Things to do with kids in Bali

Bali is the ideal holiday destination for children. Beyond the sun-drenched beaches, there are a multitude of attractions and activities for kids of all ages to enjoy.

Tourists can take the family to the Bali Butterfly Park in Tabanan, explore the Ubud Monkey Forest, or enjoy an exciting encounter with some of Bali's wildlife by taking the kids on an elephant safari to explore the Bali Elephant Safari Park of Desa Taro, north of Ubud. The wonderful forests and parks also provide plenty of open space for children to let off some steam and families to relax together.

With thrilling rides, a spa, pool bar and even a food hall, the water park called Waterbom Bali is the perfect place to take the family for a day to cool off from the Balinese heat. Older kids will love rides such as the race track, the Superbowl, the Macaroni, Jungle Ride and even the Smashdown, while the younger ones will enjoy paddling round the Kiddy Park. For a seriously lazy day, families can pack the bucket and spade and head to any one of Bali's beaches to relax in the sunshine.

On days when outdoor activities are not an option, kids will love a shadow puppet play, which is an unforgettable and unique experience.

Elephant Cave photo

Elephant Cave

Built in the 9th century, Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, is located near Ubud and originally served as a sanctuary; it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a wonderfully carved …

Elephant Cave

Built in the 9th century, Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, is located near Ubud and originally served as a sanctuary; it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a wonderfully carved entrance featuring menacing creatures and demons, children will find a visit to this historic cave an unforgettable experience (as will adults!). The main figure was once thought to be an elephant, hence the name, and in the 1950s a bathing pool was excavated; it was thought to have been built to ward off evil spirits. Visitors can wash their hands and feet in the fountains and there are usually locals on hand selling prayer offerings and the like.

Website www.balitourism.nl/goagajaheng.htm

Bali Bird Park photo

Bali Bird Park

The Bali Bird Park is home to a spectacular collection of more than 1,000 birds of about 250 different species. Kids will love spotting their favourite birds and learning about the…

Bali Bird Park

The Bali Bird Park is home to a spectacular collection of more than 1,000 birds of about 250 different species. Kids will love spotting their favourite birds and learning about the exotic species they have never encountered before. Birds such as Macaws, peacocks, parrots, white herons and many more can be seen. The park is divided into regions that recreate natural habitats for the birds, complete with indigenous plant life and other artefacts from the region in question. Regions represented in the park include Bali, Papua, Java, Sumatra, South America and South Africa.

Website www.bali-bird-park.com

Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal photo

Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal

Featuring more than 180 species of trees, many of which are considered holy and used in various Balinese spiritual practices, the Monkey Forest in Ubud is a fantastic place for kid…

Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal

Featuring more than 180 species of trees, many of which are considered holy and used in various Balinese spiritual practices, the Monkey Forest in Ubud is a fantastic place for kids and adults to spend the day exploring. The forest is seen as a marriage of nature with human endeavour and is considered a sacred place. In Balinese culture it is not just the temples that are considered holy but the surrounding gardens and forests as well. Traditionally monkeys are often seen as guardians of temples and are thought to ward off evil spirits.

Website www.monkeyforestubud.com