Bali by Bike - The Best Cycling Routes for Adventure Seekers

Bali isn’t just a paradise for beach lovers and culture enthusiasts; it’s also an adventure haven for those looking to explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes on two wheels. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or a beginner, Bali offers a variety of cycling routes that cater to different skill levels, allowing you to experience the island's natural beauty in a unique and eco-friendly way. In this guide, we’ll explore the best cycling routes in Bali for adventure seekers, from coastal paths to mountain treks and countryside tours.

Why Choose Cycling in Bali?

Cycling in Bali provides an incredible opportunity to explore areas of the island that are often missed by tourists. Unlike traditional forms of transportation, cycling allows you to connect with Bali’s natural beauty, whether you’re pedaling through lush rice terraces, dense jungles, or scenic coastal roads. Here are a few reasons why cycling in Bali is an unforgettable experience:

• Access to Hidden Gems: Bali’s cycling routes take you to remote locations and hidden villages that are difficult to access by car.

• Eco-Friendly Adventure: Cycling is a sustainable way to explore, reducing your carbon footprint while taking in the views.

• Health Benefits: Cycling allows you to enjoy Bali's fresh air and beautiful landscapes while staying active and improving fitness.

• Cultural Immersion: As you pedal through Bali’s rural areas, you’ll encounter local communities and get a chance to experience Bali’s culture firsthand.

Now, let’s dive into the best cycling routes that will give you an adventure-packed day in Bali.

1. Ubud’s Rice Fields and Countryside

Why It’s a Must-Do:
Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, offers some of the island’s most scenic and accessible cycling routes. Pedaling through Ubud’s rice fields gives you a chance to experience the region’s stunning landscapes while passing traditional villages and lush green terraces. This route is perfect for beginners and those looking for a relaxing yet beautiful ride.

What to Expect:

• Ride through paddy fields and dense jungles, offering peaceful scenery and calm surroundings.

• Stop at traditional Balinese villages to observe local life and interact with the friendly residents.

• Easy-to-moderate difficulty, ideal for beginner cyclists.

Pro Tip: Plan your ride in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the stunning light for photography.

2. Mount Batur Volcano and Lake Batur

Why It’s a Must-Do:
For cyclists who want to challenge themselves and experience Bali’s volcanic landscapes, the Mount Batur route is one of the most exhilarating cycling routes on the island. This moderate-to-difficult ride will take you through mountainous terrain, providing incredible views of the volcanic crater and Lake Batur.

What to Expect:

• Start the route with a steep uphill ride to the base of Mount Batur, enjoying stunning views of the lake below.

• Pedal through the crater’s edges, with rocky paths and volcanic ash underfoot.

• Experience breathtaking views of Mount Agung and surrounding areas from high altitudes.

Pro Tip: Wear sturdy cycling shoes and bring plenty of water, as the terrain can be challenging, especially under the hot sun.

3. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Why It’s a Must-Do:
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces offer one of the most scenic cycling routes in Bali. This ride is perfect for those who want to pedal through some of Bali’s most iconic landscapes, with lush greenery, winding paths, and expansive rice fields.

What to Expect:

• Enjoy a leisurely ride through the UNESCO-listed rice terraces, surrounded by stunning views of green paddies.

• The route is relatively flat but offers magnificent photographic opportunities.

• Learn about the traditional Subak irrigation system, which has been used for centuries in Bali.

Pro Tip: The best time to cycle in Jatiluwih is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is perfect, and the weather is cooler.

4. Coastal Ride from Sanur to Uluwatu

Why It’s a Must-Do:
For cyclists who love coastal views, this route takes you along the southern coast of Bali, where you can enjoy both challenging rides and spectacular ocean vistas. Starting from Sanur, you’ll pedal past Nusa Dua and all the way to Uluwatu, famous for its cliffs and surf breaks.

What to Expect:

• Coastal roads, with a mixture of flat terrain and gentle hills that provide breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

• Pass through beaches, fishing villages, and luxury resorts before reaching Uluwatu, where you can take a break at Uluwatu Temple and enjoy the stunning cliffs.

• Moderate difficulty, ideal for experienced cyclists who enjoy coastal routes.

Pro Tip: Take a sunset ride to witness the iconic Uluwatu sunset while pedaling along the coast.

5. Munduk’s Mountain Trails and Waterfalls

Why It’s a Must-Do:
Munduk, a hidden gem in Bali’s northern mountains, offers one of the best off-road cycling experiences in Bali. This route takes you through mountainous terrain and dense jungle, passing by some of Bali’s most serene waterfalls and offering a chance to explore the island’s lush, untouched nature.

What to Expect:

• Steep mountain trails, dense forests, and cooler climates as you ascend to higher altitudes.

• Breathtaking views of Bali’s north coast and the mysterious Munduk waterfalls.

• A more challenging ride for intermediate cyclists who enjoy exploring Bali’s quieter areas.

Pro Tip: Bring warm clothing if cycling during the morning or evening as it can get chilly at higher altitudes.

Cycling in Bali offers an incredible opportunity to experience the island’s natural beauty, hidden gems, and adrenaline-pumping landscapes. From the peaceful rice fields of Ubud to the rugged volcanic terrains of Mount Batur, each route brings a new perspective on the island’s diverse environments. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, Bali has cycling routes that suit every skill level and give you the chance to enjoy an eco-friendly adventure through the island’s most beautiful landscapes.

Get ready to unleash your inner adventurer as you pedal through Bali’s most iconic and thrilling routes. Whether you're riding through volcanic craters or coastal paths, cycling is one of the best ways to experience the island’s heart and soul.