Looking for an unforgettable summer adventure? Spend two incredible weeks on the Bali Intro Experience, immersing yourself in paradise! Out of Indonesia’s astonishing 17,508 islands, Bali stands out as the most popular, celebrated for its ancient culture, magnificent temples, breathtaking rice paddies, and stunning beaches. This Bali Intro Experience offers you an exciting opportunity to explore the wonders of this exotic island while forging lasting friendships with your fellow travellers and connecting with the warm and welcoming local community!
Program Highlights
- Selected 2027 Start Dates From May To September For 2 Week Durations
- Build Confidence, Independence & New Friendships In A Group Environment
- Discover Bali Through Adventure, Culture & Shared Travel Experiences
- Enjoy A Structured & Social Group Experience With Support Throughout
- Relax On Kuta’s Beaches, Visit Uluwatu Temple & Enjoy Bali’s Famous Sunsets
- Snorkel With Sea Turtles & Explore The Crystal Clear Waters Surrounding Gili T
- Cycle Around Gili T & Discover Beautiful Beaches, Epic Views & Island Life
- Hike Mount Batur At Sunrise & Take In Spectacular Views Across The Island
- Explore More Of Bali With Visits To Ubud, Canggu, Lovina & Tanah Lot Temple
- Experience Balinese Culture Through Temple Visits, Markets & Local Life
Program Map
Summary of the Bali Intro Experience
The Bali Intro Experience invites adventurous individuals to embark on an unforgettable journey through Bali. With a structured, fast-paced group itinerary, our local team will guide you to some of the island's most incredible sites. Arriving on a set date, you’ll travel across this stunning destination over two exciting weeks, making the Intro Travel Experiences the perfect option for those eager to explore and connect with others in a vibrant group setting.
This unique trip gives you the chance to experience all that Bali has to offer. Begin by basking on idyllic paradise beaches and diving into crystal-clear waters, where snorkelling and encounters with turtles await. Transition from blue seas to green landscapes as you immerse yourself in Bali’s natural beauty, from lush rice terraces and exotic forests to cascading waterfalls. Explore the culture of small villages, learning traditional skills and farming techniques passed down through generations. A highlight for many is the hike to the summit of Mount Batur to watch the breathtaking sunrise illuminating the island. You'll also discover Ubud, Bali’s cultural hub, where yoga, shopping, and local crafts thrive amid serene paddy fields. Additionally, the trip delves into Bali’s rich history and culture, with visits to ancient Hindu temples and insights into daily Balinese life. This comprehensive adventure spans the best that the island has to offer.
Over 14 incredible days, prepare for awe-inspiring sights, lifelong friendships, and full cultural immersion. The Bali Intro Experience is ideal for those seeking a safe, structured, and social environment to explore and enjoy.
From the moment you arrive, you can relax knowing all in-country transport and accommodation will be expertly arranged by our local team. Every aspect of the Bali Intro Experience is designed to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. While an exciting itinerary is planned, you’ll also have the freedom to explore additional activities recommended by our knowledgeable local experts during your free time.
The group dynamic makes this experience a fantastic social opportunity. Meet people from around the globe and form bonds that will last a lifetime. Together, you’ll share unforgettable moments while also immersing yourself in the welcoming local community, making your gap year experience in Bali truly extraordinary.
Exploring Bali
Bali’s rise in popularity since the 1980s has made it a global hotspot, with tourism playing a significant role in its economy. Boasting paradise beaches, world-class diving, and a thriving international yoga scene, the island offers an endless array of exotic attractions. However, beyond the tourist attractions, many local people face limited opportunities, often working long hours for small profits.
Your Bali Intro experience offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the island’s wonders while giving back to the community. By supporting local businesses and participating in meaningful volunteering projects, you’ll experience the true essence of Bali. From black sand beaches to the distinctive Luwak Coffee (you’ll soon discover what makes it so special!) and miles of pristine coastline, this adventure is one not to miss.
With short travel distances and countless sites to explore, your four weeks in Bali will be spent savouring its beauty rather than in transit. Prepare for stunning volcanic mountains, picturesque beaches, and lush greenery at every turn.
Learn More...
The adventure continues with a sunrise trek up Mount Batur, offering mesmerising views. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful temples and breathtaking landscapes. Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, awaits with its bustling markets, vegan cafes, yoga classes, and traditional farming. Don’t miss the cheeky monkeys, Kecak dance performances, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant energy.
Your group will travel together in a private minibus, visiting Bali’s most famous destinations and hidden treasures. Accompanied by a PMGY coordinator and an English-speaking guide, you’ll gain deep insights into Bali’s culture and history throughout your adventure.
Itinerary
Please make sure you arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) on the selected Sunday start date.
Om Suastiastu! A member of our local team will be waiting for you at the airport, holding a PMGY sign with your name on it. From there, you’ll be transferred to a hotel in Kuta, around 30 minutes away.
The rest of the day is yours to unwind, whether you relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, or simply rest and recover from jet lag. Throughout the day, you will have the chance to meet your new adventure buddies on the Bali Intro Experience.
After breakfast, you’ll receive an orientation from a PMGY staff member, who will introduce you to Bali, safety advice, and what to expect on your group tour.
Next, we’ll visit Uluwatu Temple, perched dramatically on a 70ft cliff, offering breathtaking coastal views. After a delicious Balinese lunch, it’s time to unwind at Jerman Beach.
Kuta’s lively beachfront is the perfect place to start your adventure—whether you choose to surf, sip on a fresh coconut, or simply relax as the sun sets, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey.
It is an early start as we set off for the Gili Islands, heading straight to Gili Trawangan. After checking into your hostel, collect your bike since there are no motorised vehicles on the island. Cycling is the best way to explore this idyllic place.
Spend the day as you wish, whether you swim in clear waters, snorkel, browse the local shops, or simply unwind on the beach. Gili T offers a range of evening options, so you can enjoy the island’s social atmosphere or keep things relaxed depending on how you feel.
Dive into the turquoise waters for an unforgettable snorkelling trip, stopping at 3-4 stunning sites. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles gracefully swimming in their natural habitat.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy, whether you explore the island, relax on the beach, or experience more of Gili T’s lively evening scene with beach bars, fire dancers and beautiful sunset views.
After a final morning soaking up Gili’s beaches, we’ll take the boat back to Bali and travel to Padang Bai, home to lush rice paddies, mountains, and valleys.
Over the next two days, we will be visiting Tenganan Village, where you will have the chance to quickly learn about the process of creating a traditional Balinese sarong and even write your Balinese name on palm leaves. We will also take you to Penglipuran Village, famous for its preserved Balinese architecture, where you can see how locals prepare a traditional drink called Loloh, made from the extract of Cemcem leaves. These two days will give you a deeper insight into authentic Balinese traditions and provide more opportunities to connect with other members of your group.
Rise and shine, as the trek begins at midnight and takes you up Mount Batur to reach the peak at 5,500 feet just in time for a spectacular sunrise over Lake Batur.
After a well-earned rest at Toya Bungkah Hot Springs, we’ll travel to Lovina, where you can relax by the pool, enjoy sea views, and have a peaceful dinner after a thrilling start to the day.
Wake up early for a dolphin-spotting boat trip off Lovina’s coast, followed by a visit to Banyumala Waterfalls. After a short trek, you’ll arrive at a breathtaking cascade, perfect for a refreshing swim.
Back at your accommodation, enjoy some group bonding activities, games, and a relaxing evening by the sea.
We’ll visit the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO-listed site where Balinese farmers maintain centuries-old irrigation techniques. After admiring the stunning landscapes and watching daily farming routines, we’ll head to Ubud, where we’ll check in and relax for the evening.
Explore Ubud, Bali’s cultural hub, famous for its art, crafts, and markets. Browse the bustling Ubud Art Market, practice your haggling skills, and pick up souvenirs.
For those feeling adventurous, take a scenic walk along Campuhan Ridge, visit the Royal Palace, or dare to explore the Sacred Monkey Forest.
We’ll begin the day at Gunung Kawi, an ancient rock-carved shrine dedicated to Balinese royalty. After a coffee and tea tasting experience, we’ll visit Tirta Empul Temple, home to Bali’s famous holy spring purification ritual.
Wearing a traditional sarong, you will enter the sacred waters to take part in a blessing ceremony, which is a special Balinese experience.
Start the day at Sangeh Monkey Forest, where you’ll meet Bali’s cheekiest residents. Then, enjoy a chocolate-making class, learning how cacao is transformed into delicious treats (with plenty of samples, of course!).
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali’s most iconic sea temples, before returning to Canggu for our final night of travels, soaking up Bali’s vibrant nightlife and beach scene.
Sadly, it’s time to say goodbye as your Bali Intro Experience comes to an end. Today is yours to spend however you like, whether you enjoy the beach, pick up some last-minute souvenirs, or treat yourself to a relaxing massage.
If you’re flying home, our team can help arrange your airport transfer (not included in the Program Fee). If you’re continuing your travels, we can assist in organising your next steps.
This itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.
Other Things to Consider on the Bali Intro Experience
Return Airport Transfer – Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Itinerary Schedule – The itineraries for our PMGY experience trips are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While we strive to inform participants of any changes ahead of the program start date, daily activities during your time in-country may still be subject to last-minute adjustments.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
All accommodation is arranged for you throughout your Bali Intro Experience, with stays in a selection of comfortable guesthouses and hotels as you travel around the island. You will share rooms with fellow participants, creating a social group experience while exploring different parts of Bali together.
Rooms are single sex and air conditioned, with Western style bathroom facilities. WiFi is typically available, although at some properties this may be limited to communal areas. Accommodation is selected to provide a clean, comfortable and convenient base throughout the trip.
Where possible, the team will arrange twin rooms or individual beds. Depending on the accommodation and availability, there may occasionally be instances where participants are required to share a double bed.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
1 Hour 30 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
5 Minute Walk
Meals
During your trip to Bali, you will be provided with three meals per day throughout the Bali Intro Experience. Most meals feature traditional Indonesian and Balinese dishes, consisting mainly of rice and chicken, with vegetarian options always available.
Meals are typically served buffet-style or as part of a set menu.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here’s an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Toast, Cakes, Fruit, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Mixed Rice, Vegetables, Curries, Salad
Dinner
Fried Rice, Fried Chicken, Noodles, Spaghetti
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes participants in Bali of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all participants need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Bali will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a PMGY Bali participant, you must provide a clean criminal background check before travelling with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the Intro Experience programs — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Travelling overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Bali Intro Experience, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
The Bali Intro Experience starts on the following start dates –
2nd May 2027
30th May 2027
27th June 2027
11th July 2027
25th July 2027
15th August 2027
5th September 2027
Please check out our Chaperoned Flight options for group flights from London Heathrow on selected start dates.
For your trip to Bali, you should book your flights to Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar (airport code DPS) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Bali Intro Experience participant.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Friday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Bali, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Bali Intro Experience participant will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Bali Intro Experience program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Bali, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Participant safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our participants are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail — from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international travellers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Bali Intro Experience participant.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Bali Intro Experience participant is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
