Culture Core Scooter Itinerary: Bali on the Move – Part 1

For many travellers, a scooter is the definitive key to freedom in Bali, allowing you to slip past gridlock and find the hidden corners of the island. This is the first instalment of our multi-part Bali scooter itinerary series, presenting three distinct, achievable day loops that maximise your time on two wheels.

Before heading out on any ride, please ensure you are legally compliant (carrying your IDP – international driving permit) and always prioritise safety: both the driver and passenger must wear a helmet! In this first part, we tackle Central Bali’s serene landscapes. Subsequent posts will cover the Coastal History (Seminyak/Canggu) and the dramatic Southern Cliffs (Uluwatu).

II. Circuit 1: The Cultural Core (Ubud Loop)

This loop is ideal if you are starting from Ubud or anywhere in Central Bali. The roads here are generally less chaotic than the south, flowing through lush green villages and rice fields. This is an itinerary focussed on exploring the island’s culture, beautiful scenery – and the excellent street food that you’ll come across.

Stop	Destination	Activity & Significance	Duration
1	Tegalalang Rice Terraces (Ceking)	Start Early: Aim to arrive around 9:00 AM to beat the crowds and the midday heat. You can walk the ridges, take photos, and learn about the ancient Subak irrigation system.	1 – 1.5 hours
2	Tirta Empul Temple	Head north to this sacred Hindu water temple. Dedicated to Vishnu, it is one of Bali’s most important spiritual sites. You can witness the locals performing the Melukat purification ritual (add around 1.5 – 2 hours if participating).	1.5 – 2 hours
3	Gunung Kawi Sebatu	This is a great, often quieter alternative to the main Gunung Kawi site. It’s a peaceful, highly scenic temple complex featuring beautiful courtyards and pools – a perfect spot for reflection after the busy Tirta Empul.	1 hour
4	Kintamani/Penelokan	If you are a confident rider, extend your Bali scooter itinerary further north toward Kintamani. The Penelokan viewpoint offers incredible views of the Mount Batur volcano and Lake Batur caldera. Stop for a rewarding lunch with a view before heading back south.	1 – 2 hours (Driving Time)

III. Practical Riding Tips for Central Bali

While Central Bali is gentler than the south, remember that the roads are often narrow, winding, and hilly.

• Road Etiquette: Always maintain a defensive riding posture. Honking is common and generally used to signal overtaking or approaching a blind corner, not to express aggression.
• Hazards: Be alert for potholes, uneven pavement, and the ubiquitous small Hindu offerings (Canang Sari) on the roadside.

Scooting Around Bali: Great Indonesia Holidays

This Cultural Core loop blends the tranquillity of Bali’s rice fields with the deep spiritual significance of water temples. If you’re planning on a prospective Bali scooter itinerary, we just handed you three, if not four, day-trips for you to map out. Also, when we spoke of exploring street food, do be aware of being too adventurous and coming down with Bali Belly!

Join us next time as we tackle the traffic and stunning sea temples of the Coastal History Loop (Part 2), starting from Seminyak and Canggu. If you’re in the mood to browse some excellent deals, check out some great Indonesia holiday deals. Also, if you weighing a few Bali travel itineraries in your head and want to speak to a friendly travel expert, talk to us at 1300 991 751!