10 Hidden Gems You Can Visit with a Bali Private Driver for an Unforgettable Island Adventure
If you’ve been to Bali before, you probably know the usual hotspots—Uluwatu, Seminyak, Ubud’s monkey forest, all that jazz. But if you want to dig deeper into what makes the island really special, hiring a local Bali private driver opens up a whole different world. You’ll get to explore secret waterfalls tucked behind villages, beaches that still feel untouched, and small temples that most tourists miss. The magic of 10 hidden gems you can visit with a Bali private driver is that these places aren’t just photogenic—they’re stories, smells, sounds, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve left.
The thing about Bali is, distances aren’t huge—but getting around can be chaotic. Google Maps might tell you something’s 20 minutes away, but that can easily become an hour once you hit those narrow winding roads and scooters zipping by. Having a driver who actually knows the island changes everything. You’re not wasting time figuring out routes or dealing with parking; you just relax, chat, and soak in the scenery while your driver takes care of everything else.
So, let’s get into it. I’m going to share some of my absolute favorite under-the-radar spots you can visit with a Bali private driver—places where you’ll find real charm, fewer crowds, and a side of Bali that’s refreshingly raw.
1. Tukad Cepung Waterfall — The Hidden Light Show in Bangli
If you’ve ever seen that photo of sunlight streaming through a cave with water glistening below—it’s probably Tukad Cepung. This one’s not exactly a secret anymore, but it’s still far less crowded than the big ones like Tegenungan. It’s about an hour from Ubud, and honestly, the drive itself is half the joy. The road winds through rice fields and small villages, and your driver will probably stop to grab fresh coconut water from a roadside stall.
Once you get there, it’s a bit of a trek—down narrow steps, through a river, and into a cave-like canyon. But that first glimpse of sunlight bursting through the top? Unreal. My driver, Ketut, told me to go early, around 8 a.m., before the buses arrive. He wasn’t wrong—the way the light hits around 8:30 makes everything shimmer like gold.
According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism, natural attractions like Tukad Cepung are seeing a rise in visitors who prioritize “authentic, low-impact travel experiences,” which totally makes sense. It’s one of those places where you feel connected to nature instead of pushing through a crowd with selfie sticks.
2. Sangeh Monkey Forest — A Calmer Alternative to Ubud’s Jungle
You’ve probably heard of the Ubud Monkey Forest, but few people talk about Sangeh, which is just 25 minutes away and way less chaotic. The monkeys here are calmer—probably because there aren’t thousands of tourists feeding them every day.
Sangeh’s forest feels ancient. Huge nutmeg trees tower overhead, and the temple in the middle (Pura Bukit Sari) adds this quiet, spiritual vibe. My driver actually grew up nearby, and he told me local stories about how the monkeys are believed to be the temple’s protectors. Whether you believe that or not, it’s hard not to feel something peaceful there.
Having a private driver makes a difference here because you can stop at small roadside temples or warungs on the way back—stuff you’d miss if you were just following Google Maps. We stopped at one place serving nasi campur on banana leaves, and it ended up being one of the best meals of the trip.
3. Sidemen Valley — Bali’s Answer to Ubud Without the Crowds
If Ubud feels a little too… curated these days, head to Sidemen. This valley is pure countryside charm—terraced rice fields, gentle hills, and small rivers weaving through traditional villages. It’s about 90 minutes from central Ubud, but every twist and turn of the drive feels like you’re peeling back another layer of Bali.
Your private driver will probably know a few secret view spots. Mine took me to a ridge where you could see Mount Agung perfectly framed by the rice paddies—it’s the kind of scene you only see on postcards.
Sidemen is also known for traditional weaving, and if you ask your driver, they can take you to a small home workshop where locals still make songket fabric by hand. Watching that process up close—hearing the rhythmic click of the loom, seeing the metallic threads catch the light—it’s mesmerizing.
If you’re into eco-lodges, you’ll find a few family-run stays here with infinity pools overlooking rice terraces. They’re a fraction of what you’d pay in Ubud but come with so much more authenticity.
4. Bunut Bolong — The Giant Tree with a Road Through It
This one’s just cool. Bunut Bolong, in Manggissari, is an enormous banyan tree that literally has a hole in its trunk big enough for cars to drive through. Locals consider it sacred, so it’s treated with total respect—offerings and shrines are built around it, and people always honk before passing through (not out of impatience, but to show respect to the spirits).
The drive from Canggu or Seminyak takes around two hours, so it’s a full-day trip. But along the way, you’ll pass through Pupuan, which has some of the prettiest rice terraces I’ve ever seen—arguably better than Jatiluwih because you don’t see a single tour bus.
Having a private driver here helps a ton because the roads are narrow, twisty, and not well-marked. My driver, Made, knew every back route, even stopping at a small temple where locals were preparing for a ceremony. He got me involved in helping decorate the penjor (those tall bamboo poles with offerings). It was such a special, spontaneous experience that never would’ve happened on a tour bus.
5. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces — UNESCO Beauty Without the Overwhelm
Speaking of rice terraces, Jatiluwih is a must. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, but surprisingly, it still feels serene—probably because it’s so spread out. Unlike Tegallalang, where you’re jostling for space on a narrow ridge, Jatiluwih gives you open trails where you can walk for hours.
Your private driver will usually drop you off near one of the main walking paths and wait while you explore. And trust me, you’ll want time here. The scale of the terraces, the intricate subak irrigation system (which dates back over 1,000 years), and the way the light hits the fields—it’s all surreal.
According to UNESCO data, the Subak system is not just a farming method but also a manifestation of the Balinese philosophy Tri Hita Karana, which means harmony between humans, nature, and the divine. When you’re standing there with the sound of water flowing and the smell of fresh rice, that harmony feels real.
After walking, stop at one of the small cafes overlooking the fields. Most of them serve strong Balinese coffee and fried banana—simple, but perfect.
6. Banyumala Twin Waterfall — The Secluded Twin Cascades
Tucked in the north near Munduk, Banyumala is one of those places that looks too perfect to be real. Two streams of water cascade down a mossy rock wall into a pool so clear you can see the pebbles at the bottom. It’s peaceful, cool, and wrapped in jungle.
Getting there isn’t easy—the last stretch is a steep, bumpy road, so you’ll want a driver familiar with mountain routes. Mine handled it like a pro, even though I was gripping the seat at some points. When you reach the parking area, there’s still a 15-minute walk down a dirt trail, but the view at the bottom? 100% worth it.
Since the waterfall is tucked away, there are no big crowds or blaring music, just the sound of water and birds. If you’re lucky, you might even have it all to yourself. That’s what happened to me—just me, the sound of the falls, and a moment that felt almost cinematic.
7. Amed — Black Sand Beaches and Laid-Back Vibes
Amed sits on Bali’s eastern coast and feels like stepping back in time. It’s got this chill, fisherman-town energy that’s completely different from the island’s south. The beaches here are black volcanic sand, and the snorkeling is incredible—you can swim out right from the shore and see coral reefs teeming with fish.
Driving here from Ubud or Seminyak takes around 2.5 hours, but it’s scenic the whole way. You’ll pass through Tirta Gangga (the famous water palace), and your driver can stop so you can feed the koi or take those iconic stepping-stone photos.
Once you reach Amed, there’s a viewpoint overlooking Mount Agung and the ocean—it’s especially stunning at sunrise. My driver suggested we leave Ubud at 3:30 a.m. to catch it, and though I grumbled at first, standing there watching the sun climb over Agung made it totally worth the early wake-up.
Plus, because your driver knows local warungs, they’ll take you to the best little spots for fresh grilled fish. I had one meal where the cook pulled the fish straight from the morning catch and grilled it with sambal matah that still makes my mouth water thinking about it.
8. Sekumpul Waterfall — Bali’s Most Majestic Cascade
If there’s one waterfall that defines “wow,” it’s Sekumpul. Located in Singaraja, it’s often called Bali’s most beautiful waterfall—and I’d agree. The trek down takes about 45 minutes each way, and there are multiple viewpoints where you can see several waterfalls crashing down side by side.
Having a private driver is essential here because the roads are narrow, and the parking area isn’t exactly obvious. My driver coordinated with a local guide, who helped me navigate the steep descent and river crossings. It’s not an easy hike, but the payoff at the bottom—mist swirling around you, the roar of water, the greenery all around—is unforgettable.
And since your driver’s waiting at the top, you don’t have to worry about getting lost or finding transport afterward. We even stopped at a small warung halfway back for hot tea and pisang goreng (fried banana), and it was the perfect little recharge.
9. Penglipuran Village — Where Time Seems to Stand Still
Penglipuran is one of those places that feels almost too perfect to be real. It’s a traditional Balinese village near Bangli, famous for its cleanliness and perfectly aligned houses. Every home has the same architecture, bamboo gates, and lush gardens.
According to the Indonesian Cultural Heritage Agency, Penglipuran is one of the best-preserved traditional villages in the country and a model of sustainable tourism. When you walk its cobbled paths, it feels like stepping back into a simpler, more harmonious time.
Your driver can help you chat with locals or visit smaller temples in the area—some of which aren’t open to general tourists unless accompanied by a local. My driver introduced me to his cousin who lives there, and she invited me into her home for coffee and homemade cakes. We talked about how the village maintains its traditions even as tourism grows. That personal connection made the visit so much more meaningful than just snapping photos.
10. Nyang Nyang Beach — Where Serenity Meets the Sea
Down in Uluwatu, past all the popular beaches like Padang Padang and Dreamland, lies Nyang Nyang Beach—a long, quiet stretch of golden sand that’s often completely empty. Getting there is a small adventure: a steep cliffside path that’ll make your legs burn, but when you reach the bottom, it feels like you’ve found your own private paradise.
There’s no shade, no cafes, no loungers—just pure, raw coastline. And that’s exactly what makes it special. You can lie back, listen to the waves, and just be.
A private driver makes this trip so much easier because the access road isn’t marked well, and parking is tricky. Mine waited up top and even brought me a cold drink when I climbed back up (trust me, you’ll need it).
The Perks of Exploring Bali with a Private Driver
Now, you might be thinking—can’t I just rent a scooter or use rideshare apps? Sure, technically. But here’s the thing: Bali’s roads can be unpredictable. You’ve got dogs, sudden rain, potholes, and winding turns through mountains. Having a Bali private driver isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety, flexibility, and connection.
Local drivers know where to go when traffic hits, they speak the language, and they often double as mini tour guides. They’ll share stories you won’t find online—like which temples are preparing for ceremonies, or which small beaches have the best sunset views.
Also, many drivers work independently or with small local companies, so by hiring them, you’re directly supporting Balinese families instead of big corporations. And that kind of travel—one that supports local livelihoods—just feels better, doesn’t it?
I’ve found that most drivers charge around 600,000–800,000 IDR for a full day (roughly $40–$50 USD), which covers fuel and unlimited stops. Considering how much ground you can cover and how relaxed you’ll feel, it’s a bargain.
Bonus: Small Moments That Make the Journey Special
It’s not just the destinations—it’s all the tiny, human moments along the way that make exploring with a Bali driver so special. Like the time my driver stopped by his friend’s house to drop off an offering and invited me to join. Or when he taught me how to say matur suksma (thank you) properly, and everyone laughed at my accent.
Or the random roadside fruit stand where I tried salak (snake fruit) for the first time—it looked intimidating, but wow, that crisp sweetness! You miss these spontaneous things if you’re rushing around on your own.
Wrapping Up the Journey (But Not the Adventure)
Exploring these 10 hidden gems you can visit with a Bali private driver isn’t about ticking off a list—it’s about slowing down and seeing the heart of the island. These are the kinds of places where time blurs a little, where nature and culture still hold hands, and where the stories you bring home feel personal and real.
Bali’s not just beaches and bars—it’s temples glowing at sunset, elders smiling as they weave offerings, and drivers who become friends after just a few days on the road. So next time you’re planning your Bali itinerary, skip the all-inclusive tours and hop in a car with someone who truly knows the island. Trust me—your experience will be ten times richer.