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Tanah Lot rock formation

Bali and Beyond: Exploring Indonesia’s Corals, Komodos, and Culture

Roundtrip Denpasar - Example 14 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Orion
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Embark on a 14-day cruise roundtrip Denpasar aboard National Geographic Orion to explore Indonesia's cultural marvels and natural splendors. Immerse yourself in beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and lush fields of Bali and Ubud. Explore national parks to observe Komodo dragons in the wild and discover abundant marine life while snorkeling or diving vibrant coral reefs. Venture into the mountainous region of Toraja to experience a stunning blend of rice fields and architectural wonders.
Caves in Gunung Kawi Temple in UbudMountain Range in Komodo National Park, IndonesiaKomodo dragon, IndonesiaTraditional village in Flores, IndonesiaThe traditional ikat fabric of FloresTanah Lot rock formation
Highlights
  • Discover Indonesia's cultural marvels and natural splendors
  • Enjoy the beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and fields of Bali and Ubud
  • Explore national parks to see Komodo dragons in the wild
  • Snorkel or dive to explore vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life
  • Visit the Toraja region for its rice fields and architectural wonders
Places Visited
  • Asia
  • Bali
  • Indonesia
  • Denpasar
  • Flores Island
  • Komodo Island
  • Lesser Sunda Islands
  • Palopo
  • Pulau Sangeang Adventures
  • Satonda Island
  • Sulawesi
  • Wakatobi National Park
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

Arrive in Bali and transfer to your hotel. Join your fellow travelers this evening for a welcome reception.

Day 2: Bali | Embark

This morning, check out of the hotel and travel to the countryside and the artistic town of Ubud, renowned for silverwork, wood carving, and batik. As you ascend the hills, pass by stunning Hindu temples, lush forests, small villages, and terraced rice fields carved into the cliffs. Discover how rice production is a seamless process where nothing is wasted, from water buffalo to ducks to harvest. After lunch and some free time to explore Ubud's galleries, return to Benoa to board the National Geographic Orion.


 

Day 3: At Sea

Traverse the Indian Ocean towards Komodo Island, enjoy life on board. Unwind with a massage in the spa or a session in the fitness center, get lost in a book in the library, or simply soak up the views from the rooftop observation deck and the ship’s expansive open deck. Learn about the area from onboard naturalists and photographers, and savor delectable dining options. 

Day 4: Komodo Island

Explore Komodo National Park, home to the world’s largest living lizard—the Komodo dragon. Learn about the conservation of these prehistoric giants from park rangers, who will join us on a hike to spot the lizards in their natural habitat. Later, enjoy an afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, or beachcombing at Pink Beach, named for the soft pink hue that arises from the blending of red coral fragments and white sand. 

Day 5: Taka Bonerate National Park

Loosely translated, Taka Bonerate means “coral piled on sand” in the Bugis language. This beautiful and richly diverse group of atolls and reefs was granted national park status in the early 1990s. You’ll be awed by the 242 species of coral and over 500 species of brightly colored reef fish. Spend time exploring the white sand dunes of the various islands, keeping an eye out for the many birds who inhabit the park.

Day 6-7: Palopo | Torajaland

Head into the mountains to Tana Toraja (Torajaland). Known as “Men of the Mountains,” this region is a stunning blend of mountains, rice fields, and unique architecture. Learn about the unique beliefs of the Torajan people who have a strong reverence for death and the afterlife—elaborately carved effigies and personal items decorate the tombs found on the mountain side. Their homes resemble boats—tied to the belief the Torajan ancestors sailed to these mountains. The intricate designs and water buffalo horns decorating the buildings reflect the status of the residents. A truly fascinating example of the diversity and beauty of all that is Indonesia. Overnight at the Toraja Heritage Hotel. 

Day 8: Bau Bau

Bau Bau sits on the southern tip of the island of Sulawesi, surrounded by beautiful beaches and overlooked by the Buton Palace Fortress. This vast, palatial compound was built in the late 16th century for the Buton Sultanate and still keeps watch over the city. Once back in the old city, brightly decorated tuk tuks zip by on the busy streets. Enjoy a beautiful display of costumes and traditional dances, while getting the chance to sample some of the delicacies of the region.

Day 9: Wakatobi National Park

The reefs surrounding Wakatobi National Park are known for amazing diving and snorkeling opportunities. Healthy, brightly colored coral surrounds the atolls that make up the marine park—home to an array of fish species, both large and small. Spend the day exploring both above and below the sea.

Day 10: Lembata Island

Referred to as the “Jewel of the Solor Archipelago,” Lembata Island is a true find. Sleepy fishing villages, colorful boats and beautiful ikats can be found on this gem of an island. The rich community life of the locals is steeped in the traditional weaving of the ikats, using natural dyes and fibers. You can hear the “clacking” of the looms as you wander through the villages. The undersea here will beckon snorkelers and divers. Clear, calm waters are perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. 

Day 11: Flores Island

Flores was once an important Portuguese trading center for sandalwood. Known for producing some of the finest ikat weaving in the world, we meet the people of this arid island at the weaving village of Watublapi. Although many other local weaving communities switched to industrially spun yarn and chemical dyes for the sake of saving time and money, the weavers of Watublapi still use the traditional, handspun yarn made from local cotton, as well as local natural dyes. We’ll also enjoy a cultural dance presentation.

Day 12: Sangeang Island

Soaring peaks rising up from the sea, Pulau Sangeang is a stunning volcanic island. Lush jungle covers two overlapping cones, the older “born” in the 1700s and the younger in 1949. Visit the small settlement nestled at the base of the mountains where farmers and herders live a simple life. Spend time exploring the trails and beaches of this special island. 

Day 13: Satonda | Sumbawa, Lesser Sunda Islands

The stop this morning is the uninhabited Indonesian island of Satonda—a small circular island that is an ancient volcanic cone. Spend the morning snorkeling or diving the vibrant reefs or hike inland to the island’s sacred lake. This afternoon, visit the island of Sumbawa, where villagers welcome us with a lively cultural display.  

Day 14: Denpasar, Bali | Disembark Ship

  • 1 Breakfast
This morning, arrive in Denpasar on the lush island of Bali, one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. Following disembarkation, get a taste of this paradise where life and art are interwoven. After lunch, transfer to the airport.   

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Orion

Keep in shape in the exercise room aboard the National Geographic Orion
The National Geographic Orion is sleek and at your service
The lovely National Geographic Orion

Bali - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Solo Adventure Savings 24720
Calling independent travelers! 

Book by June 27, 2024, and save up to 33% on solo cabin prices for trips to destinations like Antarctica, New Zealand, and more. If solo cabins are fully booked, opt to share a double occupancy cabin with another guest, and pay discounted solo cabin rate. Valid for new bookings only, subject to availability, may not be combined with other offers, and is not applicable on airfare or extensions. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applicable to select 2024 and 2025 departures.

Per person starting at
$10,910 2-3 travelers
National Geographic Orion's Category 1 Cabin.
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Category 1
Cat 1 #316, 318-321. Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds, two beds converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
Your  Category B Stateroom on the National Geographic Orion
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Category 1 Single
Cat 1S #301, 322, 323. These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, except for #301 which has a double bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a roomy shower stall with a glass door.
A Category A Stateroom on the National Geographic Orion
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Category 2
Cat 2 #302-312, 314, 315, 317. Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds, two beds converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized, and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
A lovely category 3 suite on the National Geographic Oion
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Category 3
Cat 3 Suite with Window #401-412, 414-419. These suites feature a sitting area with a large window, a sofa–except slightly smaller #401 & #402–an armchair or two, writing/laptop desk, reading lamps, flat screen TV, & climate controls. Beds are configurable (call for details). Marble bathrooms include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
National Geographic Orion's Category 3 Cabin.
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Category 3 Single
Cat 3S Suite with Window #512. This solo suite features two beds and two large windows, plus two armchairs and small table, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls. The marble bathroom is generously sized and includes a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
National Geographic Orion's Category 4 Cabin.
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Category 4
Cat 4 Deluxe Suite with Window #511, 515. These two suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, with a chair and armchair and a two-cushion sofa facing an expansive window. Beds are configurable (call for details). Ample storage, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities.
National Geographic Orion's Category 5 Cabin.
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Category 5
Cat 5 Suite with French Balcony #501, 503-506, 508. These spacious suites feature open living areas and sliding glass doors opening to a shared French balcony. Beds are configurable (call for details.) A sitting area with arm chairs and a sofa, a writing/laptop desk, well-placed reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the decor.
National Geographic Orion's Category 6 Cabin.
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Category 6
Cat 6 Owner’s Suite with French Balcony #502, 507, 509*, 510. These large, elegant suites feature a French balcony, with the exception of #509 which has double windows. Each provides a separate living area with a sofa and two arm chairs, except for #502, which uniquely offers a 'soaking tub with a view' in addition to a shower stall and expansive vanity.

Notes

Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available but is subject to availability.
Included
  • 13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 13 Dinners
  • 13 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits aboard the ship. We are also pleased to offer a selection of super premium wines and liquors that are available for purchase.
  • Crew gratuities
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary 
  • Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
  • Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
  • The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic  where available
  • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces 
  • Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
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