Bali is no stranger to us and most Australian travellers, but its newest experiences are taking island adventures to a whole new level. From an underwater theatrical dining performance inside Asia’s largest aquarium, to hands-on encounters with marine life, to after-dark safari adventures, Bali is fast becoming a destination where creativity, conservation, and culture meet.
Varuna – A Living Ocean Story
Inside Taman Safari Bali, the award-winning Varuna Show has quickly become one of Bali’s most unforgettable attractions.
Performed in front of a massive aquarium filled with real marine life, Varuna takes guests on a mythical journey through storytelling, shadow puppetry, live choreography, and even appearances from real-life mermaids.
The artistry is extraordinary – shimmering costumes, world-class music, and projections that transform the theatre into a living reef.
Dining is woven into the experience, with menus that mirror the story’s chapters, blending Balinese ingredients with modern culinary creativity. Whether you choose Premium (VIP dining), Deluxe, or a show-only ticket, Varuna isn’t just entertainment – it’s a sensory journey that celebrates the beauty and fragility of our oceans.
Marine Safari Bali: Up-Close Encounters
Our next stop was the newly opened Marine Safari Bali, and this was a standout highlight for us.
The park is divided into six immersive zones – from rainforests to river monsters, coastal habitats to deep-ocean trenches.
We hand-fed capybaras, felt the silky glide of stingrays in touchpools, met playful penguins, and shared unforgettable moments during a dolphin pod encounter.
What makes Marine Safari Bali unique is its dedication to conservation. Beyond the visitor experiences, the park houses state-of-the-art research labs and hospital facilities, where marine specialists care for endangered species and drive breeding programs.
It’s an inspiring blend of education, fun, and advocacy for the ocean.
Bali Night Safari: The Wild After Dark
To complete our adventure, we joined the Bali Night Safari – an evening unlike any other.
The experience begins with a BBQ dinner before setting off in a caged safari tram, where nocturnal animals roam freely. Lions, tigers, rhinos , giraffes, and zebras approached us up close, making it feel like the wild had truly come alive.
The night continues with a walking safari, animal encounters, and the Afrika! Rhythm of Fire Show, featuring drumming, puppetry, and fire dancing.
Running nightly from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM, the Night Safari is one of Bali’s most exhilarating family experiences, and demand is high – so booking early is essential.
Where We Stayed: Wyndham Tamansari Jivva Resort
Our hosted stay at Wyndham Tamansari Jivva Resort on Bali’s eastern coast offered the perfect balance to our adventure-filled days. Nestled along Lepang Beach with views of black sands and the Indian Ocean, the resort is a serene escape with pool villas, tropical gardens, and easy access to Bali Safari and Marine Park.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
For Australians, Bali has always been about connection and escape. But with Varuna, Marine Safari Bali, and the Night Safari, the island now offers experiences that are both magical and meaningful.
This is Bali beyond the beaches – where families can step into stories, encounter animals up close, and leave with a deeper respect for the natural world.
More info: Varuna Bali | Marine Safari Bali
By Tanya Husnu Hosted experience
Melbourne with Kidz (MWK) 
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