Ubud: Waterfalls, Water Temple & Rice Terraces Private Tour

Ubud: Waterfalls, Water Temple & Rice Terraces Private Tour — A Full-Day Bali Adventure

Taking a tour through Bali’s most iconic sights can sometimes feel rushed or overly commercialized. This private Ubud experience, offered by CV. Bali Private Transports, aims to change that by combining authentic cultural visits with stunning natural beauty — all at a surprisingly affordable price of just $30 per person. It’s a well-rounded day for those who want to see Bali’s highlights without the crowds or feeling like just another tourist.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the personalized guide service ensures you get meaningful insights and flexible scheduling. Plus, the chance to swim in waterfalls and explore the lush rice terraces means you’re not just looking at scenery—you’re actively experiencing Bali’s landscape and spirituality.

On the flip side, keep in mind that the tour is a full nine hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a fairly packed day and some walking. If you’re traveling with limited mobility or prefer a slower pace, this might be a bit intense. Still, for those eager to see a broad slice of Bali in one day, this trip offers solid value and memorable moments.

This tour is perfect for travelers who seek an authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching day with a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially great for first-timers or those wanting to tick off several Bali landmarks without the hassle of planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience at Tirta Empul Temple with possibility for purification ritual
• Stunning waterfalls where swimming and photography are highlights
• Lush rice terraces offering a peaceful, scenic break from busy sightseeing
• Private guided tour for personalized insights and flexible pacing
• Affordable price providing excellent value for a full day of sightseeing
• Opportunity to sample Bali’s coffee culture at a plantation

Diving Into the Details: What You Can Expect

A Carefully Curated Itinerary

This tour is designed to pack some of Bali’s most celebrated natural and spiritual sites into one day, with a focus on quality and comfort. Starting with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation, the transfer to Ubud takes about an hour, giving you some time to relax and settle in before the day’s adventures.

Tirta Empul Temple — A Spiritual Heartbeat

Your day begins at the Tirta Empul Temple, a revered Balinese water temple famous for its spring waters used in spiritual purification. Visitors have the chance to participate in a ritual involving cleansing in the sacred pools. As one reviewer notes, “If you want to do purification at Tirta Empul, make sure you go early to avoid the crowds.” The temple’s intricate carvings, vibrant offerings, and the sound of flowing water make it an atmospheric spot that blends spirituality with architectural beauty. Menstruating women are advised not to enter, and the rules around the ritual can be strict, but your guide will help you understand the significance.

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Exploring Bali’s Hidden Waterfalls

Next, you’ll visit three waterfalls—Tukad Cepung, Tibumana, and Kanto Lampo—each with its own charm. Tukad Cepung is a real hidden gem, a waterfall tucked inside a cave that requires a walk along a river and between rocks. Several reviews praise its dramatic curtain of water inside the cave, describing it as a “spectacular hidden spot.” Be prepared to walk and possibly swim or wade in the pools.

Tibumana Waterfall is known for its tranquil setting and natural rock pools where you can swim. One visitor called it “one of Bali’s best-kept secrets,” emphasizing its peaceful vibe amid jungle surroundings. Kanto Lampo, a multi-tiered waterfall, offers more waterfalls to explore, with reviewers often mentioning how it’s a perfect spot for photos and cooling off.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces — Bali’s Iconic Landscape

After the waterfalls, your tour continues to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a must-see for anyone wanting to understand Bali’s traditional farming landscape. The terraces are a lush, green visual feast, and many visitors enjoy walking along the paths to take photos or simply soak in the scenic tranquility. One reviewer remarked that they found the rice terraces “the size of the fields an eye-opener,” and it’s a great spot for some local cultural insights.

Optional Coffee Plantation Visit

For an extra touch of Bali’s local craftsmanship, many tours offer a stop at a coffee plantation, where you can sample Bali’s famous kopi luwak and other local brews. Several travelers have praised the coffee tasting, describing it as a delightful way to unwind and learn about Balinese coffee culture. It’s a quick, enjoyable stop that adds some flavor—literally—to your day.

Flexible Lunch Break

The itinerary includes a stop for lunch at your own expense at a local restaurant. Many reviews mention that guides often recommend good spots with authentic, affordable Balinese cuisine. This break gives you a chance to relax and reflect on the morning’s sights before heading to the waterfalls and rice terraces in the afternoon.

The Final Leg & Return

After a busy day of sightseeing, a second transfer takes you back to your accommodation. The entire day is roughly 9 hours, so pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the moments—especially the waterfalls and rice terraces.

Authenticity, Value, and the Guide Experience

One of the top reasons this tour earns high praise—reflected in its near-perfect 5-star reviews—is the quality of guides. Reviewers often mention guides like Topaa, Gede Andika, Suret, and others as knowledgeable, personable, and attentive. They not only explain the sites’ significance but also assist with photos, offer insights into Balinese culture, and help navigate rules—like in the temple or at the waterfalls.

Several travelers emphasized how guides made the day effortless and more meaningful. As one review puts it, “He explained everything in detail and happily answered all our questions,” adding that the guides also shared stories and local insights that elevated the experience far beyond a simple sightseeing trip.

A Fair Price for a Rich Experience

At just $30 per person, this tour offers remarkable value. For that price, you’re getting a full-day private experience, transportation, guiding, park fees, and mineral water—many extras that would cost extra with other operators. The reviews confirm that many find it “great value” considering the number of sights visited and the quality of guiding.

What’s Not Included

Lunch is at your own expense, which is typical and allows flexibility. The tour also does not include alcohol or drugs, aligning with local rules and safety considerations. Be sure to bring cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

• Bring a towel, sandals, and flip-flops for water-based activities.
• A camera is essential for capturing waterfalls and rice terraces.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat—Bali sun can be strong.
• Cash is useful for lunch, tips, or small purchases.
• Early mornings are best if you’re interested in avoiding crowds at Tirta Empul.
• The waterfalls’ clarity depends on weather; rain can make them look less pristine.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers eager to see Bali’s natural and spiritual highlights without the stress of planning and driving. It’s ideal if you want a personalized, enriching day with a knowledgeable guide who can customize the experience to your interests.

Those who enjoy nature, photography, and culture will find this tour rich and rewarding. It’s especially recommended for first-timers who want to get a solid overview of Ubud’s iconic scenery and spiritual sites.

If you prefer a slow pace, or have mobility issues, keep in mind the walking and water activities may be challenging. Also, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, less packed day, you might prefer a shorter or less comprehensive option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the waterfalls involve walking and some swimming. Children who are comfortable with water and walking should be fine, but check with your guide about specific restrictions.

How long does the transfer between sites take?
The transfer to Ubud takes about an hour, and after that, the sightseeing is broken into manageable segments, with approximately an hour or so between stops.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are often flexible and can adapt the schedule somewhat, especially if you have specific interests like more time at the rice terraces or additional local spots.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, giving you the chance to choose your preferred cuisine and budget.

What should I pack?
Bring a towel, sandals or flip-flops, camera, sunscreen, and cash for tips or souvenirs. A hat or hat with a brim can be helpful under the Bali sun.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour is not specifically limited, but physical activity at waterfalls and temples may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Will I see the waterfalls in clear condition?
Water clarity depends on weather; rain can make waterfalls look less pristine, but the scenery remains impressive.

What if it rains?
The tour runs unless there’s a severe storm. Many reviews mention that even in rainy weather, the waterfalls and temples are still worth visiting.

Wrapping It Up

This private Ubud tour offers a genuine taste of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual sites, packed into a single, well-organized day. With attentive guides, stunning scenery, and good value, it’s a wonderful choice for travelers wanting to see Bali’s highlights without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

Whether you’re soaking in a sacred spring, swimming beneath waterfalls, or wandering the rice terraces, this experience provides a balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun. It’s particularly suited for those who love active sightseeing, beautiful landscapes, and engaging stories from knowledgeable guides.

For anyone looking to get the most from a day in Ubud — with minimal hassle and maximum memorable moments — this tour deserves serious consideration.

You can check availability for your dates here: