Indonesia

Bali

Bali’s rainforests, volcanic peaks, and countless waterfalls offer more than just breathtaking scenery—they are a testament to the island’s long-standing relationship with nature. For centuries, Balinese culture has been shaped by a deep respect for the environment, embedded in its traditions and spiritual practices. This connection is visible in the way the island’s built and natural environments have historically coexisted, creating a landscape that both sustains and heals.

This guide encourages a different approach to exploring Bali’s natural landscapes and ecosystems —one that places the environment at the forefront. It’s not just about seeing the sights, but about engaging meaningfully with the land. Through thoughtful travel, you can experience Bali’s beauty while contributing to the preservation of its fragile ecosystems. This is a call to travel slower, with intention, ensuring that the impact you leave behind is a positive one.

Potato Head

I spent a lot of time there with my family on a beautiful slope of Batukaru. The setup is natural and architecturally well-done. We don’t really think about what we are going to eat; they harvest whatever is available, mostly Indonesian food and mostly vegan. They definitely have good coffee beans and their own nice blend. The surroundings consist of 10 hectares of coffee fields, and the owners are around all the time. The owner, Kentri Norberg, self-healing cancer survivor, especially spends most of her days in the kitchen. Perfect for a retreat, they don’t provide programs, but you can create your own with your family or friends. A yoga shala is provided, and there are natural pools; just make sure you visit during the rainy season because the river might be dry as well.

One of the few natural pools and waterfalls created by the crates. It can be quite touristy at times but is still considerably less commercial and well-managed. It's best to visit early in the morning on weekdays rather than weekends, and avoid holidays and ceremonial days as it is considered a sacred spot. Bring your swimwear and waterproof protection for your camera, as it can be quite damp and soggy. It’s not very far walking. 

One of the few conservation centers for Lepidoptera, housing both moths and butterflies. They have around 25 species, mainly native to Bali, with almost half of them protected and endangered according to the IUCN. The reason I chose the butterfly park is because it plays a key role in our sustainable future. Don’t expect to see a ton of butterflies; yes, you will see them, but you cannot take pictures with them unless they have just emerged from their chrysalis. There’s also a local water playground and a restaurant.

I curated this place. The owner is Ni Wayan Srilaba and has been in the orcids industry for 25 years, and we are together as a board member of Indonesian Orchid Society. The orchid garden consists of 400 species of orchids and another fifty hybrids that bloom throughout the year. It's an agritourism space where you can find guides and QR codes for self-information. It's advisable to visit every two to three months because the flowering seasons may vary. Peak flowering periods are February-March and August-September. Indonesia is considered one of the richest countries in orchid species and varieties. Here, you'll find most of the Old World orchid species as well as new world orchid hybrids. Arundina Restaurant is a place to go if you want to try East Balinese cuisine, featuring their special dish 'Tipat Blayag' (Chicken Curry), without having to travel to Karangasem. 

I operate this place, established by Blair and Ben Ripple in 2002. It's one of the longest-running horticulture farms, where you can witness the growth of Potato Head’s overview. Sharing the Bali culinary revolution's mission, like Potato Head, we introduce new crops while preserving staples and native varieties. The farm boasts over 250 different varieties. As it's not primarily agrotourism-focused, appointments are necessary, and guided tours may not always be available. The area is dedicated to agriculture production, showcasing a wide array of crops and innovations.

The cave itself, carved by the relentless waves over centuries, offers a glimpse into Bali's natural wonders. Inside, the echoes of the ocean resonate, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection. Don't forget to explore the hidden beach and soak in the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Suluban Cave is not just a destination; it's a journey through Bali's rugged coastal beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Tukad Cepung

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