Bali & Beyond: The Perfect Island Loop - 16 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers aged between 18 and 39 years old.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 18 participants.

• What types of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation will be varied, including 2 nights in a multi-share hostel, 5 nights in a homestay, 1 night in a camping tent, and 7 nights in a hotel. Rooms are generally small, simple, and clean, with most having shared bathroom facilities. Multi-share hostel rooming requests cannot be taken. Specific nights (3, 4, 5, 9, 10 & 11) apply to rooming exceptions.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. Check-in times and baggage allowances vary by airline, so it's recommended to contact your airline for the most up-to-date information and to check in online in advance.

• What meals are included during the trip?

  The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 2 dinners.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  We believe solo travelers should not have to pay more, so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. There is no single supplement.

• What currency will I use, and what should I know about money exchange?

  The local currency used during this tour is the Indonesian Rupiah. It is best to carry money in debit cards and withdraw cash from ATM machines, which are widely available and accept Visa and Mastercard. It is advisable to have both a Visa and Mastercard. USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, and AUD cash are recommended for emergencies or when ATMs are not accessible. Bring some emergency cash, but relying solely on cash is a safety risk. Travelers cheques are not recommended as a primary source of funds due to exchange difficulties. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants and larger stores. When bringing US Dollars, ensure notes are new and in good condition (newer than 2003, no tears or blemishes).

• What modes of transportation are used on the trip?

  Transportation on this trip will include private vehicles, shared vehicles, walking, and speed boats.

• What are the main highlights of the tour?

  The main highlights include surfing Canggu’s waves and hiking Mount Batur at sunrise, experiencing local life during a village homestay in Bulian, exploring temples, markets, and rice terraces in Ubud, walking Lombok’s lush rice fields and learning traditional weaving techniques, and snorkeling between three islands and relaxing on Gili Trawangan.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include: In Bulian: Village Cycling, Lemukih Village Trek, Cooking Class, Sunrise Fishing Trip. In Ubud: North Ubud Bike Tour, Medahan Village Happy Local Family Adventure, Spiritual Tour, Cooking Class with PKP Community Project. In Tempasan/Aranka Tempasan: Lombok Cooking Class, Yoga Class, Countryside Bike Tour, Lombok snorkel trip, Black Monkey Forest & Waterfall hike. On Mount Rinjani: Second Summit 2-Day, 1-night trek. On Gili Trawangan: Sunrise Stand Up Paddle Yoga, Gili T Bike Tour.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and local guides throughout the trip.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Indonesia and Bali?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Visa requirements depend on your nationality, so contact your local embassy or consulate or refer to the provided Important Pre-Departure Information. Travelers may be eligible to apply for a tourist e-visa for Indonesia. The All-Indonesia Arrival Card is mandatory for all international travelers arriving at specific airports and must be completed online within 72 hours before arrival (mandatory for all entry points from Oct 1, 2025). Additionally, effective February 14, 2024, Bali implements a 'Bali Tourist Levy' of 150,000 IDR (approx. $10 USD) for all foreign tourists, which can be paid online before arrival via the 'Love Bali System' or cashlessly upon entry.

• Is tipping customary on this trip?

  Yes, it is customary in Asia to tip service providers. Tipping is expected (though not compulsory) and shows appreciation. Recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. For your CEO, a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is suggested, entirely at your discretion.

• What are the key safety and security considerations for this trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables like passports, tickets, and cash. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is also recommended. Your group leader (CEO) can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. During free time, exercise good judgment for optional activities. While cities are generally safe during the day, it's advised to stay in small groups and use taxis at night. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide, and swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk. Government travel advice should be checked before departure.

• Are there any special considerations, like during Ramadan, or about combo trips?

  Yes, Ramadan will fall between Feb 28th - Mar 29th 2025, and Feb 17th - Mar 19th 2026. Services and schedules may be limited, but tours generally operate effectively, and food is available for non-Muslims. Increased cultural sensitivity is important; wear loose-fitting clothes covering knees and shoulders, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public. This tour also combines with other tour operator tours, meaning some staff and fellow travelers may have traveled together previously or will continue on another tour afterward.

• What is Planeterra and how does this tour support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses that empower Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs. Travelers can support Planeterra projects by donating $1/day for the length of their trip, with 100% of the donation directly benefiting these projects.