Bali is a budget friendly destination, making it one of the cheapest places around the world. With so much places to visit in Bali, you never run off fun things to do on the island.
Therefore, we made this blog for you as we cover one of the best places to visit in Bali, making it your ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of a busy life.
There is only one national park in Bali that is known for its diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and marine biodiversity. It comes with several names: West Bali National Park, Taman Nasional Bali Barat or Bali Barat National Park.
How big is the West Bali National Park, you might ask. This park covers about 190 square kilometers of land and sea, including the northwestern tip of Bali, making it the largest protected area on the island.
The total size of Bali is 5780 square kilometers, which means it make up 3.30% of Bali’s total size. We already have a blog about how big is Bali that tells you more about the land area of the island, so check it out.
With that being said, there is so much to see and do at the national park. Thus, we made a whole blog about what to do in West Bali National Park, so you can explore your options when visiting this fascinating part of Bali.
This is a complete guide on West Bali National Park guide that not only covers what to do there, but also how to get to West Bali National Park, where it is located and much more. So, keep on reading to find out more.
Where Is West Bali National Park?
West Bali National Park stretches across the districts of Buleleng and Jembrana, encompassing both coastal and inland areas.
The park’s boundaries include the small, uninhabited Menjangan Island, known for its coral reefs and diving spots.
It is also located on the North Coast of Prapat Agung Penisula, which covers most of its lands and see, along the North Coast around Cekik, Gilimanuk and Banyuwedang.
We already prepared a guide for you about climbing Mount Agung, so check it out. For more information about the location of Bali, please, visit our blog.
How To Reach West Bali National Park?
In this section, we will cover different ways on how to get to West Bali National Park, so you can estimate the duration of your visit and plan it well.
- By Car: The park is roughly a 3-4 hour drive from Denpasar, capital city of Bali, and the popular southern tourist areas like Kuta or Seminyak. You can hire a private car or take a taxi, with the option to stop at scenic spots along the way.
- By Bus: Public buses from Denpasar to Gilimanuk (near the park’s entrance) are available, but may take longer and involve multiple transfers.
- By Boat: Menjangan Island, within the park’s boundaries, can be accessed by boat from Labuhan Lalang or other nearby harbors.
There are two main park offices on the national park, so make sure to visit both: the main ranger station in Cekik and Labuan Lalang.
The main ranger station in Labuan Lalang is located on the northern coast road, close to where the boat deport at Menjangan Island.
The reason why it is important to visit both offices because you can secure both entry permits and arrange a tour guide, which I highly recommend.
We already have a guide about how to get to Bali. It would help you reach the island and navigate all throughout it with ease and comfort.
The Best Time To Visit West Bali National Park:
Timing is everything when visiting the national park. However, the beauty of Taman Nasional Bali Barat can be appreciated at any time of the year.
It all depends on your preference of activities and weather tolerance. The dry and wet seasons have their advantages and disadvantages.
During the dry season, the sky is clear, and there is less ran, making it a good time of the year for snorkeling, hiking, and birdwatching.
On the other hand, the wet season makes the whole landscape is vibrant with colors, making it a good time for landscape and wildlife photography.
The dry season is the busiest and can be more expensive because of the tourist crowd and increase in demand, while the wet season is the least crowded with lower prices for tours and accommodations.
Whatever season, you choose to visit, I am sure you would enjoy it. To be more prepared, you should check out our guides on the best time to visit Bali and the weather of Bali.
West Bali National Park Entrance Fee And Open Hours:
The entrance fee to enter West Bali National Park is 200,000 IDR per person on weekdays while it cost 300,00 IDR per person on weekends and holidays.
There are additional fees to pay for some services and activities. You must pay 10,000 IDR to rent a car or pay around 150,000 IDR for a boat.
A trekking permit is required, so you must pay 5,000 fees for the permit. The cost of permit for scuba diving and snorkeling cost around 15,000 to 25,000 IDR. You can pay the fees at any of the offices mentioned above.
Open Hours:
The open hours for Bali Barat National Park are all year round between 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. However, it is close during the “festival of silence.”
For more information to plan your budget in Bali, you should visit our blogs about Is Bali expensive? And what the currency in Bali?
You can also visit our blog, what time is it in Bali? To learn more about the Balinese time and manage it effectively.
Top Activities In West Bali National Park:
Now that we gave you an overview of the national park, it is time to cover what to do in West Bali National Park, so you can explore your options and enjoy what it has to offer.
1. Snorkeling In West Bali National Park:
One of the best snorkeling spots in West Bali National Park is Menjangan Island, known for its vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles.
Another popular location is the Secret Bay, which offers unique muck diving experiences with rare critters. You are promised to see Mandarin fish, Seahorses, Frog Fish, Bee Fish, 5 species of Cardinal fish, and much more.
If you visit any of the two main park offices, you can find a tour for snorkeling and rent some snorkeling gears. You can also visit our blog about the best snorkeling spots in Bali.
2. Diving in West Bali National Park:
Menjangan Island is one of the top diving spots in West Bali National Park, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including angelfish, clownfish, and sea turtles.
Another excellent location is Secret Bay, known for its unique muck diving experience, where divers can encounter rare critters like frogfish and nudibranchs.
Both sites offer breathtaking underwater scenery and are popular choices for diving tours and gear rentals. However, you can visit any of the offices to find tours and rent gears.
3. Hiking In West Bali National Park:
Hiking in West Bali National Park is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles.
Visitors can also explore the area’s many waterfalls in Bali and lakes while hiking. Therefore, we prepared for you a list of the best hiking trails in West Bali National Park.
1. Tegal Bunder Trail:
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Overview: The Tegal Bunder Trail is one of the most accessible and popular hikes in the park, making it a favorite for beginners and families. The trail takes you through dry forests and open savannas, offering a chance to spot deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird species.
- Highlights: The route is known for its birdwatching opportunities, particularly for catching a glimpse of the rare Bali Starling. There are observation towers along the way, perfect for enjoying the panoramic views of the forest. You should check out our guide on what ocean surround Bali?
- Tips: Bring binoculars if you’re interested in birdwatching, and go early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings.
2. Gunung Klatakan Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Duration: 4 to 6 hours
- Overview: This longer and more challenging trail takes you deeper into the rainforest, with sections of steep inclines and rugged paths. It’s a great choice for hikers looking for an adventure away from the more traveled routes.
- Highlights: The trail offers breathtaking views of the park’s dense rainforest, occasional wildlife sightings, and a sense of true wilderness. It’s also a good spot to observe unique plants and forest ecosystems.
- Tips: A local guide is recommended for this trail due to its length and difficulty. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water.
3. Prapat Agung Peninsula Coastal Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours (depending on route)
- Overview: This coastal trail circles the Prapat Agung Peninsula, offering stunning ocean views, a mix of coastal forest, and mangroves. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine hiking with opportunities for swimming or snorkeling in the clear waters.
- Highlights: This hike provides sweeping views of the coastline, and you might spot some marine life along the shore. The sunset views from this trail are also spectacular.
- Tips: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is limited shade. Consider a light swim or snorkel gear if you plan to explore the coastal waters.
4. Teluk Terima Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Overview: The Teluk Terima Trail is known for its tranquil atmosphere and opportunities to see a variety of wildlife. The trail winds through the forest and opens up to views of Teluk Terima Bay, which is a serene spot for a break or picnic.
- Highlights: Expect to encounter long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and various bird species along the way. The trail is also a good location for observing the park’s diverse flora.
- Tips: Go with a guide who can help you identify the wildlife and avoid the occasional monkeys that may approach curious visitors.
5. Mount Sanghyang Trail
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Duration: 6 to 8 hours (full-day hike)
- Overview: For experienced hikers, the Mount Sanghyang Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you to one of the highest points in the park. The trail climbs steeply through dense rainforest and rocky terrain.
- Highlights: The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the park, including the surrounding coastline, Menjangan Island, and the forests below. It’s a great way to experience the wild side of West Bali.
- Tips: Due to the trail’s difficulty, hiring a local guide is essential. Bring enough water, snacks, and be prepared for changes in weather at higher altitudes.
Tips for Hiking in West Bali National Park:
- Hire a Local Guide: Most of the trails are in protected areas, and a guide can enhance your experience by pointing out wildlife, unique plants, and navigating the less-marked trails.
- Wear Appropriate Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, light breathable clothing, and a hat are essential. Carry insect repellent and plenty of water.
- Best Time to Hike: The dry season from April to October is ideal for hiking, when the trails are drier and temperatures are moderate. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to avoid the heat.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance, do not feed them, and stick to the designated paths to protect the park’s ecosystems.
By exploring these trails, hikers can enjoy the rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes of West Bali National Park, making it an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
For more information, you can visit our beginner hiking guide and build your hiking gears collection from top brands on Amazon.
Horseback Riding On West Bali National Park:
West Bali National Park offers a unique and exciting way to explore its diverse landscapes—horseback riding. This eco-friendly activity allows visitors to traverse the park’s savannas, coastal paths, and forest trails while enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Here are some of the best areas for horseback riding in West Bali National Park:
Savanna and Dry Forest Trails
- Overview: The park’s savanna areas are ideal for horseback riding. These open landscapes are dotted with shrubs and acacia trees, making them perfect for leisurely rides.
- Highlights: The savannas are home to wildlife like Banteng (wild cattle), deer, and exotic birds. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Suitable for beginners and families.
Coastal Paths and Beaches
- Overview: The park’s coastal areas offer scenic rides along sandy beaches and through mangrove forests. This is a great way to experience the coastal beauty of Bali, far from the crowded tourist spots.
- Highlights: You might spot coastal birds, crabs, and other marine life. Some trails even offer access to secluded beach areas perfect for a quiet rest or picnic.
- Difficulty: Easy. Ideal for all riding levels, from beginners to advanced.
Rainforest Rides
- Overview: For a more adventurous experience, guided horseback tours can take you into the dense rainforests of the park. These trails are lush and teeming with wildlife, giving you a glimpse into Bali’s untamed wilderness.
- Highlights: Expect to see long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and unique tropical plants. The dense canopy provides shade, making it a pleasant ride even on hot days.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging. Recommended for more experienced riders.
Where to Stay In West Bali National Park?
There are many options of accommodation in or near West Bali National Park. However, however, here are some of my top recommendations.
NusaBay Menjangan by WHM:
NusaBay Menjangan hotel and resort is one of the best options of accommodation in the national park. It is facing the Menjangan Island and located near Kotal Beach, which is one of the best beaches in Bali.
Beside being a treasure trove for natural lovers, it offers comfortable rooms with a beautiful view of the national park.
It is a serene and eco-friendly resort with Balinese hospitality, making it a great escape for honeymoon in Bali and babymoon.
2. The Arya Guest House:
The Arya Guest House in west Bali national park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and comfortable accommodations.
Surrounded by lush forests and diverse wildlife, it provides guests with an opportunity to experience nature up close. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the guest house caters to all types of travelers.
Tours In West Bali National Park:
Conclusion:
There you have it. I hope we covered everything you need with our West Bali National Park guide. If we forget anything, or there is something that we can include, please comment below.
We would also love to hear your thoughts about this fascinating part of Bali, as you can share your experience about what to do in West Bali National Park. We would really appreciate it.
Furthermore, we have more blogs that might help you on your trip to the islands of the gods, such as what languages do they speak in Bali? What to eat in Bali? Where to stay in Bali?
You can also find out about is Bali safe with our guide and plan your two weeks Bali itinerary with kids. We got you covered.
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