From Bali: Saraswati Temple, Monkey Forest, Ubud Waterfalls

If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want to see its most photogenic, culturally rich, and naturally stunning spots in a single day, this tour might just be what you need. It’s designed for travelers who crave authentic sights, beautiful landscapes, and great photo opportunities—all while keeping things straightforward and budget-friendly.

What we love about this experience? First, its impressive list of iconic locations—from the lush rice terraces to sacred temples—ensures you get a well-rounded taste of Ubud’s essence. Second, the affordable price point of $36 per person offers serious value considering the number of sites visited and the included entry fees. A potential consideration? The tour involves some walking and outdoor time, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of mobility.

This tour appeals most to those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring Bali’s cultural and natural highlights. It’s perfect for first-timers, social media enthusiasts wanting stunning content, or nature lovers eager to see waterfalls and rice fields without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining temples, waterfalls, forests, and rice terraces
• Affordable price with included entry fees and hotel transfers
• Great for photo buffs with many Instagram-worthy spots
• Variety of options including private, small-group, or premium tours
• Knowledgeable guides who are praised for sharing insights and taking photos
• Moderate physical activity involved, so good for those comfortable with a bit of walking

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ubud Day Tour

Starting the Day: Easy Pickup and Comfortable Transport

Most tours begin around 11 am with hotel pickups in key locations like Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, Uluwatu, or Ubud itself. The convenience of hotel transfers means you won’t need to navigate Bali’s busy streets on your own — a major plus for travelers wanting to maximize their sightseeing time. The journey is done in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the heat and traffic more bearable, though the reviews note that traffic can sometimes cause delays. One reviewer mentioned their pickup was delayed by a few hours but appreciated the communication and flexibility of the guide.

Tegenungan Waterfall: Nature’s Photo Canvas

The first stop is Tegenungan Waterfall, about an hour walk from the parking area. It’s a popular spot for its lush green surroundings and cascading waters, making it a favorite Instagram backdrop. The photo opportunity here is excellent — the water’s movement, vibrant foliage, and the chance to snap a selfie or two make it a hit among social media fans.

Reviewers rave about the beauty of this site, with one noting it’s “a paradise for social media lovers seeking the perfect shot.” If you like to capture nature’s raw power and serenity, this waterfall won’t disappoint. Plus, some travelers enjoy a quick swim if they’re feeling brave and the weather is hot.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Bali’s Green Masterpiece

Next, the tour takes you to the famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace. This is where Bali’s landscape transforms into a patchwork of emerald steps that seem to stretch endlessly. The views are breathtaking, especially with the sunlight bouncing off the rice paddies and the traditional irrigation systems creating interesting patterns.

Many reviewers highlight how this site is perfect for creating magnetic TikTok clips and beautiful photos, with some calling it “insanely beautiful.” The walk here is often described as pleasant but somewhat uphill, so wear comfortable shoes. You’ll find many vantage points to photograph the terraces from different angles, and guides often take the opportunity to point out local farming techniques and cultural insights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Saraswati Temple: A Sacred Oasis

After the rice fields, you’ll visit Saraswati Temple, a Balinese Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess of knowledge and arts. This temple is renowned for its intricate architecture, lotus ponds, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a quieter spot compared to the bustling market, offering opportunities for calm, poetic photos, and reflections.

One reviewer noted the temple’s “elegance in every angle,” describing it as a cultural gem perfect for capturing the spiritual side of Bali. The temple visit lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to soak in the serenity, snap photos of the ornate carvings, and enjoy the verdant surroundings.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Playful Moments and Ancient Temples

Ubud Monkey Forest is perhaps the most lively stop. This lush sanctuary is home to playful monkeys, ancient temples, and jungle scenery. Visitors consistently find it fascinating — some even mention how the monkeys are “chilling but need to follow the rules” (no food, no drinks, no droopy bags). It’s a lively environment ideal for candid shots of monkeys and temple ruins.

As one reviewer put it, the Monkey Forest is “pretty and fascinating,” with endless opportunities for fun photos. It’s also a chance to see some of Bali’s wildlife up close and learn about its spiritual significance in local culture.

Ubud Market: The Cultural Heartbeat

The last stop is Ubud Market, a vibrant hub of local crafts, textiles, snacks, and souvenirs. This is where you’ll see Bali’s lively street scene, bargain for souvenirs, and try some local treats. Guides often encourage exploring here for authentic photos and to get a feel of local life.

Many travelers appreciate the market as a colorful, energetic place to capture Bali’s bustling street life and pick up unique mementos. One review highlighted this stop as “a colorful hub filled with crafts and tasty treats,” perfect for social media content that pops.

Optional Add-Ons: Customizing Your Journey

The tour offers options like a traditional lunch, jungle swing, Luwak coffee tasting, polaroid photos, and even a traditional massage. These extras add flavor and comfort to your day, making the experience more personalized. For example, the jungle swing or coffee tasting can provide those picture-perfect moments and a taste of local flavor.

Practical Details: Size, Cost, and Flexibility

This tour is priced at $36 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the entry fees, transportation, and guided commentary included. You can choose from small-group tours up to five people, private tours, or even a premium experience with added perks. The reviews repeatedly praise guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to tailor the trip to your interests.

The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting around 11 am — a good time to avoid the early-morning rush at popular sites. Pickup and drop-off are available at numerous Bali locations, making it flexible for most travelers.

Highlights from Travelers’ Reviews

Multiple guests mention their guides by name and praise them for their insight, helpfulness, and photography skills. One reviewer said, “Our guide Yan was amazing—he answered questions, took great photos, and taught us about Bali’s culture.” Others highlight how comfortable and smooth the transportation was, even with Bali’s notorious traffic.

Several reviews express how memorable and well-organized the day was, remarking on the beautiful scenery, interesting stories, and helpful guides. The overall consensus is that this tour offers great value, balancing sightseeing with cultural insights and photo opportunities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Ubud’s best-known sites without the hassle of planning. It also appeals to social media enthusiasts, eager to capture Bali’s iconic landscapes and temples. If you enjoy outdoor activities, like walking and light hiking, you’ll find this manageable and rewarding.

While the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, it’s not overly strenuous. It’s best for travelers with moderate mobility who want a blend of nature, culture, and fun photos. Families, solo travelers, and small groups will all find value here — especially with the option to customize or upgrade your experience.

Final Thoughts

This Bali tour offers a fantastic way to see Ubud’s most photogenic and meaningful spots in one day at a very reasonable price. You’ll visit waterfalls, rice terraces, temples, and forests — each with its own charm and photo potential. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the day special, often going beyond expectations by taking great photos and sharing local stories.

If you’re after a well-rounded, engaging day that balances natural beauty with cultural richness and photo opportunities, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s especially good for travelers who want to maximize their limited time in Bali while capturing memorable images along the way.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized day trip that combines Bali’s best sights with a touch of authenticity, this is a solid choice. It’s best for those who enjoy light walking, striking scenery, and a friendly guide to help craft your experience. It’s perfect for first-timers, social media fans, and anyone eager to enjoy Bali’s natural and spiritual beauty without the stress of organizing multiple sites themselves.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from many locations around Bali such as Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu, and others. Exact times are communicated via WhatsApp.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 11 am, with time allocated for each stop and some flexibility depending on traffic.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities are recommended. Since the tour involves some hiking and outdoor exposure, dress accordingly.

Are there options for customization?
Yes, you can choose from different tour formats (small group, private, premium) and add-ons such as lunch, jungle swing, coffee tasting, polaroids, and massage.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best suited for those with moderate mobility due to walking involved. Elderly travelers with health concerns should review the physical requirements.

What’s the value for the price?
At $36, the tour includes guide services, entry fees, transportation, and bottled water. Many reviews praise the guides’ helpfulness and the sites visited, making it a good deal for a full day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

To sum it up, this Ubud day tour from Bali represents a practical, value-packed way to see some of Bali’s most memorable sites. Whether you’re after stunning photos, cultural insights, or just a well-organized day out, this experience is likely to leave you with plenty of beautiful memories—and maybe even a few new social media followers.

You can check availability for your dates here: