Full Day Kintamani and Penglipuran Village Private Chartered Car Tour from Bali

This detailed review explores a popular full-day private tour offered by Gusti Bali Tours that takes travelers from Kuta into the heart of Bali’s cultural and natural highlights. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the tour’s blend of scenic views, traditional villages, and temples promises an enriching day that balances sightseeing, cultural insights, and relaxation.

What we love:

• Personalized, private experience that caters to your interests
• Stunning views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, a highlight for many
• The chance to see real Balinese life in Penglipuran Village and local art villages

And a potential drawback:

• Entrance fees are not included, so costs can add up depending on what you choose to visit

This tour suits those who want a flexible, culturally immersive day with a comfortable, private vehicle and guide—perfect for travelers eager to get off the beaten path without feeling rushed.

Good To Know

1 / 7

• Private, customizable tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility
• Includes a broad range of stops: temples, villages, scenic viewpoints, and cultural performances
• Cost-effective for small groups with a group size of up to 5 people at just $65
• Includes essentials like bottled water, fuel, parking, and air-conditioned transport
• Note: Entrance and activity fees are paid on the day, allowing you to choose which sites you wish to explore fully
• Most bookings are made about a week in advance, so plan ahead for easy scheduling

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An Introduction to the Experience

This tour seems perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day out in Bali that balances natural beauty with authentic local culture. We’re particularly drawn to the detailed itinerary, which offers a good mix of performances, scenery, and cultural sites—all with the added bonus of a private vehicle and guide.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s fully customizable, meaning your guide can tailor the experience to your interests—whether that’s more temple visits, cultural demos, or scenic stops. Second, the knowledgeable guides have received praise for their insights, making every stop not just a photo opportunity but an educational experience. Third, the inclusion of traditional Balinese dance performances and craft demonstrations can deepen your understanding of the island’s rich cultural tapestry.

A potential consideration is that entrance and activity fees are paid separately on the day, so you’ll want to budget a bit extra for that. Also, since the tour covers a lot of ground, expect a full 9 hours of sightseeing, meaning an early start and a leisurely pace.

In essence, this tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate flexibility, cultural authenticity, and stunning scenery, all within a private setting that allows for a more intimate experience.

The Itinerary – What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1: Sahadewa Barong Dance & Fire Dance

The day kicks off with a captivating Balinese dance performance showcasing the legendary BARONG and KERIS DANCE. The sacred dance is not only visually engaging but offers insight into Balinese mythology and spiritual beliefs. While admission isn’t included, many find these performances to be a meaningful, cultural start to the day.

Stop 2: Phalam Batik and Souvenirs

Next, you’ll visit Ubud’s art villages, particularly TOHPATI, famed for handwoven textiles and batik processing. This is a fantastic opportunity to see traditional craft techniques firsthand and shop for authentic souvenirs. The visit is only about 30 minutes, but it’s enough to appreciate local craftsmanship without feeling rushed.

Stop 3: Bali Artika Silver

A short drive takes you to Celuk, renowned for its gold and silver jewelry. Here, you can observe artisans at work and browse for unique pieces. Many reviews note that this stop offers a glance into Bali’s artisan scene and provides options for high-quality souvenirs.

Stop 4: Batuan Temple

This village temple showcases unique architecture and local religious practices. It’s less touristy than some temples, giving a more authentic and tranquil experience. Expect to spend about 30 minutes exploring and appreciating the intricate details.

Stop 5: Mount Batur & Lake Batur Viewpoint

One of the main highlights is the scenic view of Mount Batur and the caldera lake. Many visitors report that the view is breathtaking, especially when the weather is clear. You’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the volcano, with the landscape providing a stunning backdrop. Keep in mind, lunch is not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan for an extra meal.

Stop 6: Penglipuran Village

In Penglipuran, you’ll find a traditional Balinese village famed for its well-preserved culture, social order, and architecture. Spending about an hour here allows you to stroll through the clean, organized streets, observe local customs, and perhaps chat with residents. This stop offers a genuine glimpse into rural Bali life, with some reviewers calling it “extremely beautiful”.

Additional Temples & Cultural Sites

The tour also includes visits to Elephant Cave, Kehen Temple, and Tirta Empul—each with its own story and significance. Tirta Empul, notably, hosts a purification ceremony, a sacred ritual that many travelers find enlightening and memorable. These sites add spiritual depth and scenic variety to the day.

How the Day Unfolds

Your driver and guide will pick you up early in the morning, around 8:30 am, in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that ensures a smooth ride across diverse terrains. The group remains small—up to 5 people—so you get personal attention and flexibility to linger or skip certain stops if you prefer.

Throughout the day, your guide will provide insights, answer questions, and help make the experience tailored to your interests. Since most reviews praise guides like Gusti for their knowledge, you’re likely to walk away with more than just photos—you’ll gain meaningful context about Bali’s culture and traditions.

Timing-wise, expect a full 9-hour journey with breaks, making this a comprehensive, fulfilling day without feeling overly rushed.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Budget For

The ticket price of $65 per group is quite reasonable for a private experience that covers transportation, fuel, parking, bottled water, and a dedicated driver. The entrance fees to temples and sites are not included, so you should budget additional cash on the day for these.

Meals are also not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to dine at the scenic restaurant overlooking Mount Batur. As some reviewers noted, the view is stunning, but the restaurant’s food quality varies, so manage expectations accordingly.

The Review from Real Travelers

One guest, Michael_C, called it a “fantastic trip”, highlighting their guide’s wealth of knowledge and the fascination of seeing the traditional village. Marilyn B appreciated the informative guide but noted that the weather can be an obstacle—misty conditions obscured views of the volcano and lake, though she still praised the village’s beauty and the scenic restaurant.

Feedback about the cultural performances and craft stops is consistently positive, with many travelers loving the chance to see firsthand how Balinese artisans work and to witness authentic rituals.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private Bali tour offers a rich blend of scenic views, culture, and authentic experiences at a budget price. The personalized approach means you can tailor the day to your interests—whether that’s more temple visits, craft shopping, or simply soaking in the views.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value small-group intimacy, flexible itineraries, and insightful guides. For those eager to explore Bali beyond beaches and resorts, this tour provides a balanced introduction to the island’s spiritual and rural life.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees are separate, and the day involves several stops, so a reasonable level of physical mobility and patience is helpful.

Overall, for a well-rounded, immersive day at a fair price, this tour ticks most boxes for curious travelers seeking a deeper connection with Bali’s culture and natural beauty.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance and activity fees are paid directly on the day, so budget extra for sites you wish to visit.

What is the group size?
The tour is private for your group, with a maximum of 5 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable, allowing you to focus on sites and experiences that interest you most.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You can choose to eat at a local restaurant with views of Mount Batur or bring snacks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 8:30 am and finishing in the late afternoon.

What kind of vehicle is used?
An air-conditioned private vehicle provides comfortable transportation throughout the day.

Is this suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
Generally, yes, but consider the walking involved at certain stops and the overall length of the day.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for entrance fees, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a camera or binoculars for scenic views.

Can I join this tour on short notice?
Most bookings are made 7 days in advance, but contacting the provider directly can clarify availability.

In summary, this tour offers an accessible, insightful way to explore Bali’s rich culture and stunning scenery while enjoying the comfort of private, flexible arrangements. Perfect for small groups who want a mix of sightseeing, culture, and authentic local experiences—all in a single day.