Get ready for a magical getaway on the picturesque Islands of Indonesia on this tropical adventure. Travel through Bali and Lombok blending gorgeous beaches, great food and rich cultures with Indonesia’s warm weather and sapphire seas. This trip is guaranteed to leave you enthralled as you walk, bike, snorkel, and swim through pristine environments and discover the allure of these two unique islands. Both Bali and Lombok are famous for their beauty and welcoming spirit, which you will experience at every turn of this trip.

Note-we will not be going to this trip but you will be in trusted hands of a leader and guide we know and trust 

We specialize in small groups of 16 people maximum.

Why you'll love this trip

• Snorkelling the crystal waters around Menjangan Island reef, off the east coast of Lombok and in Gili Islands.. Hopefully spot some tropical fish and perhaps if you are lucky some sea turtles.
• Learn to cook like a local in an included cooking class. 
• Get an insight into the real Indonesia, with cultural activities and visiting local villages.
• See the contrasts in religion and culture between Bali and Lombok.
• Lombok and the Gili Islands are less frequented than their Balinese neighbour. Stay on the East Coast of Lombok in an area off the tourist trail.

Please note you must be about to walk up to three miles a day and carry your luggage up stairs if need be.

We specialize in tours for adults only. We take you away from your everyday world and the necessary distractions of family life.

We're committed to ensuring our trips remain safe for everyone — for our travelers, our leaders and crew, and the people we visit along the way. As responsible travelers, anyone who chooses to travel with us has a duty of care to themselves and the people around them. Travelers are required to comply with local regulations and laws.

What are the medical and vaccination requirements? Medical and general vaccination requirements differ between nations and as we are not medical practitioners, we unfortunately cannot advise on this issue. Please see your local GP or travel doctor for details and advice about current vaccination requirements.

We believe vaccinations play a key role in saving lives and helping to keep people safe. Around 70% of the world is vaccinated against COVID-19 but vaccination rates remain low in some of the destinations and communities we visit.   Therefore proof of up to date COVID Vaccine is required on all of our trips.

We specialize in tours for adults only. We take you away from your everyday world and the necessary distractions of family life.

All travelers must have a valid passport for international travel and many countries require at least 6 months validity from the date of return. Some countries also require a machine-readable passport and/or unstamped available pages. When assisting with an international travel booking, we will assume that all travelers on the booking have a valid passport. If this is not the case, you must let us know. It is important to ensure you have valid passports, visas and re-entry permits which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities. Any fines, penalties, payments, delay or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility.

Need a passport? Click here -> U.S. Passport

Need to renew your passport? Click here -> Renew U.S. Passport

We exercise care in the selection of reputable travel service providers but we are not ourselves a provider of travel services and have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties.  

In no event do we accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party providers over whom we have no direct control, force majeure or any other event which is beyond our control or which is not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part. We also do not accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for consequential loss (meaning indirect loss, loss of revenue, loss of reputation, loss of profits, loss of actual or anticipated savings, lost opportunities, including opportunities to enter into arrangements with third parties or loss or damage in connection with claims against you by third parties) howsoever caused in connection with your booking.

Risks of Travel and Release: We assume no responsibility for and shall not be liable for the acts or omissions on the part of any other party not under our control or any acts of God, unsafe conditions, terrorism, health hazards including pandemics, illness, weather hazards, or the suitability for a disabled person of any portion of any trip. We have no special knowledge of dangers during travel or at destinations. For information related to such dangers, we recommend going to the State Department travel website at travel.state.gov, click on "Find International travel Information" then click on "Country Information", and fill in the name of the destination country. For medical and health information, we recommend going to the Centers for Disease Control website at cdc.gov/travel, then click on "Destinations" and scroll to the name of the destination country. It is your personal decision to travel, and you are doing so with full knowledge of current travel recommendations and travel restrictions with regards to the risks of COVID-19. YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY ASSUME ALL OF THESE RISKS AND DANGERS, AND YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO FOREVER RELEASE, DISCHARGE AND HOLD US, AND OUR AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, ASSOCIATES, AFFILIATED COMPANIES, GUIDES, GROUP LEADERS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS HARMLESS AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, ACTIONS, CAUSES OF ACTIONS, SUITS, CLAIMS, AND DEMANDS OF ANY AND EVERY KIND AND NATURE WHATSOEVER WHICH YOU NOW HAVE OR WHICH MAY HEREAFTER ARISE OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THESE RISKS AND Dangers.

Should you cancel no more than 30 days after making your deposit you get a 100% refund minus a $150 admin fee.

Should you cancel between 30 days of booking to 180 days before the trip you will get a 50% refund minus the $150 admin fee.

Once we are within 180 days of the trip starting there are no refunds.

Note-should you find someone to fill your spot I can transfer your balance to them minus the $150 fee if it's 60 days before departure. Should you become sick or have other issues it’s highly likely the required travel insurance would kick in and reimburse you so be sure and check with your provider.

It is the responsibility of the trip attendee to reach out in the event of a cancellation and make their payments on time. We reserve the right to hold payments according to the cancellation policy above to pay our vendors to make this trip happen. 

By making a deposit you agree to above terms of service and cancellation policy.

To ensure smooth operations for our trips, we kindly ask that all payments are made on time. If a payment is 15 or more days past due, a $50 late fee will be applied to your balance.

We understand that unexpected situations can arise. If you need to adjust your payment plan or have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Melissa at [melissa@pennypinchingglobetrotter.com]. 

We’re happy to work with you to find a solution. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding!

Travel insurance will help protect your investment and is required for all of our trips. We recommend and use World Nomads.  If you are over 70 we recommend using Insure My Trip. 

At Penny Pinching Globetrotter, we are committed to providing an enjoyable and inclusive travel experience for all our guests. To ensure a smooth and harmonious trip for everyone, we have established this Group Travel Code of Conduct. All participants are expected to follow these guidelines to promote a respectful and supportive group dynamic. 

 1. Respect and Cooperation - All travelers are expected to treat each other with kindness, respect, and courtesy at all times. This includes: 

 - Listening to others' opinions and experiences without judgment. 

- Offering help and support to fellow travelers when needed.

 - Communicating openly and constructively to resolve any misunderstandings or concerns that arise. 

  2. Personal Attacks and Harassment - Personal attacks, harassment, or any form of abusive language directed at fellow travelers will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to: 

 - Insulting or belittling others for any reason including remarks based on race, nationality, gender, religion, appearance, or personal beliefs.

 - Making derogatory or offensive remarks, either in person or through digital communication channels (e.g., group chats or emails). 

 - Engaging in behavior that causes distress, harm, or discomfort to others. 

 3. Disruptive Behavior - Traveler's should ensure their behavior does not disrupt the group's activities or the overall enjoyment of the trip. This includes:

 - Avoiding excessive arguments or conflicts that disturb the group’s harmony. 

 - Engaging in proactive problem-solving rather than contributing to negativity. 

 - Being considerate of group plans/schedules and communicating any issues promptly to the group leader or host.

 4. Accountability and Responsibility - Each traveler is responsible for their actions. Should conflicts arise, all involved parties are encouraged to: 

 - Address concerns calmly and privately, when possible.

 - Seek the assistance of the group leader or host if mediation is needed.

- Understand that repeated violations of this policy may result in removal from the trip with no refund. 

5. Group Dynamics and Social Interaction - Group travel is a chance to connect and share experiences with others. We encourage all travelers to: 

 - Participate in group activities with an open mind and a collaborative spirit. 

 - Be inclusive and welcoming to fellow travelers, regardless of their background or personal views.

 - Show empathy and understanding toward the diverse personalities and cultures within the group.  

6. Consequences for Violating the Policy - Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct may result in the following consequences: 

 - A verbal warning from the group leader or host. 

- In extreme cases, expulsion from the trip without refund, if the behavior continues despite prior warnings. 

In addition, any traveler who exhibits consistently disruptive behavior, or who repeatedly violates the principles outlined in this policy, will no longer be permitted to travel with Penny Pinching Globetrotter in the future. We reserve the right to refuse service to individuals whose actions compromise the experience of other travelers or the integrity of the group.

At Penny Pinching Globetrotter, we aim to create positive, memorable travel experiences for all. By following this policy, we ensure that everyone can enjoy their trip in a respectful and supportive environment. 

By booking your spot on this trip, you are agreeing to the policy outlined above. 

Om Swastiastu! Welcome to Ubud, Bali's largest Hindu town and artistic and cultural heart. Your adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your group leader and travel companions. 

If you arrive early, you might like to wander the traditional market stalls near the center of town, pop into a local café, or stretch out your muscles after your flight with a spot of yoga at one of the Zen studios in town. 

After your Welcome Meeting this evening, perhaps head out for a group meal at one of the delicious local restaurants.

Arrival Transfer

• Excluded

Note - the flight here is long, and jet lag is a real possibility. We highly recommend coming in a day or two early, if you can, so that you are feeling your best when the trip starts. 

The trip starts in Ubud, and the closest airport is Denpasar Bali Ngurah Rai (DPS) (18.09 mi). The trip ends on Gili Island. You can fly back home out of DPS or Lombard. See the last day on the itinerary for return flight information.

Special Information

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting, as we will be collecting insurance details and next-of-kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask the reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

If you are staying late or arriving early, you can add extra nights at checkout here, or you might find it cheaper to book yourself via hotels.com. I am an affiliate with them, and when you use my link, I earn a small commission at no cost to you. 

Looking for something to do today. Check out these platforms for tons of activities and tours. Viator  & GetYourGuide 

Accommodation

The Evitel Ubud

Start the day with a guided walking tour of Ubud led by your local leader (about 2.5 hours). Gain an insight into daily village life as you pass lush rice fields, an alang alang valley (a type of wild grass used to make the roof of traditional buildings), and stop by a Balinese home for coffee. The tour ends in central Ubud, where you'll have time to explore the many cafes, galleries, and shops on your own. In the evening, sit down and enjoy a traditional Kecak dance performance. Driven not by musical instruments, but by human chanting, this fascinating theatrical performance is considered a highlight by many of our travelers.

Meal Included:

• Breakfast

Activities Included:

• Ubud - Campuhan Ridge & Village walk

• Bali - Kecak Fire Dance

Accommodation

The Evitel Ubud

Today you’ll explore the area from a different angle – from the saddle of a bike. Enjoy a 2.5-hour tour through backstreets, villages, and rice fields. It’s a relatively easy ride – much of the route is downhill – and there will be plenty of opportunities to stop for photos or a brief rest. You’ll also stop to check out some small, intricately carved temples, before concluding your bike tour back in Ubud. After refueling with lunch, head for the hills to the village of Sidemen, via private minivan. Set against the backdrop of Bali's highest peak, Mt Agung, the peaceful village of Sidemen is proof that Bali still has pockets untouched by tourism.

Bicycle helmets are included on your ride, and there is a support vehicle if the going gets too tough. Keep in mind, it's a little cooler up here, thanks to the elevation. You may need to pack some warmer clothes.

Note: There is no AC available in the room as it’s located in the highlands.

Meal Included:

• Breakfast

Activity Included:

• Ubud - Bayung Gede (Kahyanegan) Village to Tampak Siring Cycling Tour

Accommodation

Uma Agung Teras Bali Sidemen

Take a morning walk (approximately 2 hours) around Sidemen's rice terraces, visiting the craftspeople of the local songket weaving industry, and a traditional 'bungkus' lunch is included. The walk is a great chance to take in the beautiful scenery before we kiss Sidemen goodbye and make tracks to Sibetan Village. You’ll be given a special welcome by the village chief, then check into your homestay before enjoying some free time in the afternoon. Afterwards, you attend a cooking demonstration and learn the secret ingredients and spices of the local cuisine. Participate in playing traditional instruments. That evening, if you want, join the group for beer and karaoke.

Special Information

There is no AC available in the room as it’s located in the highlands.

Meal Included:

• Breakfast

• Traditional Village Lunch

• Dinner (Cooking Class)

Activities Included:

• Sidemen – Village Tour

• Sibetan – Cooking Demonstration including Dinner and Music Making 

Accommodation

Traditional Local House

This morning, you’ll enjoy a guided walk through an ancient Salak Plantation with the opportunity to interact with the local community. We will try our hand at weaving, and you’ll see cultural heritage plants – the remains of a white mango tree, which was first planted in Sibetan in the 16th century, as well as a Jaka Moding Plant (a type of palm tree), which is a relic plant. You’ll tuck into Tipat Blayag (Rhombus) for lunch: rice wrapped in young coconut leaves, served with chicken and vegetable side dishes. After lunch, we will try local wines and spirits.

After some time exploring the village, we will journey higher into the mountains, driving along the crater rim road to a fishing village on the edge of Lake Batur. Volcanic Mt Batur (1717 meters/5633 feet) sits inside a stark and spectacular caldera and with Lake Batur below, it's a stunning sight. The lake supports the local fishing industry, while many villagers work as guides for volcano climbs. Once checked in, you will have time to relax, then join the group for an optional dinner with a view. 

Meals Included:

• Breakfast

• Lunch

Activity Included:

• Salak – Local Community Plantation Walk

Accommodation

Caldera Hotel & Restaurant – or similar

Sleep in this morning or enjoy an optional trip to the Mt Batur hot springs where you will enjoy a soak in the hot spring while enjoying the beautiful mountain and Lake Batur.

Then make the journey from the mountains to the small coastal town of Lovina, made famous by its dolphins that patrol the coast. It's also a great spot for fine food, traditional massages, and yoga – just what the doctor ordered to help you relax. 

Meal Included:

• Breakfast

Optional Activity:

• Mt. Batur – Hot Springs Soak (add on at checkout for $32)

Accommodation

Rambutan Boutique Hotel – or similar

Enjoy a day of snorkeling amongst Menjangan Island’s coral reef, part of the Bali Barat National Park. On the way back from your undersea adventures, you’ll stop for a soak at Banjar Hot Springs, a small spring popular with locals. In the afternoon, stop in to enjoy a tasty cup of coffee with a difference at Global Kafe, a diner whose profits support the Global Village Foundation, which provides wheelchairs and mobility aids for people with disabilities and assists those with illnesses with their medical costs. Tonight, head to Ibu Wayan's to learn about Balinese cuisine before sitting down to a home-cooked meal.

Special Information

You will travel 1.5 to 2 hours by road (each way) and then take a boat ride of around 20 mins into the National Park at Menjangan.

After storms or erratic weather, there can be problems with rubbish in the water around Menjangan and throughout Bali's coastal areas. 

Meals Included:

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities Included:

• Menjangan Island – Snorkeling

• Banjar Hot Spring – Visit

• Global Kafe – Visit

Accommodation

Rambutan Boutique Hotel – or similar

This morning we’ll wave goodbye to Lovina and make our way to Sanur. Along the way, we’ll visit Munduk waterfall, Lake Bratan and then you’ll visit a local family and learn how to make a Balinese offering (and discover the importance of this ritual) before continuing to Sanur to enjoy some free time in the afternoon. Perhaps, enjoy a stroll along Bali's first beachfront walk, watch the fishermen in the shallows or kick back and relax at one of the beachside restaurants. Get a feel for the traditions and local customs which are well maintained here. Ancient temples are also easily accessible – just a short distance away from the beach.

Meal Included 

• Breakfast

Activities Included 

• Munduk - Waterfall walk

• Bedugul - Balinese offering in local home

• Bedugul - Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple

Accommodation 

Bumi Ayu Bungalows

Travel by minivan from your hotel in Sanur to the port of Serangan. Then you'll take a fast boat from Bali to Lombok (approximately 2.5 hours). Stop for lunch in a basic warung –a traditional Indonesian-style cafe, before taking a minibus to Tetebatu (approximately 2 hours). On the way, stop at Masbagik Village, which is well known for its pottery products, and where you will get to see it being made on a short walk around the village.  Tonight, you will enjoy an included dinner at a family-run restaurant that provides traditional Lombok-style cuisine.

Meals Included

• Breakfast & Dinner

Activities Included 

• Fast boat ticket to Lombok 

• Masbagik - Village Walk & Pottery Demonstration

Accommodation

Flush Harmony – or similar

Enjoy a guided walk-through lush rice fields and see how the region's farmers have tended the land for centuries, still using traditional water buffalo ploughs. Climb a little higher, pass through clove and coffee plantations, and stop at a local warung to try some local coffee (approximately 2.5 hours total). Visit the local village of Pringgasela to learn traditional weaving and enjoy a delicious Sasak feast. In the afternoon, return to the hotel, then travel to Labuhan Pandan on Lombok's east coast. This remote beachside location is less visited by tourists but is a beautiful stretch of coastline. Tonight, you’ll stay in bungalow accommodation amid the peace and quiet of the secluded east coast.

Meals Included

• Breakfast, Lunch

Activity Included 

• Pringgasela – Village Walk

Accommodation

Pondok Siola – or similar

Take a trip out to the nearby coral reef and enjoy some fantastic snorkeling off the boat. Stop in at a secluded island for lunch with Mt Rinjani towering over Lombok. Tonight, eat a fresh seafood barbecue on the beach. This is island living and relaxation at its best, so soak it all up!

Meal Included

• Breakfast

Activities Included 

• Labuhan Pandan - Snorkeling

• Labuan Pandan - BBQ dinner

• Labuhan Pandan - Island Picnic Lunch

Accommodation

Pondok Siola – or similar

Travel by minibus around the spiritual center and sleeping giant of the island – Mt Rinjani (approximately 2 hours). Arrive around midday (12 pm) at Senaru – a small, rustic village nestled between the base of Mt Rinjani and the edge of the jungle. Take a guided tour of the local Sasak village to learn about the history and culture of these people who have long lived on the slopes of the mountain. Here, your local guide is part of a female guiding association that trains and develops women in tourism. You will also take a walk to the spectacular Singang Gila waterfall, and perhaps take a refreshing shower underneath it!

Meal Included

• Breakfast

Activities Included 

• Senaru - Waterfall walk

• Senaru - Sasak village walking tour

Accommodation

Pondok Senaru

Continue to the west coast today by minibus (approximately 2.5 hours). The Gili Islands (Tiga Gili) are a cluster of three small islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. Transfer by small boat to Gili Air (approximately 30 minutes), where you can take in the breezy atmosphere and stroll down stunning white beaches that rival those of the neighboring islands. Your hotel is about a 15-minute walk from the port. Your bags can be transported by Cidomo (horse cart) from the port to the hotel.

Included 

• Boat to Gili Air

• Breakfast

Optional Activities

• Push Bike Hire – IDR 50,000 per bike per day

Special Information

There is no motorized vehicle on the island. So, you will walk to your hotel, and the leader could assist you in hiring a Cidomo (traditional horse-cart) to carry your luggage to the hotel.

Accommodation

Gili Air Lagoon Resort

Today, you will have a snorkeling trip to explore the Gili Islands. The three small Gili Islands, fringed by white sand beaches and coral reefs, are among the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia, and certainly one of the best snorkeling areas in Southeast Asia. The crystal-clear waters of these paradisiacal islands, where turtle-watching is the star attraction, are the guarantee of exceptional snorkeling experiences.

Meal Included

• Breakfast

Activity Included 

• Snorkeling Trip 

Accommodation

Gili Air Lagoon Resort

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave at any time, provided you comply with the hotel’s internal check-out times, usually at 11.30 am. This doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to extend your stay on the blissful Gili Air, we’ll be able to organize additional accommodation. 

FINISH POINT: This trip concludes on Gili Air. The closest departure flights operate from Bali (Ngurah Rai) Airport or Lombok International Airport. You can travel by fast boat back to Bali or Lombok. Please allow sufficient time for daily boat transfers and travelling time to meet your onward arrangements. We recommend onward flights that depart after 7pm from Bali or after 1pm from Lombok.

If you are staying late or arriving early you can add extra nights at check out here or you might find it cheaper to book yourself via hotels.com every 10 nights you book with them you get a night free. I am an affiliate with them and when you use my link I earn a small commission at no cost to you. 

Looking for something to do today. Check out these platforms for tons of activities and tours. Viator  & Getyourguide