Bali Sunset Tour: Uluwatu Temple, Kecak Fire Dance & Jimbaran Bay

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu)

Uluwatu Temple, or Pura Luhur Uluwatu, stands on the edge of a limestone cliff about 70 metres above the Indian Ocean. It is one of the island's most important sea temples, built to protect Bali from evil spirits from the sea, and dates back to the 11th century, with later additions by the priest Dang Hyang Nirartha. The dramatic setting makes it the most popular sunset spot in Bali.

Most visitors wonder what time to visit Uluwatu Temple for sunset. Arrive in the late afternoon, about an hour before sundown, to walk along the cliff paths and find a viewpoint. You wear a sarong and sash, which are provided at the entrance, and only Balinese worshippers enter the inner shrine. Inside the grounds you can enjoy views of surfers on the waves far below.

The Monkeys of Uluwatu

A large troop of long-tailed macaques lives in the temple grounds and is regarded as guardian of the temple. The monkeys are used to visitors and have a reputation for snatching sunglasses, hats, phones and anything loose, so keep your belongings secure.

Do not feed or tease the monkeys, and do not carry food in the open. If a monkey takes something, do not chase it, as the temple keepers or your driver can usually help retrieve it with a small offering of fruit. Take off your sunglasses on the cliff path and keep your bag zipped.

The Kecak Fire Dance at Sunset

The Kecak dance is one of Bali's best-known performances. Instead of a gamelan orchestra, a circle of dozens of men chant a rhythmic cak-cak-cak while acting out a scene from the Hindu epic the Ramayana, in which Prince Rama, Princess Sita and the monkey general Hanuman confront the demon king Ravana. The finale features fire and a dancer moving through burning coconut husks.

The performance at Uluwatu takes place on an open-air stage beside the cliffs, starting at about 6:00 PM each day, as the sky turns orange. In bad weather it moves to a smaller stage. Your ticket is included, so you only need to find a good seat, and it is a good idea to arrive early to secure a place with a view of the sunset.

Jimbaran Bay for Dinner by the Sea

After the dance you can drive to Jimbaran Bay, a long crescent of sand on the west coast known for its seafood restaurants set right on the beach. Tables are placed on the sand, lit by lanterns, and diners eat with their feet in the sand as the waves roll in.

Dinner is optional and not included in the tour price, so you order and pay at the restaurant. It is a relaxed way to end the day, and your driver will wait and take you back to your hotel. If you prefer to skip dinner, you can ask to return directly after the show.