Indonesia island-hopping: Manta rays and hidden gems

It's happening: your Bali dream is coming true! And what better time than now?! With your suitcase packed, sunglasses on and a big grin on your face, you board the plane and head for the island vibes – halfway around the world and straight towards the sun. The countdown to adventure, rice terraces and beach days is on. And you're SO ready. Let the magic begin!

With your nose pressed to the window of the plane, you feverishly await your landing in Denpasar as Bali greets you from afar with a unique mosaic of white sand, green jungle and turquoise water.

Next stop: your accommodation, where you fall into your new bed overjoyed. You're finally here! You take a short breather, then head off to discover the natural world that surrounds you. 'Wow!' Ubud is colourful, hip and, with its seven temples and lush green nature, simply magical. Your imagination starts running wild as you consider all you want to do and experience here. And then a smile creeps across your face – you can hardly wait!

Vibes, vibes and more vibes – bursting with temples, art, alleyways and next-level food, Ubud is a total mood! Today, you're starting off in the city centre for some awesome exploring. Between the colourful shops, handmade souvenirs and little art galleries, there's pure creativity here – and, of course, endless food spots! From superfood bowls to local warung cuisine, you're in foodie heaven. Up for a little monkey business? Of course you are! The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (optional, payable on site) is home to over 600 macaques. Get lost among the ancient trees, twisting vines and free-hanging roots and become part of the wilderness yourself.

Your guide is already waiting for you at the hotel early in the morning because today, you have a lot ahead of you! First stop? The Pura Lempuyang Temple and its famous Gate of Heaven, which is perhaps Bali's most famous photo motif. You enjoy the view of Mount Agung, explore the sacred sites and shoot the perfect Insta pics. From there, you continue to the incredible Tirta Gangga water temple. When you arrive, you feel the magical atmosphere in the over one-hectare park, replete with water basins, ponds, fountains and temples. And once you're done there, you're at the next highlight before you know it: the Tukad Cepung Waterfall, a glorious waterfall hidden in a cave. You head down the short stone staircase, and when you get to the bottom, you keep going the through the ankle-deep water until you reach its base. Afterwards, it's time to experience a green miracle. Next stop: the lush green rice terraces of Tegalalang, where the spectacular scenery of typical stepped fields and palm trees leaves you speechless once again. And after marvelling at the incredible sight, you head off on a hiking trail through beautiful green nature until you make it to the grand finale: the famous Jungle Swing!