Ubud: Monkey Forest, Rice Terrace, Waterfall, Water Temple

If you’re planning a day in Bali’s Ubud region, this guided tour offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and authentic Balinese experiences. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Ubud’s most celebrated sights without the hassle of planning individual visits or renting a scooter. The price is modest—just $24 per person—and the experience promises a flexible, fun, and comfortable journey.

What truly makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach and reliability—a private group with an English-speaking driver-guide means you get attention and flexibility. Plus, the inclusion of familiar comforts like an air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water keeps things smooth. The only potential downside? Entrance tickets and food are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective overview of Ubud’s top sights without the stress of navigating on their own. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, those with limited time, or anyone looking for a relaxing day that still hits the highlights.

Key Points

• Affordable price point with a well-rounded experience.
• Flexible itinerary allows some customization on the day.
• Comfortable transport and professional guide enhance the trip.
• Includes popular highlights like Monkey Forest and rice terraces.
• Not suitable for travelers over 70 years old.
• Entrance fees and meals are not included in the tour price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Ubud Day Tour

This tour offers an excellent snapshot of Ubud’s natural beauty and spiritual sites, making it a smart choice for visitors who want to maximize their sightseeing with minimal fuss. At just $24, it provides good value—particularly considering the comfort of private transportation and the guidance of an experienced driver-guide. Let’s walk through the details so you know exactly what’s involved.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pick-up Flexibility and Starting Points

The tour begins with a choice of five pickup locations around Ubud, Sukawati, Gianyar, Bangli, and Tegalalang. This flexibility helps reduce travel time and makes it easier to fit into your day. Whether your hotel is in Ubud itself or a nearby town, the driver will come to you, arriving at your hotel lobby.

Stop 1: The Iconic Monkey Forest

Your first stop will likely be Ubud’s famous Monkey Forest. This lush sanctuary is a favorite for visitors because it combines a lively troop of macaques with ancient temple ruins, all set amid towering trees. Expect to spend around an hour here, walking among the monkeys and soaking in the lively atmosphere.

The experience is both fun and slightly unpredictable—monkeys can be cheeky, and it’s wise to keep a safe distance from them. The lush greenery and ancient temples make it a photographer’s dream, especially if you love lively wildlife scenes combined with history.

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Stop 2: Tegalalang Rice Terrace or Other Locations

After Monkey Forest, you’ll visit a rice terrace—most likely Tegalalang—renowned for its jagged green fields and traditional irrigation system. Here, you’ll have the chance to admire Bali’s iconic rice paddies, take photos from viewpoints, and perhaps chat with local farmers. This spot alone can make the trip worthwhile, offering some of the most picturesque scenery Bali has to offer.

Stop 3: Waterfall Adventure

Next comes a refreshing visit to a waterfall, where you can enjoy the sound of cascading water and lush surroundings. Depending on the location, you might find yourself climbing a few steps to snap pictures or just soaking in the natural ambiance. It’s a relaxing spot that’s great for some downtime and appreciating Bali’s abundant waterfalls.

Stop 4: Water Temple Experience

Finally, the tour includes a visit to a Water Temple—a spiritual site where you can observe Balinese religious practices and architecture. Water temples are integral to Bali’s spiritual life; they showcase intricate stonework and tranquil pools. Expect a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection, and a glimpse into the island’s deeply rooted spiritual traditions.

Including Comfort and Convenience

The tour’s AC vehicle ensures you stay comfortable during the day, especially given Bali’s warm climate. The driver also acts as your guide, sharing insights about each site, local customs, or answering any questions you might have. Bottled water is included, which is a small but appreciated touch.

Parking fees and petrol are covered, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs piling up. This all-inclusive approach makes it easier to just relax and enjoy the sights without constantly monitoring your budget.

What’s Not Included and What to Bring

Entrance tickets and food are not part of the package, so plan to purchase tickets at each site and bring some cash. Based on the reviews, travelers recommend bringing a camera for the scenery, sunscreen for the outdoor exposure, and cash for entrance fees or souvenirs.

Since alcohol and drugs are not allowed, remember to keep alcohol consumption in check and enjoy the spiritual ambiance respectfully.

The Experience and Patient Reviews

One traveler, Tia, summed up her experience as “Le guide sentana super gentil! Nous avons pris le temps sur chaque spot sans être presser. C’était super…” highlighting the friendly guide and the leisurely pace. She appreciated the personalized attention and the fact that her group felt unhurried—something many travelers value when sightseeing.

Another key point from reviews is the stunning views at each location, especially the rice terraces and waterfall. The ability to take your time and really soak in the scenery is a huge plus.

Analyzing the Value of This Tour

At just $24, this tour provides excellent value considering the inclusion of private transport, a guide, and multiple top sights. It’s a no-brainer for those looking to see Ubud’s highlights without the hassle of arranging transportation or buying individual tickets. The flexible start times and private group format mean you can tailor your day to your preferences.

However, keep in mind that entrance tickets and meals are not included. Depending on where you choose to eat, that could add a few dollars to your overall cost, but it also allows you to pick local eateries that suit your taste and budget.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors, travelers with limited time, or anyone wanting a straightforward, comfortable way to see Ubud’s most popular sights. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a private, relaxed atmosphere over large group tours, and for travelers who appreciate the inclusion of a guide who can enrich the experience with local insights.

On the downside, those over 70 or with mobility issues might want to check accessibility, as some sites involve walking or climbing steps.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This day tour offers a well-rounded, affordable glimpse into Ubud’s natural and spiritual beauty. It’s a great way to tick off highlights like Monkey Forest and rice terraces without the stress of planning or navigating Bali’s sometimes chaotic traffic. The private group setting and experienced guide ensure a relaxed and informative experience that’s worth the modest price.

If you’re after a convenient, value-packed trip that emphasizes authentic sites and scenic views, this tour is hard to beat—especially for first-time Bali visitors or those wanting a quick but meaningful taste of Ubud.

For travelers seeking a more in-depth or customized experience, or wishing to include activities like rafting or hiking, this tour might feel a bit limited. But for most, it hits just the right notes for a memorable day in Bali’s cultural heart.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Younger children can enjoy the sights, but keep in mind some sites involve walking or climbing. Check with the provider if you have specific age considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera for photos, sunscreen for outdoor protection, and cash for entrance fees and souvenirs.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, you can select from five pickup points around Ubud and nearby towns for convenience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You can discuss with the driver where to stop or ask for recommendations.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is valid for one day; check specific starting times when booking.

What languages does the guide speak?
The driver-guide speaks English and Indonesian.

Will I be in a group?
No, this is a private group experience for a more personalized day.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance fees are paid separately by travelers at each site.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.

This tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see Ubud’s highlights in a single day, blending natural beauty, spirituality, and Balinese culture—all at an accessible price. It’s a smart choice for travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: