Bali: Ubud Monkey Forest, Waterfall, and Rice Terrace Tour

This well-reviewed private tour of Ubud offers a full day of exploring Bali’s most iconic natural and cultural sites. For just $25 per person, you gain access to a thoughtfully curated experience that combines stunning scenery with authentic local culture, all guided by an English-speaking private driver.

What we love about this tour are its flexibility and intimacy—you get personalized attention and the convenience of private transportation, which is especially valuable in Bali’s sometimes hectic traffic. The tour’s focus on key sights such as the Monkey Forest and Tegalalang Rice Terrace makes it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Ubud without the hassle of planning every detail.

One thing to consider: the itinerary covers many sites in a single day, which can feel rushed if you prefer lingering or deeper exploration. This tour suits those who value convenience, a structured schedule, and a local guide who can highlight Bali’s highlights efficiently. It’s perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time who want a balanced mix of nature, spirituality, and culture.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visits to Monkey Forest, rice terraces, waterfalls, and temples.
• Private transportation: Ensures flexibility and comfort, especially in Bali’s traffic.
• Knowledgeable guides: Friendly guides provide context, cultural insights, and helpful tips.
• Value for money: $25 covers transportation, guide, and entry to key sites.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops tailored to include your interests and pace.
• Authentic natural and cultural sights: Experience Bali’s best natural landscapes and spiritual sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This private full-day tour is an excellent way to see Ubud’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or navigating Bali’s busy roads. For around 9-10 hours, you’ll be whisked from your hotel or villa in a private air-conditioned vehicle, easing the challenge of traveling between dispersed sites. The tour is designed to balance naturally scenic spots with meaningful cultural experiences, making it perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded introduction to Bali.

The Convenience of Private Transport and Guides

Many reviews praise the comfort and ease of private transportation. With a dedicated driver and guide, you avoid the hassle of crowded public transport or haggling with taxis. As Hannah noted, “Dika arrived at our hotel on time before taking us around in a lovely air-conditioned car.” This punctuality and comfort make for a relaxed day, allowing you to focus on enjoying each site rather than worrying about logistics.

The Monkey Forest: A Close Encounter

The tour starts with a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, located near Ubud’s center. Here, you walk through lush monkey-filled forests and have the chance to interact with these curious creatures, under the guidance of a local expert. The monkeys are famously friendly but mischievous, so following guide instructions keeps everyone safe—and cameras ready for memorable moments.

Reviewers like Ben highlight how engaging this part of the tour is, saying, “We had a wonderful day touring Ubud and its surroundings with Puthu Vitho. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and made sure we were comfortable throughout.” The Monkey Forest offers a lively glimpse into Bali’s spiritual connection with nature, as well as a fun, up-close animal experience.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Iconic Bali Views

Next, the tour takes you to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, about a 15-minute drive north of Ubud. Here, you’ll enjoy a leisurely walk through the terraced fields, which are famous for their dramatic, layered landscape. This is a perfect spot for photography and soaking in Bali’s agricultural traditions.

Many visitors mention the breathtaking views and the pleasure of absorbing Bali’s rural charm. It’s a good opportunity to understand traditional rice farming practices while marveling at the landscape’s natural beauty, making it one of the most photo-worthy spots on the island.

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Tirta Empul: Sacred Water Temple

Your journey then takes you to Tirta Empul, Bali’s renowned Holy Water Temple. Located in Manukaya Village, this site offers a chance to witness Balinese Hindu rituals involving water purification. Visitors can participate in a traditional purification process—a spiritual cleansing that’s a part of local religious practice—if they wish.

The reviews note that guides explain the significance of the temple and its spring waters, which are believed to possess healing powers. Nicola appreciated her guide’s clear explanations, saying, “Dika explained things very well, and we felt very comfortable with him.” This adds depth and understanding to what might otherwise be just a pretty site.

Tegenungan Waterfall: A Refreshing End

The tour’s final stop is Tegenungan Waterfall, located south of Ubud. This popular waterfall allows visitors to swim, relax, and enjoy the natural spray of the water. It’s a refreshing way to wrap up the day and indulge in Bali’s natural beauty.

Guests often mention the vibrant atmosphere here, with some grabbing a cold drink and others dipping into the cool waters. It’s an ideal spot for some downtime and memorable photos, ending the tour on a high note.

Returning and Drop-off

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver returns you to your hotel or villa, making for a stress-free ending to a busy day. The flexible itinerary means you can prioritize what interests you most, and the private nature of the tour keeps it intimate and tailored.

Analyzing the Value

At $25 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and value. The price includes private transport, a friendly English-speaking guide, entrance fees (though some sites like temples are paid separately), parking, and refreshments with mineral water.

While you’ll need to budget extra for lunch and any additional purchases or souvenirs, the core experience offers a rundown of Ubud’s natural and spiritual attractions. Many travelers, like Hannah, appreciated how their guide tailored the experience, helping them enjoy less crowded, quieter spots while capturing beautiful moments with photos.

The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, which enriches what might otherwise be a standard sightseeing day. Having a guide who can explain local customs and history makes the experience more meaningful and less superficial.

How It Compares

This tour is similar in scope to other private Ubud experiences but stands out for its value and personalization. Many similar tours include more sites or activities, but this package strikes a good balance for travelers who want a compact, well-organized day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors or anyone who wants a structured yet flexible introduction to Ubud’s best sights. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer private tours over group trips, ensuring more comfort and customization.

If you’re interested in nature, culture, and spiritual sites, this tour delivers a diverse range of experiences in a single day. It’s also suitable for those with limited time in Bali, offering a cost-effective way to see several highlights without the need for multiple excursions.

However, if you’re someone who prefers longer stays at fewer sites or wants to explore hidden waterfalls or off-the-beaten-path temples, you might find this tour a bit touristy or fast-paced for your taste.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers private transport, an English-speaking driver/guide, mineral water, parking fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entry to the main sites. Entrance fees to specific sites are paid separately.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 9 to 10 hours, providing a full day of sightseeing from pickup to drop-off.

Can I customize the stops?
While the itinerary is designed to include the main highlights, guides can typically tailor the experience to some extent, especially if you communicate your interests beforehand.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You should budget extra for meals, but the tour provides enough free time to find a local restaurant or snack along the way.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but keep in mind that walking and some water activities (like swimming at Tegenungan) may require supervision for younger children.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a camera for photos, cash for souvenirs or tips, and possibly a change of clothes if you plan to swim or get wet.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year, and travelers should be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund with no penalty, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This Ubud day tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual sites without the stress of independent planning. Its affordable price, combined with private, comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides, makes it a smart choice for travelers seeking a balanced, authentic experience. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or a first-time visitor, you’ll find value in this carefully curated itinerary.

While it does involve a full day’s commitment and some busy sites, the personalized attention and opportunity to capture stunning views make it well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want an easy, all-in-one introduction to Ubud’s highlights, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace within each stop.

If you want a cost-effective, comprehensive, and friendly Bali experience, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: