While it’s perfect for beach clubs, cafes, and nightlife, Canggu, Bali is also a great base for exploring the rest of the island.. From here, you can reach temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and volcanoes, all in a single day.
You don’t need to stay overnight to see the best of the island. These day trips from Canggu let you experience Bali’s culture, nature, and adventure while keeping your base by the beach.
I’ve done each of these myself, and they’re all worth it depending on what you’re after: some relaxing, some scenic, and a few that’ll get your heart racing.
Here are my picks for the best day trips from Canggu, each with a private driver so you can explore comfortably and at your own pace.
Ubud Day Trips from Canggu
Ubud day trips from Canggu are really common, especially if you don’t plan to stay there. It’s the cultural heart of Bali, full of temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, and that peaceful jungle vibe.
It’s worth dedicating a full day. The drive from Canggu takes around 1.5 hours, and once you arrive, the pace slows down. It’s greener, quieter (in some parts), and more spiritual.
Here are some of the popular stops along the way and around Ubud:
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Tirta Empul Temple
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall
- Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
- Ubud Art Market
Each stop gives you a different side of Ubud. It’s the kind of day that feels balanced: a mix of culture, nature, and a bit of shopping before heading back to Canggu.
Uluwatu Day Trips from Canggu
If you’re after beaches, cliffs, and one of Bali’s best sunsets, Uluwatu day trips from Canggu can be a good choice. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, but once you arrive, it feels like a completely different island with dry air, ocean views, and dramatic cliffs.
Here are some of the top stops for the day:
- Padang Padang Beach
- Uluwatu Temple Kecak Dance
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park
- Suluban Beach
Most people spend the afternoon exploring the beaches, then head to the temple for sunset and the famous Kecak Fire Dance. It’s loud, fiery, and one of those experiences that really captures Bali’s energy.
After the show, grab dinner at a seafood cafe in Jimbaran or enjoy a cocktail at Single Fin before heading back to Canggu.
ATV & White Water Rafting Trip
This one’s for the adrenaline seekers. If you’re looking for day trips from Canggu that actually get your heart racing, the Ubud ATV and White Water Rafting Adventure Tour is perfect. It’s a full day surrounded by Bali’s lush jungle and rivers.
You’ll start with a white water rafting session on the Ayung River, cruising through rapids, waterfalls, and jungle canyons. After that, gear up for an ATV ride through rice fields, muddy tracks, and small villages. It’s messy in the best way.
Both activities are included in the booking, along with a private driver who handles all the transfers so you can just focus on having fun.
Bali UNESCO Sites Tour
This one’s often mistaken for being a history-heavy tour, but you don’t need to be a culture buff to enjoy it. The Bali UNESCO Tour is one of the most scenic day trips from Canggu, taking you through temples, mountains, and some of the island’s most iconic landscapes.
Here are the main stops:
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
- Tanah Lot Temple
- Taman Ayun Temple
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
You’ll see a bit of everything: misty lakes, rice terraces that stretch for miles, and two of Bali’s most photographed temples. It’s relaxed, easy to do in one day, and a great way to combine culture and nature without feeling rushed.
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
The Mount Batur Sunrise Trek is one of the most popular day trips from Canggu, especially for anyone up for a challenge. It’s an early start, but the reward is watching the sunrise over Bali’s mountains and Lake Batur.
The hike itself takes around two hours to reach the top. It’s not too hard, but expect some steep sections and loose volcanic rock near the summit. Once you’re up there, your guide will prepare a light breakfast while you soak in the sunrise and mountain views.
The booking includes a private car and driver who’ll pick you up in the early hours, a private trekking guide, and light meals at the top. After the hike, you can relax at the nearby hot springs or continue exploring other parts of Bali before heading back to Canggu.
Waterfalls Near Seminyak Tour
You don’t need to stay in Seminyak to enjoy the waterfalls closest to South Bali. This Waterfalls Near Seminyak Tour is one of the easiest day trips from Canggu, taking you to some of the island’s most accessible waterfalls without spending hours on the road.
Here are the main stops:
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall
- Tibumana Waterfall
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall
- Tegenungan Waterfall
Each one offers something different — from cave-like light rays to jungle pools and powerful cascades. You’ll get a mix of adventure, swimming, and scenic photo spots, all within reach of the southern beaches.
Nusa Penida Day Trip
Nusa Penida is a must-visit during your Bali trip. It’s one of the most beautiful day trips from Canggu, giving you that island escape without needing to stay overnight.
The tour includes private transfers to and from the harbour, fast boat tickets, and a private car and driver once you’re on Nusa Penida. Everything’s arranged so you can just show up and enjoy the day.
You can choose from four tour options:
- Nusa Penida West Tour
- Nusa Penida East Tour
- Nusa Penida Combined East & West Tour
- Nusa Penida West + Snorkelling
If you go for the snorkelling option, all the boats, equipment, and guides are already included. It’s a fun, easy way to see the island’s cliffs, beaches, and marine life — all in one full-day trip.
Besakih & Penglipuran Village Tour
If you want a mix of culture, scenery, and a bit of adventure, this Besakih and Penglipuran Village Tour is one of the most balanced day trips from Canggu. It takes you deep into East Bali, where traditional life and stunning landscapes meet.
Here are the main stops:
- Segara Windhu Coffee Plantation
- Besakih Temple (Bali’s Mother Temple)
- Penglipuran Village
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall
You’ll start with coffee and a view of Mount Agung, explore Bali’s largest and most sacred temple, wander through one of the island’s cleanest and most traditional villages, and finish the day at a waterfall hidden inside a cave. It’s a long day out, but one that really captures Bali’s heart.
Jatiluwih Cycling Tour
If you’re after a peaceful, nature-filled day, the Jatiluwih Cycling Tour is one of the most relaxing day trips from Canggu. It takes you to the region of Jatiluwih, home to Bali’s UNESCO-listed rice terraces, easily some of the most beautiful in the world.
You’ll start early in the morning with a guided e-bike tour (included) through the rice fields, gliding past farmers at work and quiet village paths. Since the bikes are electric, you can enjoy the ride without worrying about the hills.
After the tour, you can grab lunch overlooking the terraces, visit a nearby hidden waterfall, or even continue north to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple or Bali Handara Gate for more sightseeing before heading back to Canggu.
Lovina Dolphin Watching & Day Trip
Lovina sits up in North Bali and is often skipped by those staying in Canggu because of the distance, but it’s worth the early start.
This Lovina Dolphin Watching & Day Tour gives you a full 12 hours of adventure and a completely different side of Bali.
The day begins before sunrise with a private boat and local captain who’ll take you out to sea to spot wild dolphins as the sun comes up. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and something you won’t find anywhere else on the island.
After you’re back on shore, you can keep exploring North Bali — visit Banjar Hot Springs, Brahmavihara Buddhist Temple, or stop by a few of the waterfalls scattered around the area before heading back to Canggu.
Make Your Own Day Trip
If none of the day trips above suit your style, the easiest option is to book a private car and driver. You’ll have your own ride for the day and can go wherever you like — no fixed route, no rush. Just choose the area of Bali you want to explore, and your driver will handle the rest.
You’re not limited to just tourist attractions. Go for lunch, visit a beach club, chase hidden waterfalls, or stop anywhere that catches your eye. It’s completely flexible and perfect if you prefer to make your own plan.
Each booking includes 10 hours from pick-up to drop-off, plus fuel and taxes. The best part? You pay per vehicle, not per person, so it’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
FAQs About Day Trips from Canggu
Can you do day trips from Canggu?
Yes, definitely. Canggu’s location makes it easy to reach other parts of Bali within a few hours. You can explore waterfalls, temples, volcanoes, or even islands and still make it back by evening.
Can you do day trips from Canggu to Uluwatu?
Absolutely. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to get there, and it’s one of the most popular day trips from Canggu. You can explore the beaches, visit Uluwatu Temple, and watch the sunset Kecak Dance before heading back.
Can I visit North Bali from Canggu in a day?
Yes, but expect a longer drive — around three hours each way. Most of my guests go for the North Bali Day Tour (12 hours). It’s a full-day adventure, but completely doable with a private driver.
How far is Ubud from Canggu?
It’s roughly 30 to 35 kilometres and takes about 1.5 hours by car, depending on traffic. That’s why Ubud is one of the easiest day trips from Canggu, perfect for temples, rice terraces, and local art markets.
All tours listed here are private. You’ll have your own car, driver, and full control over your schedule. No waiting for others or being rushed between stops.
How much do day trips from Canggu cost?
Most full day trips cost around AUD $92 (USD $60) per car, depending on distance and inclusions. That price covers fuel, driver, and up to 10 hours, so if you’re travelling as a group, it’s very affordable.
Can I do day trips from Canggu on a scooter?
Yes, it’s possible, but not the most ideal. If you’re new to riding scooters, navigating roads outside of South Bali can be stressful. But if you’re up for the adventure, go for it! I recommend grabbing a good scooter from Bikago.
