Bali Barat National Park, on the northwest tip of Bali was, until recently, the last and only refuge of the highly endangered and magnificent Bali Myna, also known as the Bali Starling, and undoubtedly the most prized sighting of any birder visiting Bali.
In recent times a conservation release programme has successfully introduced these wonderful birds to Bali’s offshore islands, Nusa Penida and neighbouring Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, which are nowadays the best places to see them.
However, Barat National Park, because of its location at maximum distance from the tourist centres of Bali provides a quiet escape, not only to spot the Mynas but many of the other birds which can be seen in the vicinity, such as Java Sparrows, Black-winged Strarlings, Beach Thick-knees, Banded Pittas, Orange-breasted Pigeons, Racket-tailed Treepies, Green Junglefowl, Yellow-throated Hanging-parrots, Rufous-backed, Collared and Sacred Kingfishers, Grey-rumped Treeswifts, White-breasted Wood Swallows, Javan Cuckoo-shrikes, Laced Woodpeckers, Blood-breasted Flowerpecker among many others also found on nearby Pulau Menjangan, where Lemon-bellied White-eyes can also be seen.
In central Bali, The area of Ubud and the Bedugaul Botanic Gardens is home to a rich variety of birdlife, including Blue-eared Barbets, Black Eagles, Indonesian Honeyeaters, Orange and Sunda Whistling-thrushes, Crescent-chested Babblers, Javan Pond-herons, Streaked Weavers, Javan Munias, Javan Kingfishers, Pied Bushchats, Asian Palmswifts, Yellow-vented Bulbuls and Bar-winged Prinias.
In southern Bali, close to Denpasar Airport, the area of Benoa/Sanur and, adjoined by road, Pulau Serangan, is a good spot for spotting Slaty-breasted and White-browed Crakes, Javan Pod-herons, Striated and White-faced Herons, Little Egrets, Small and Barred Buttonquails, Long-toed Stints, Far Eastern Curlews, Terek Sandpipers, Streaked Weavers, Oriental Magpie-robins, Blue-tailed Bee-eaters, Small Blue and Sacred Kingfishers, Olive-backed sunbirds and Pacific swallows.
If you’re having trouble catching a glimpse or photograph of that most famous Bali resident, the Bali Myna, or more especially if you are travelling with children, although the specimens are for the most part captive, Bali Bird and Reptile Park, located at the village of Batubulan, north of Denpasar, offers a chance to see not only the Myna, but a wide sample of Balinese and Indonesian Birdlife, together with many other species from around the globe, and has a host of activities to excite the kids and learn about birds and conservation.
OTHER Bali TOURS
Balinese Culture and Beach 8 Days
This tour offers a full view of the incredible artistic and cultural traditions for which this island is known, along with visits to its extensive historical sites. Peaceful villages, innumerable temples, traditional dance performance, archaeological sites, and fantastic volcanic mountain views are all part of the experience. Oh, did we mention beach time – don’t leave Bali without it!
Balinese Culture and Nature 9 Days
With its mythical charm, exotic beauty, rich traditions and full range of activities, Bali Indonesia is an ideal destination for just about every style of traveller. This Bali tour is specially tailored to present a relaxing and learning experience with the island’s pristine natural scenes and vibrant, ancient culture.
Indonesia Islands Expedition 14 Days
On this tour, discover the famously vibrant culture of Bali, along with its dreamlike landscapes of verdant rice fields, Seminyak's thriving night-life, and enjoy an idyllic picnic amidst the terraced fields of Jutiluwih. You'll alsospend time sailing around Komodo National Park, exploring its islands, beaches and reefs for a chance to glimpse Komodo dragons, manta rays, wild deer, boar, and flying foxes, and snorkel the pristine waters off Gili Trawangan. After this expedition, you will long remember Indonesia as a truly incredible destination.
Family Vacation on Bali 7 Days
Among the most popular of Indonesian islands, Bali has a great deal to offer families on holiday. Take in the island's traditional dance and mystical cliff-top temples. View one of Bali's massive volcanoes, enjoy a seafood BBQ and take the “Jungle Hopper” safari and marine park adventure. Whether watching the marine life from a glass bottom boat or sitting back for a few days of free time on the beach; there is something here for every member of the family.
Glimpse of Bali 8 Days
This
short 8 day tour of Bali begins with a stay in the area around Ubud, in the
Balinese countryside, visiting its important sites and the magnificent scenic
area around Gunung Batur volcanic crater, before heading to Kuta and the beach.
Relaxation and Pampering in Bali 6 Days
Exotic Bali is the perfect place to envelop yourself in a luxurious experience of true relaxation. On this tour you will see Bali's cliff-top temples, volcanoes and traditional dance, and enjoy an unforgettable seafood BBQ. Apart from all this, give yourself a well-deserved spa treatment and some time at the beach. It's just what the doctor ordered!
Mysterious Papua 6 Days
In Papua and West Papua, the least visited and most remote provinces of Indonesia, you will find outstanding natural splendour, with huge marshlands, grassy meadows and powerful rivers carving gorges under dense primeval forests. Many of the peoples of the island have maintained their cultures virtually untouched by outside influences. Baliem Valley, stretching about 80 km by 20 km at about 1,600-1,700 m altitude in the Papuan highlands, is occupied by the Dani people.
Luxury Honeymoon in Bali 7 Days
Magical Bali, “The Island of Gods”, features the sheer
natural beauty of looming volcanoes and lush terraced rice fields exuding peace
and serenity, along with an enchantingly unique culture and brilliantly colourful
ceremonies. This Bali honeymoon package combines the island’s exquisite natural
beauty and rich culture with exciting outdoor activities to ensure that your special
journey is a wonderful experience of togetherness.
Ultimate Bali and Komodo Island 12 Days
Discover the beautiful island of Bali, “Island of
the Gods”, and set sail to wild Komodo Island. Begin your journey in Ubud, the cultural
centre of Bali and a haven for rejuvenation and retreats. Later, board your luxury
private sailing vessel the Alexa, built in the traditional Indonesian Phinisi
style, to enjoy an exotic, romantic adventure exploring Komodo National Park
and nearby islands. Close out your holiday in style, within easy reach of spas
and shopping boutiques, on the smooth sands of Bali’s Seminyak Beach.