the spiritual side of daily Balinese life.

For value, this stands out because you’re not just buying transport. You’re buying a guided route, time on a canoe, and a sequence of stops that feel connected instead of random.

Price and logistics: what $34 gets you (and what costs extra)

At about $34, the basic deal is strong—especially for an Ubud departure that includes air-conditioned private vehicle transport and a guide for the full day. You also get the small but meaningful things: welcome coffee/tea, snacks (Balinese organic cakes), bottled water, and walking sticks.

Here’s the budget reality: you’ll likely still pay for some entrances. The tour states that entrance fees for some sites are extra, including:

• Beratan Lake (IDR 75,000 per person)
• Bali Handara Gate (IDR 50,000 per person)

And there’s lunch to think about. Lunch is listed as IDR 150,000 per person and not included. If you’re the kind of person who gets hungry the moment you start moving, plan for that lunch break to be your main meal of the day.

Small group, real pacing: how max 10 changes your day

The tour caps the group at 10 travelers, and that’s not a throwaway detail. On jungle treks, small groups move better. You’re not waiting on a long line of people trying to figure out the next step.

It also shows up in how the guides handle different fitness levels. Some groups have had to adjust the trek on the spot so everyone can enjoy the day, which is a lot easier when you’re not stuck herding a large crowd.

If you care about photos, small-group pacing helps here too. You’re not constantly pausing while the guide has to restart the whole convoy. You can actually take a moment for a view, then go.

Wanagiri basecamp: coffee, briefing, and the start point by the twin lakes

The day starts at Twin Lake View Paradies near Gobleg. From there, you begin at the Wanagiri Peak basecamp, where you’ll get a trekking explanation before you head out. This is also where you get a welcome break—local coffee or tea with Balinese cake.

That first stop matters more than it sounds. A good briefing helps you understand what kind of walking is coming. And because you start by the Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan area, you’re already in the right mood: cool air, water nearby, and mountains all around.

If you’re prone to underestimating “just a hike,” this is where you calibrate.

The trek to Lake Buyan: forest steps, old trees, and wide views

After the briefing, the trekking begins as you work toward Lake Buyan. The route is designed to let you see the lake from different angles as you descend, and you’ll pass large old trees along the way.

You also get a sense of the ecosystem, not just a single viewpoint. This is one of those parts where walking beats looking from a road. The pace is meant for absorbing the surroundings and staying steady on uneven ground.

When you reach Lake Buyan, you’ll shift from hiking energy to a more relaxed rhythm. The stop is timed so you’re not just dropping in for ten photos and leaving—there’s real time to transition into the canoe segment.

Canoeing on Buyan and Tamblingan: the quiet highlight

Canoeing is the signature moment here. You’ll ride traditional canoes on the lakes, and the itinerary includes time on both Buyan and Tamblingan—starting from one side, then moving across the water toward the next forest section.

This is the part of the day that feels like a reset. Even if you’re sweating from the trek, the water time cools your head. You can take in the hills and cloud changes without having to move.

A practical plus: you’re not alone paddling the entire time. Some groups have been guided by local rowers, with you able to participate as you feel comfortable. If you’re not a confident paddler, you’ll still be part of the experience.

If you opt for the photo upgrade (professional photos or drone footage), you’d typically want to think ahead about when you want those shots—canoe time is often the best light and the least frantic moment.

The jungle walk and Ulan Danu Tamblingan Temple stop

Between Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan is a forest section that separates the two lakes. After canoeing to the west edge of Buyan, you head into that forest on foot again.

This portion includes more jungle walking and another encounter with big old banyan trees, including places where you can climb or swing (depending on conditions and guide instructions). It’s playful, but it’s still real jungle terrain—so keep your balance and follow your guide’s cues.

This is also where the day turns toward culture. The tour overview includes a visit to Ulan Danu Tamblingan Temple. Even if you don’t speak the language, a guided stop like this can make the place make sense—why people come here, how spirituality fits into the landscape of daily life, and what to look for as you move through.

Banyumala Twin Waterfalls: swim time, not just a photo stop

You’ll end the trek portion at Banyumala Twin Waterfalls. The plan isn’t just look and go. It’s explicitly a chance to relax and even swim in fresh spring water.

This is a big deal for two reasons:

1. It turns the day from “active all day” into “active, then recover.”
2. You get a more personal experience with the waterfall setting instead of a quick roadside stop.

Practical tip: bring (or plan to borrow) something you can change into if you want to stay comfortable after swimming. Water shoes or sandals with grip can also help if the area is wet or slick.

Optional stops: Handara Gate, Lake Beratan, and the Bedugul market (depends on pickup)

Some itinerary extras are tied to your pickup zone. The tour notes that visits to Bali Handara, Ulundanu Beratan, and Candikuning are only possible for pickups from south and middle Bali. In the stop list, this shows up as:

• Handara Iconic Gate (photo stop; entrance fee not included)
• Lake Beratan (also entrance fee extra)
• Bedugul Market (herbs and spices market; listed as free, but only for the south/middle pickup)

If you’re staying in Ubud or nearby, you might not see these add-ons. That’s not automatically bad. The core experience—the jungle, the canoe, and Banyumala—still delivers the main North Bali feel.

But if Handara Gate is on your must-see list, ask before you go. Knowing whether you’re eligible for those stops can help you avoid disappointment.

Getting there and around: comfortable vehicle time, long-but-manageable drive

You’ll be transported by a comfortable air-conditioned private vehicle. Drive time to and from the lakes region can be around 1 to 1.5 hours each way depending on traffic and pickup location.

This matters because it changes how you pack your energy. Plan to be ready for a full-day schedule. The benefit is that you’re not bouncing between multiple unrelated places. The route is grouped around the north-lakes area, so your travel time stays functional instead of scattered.

What to bring and how to handle the walking

The tour provides walking sticks, but you’ll still want to dress for jungle ground. Trails can get steep and slippery, and that’s where the sticks help most. I’d treat the hike as moderately demanding, not a casual stroll—especially if you’re traveling with limited hiking experience.

Bring:

• Comfortable closed-toe shoes with grip (or something you trust on wet rock)
• Quick-dry clothing if you plan to swim at Banyumala
• Sunscreen and a light layer (it can feel cooler in the lake hills)
• A small dry bag for your phone during canoeing

If you get nervous on uneven steps, this is where a good guide matters. Guides like Putu, Dharma, Darma, and Komang (names that come up with strong feedback) are praised for keeping the day safe and adjusting pacing when needed.

Who this tour suits best (and who should think twice)

This tour fits best if you want:

• Nature-first Bali beyond the standard beach circuit
• A day that mixes trekking + canoeing + waterfalls + temple
• A small-group experience where you aren’t squeezed into a tight schedule

You might think twice if:

• You want an easy stroll only. The trek includes uneven terrain and can be steep.
• You need all optional stops (Handara Gate and Beratan Lake). Those depend on pickup area.
• You’re trying to keep your budget ultra-tight, since some entrances and lunch are extra.

Should you book this Bali Jungle Trekking and Lake Canoeing day?

If your idea of a great Bali day includes forest paths, canoe time, and an actual swim at the end, I’d book it. It’s excellent value for the combination of guide time, transport, canoeing, and waterfall payoff—especially at around $34 for a full-day North Bali route.

Just go in with clear expectations:

• Expect trekking that can be slippery and steep at points.
• Bring swim-ready gear if you want to enjoy Banyumala fully.
• Budget extra for Handara Gate, Beratan Lake, and lunch, and confirm whether you’ll get those optional stops based on where you’re picked up.

FAQ

How long is the Bali Jungle Trekking and Lake Canoeing Tour?

The tour runs about 8 to 10 hours.

Is pickup included?

Hotel pick up/drop off is included if you select the pickup option. The tour also notes that some optional stops depend on pickup from south or middle Bali.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are coffee and/or tea, Balinese organic cake snacks, bottled water, walking sticks, hotel pickup/drop-off if selected, and guides, plus an admission fee as listed under included.

Are entrance fees included for all stops?

Not for every stop. The tour states that some entrances are extra, including Beratan Lake and Bali Handara Gate.

Do you stop at Banyumala Twin Waterfalls for swimming?

Yes. The itinerary lists time to relax and swim in the crystal-clear fresh spring water at Banyumala Twin Waterfalls.

Is the Handara Iconic Gate stop guaranteed?

No. The tour notes that visiting Bali Handara is only possible for pick up from south/central Bali, and the admission fee is not included.

What if the weather is bad or I need to cancel?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience start time for a full refund.