How to Join a Dolphin Watching Tour from Ubud to Lovina Bali

Bali offers a rich tapestry of experiences for all types of travelers—from lush rice fields in Ubud to the calm northern beaches of Lovina. One of the most magical and unforgettable activities you can enjoy on the island is the Lovina Dolphin Tour, where you witness wild dolphins swimming and leaping in the ocean at sunrise. If you’re staying in Ubud and looking to make the most of your trip to Bali’s peaceful northern coast, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Ubud to Lovina Dolphin Tour.

Whether you’re planning a one-day adventure or an overnight escape, this article will provide tips, route options, timing, pricing, and insider recommendations to ensure you have the best experience.

Why Take a Dolphin Tour in Lovina?

Lovina, located on Bali’s northern coast near Singaraja, is renowned for its calm seas and daily sightings of wild dolphins at sunrise. Unlike controlled shows or theme parks, these dolphins live in the wild and are observed from small traditional boats called jukung.

Key Highlights:

• See pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.

• Enjoy a peaceful sunrise at sea, far from the crowds of southern Bali.

• Combine the tour with natural hot springs, waterfalls, and temples nearby.

How Far is Lovina from Ubud?

The distance between Ubud and Lovina is approximately 90 to 100 kilometers, depending on the route you take. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by private car or driver, passing through scenic highlands, villages, and mountain views.

Recommended Route:

• Ubud → Tegallalang → Kintamani → Singaraja → Lovina
  This scenic route allows you to stop at attractions such as:

• Mount Batur Viewpoint

• Lake Batur

• Tirta Empul Holy Spring Temple

• Coffee Plantations in Kintamani

Ideal Itinerary for a Ubud to Lovina Dolphin Tour

You have two main options for planning this tour from Ubud:

• Option 1: Overnight Trip (Best Experience)

• Option 2: Midnight Departure for Sunrise Tour (Day Trip)

Option 1: Overnight Tour from Ubud to Lovina (Recommended)

Day 1: Travel from Ubud to Lovina

• 08:00 AM: Pick-up from your Ubud hotel

• 09:30 AM: Visit Tirta Empul or Gunung Kawi Temple

• 11:00 AM: Coffee plantation stop in Kintamani

• 12:00 PM: Lunch with Mount Batur view

• 01:30 PM: Drive toward Lovina via scenic route

• 04:00 PM: Arrive in Lovina, check in to hotel

• 05:30 PM: Sunset walk at Lovina Beach, dinner at a beachfront café

Day 2: Dolphin Tour & Return to Ubud

• 05:30 AM: Pick-up from hotel for dolphin tour

• 06:00 AM – 07:30 AM: Dolphin watching experience

• 08:00 AM: Optional snorkeling or beachside breakfast

• 10:00 AM: Visit Banjar Hot Springs or Gitgit Waterfall

• 12:30 PM: Lunch in Singaraja

• 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM: Drive back to Ubud

Option 2: Midnight Departure (One-Day Tour)

If you are short on time, you can opt for a private driver departing Ubud at around 2:00 AM to arrive in Lovina just before sunrise.

• 02:00 AM: Depart from Ubud hotel

• 05:00 AM: Arrive at Lovina Beach

• 05:30 AM – 07:30 AM: Dolphin tour

• 08:00 AM: Breakfast & optional hot spring visit

• 10:30 AM: Drive back to Ubud via mountain route

• 01:30 PM: Arrive in Ubud

Note: While this option saves a night of accommodation, it can be tiring. Consider this only if you’re fit for an early start.

What to Expect on the Lovina Dolphin Tour

The dolphin tour is a sunrise activity, and you’ll head out on a small traditional boat (jukung) along with other travelers. Tours typically start at 06:00 AM and last 1 to 1.5 hours.

Dolphins You May See:

• Spinner Dolphins – known for their acrobatic spins

• Bottlenose Dolphins – commonly seen in groups

Tour Highlights:

• Peaceful ride in calm waters

• Golden sunrise behind the mountains

• Chance to capture photos or videos of dolphins jumping

Price & Booking Information

Dolphin Tour Price:

• IDR 250,000 – 400,000 per person (around $15 – $30 USD)

• Includes boat ride, life vest, and basic insurance

Transport from Ubud:

• Private car charter: IDR 700,000 – 1,000,000/day (~$45 – $65)

• Group/shared tours: Lower cost but less flexible

Where to Book:

• Reputable online platforms (GetYourGuide, Klook)

• Pandu Bali Tour Local operators in Ubud or Lovina

• Direct booking through hotels

Tip: Choose a tour provider that follows ethical dolphin watching guidelines (no chasing or over-crowding the animals).

What to Bring for the Tour

To ensure a comfortable trip, here’s a checklist of things to pack:

• Warm jacket or hoodie (early mornings are chilly)

• Motion sickness pills if you’re prone to sea-sickness

• Dry bag for phone and electronics

• Camera or smartphone with zoom

• Water bottle and snacks

• Swimwear if planning to snorkel or visit hot springs

• Sunscreen & sunglasses for after sunrise

Nearby Attractions to Combine with the Dolphin Tour

The Lovina area offers more than just dolphin watching. If you stay longer, here are must-visit spots nearby:

1. Banjar Hot Springs

Natural sulfur hot springs set in lush gardens, perfect for post-tour relaxation.

2. Brahmavihara-Arama

Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery, offering peaceful gardens and ocean views.

3. Gitgit Waterfall

A beautiful cascade surrounded by rainforest, ideal for nature lovers.

4. Aling-Aling Waterfall

Famous for cliff jumping and natural water slides (great for adventure seekers).

Best Time of Year to Visit Lovina for Dolphins

While dolphins can be seen all year round, the dry season (April to October) is the most reliable in terms of calm seas and clear skies.

Best Months:

• May – September: Peak dolphin sightings, good visibility, and cool mornings

• Avoid December to February if possible, due to potential rain and rough sea

Tips for a Responsible Dolphin Tour

To protect marine life and ensure ethical wildlife encounters, follow these responsible travel tips:

• Avoid operators who chase dolphins or overcrowd the pods

• Respect distance from the animals — don’t touch or feed them

• Minimize noise during the tour

• Do not litter — take all waste back with you

• Support local guides and community-led tours

Ideal for All Travelers

The Ubud to Lovina Dolphin Tour is suitable for:

• Families with kids – educational and exciting

• Couples – romantic sunrise experience

• Solo travelers – group tours make it easy to meet others

• Nature enthusiasts – wildlife in a serene environment

A dolphin tour from Ubud to Lovina is one of the most memorable ways to explore the hidden beauty of northern Bali. Whether you choose an overnight adventure or a quick morning trip, you’ll be rewarded with sunrise views, encounters with playful dolphins, and a glimpse of Bali far from the typical tourist trail.

By planning ahead and traveling responsibly, this tour can become the highlight of your entire Bali journey.

Plan your Ubud to Lovina Dolphin Tour and discover a peaceful side of Bali where you can watch wild dolphins at sunrise, soak in hot springs, and explore hidden waterfalls — all in one unforgettable trip.

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