Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance at sunset: what to expect

The Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance takes place on an open-air stage right at the edge of the cliff. This guide focuses on the show experience itself, including seating, timing, and comfort tips. For Uluwatu Temple Bali opening hours, entrance fees, walking routes, and dress code, see our Uluwatu Temple Bali visitor guide.

Last verified: October 28, 2025 (WITA, UTC+8)

“Lebih suka membaca dalam bahasa Indonesia? Buka panduan Tari Kecak Uluwatu.“

Quick answer

• Show duration: about 60 minutes.
• Favorite time: sunset (busy, best light).
• Quieter alternative: evening session.
• Seating: for better seats, arrive about 60 minutes early; then see Seating tips.
• Key etiquette: shoulders and knees covered; turn off flash and ringer.
• Monkey safety: keep flashy items and food in bags; do not feed.
• Tickets: The temple and show are ticketed. See the tickets and price page.

Summary of viewing experience

The Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance retells the Ramayana through a powerful “cak” chorus without instruments.

• Backdrop & atmosphere: The cliff-top amphitheater overlooks the Indian Ocean; at sunset, the chorus and ocean breeze enhance the open-air setting.
• Opening: a layered “cak” chorus without instruments.
• Story: Ramayana rescue of Sita (Rama vs Ravana), with occasional Hanuman interaction.
• Finale: fire scene before the closing.
• Comfort note: the fire scene produces smoke and brief heat near the stage; sensitive viewers may prefer upper rows or side sections.

Best time to watch the Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance

• Sunset: most dramatic and most crowded; also, natural light is ideal for photos. This is the famous Uluwatu temple sunset dance, which many visitors plan their evening around.
• Evening: more relaxed and breezy; additionally, stage lighting is more prominent and queues are usually shorter.
• Season: dry season (May–September) typically offers clearer sunsets.
• Photo tips: the stage faces the ocean, so sunset light falls across the arena. Mid-upper center rows give balanced wide shots; blue hour after sunset offers soft, even light. If you are sensitive to glare, avoid front-center rows at golden hour.

For today’s start times, see the schedule page.

Weather policy

• The show usually proceeds. Heavy rain may delay or pause it.

Seating Tips for the Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance

• Arrival timing: For sunset sessions, arrive early. Popular central rows often fill by ~17:00 on busy days; for the 18:00 show, aim to arrive 90–120 minutes early to choose your spot comfortably.
• Sightlines: most sections have a clear view of the stage; earlier arrival gives more seating options.
• Seating is unassigned (first-come, first-served).
• Follow attendant instructions when doors open.
• Step-style concrete seating without backrests.
• Avoid entrance and exit lines.
• Use the toilets before you queue; exiting during the show disrupts others.
• If you arrive late, enter during a break. See the FAQ for details.

Preparation checklist

• Personal gear: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a hand fan.
• Clothing: light and breathable for warm conditions; additionally, add a light layer for breezy evenings.
• Drinking water: allowed and helpful in hot weather.
• Seat comfort: an optional small cushion or towel for step seating.
• Insect repellent: apply before the show.
• Bag size: Use a small day bag; large bags may be restricted.
• Sound comfort: light earplugs for children or sound-sensitive guests.
• Wind: secure hats and loose items at the cliff.
• Footwear: comfortable closed shoes with a good grip for steps.
• After dark: Use a small phone light for stairs and paths.

Temple etiquette and dress code

• Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered; wear a scarf or sarong if requested.
• Respect sacred areas. Enter or exit during breaks, not during performances.
• Avoid tripods, drones, and large equipment; follow on-site policies.
• Turn off flash and ringtones; be considerate when taking photos.
• Umbrellas: Avoid opening umbrellas during the show so you don’t block others. Use a light poncho if it rains.
• Keep voices low in sacred areas and during the show.
• Keep the venue clean; dispose of trash properly.
• No smoking or vaping in the seating area.
• Respect temple customs: avoid pointing feet toward shrines.

Complete rules are available in our Uluwatu Temple Bali visitor guide, including temple opening hours, entrance fees, walking routes, and full dress code.

Monkey safety

• Before sitting, store conspicuous items securely in your bag.
• Food policy: food is not allowed in the seating area; bring drinking water only.
• If monkeys approach, keep your distance, do not feed, stay calm, and ask staff for help if needed.
• On the cliff path, keep phones and eyeglasses secure; monkeys may snatch loose items.
• Families: watch children closely and keep snack wrappers closed.

Getting there and back

Arriving

• Options: scooter or motorbike rental, private car with driver, or rideshare drop-off (Gojek or Grab).

Rideshare tips for the Uluwatu Kecak Dance

• Drop-off: set your destination to the main entrance or the app’s suggested drop-off.
• Pickup after the show: walk a short distance beyond the busiest exit area before requesting your ride. Avoid stopping at the gate to reduce wait time.

Leaving

• Expect exit crowds after the finale. If you plan dinner in Jimbaran or a rideshare, allow extra time.
• Follow on-site staff directions for the current pickup or taxi area.

Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance location and map

• The cliffside, open-air amphitheater overlooks the Indian Ocean inside the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple complex.
• On Google Maps, search “Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance” or “Kecak Dance Uluwatu” to locate the amphitheater entrance.
• Quick tip: from the main gate, follow the signs to the theater. Walking time varies with crowd levels.

Facilities (glance)

• Parking on site (paid).
• Toilets near the entrance.
• Kiosk/café outside the seating area; finish snacks before entry.
• Accessibility paths for visitors with mobility needs.
• Seating access: some steps to most sections; ask staff for accessible routes.
• Handrails are limited in some sections; ask staff for the easiest route.

Kecak Fire Dance Uluwatu FAQ

Tickets, how to buy, and visit conditions: see the tickets and price page.