Ubud: Monkey Forest, Rice Terraces, and Waterfall

Exploring Bali often involves a mix of temples, beaches, and vibrant markets, but for those craving a taste of Bali’s natural beauty and local charm, this tour offers an excellent glimpse. It’s a full-day experience that takes you beyond the usual, into the lush heart of Ubud’s mountain landscape. From playful monkeys to breathtaking rice terraces and a hidden waterfall, this trip packs in some of Bali’s most iconic sights.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances nature, wildlife, and scenic views—all with the convenience of a private group and a Spanish-speaking guide. It’s a chance to see Bali’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. That said, the 10-hour duration means a long day, so it’s best suited for visitors with energy to spare and a curiosity for genuine local scenery. A small caveat is that it’s not designed for those with mobility issues, given the walking involved and some natural terrain.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, manageable taste of Ubud’s countryside. If you’re eager to see Bali’s famous rice terraces, enjoy close encounters with wildlife, and experience a spectacular waterfall without wasting time on logistics, this could be a very good fit. It combines cultural charm with natural beauty, all wrapped up in a comfortable, guided package.

Key Points

• Natural Beauty: The tour showcases Bali’s stunning landscapes, from lush rice terraces to a picturesque waterfall.
• Wildlife Encounter: The Ubud Monkey Forest offers a close-up view of long-tailed monkeys in their natural habitat, with safety precautions.
• Scenic Views & Activities: Besides sightseeing, options for zip lining, swings, and cable cars at Tegallalang add adventure.
• Value for Money: For $118, the tour includes transportation, a guide, entrance fees, and a lot of authentic experiences.
• Full-Day Experience: Starting at 8:30 a.m., it’s a comprehensive tour that makes the most of your day in Bali.
• Local Insights: A Spanish-speaking guide provides context and enriches your understanding of the sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Ubud Mountain Range: What You’ll Experience

The Monkey Forest: A Close Encounter with Bali’s Playful Residents

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel—an easy way to start without stress. The first stop is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a well-maintained conservation area where long-tailed macaques roam freely. We loved the chance to observe these intelligent creatures up close, walking just feet away in their lush environment.

The monkeys are accustomed to visitors, which makes for some delightful photo ops and memorable moments. According to reviews, the community treats the monkeys well and they are generally calm around humans. Still, you’ll receive instructions on how to behave—no feeding or sudden movements—to keep everyone safe. As one traveler put it, “It’s safe, but follow the rules—these monkeys are cheeky but fascinating.”

This part of the tour lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to stroll the paths, watch the antics of the monkeys, and appreciate the lush greenery. It’s a playful start that sets the tone for the day.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Bali’s Iconic Green Carving

Next, you travel north to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, one of Bali’s most photographed spots. We loved the way the terraces cascade down the hillside—green, meticulously patterned, and absolutely mesmerizing. This area is more than just a pretty sight; it’s a living piece of Bali’s agricultural tradition.

You’ll take a guided walk through the terraces, gaining insights into the traditional irrigation system called subak that sustains Bali’s rice farming. For those visiting during planting or harvesting seasons, around May or September, you might even see locals working the fields—a real slice of life.

Many reviews mention the option for adventure activities here, such as zip lining and swings. If you’re feeling energetic, these add-ons can elevate your experience. The tour includes a scenic stop for photos and a chance to absorb the panoramic views. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural insight.

Lunch with a View and Optional Adrenaline

After exploring the terraces, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch with views of the rice paddies in the distance. It’s a great way to relax and soak in the scenery while tasting local flavors. The balance of good food and stunning surroundings makes this meal memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Blangsinga Waterfall: A Hidden Jewel

The final highlight is the Blangsinga Waterfall. Here, you’ll get close enough to feel the spray and see the cascade tumbling down a natural rock formation. It’s not recommended to swim directly under the waterfall, but you’ll have the opportunity to stand at a safe distance and marvel at its beauty.

For those wanting a more relaxed experience, the nearby D’Tukad River Club offers pools, cold drinks, and some background music—an ideal place for a midday break. The waterfall’s natural setting and the sound of rushing water create a calming atmosphere, making it a perfect conclusion to the day.

Logistics and Practicalities

How It Runs

The tour departs promptly at 8:30 a.m., with pickup options available from Kuta, Ubud, or your hotel, simplifying logistics. The entire day lasts about 10 hours, which means you’ll be on the road and exploring for most of it, but the time flies thanks to the variety of sites.

Transportation is by private car, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The group is private, so you won’t be mixed with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized experience. A Spanish-speaking guide accompanies you throughout, providing insights and answering questions—an invaluable addition.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The $118 fee covers everything essential: hotel pickup and drop-off, car rental, entrance fees to all sites, parking, and a bottle of water. This makes it good value when you consider the hassle of organizing these sites independently.

Not included are personal expenses, souvenirs, or optional activities like zip lining, which you can choose to pay for separately. The tour offers a complimentary personal photographer, so capturing memories is easy, and you won’t need to bring a camera unless you want extra shots.

Suitability and Tips

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95, due to the walking and natural terrain. It’s best for travelers who enjoy walking, nature, and cultural sights. To get the most out of the day, bring swimwear, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras.

What Past Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight how the stops are well-paced and scenic. One reviewer noted, “The rice terraces are breathtaking, and the waterfall is a real hidden gem.” Others appreciated the personal touch: “The guide was very informative and friendly—made the day really enjoyable.”

Some mention that the long tour can be tiring, but most agree it’s worth it for the variety and quality of sights packed into one day. The inclusion of a private guide and the convenience of hotel pickup make it a hassle-free way to see Bali’s countryside.

Formal Details and Final Thoughts

This tour is designed to maximize your Bali experience by combining wildlife, cultural landscapes, and natural beauty into a single, manageable day. The price reflects good value considering all included logistics and guiding services.

While it’s a full day, it’s not overly rushed, and the variety of sights keeps things interesting. The scenic rice terraces, playful monkeys, and waterfall provide excellent photo opportunities and memorable encounters.

If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Bali’s natural environment, enjoy being outdoors, and want to avoid the stress of planning multiple excursions, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate guided experiences that add context and local insights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making logistics simple.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras or souvenirs.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts about 10 hours, starting at 8:30 a.m. It’s a full but well-paced day.

Are there adventure activities involved? You can do zip lining, swings, and cable cars at Tegallalang if you choose to add those options.

Is it suitable for families? The tour is best for those comfortable walking and standing for extended periods. Not suitable for wheelchair users or very elderly travelers.

What is included in the price? The fee covers transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, entrance fees, parking, and bottled water.

Is there a chance to swim? Swimming under the waterfall isn’t recommended, but nearby pools at D’Tukad River Club are available if you want to cool off.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What kind of guide will I have? A Spanish-speaking guide will provide insightful commentary throughout the day.

Are there any additional costs? Personal expenses, souvenirs, and optional activities like zip lining are not included and would be paid separately.

To sum it up, this Ubud day trip offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Bali’s lush landscape and vibrant wildlife. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided tour that balances scenic beauty with cultural insights, all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply eager to see Bali’s best without the hassle of organizing each stop, this tour is a worthwhile choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: