Ubud: Sacred Monkey Forest & Barong Cave ATV with Meal

When it comes to Bali, Ubud is often at the top of travelers’ wish lists, thanks to its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and spiritual vibe. This particular tour, combining ATV riding, a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest, and a trip to Barong Cave, offers a lively mix of adventure and local flavor—all for about $42 per person. It’s a package that promises to thrill while giving a taste of Balinese life and tradition.

We love how this experience balances exhilaration with culture. Riding through rice paddies and jungle paths gets your adrenaline pumping, while passing through traditional villages opens a window into everyday Balinese life. Plus, knowing that hotel pickup and drop-off are included adds a layer of convenience that many travelers appreciate.

That said, a potential consideration is the duration—ranging from just 1.5 hours to a full 7-hour adventure—so you’ll want to check what fits your schedule. This experience is best suited for those who love a bit of action but also want to connect with local culture. Not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems, but if you’re up for a moderate adventure, it’s a fantastic choice.

This tour is perfect for active travelers eager to combine adventure with cultural sites, those on a tight schedule looking for a well-rounded experience, and anyone curious about Balinese village life coupled with a splash of adrenaline.

Key Points

• Adventure on a budget: For just $42, you get a mix of ATV riding, cultural visits, and a meal.
• Varied terrain: Ride through rice paddies, jungle, and riverbanks, experiencing Bali’s diverse landscapes.
• Cultural insights: Pass through traditional villages and sacred sites like the Monkey Forest.
• Convenience factor: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Safety and gear: Includes helmets, boots, and a safety briefing, ensuring peace of mind.
• Limited suitability: Not for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues.

Our review focuses on the genuine experience you can expect from this tour—offering more than just a ride, but an authentic peek into Bali’s natural beauty and local way of life.

The itinerary is well-structured to maximize your time and enjoyment. It begins with a hotel pickup—something that makes logistics straightforward and stress-free—then transitions into a series of engaging stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour’s starting point depends on your selected option, but no matter where you are in Ubud, the hotel pickup sets a comfortable tone. An English-speaking guide leads the way, providing helpful explanations about the sites and safety instructions. Knowing that your guide can communicate in English reduces any worries about misunderstandings, especially when navigating the varied terrains or passing through local villages.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The first major stop is the Sacred Monkey Forest, a beloved Ubud landmark. This lush, green sanctuary is home to hundreds of playful macaques, ancient temples, and towering trees. Visitors often mention how moving it is to walk among such an ancient forest filled with wildlife and spirituality. A guided tour here provides context—learning about the temple’s significance and the sanctuary’s conservation efforts.

Be prepared for some monkey antics—so secure your belongings, as these clever creatures are notorious for snatching loose items. One reviewer fondly recalls the “nice and friendly guides” who make the visit informative and fun, adding a layer of comfort to this lively experience.

Barong Cave and River Adventure

Next, you’ll head to Beji River for more sightseeing and your quad bike ride. Riding an ATV here is the core thrill—navigating through rice fields, dense jungle, and alongside riverbanks. The varied terrains mean your ride is anything but monotonous, with moments of gentle paddling and more challenging patches.

The guide-led ride offers a chance to experience Bali’s natural landscapes intimately. One review describes the day as “magnificent,” emphasizing the guide’s friendliness and the overall enjoyment of the ride.

The Barong Cave, part of the included itinerary, adds a touch of mystique. The cave is a spiritual site, often linked to local legends and Balinese mythology. Passing temples along the way deepens your culture, giving you a richer understanding of the island’s spiritual fabric.

Local Villages and Cultural Passages

Driving through traditional villages, you’ll see everyday Balinese life—women weaving, local markets, and quaint temples. These moments are what set this tour apart—offering insight into the authentic local culture often missed by travelers on standard tour buses.

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Meal and Rest

The lunch, included in the package, is a welcome break from the activity. While the specifics of the meal aren’t detailed, most visitors find it to be a decent balance of local flavors and convenience. The inclusion of mineral water helps keep you hydrated amid the adventure.

Drop-off and Tour End

The tour concludes with drop-offs at multiple locations—Legian, Nusa Dua, Kuta, and others—making it flexible to your plans. The small group size (if you opt for it) ensures a more personal experience, with guides able to tailor their commentary and assistance.

When considering the $42 price point, this tour provides a solid balance of adventure, cultural insight, and convenience. The inclusion of safety gear, hotel pickup, lunch, and the guided experience means you’re not nickel-and-dimed for essentials.

Travelers’ reviews reaffirm the value—many describe it as a “magnificent activity,” praising the friendly guides and the fun of riding through Bali’s scenic landscapes. The adventure aspect is a significant draw; you’ll feel the thrill of navigating varied terrains while soaking in the sights and sounds of Balinese countryside.

However, note that duration varies—from 1.5 hours to up to 7 hours—so it’s wise to check your preferred starting time. The longer options provide more riding and cultural sites, but may be more tiring.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want a balanced mix of adrenaline and cultural discovery. It’s not suited for very young kids or pregnant women, nor for those with back issues, due to the nature of riding the ATV. If you’re comfortable with a bit of dirt and physical activity, you’ll find this tour engaging and rewarding.

Those looking for a quick but comprehensive taste of Ubud’s highlights will find this a good fit, especially with the convenience of hotel pickup. It’s also a good value, especially for solo travelers or small groups seeking a personalized experience.

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Bali’s natural beauty and local culture, wrapped in a package that’s both fun and educational. The combination of adventure and cultural stops makes it stand out from more generic tours. The price point is reasonable for what’s included, and the positive reviews reinforce that many travelers have enjoyed the experience.

For active souls, curious minds, or anyone craving a bit of adventure with meaningful sights, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a chance to see Bali from a different angle—on your own ATV, alongside friendly guides, and with the bonus of encountering Bali’s sacred sites and lively villages.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (if you select that option), an English-speaking guide, safety gear (helmet and boots), a guided ATV ride, mineral water, and lunch.

How long does the tour last?
It ranges from about 1.5 hours to as much as 7 hours, depending on the selected option and itinerary. Check availability for specific start times.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 years old. It’s designed for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and riding.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes, water, and closed-toe shoes. You might get dirty or wet during the ride.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems. Smoking and alcohol are not allowed in the vehicle.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your planning.

This Ubud adventure offers a lively mix of thrills and culture—perfect for those eager to see Bali from an off-road perspective while passing through traditional villages and sacred sites. If you enjoy active days with meaningful sights, this tour will likely become a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: