North Bali Travel Guide (Buleleng): Lovina, Munduk, Waterfalls & How to Save with Hotel Vouchers

If you're tired of the crowds in South Bali, North Bali (Buleleng Regency) is the answer. The region is famous for calm black-sand beaches, a string of waterfalls in the Munduk highlands, twin lakes, and wild dolphins off Lovina. The drive from Kuta/Seminyak takes around 2.5–3 hours via Bedugul, so it's best not treated as a one-day round trip. Here's the full guide plus how to cut accommodation costs.

Lovina: Dolphins at Dawn

Lovina is North Bali's icon. The main draw is the dolphin tour on traditional fishing boats (jukung) departing around 6:00 AM. Tours usually cost Rp100,000–Rp150,000 per person, depending on bargaining. Since departure is at dawn, staying overnight in Lovina makes far more sense than driving up from the south before sunrise.

• Black-sand beach, good for near-shore snorkeling.
• Plenty of seafood warungs along the beach for dinner.
• View on Google Maps

Munduk: Waterfall Paradise

The Munduk area sits in cool highlands and is the best base for chasing waterfalls. Must-visits:

• Banyumala Twin Waterfall — two clear cascades, among the most beautiful in Bali.
• Munduk & Melanting Waterfalls — reachable via a light trek from the village.
• Gitgit Waterfall — a classic waterfall near the main road to Singaraja.

Entrance fees are generally Rp20,000–Rp50,000. Bring non-slip sandals as trails can be slippery.

Twin Lakes & Banjar Hot Springs

On the route between Bedugul and Munduk, stop at the Twin Lakes viewpoint (Lake Buyan & Tamblingan) for photos of two lakes from above. After a day of trekking, relax at Banjar Hot Springs (Air Panas Banjar), natural hot springs adorned with dragon statues. Entry is around Rp20,000–Rp30,000.

Culture & Diving: Brahmavihara-Arama, Pemuteran & Menjangan

For a spiritual touch, visit Brahmavihara-Arama, Bali's largest Buddhist monastery with a small Borobudur replica and serene gardens. For underwater lovers, continue west to Pemuteran and Menjangan Island (part of West Bali National Park), famed for high-quality reef diving and snorkeling.

The Ideal 2-Day Route

• Day 1: Leave the south in the morning, stop at Twin Lakes, trek Munduk & Banyumala waterfalls, then Banjar Hot Springs & Brahmavihara-Arama, and stay overnight in Lovina.
• Day 2: Dawn dolphin tour in Lovina, breakfast, stop at Gitgit, return south in the afternoon.

Best time: the dry season (April–October) so trails stay dry and the sea is calm for dolphin tours.

Save Smart: Stay with AccessiaPass Vouchers

Because North Bali's best activities start at dawn, an overnight in Lovina or Munduk makes the trip far more comfortable and energy-efficient than a round trip. Book a hotel voucher on AccessiaPass to get cheaper overnight rates around Lovina, freeing up your budget for tours and food. Check AccessiaPass hotel vouchers before you go and lock in your room at the best price.