Bali Swim with Dolphins & Watching Sunrise, Gitgit Waterfall

Embarking on a day of adventure and natural beauty in Bali through the Swim with Dolphins & Watching Sunrise, Gitgit Waterfall tour offers a compelling blend of wildlife encounters, scenic waterfalls, and cultural sights. Rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 31 reviews and recommended by 97% of travelers, this tour has proven to be both popular and highly praised. What makes it stand out? The combination of dolphin watching at Lovina Beach, a sunrise boat ride, and visiting the dramatic Gitgit Waterfall isn’t something you find every day, especially at such an accessible price point.

We love the early morning start to catch the sunrise, the opportunity to swim with dolphins in their natural environment, and the chance to explore one of Bali’s most scenic waterfalls. The tour’s inclusion of private transport and all entrance fees means less hassle and more focus on enjoying each moment. However, be prepared for a fairly packed schedule — this tour involves a lot of driving and activity, which might feel rushed for some.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking authentic Bali moments without breaking the bank. If you’re after a day filled with memorable sights, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, this tour could be just what your Bali trip needs.

Good To Know

• Includes all entrance fees and a light breakfast, making it a cost-effective full-day adventure.
• Private transfer ensures smooth, comfortable travel without the unpredictability of public transport.
• Dolphin watching in Lovina is a highlight, with opportunities to snorkel and swim with these intelligent creatures.
• Gitgit Waterfall offers a dramatic, picture-perfect spot for photography and immersion in Bali’s lush nature.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with reviews praising the guides and overall experience.
• Weather-dependent, so a clear day is essential for the best experience.

The Full Experience: What to Expect

This tour packs a lot into 8 to 9 hours, making it a fantastic way to see a different side of Bali beyond the beaches and bustling towns. Let’s walk through what you can expect at each step, based on reviews and the itinerary.

Pickup and Private Transfers

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your Seminyak accommodation. The tour uses a full AC private vehicle, which means you won’t be crammed into a minibus with strangers or worry about unreliable public transport. A dedicated driver, Tunik, is often praised for being experienced and friendly, which adds a touch of comfort and local insight to your journey.

Dolphin Watching at Lovina

The first major highlight is dolphin watching from Lovina Beach. You’ll hop onto a local wooden boat (jukung), which is shared with other travelers. The boat ride lasts about an hour, with the chance to see dolphins leap and swim in their natural habitat — a moment that many reviewers, like Donya_N, describe as “insanely good” and one of the “coolest experiences” they’ve ever had.

A key point here is that the dolphins come freely and naturally, not because they are feeded or artificially attracted, which enhances the authenticity of the encounter. The reviews mention staying about 2 hours in the water, giving enough time for snorkeling and swimming alongside dozens of dolphins, which truly feels like a special, once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

While snorkeling isn’t the primary focus, some reviewers note the abundance of fish and the enjoyment of using snorkeling equipment provided during the trip. It’s a simple addition that adds to the appreciation of the marine environment, making the experience richer.

Scenic Drive and Waterfalls

After the dolphin adventure, your driver takes you on a scenic journey northward. The highlight here is the visit to Gitgit Waterfall, a popular spot among photographers. The waterfall is dramatic, with a split cascade plunging into a jungle pool, making it a perfect backdrop for photos or a refreshing dip if you’re brave enough. Reviewers like Ludwig_P describe the sunrise boat ride as “just sublime,” and the waterfall is lauded as “intense” and a must-see for nature lovers.

Walking the trail to Gitgit can be physically demanding, so being in good shape is recommended. The terrain is often described as lush and jungle-like, with the sound of rushing water adding to the atmosphere. The entrance fee to the waterfall is included, ensuring you don’t have to worry about extra costs on-site.

Visiting Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

After the waterfall, the tour includes a stop at the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, a picturesque temple floating on a lake. While the itinerary pass mentions it briefly, travelers typically find it a peaceful, beautiful spot, perfect for photos and a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual heritage. The temple’s reflection on the lake combined with the lush hills creates a postcard-worthy scene.

Return Journey and Additional Flexibility

The entire trip wraps up with a comfortable drive back to Seminyak, with the option to add on visits to other tourist sites if you wish, though this is not part of the standard package. The tour is designed to maximize the natural and cultural highlights within a manageable time frame.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Watching dolphins in their natural habitat is a rare treat. The reviews highlight that these dolphins are not baited or artificially attracted, which adds to the thrill and sincerity of the experience.

Convenience and Comfort: Private transfers mean you avoid the chaos of public transport and long waits. The driver, Tunik, is especially noted for his experience and friendliness, making the journey comfortable and informative.

Value for Money: At $40 per person, including all entrance fees, boat rides, snorkeling gear, and a light breakfast, this tour offers an impressive package. The inclusion of all costs upfront means no surprise expenses, making it easier to budget.

Stunning Photography Opportunities: From the sunrise boat ride to the waterfall and temple reflections, this tour offers plenty of chances for striking photos — perfect for social media or just capturing memories.

Balance of Activities: Combining wildlife, water, and cultural sites, the tour appeals to a broad range of interests, ensuring that everyone can find something to love.

Considerations and Tips

While overwhelmingly positive, there are a few things to keep in mind. The waterfall trek can be intense, so physical fitness is recommended. Also, because the dolphin encounter depends largely on natural dolphin behavior, there’s no guarantee of seeing dolphins every time; patience is key. The tour’s non-refundable policy also means you should confirm weather conditions beforehand, as poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

If you’re not a fan of early mornings or long drives, this might not be the best fit, as the tour kicks off early and involves several hours on the road. Lastly, while lunch isn’t included, you may want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterwards.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day Bali tour is ideally suited for adventurous travelers eager to see marine wildlife, enjoy scenic waterfalls, and experience Bali beyond the beaches. It’s perfect if you want an authentic, guided experience that combines nature, wildlife, and cultural sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Nature lovers will appreciate the lush waterfalls and the chance to observe dolphins in their environment. Wildlife enthusiasts will love swimming and snorkeling among fish and dolphins, while culture seekers can enjoy the stop at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.

Because the tour is carefully curated and well-reviewed, it offers reliable value for its fairly modest price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers seeking substantial experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is generally family-friendly. However, the waterfall trek may be physically demanding for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel are recommended. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but bringing your own mask and fins can be a plus.

Will I see dolphins every time?
Since dolphins are wild animals, there’s no guarantee of sightings. The tour’s success depends on dolphin activity on the day, but reviews show consistent, rewarding encounters.

How long is the dolphin watching activity?
The activity lasts approximately 1 hour, with about 2 hours spent in the water observing and swimming with the dolphins.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
The tour starts early to catch the sunrise, which adds a magical atmosphere to the boat ride and dolphin sightings. Early mornings are optimal for wildlife activity.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees, including the dolphin watching and Gitgit Waterfall, are covered in the tour price.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
While the standard package is fixed, private transportation offers some flexibility. Additional stops or activities would need to be arranged separately.

Final Thoughts

This Bali tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines the thrill of swimming with dolphins, the serenity of a sunrise boat ride, and the breathtaking scenery of Gitgit Waterfall. Its affordability, inclusive pricing, and positive reviews make it a smart choice for travelers seeking genuine encounters with Bali’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a photographer, or simply someone wanting to see Bali’s lush landscapes, this tour packs enough adventure and stunning sights into one memorable day.

Ideal for those who want a mix of wildlife, water, and cultural sights, this experience delivers a lot of value and authentic moments that will stay with you long after your Bali trip ends.