Bali Tour : Best Attractions in Ubud with Rice Terrace

This full-day Bali tour offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Ubud’s most iconic sights. From playful monkeys in their forest sanctuary to stunning waterfalls and vibrant markets, it’s a balanced blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. With a private vehicle, onboard Wi-Fi, and flexible options for entrance fees, this experience caters well to first-time visitors eager to maximize their day without hassle.

Three things we love about this tour? First, the expert guides like Tude and the Merry Man clearly know their stuff, making the experience more meaningful. Second, the stunning, photogenic scenery—especially the rice terraces and waterfalls—leaves lasting impressions. Lastly, the affordable price point of $25 makes this a fantastic value considering all the sights covered.

A potential consideration? Traffic congestion in Bali can affect timing, as one reviewer noted; this might mean some parts of the schedule are delayed or shortened. It’s worth planning for some flexibility.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want an efficient, well-rounded introduction to Ubud’s highlights, especially those who prefer the comfort of private transport and guided insights.

Key Points

• All-in-one Ubud experience: Temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, markets, and cultural sites.
• Private vehicle with Wi-Fi: Comfortable, connected, and flexible.
• Well-rated guides: Knowledgable, engaging, and adaptable to your interests.
• Affordable value: At just $25, it offers a lot of sights for the price.
• Flexible options: Choose the transportation-only or upgrade to include entrance fees.
• Timing & traffic: Expect some delays due to Bali’s busy roads, so keep your schedule flexible.

Exploring Ubud’s Top Sights

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – A Playful Encounter

Our day begins at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where we’ll enjoy a generous amount of time exploring a lush, natural reserve. This small forest is anchored by a Hindu temple, with walls that enclose the space, creating a sacred atmosphere. The main draw? The monkeys. Free to roam, they add a lively, unpredictable element to the experience.

Travelers have shared that visiting here gives a sense of how humans and nature can coexist peacefully, and it’s a highlight for many. Some even mention that temple festivals often feature monkeys, making the experience even more vibrant if your timing aligns. As one reviewer noted, it’s a place where “nature and humans live together in harmony,” and the free-roaming monkeys are the main appeal.

The experience lasts around 2 hours, with no entrance fee, making it accessible and easy to include in your schedule. Just remember to keep an eye on your belongings—monkeys are curious and cheeky!

Elephant Cave – A Sacred 9th-Century Temple

Next, we head to the nearby Elephant Cave, a significant temple complex believed to date from the 9th century. Here, the architecture is a visual treat, blending Hindu and Buddhist styles seamlessly. The main entrance, resembling a demon’s open mouth, is both striking and symbolic.

The bathing pools and surrounding greenery add to the tranquil, spiritual vibe. Travelers have appreciated how well-preserved and atmospheric this site is; as one review states, the architecture alone makes a visit worthwhile. Visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully, keeping in mind the sacred nature of the site.

This stop is roughly an hour, with free admission, allowing you to absorb the historical ambiance without feeling rushed.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace – Iconic Balinese Scenery

No trip to Bali is complete without a visit to Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Known worldwide for its dramatic, layered fields that look like a green cake, this site is a photographers’ dream. The terraces are beautifully maintained, and the views are breathtaking—perfect for capturing that quintessential Bali shot.

We loved the way the terraces resemble a giant, layered cake from afar, but getting close reveals the intricate water management system and the rice farmers’ hard work. Travelers recommend visiting early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds—although, as some reviews mention, finding this site can be tricky for first-timers.

Expect about an hour here, with free access, making it a quick but memorable stop.

Tegenungan Waterfall – Nature’s Refreshing Splash

The Tegenungan Waterfall is a popular Bali natural attraction, and it’s easy to see why. The well-maintained stairs lead down to a spot where you can enjoy the cascading water, take photos, or even dip in the natural pool. Some visitors even indulge in making use of photo services with accessories to catch a perfect shot.

A reviewer described the walk down as “worth the effort,” especially since it’s possible to snap some stunning pictures before or after taking a swim. Along the way, you might see smaller waterfalls, which add to the scenic journey.

Plan for around an hour here, with free entrance, making it an ideal refreshing break in your day.

Ubud Traditional Art Market – Souvenirs and Local Crafts

The Ubud Art Market is a lively, bustling hub of color and creativity, where you can browse handmade textiles, woven bags, silk scarves, and baskets. It’s a wonderful place to find authentic souvenirs directly from local artisans, ensuring your purchase supports the community.

Some travelers describe it as a “chaotic hippie village,” but with a friendly, organized chaos that’s part of its charm. One reviewer called it “the go-to place for local crafts,” highlighting the quality and uniqueness of items.

The market generally allows for about an hour of browsing and bargaining, making it a relaxed yet vibrant shopping experience.

Saraswati Temple – Artistic Serenity

Our final stop is the Saraswati Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of Knowledge. Its striking lotus pond, detailed carvings, and serene atmosphere make it a peaceful place to reflect on your day. The temple often hosts Kecak dance performances on Thursday nights, which add an extra cultural layer if timing permits.

Visitors frequently praise its artistic beauty, noting the elaborate water features and lotus-filled pools. Taking time here to appreciate Balinese craftsmanship offers a calming conclusion to the day.

With around an hour allocated, this stop combines spiritual tranquility with artistic flair.

Practical Details & Tips

Transportation & Comfort:
This tour is operated in a private vehicle, which means you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride with the convenience of onboard Wi-Fi. The vehicle is spacious enough for your group, whether solo, couples, or families. Travelers have commented positively on the driver’s knowledge and professionalism, noting the flawless driving experience.

Timing & Flexibility:
The entire tour lasts 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and pace. Traffic congestion in Bali can be unpredictable, and one reviewer mentioned that it caused some schedule adjustments, including removing or adding stops. So, a bit of flexibility helps, and the guides seem willing to adapt.

Pricing & Value:
At just $25 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the variety of sights, the personalized transport, and the guidance. There’s an option to upgrade to include entrance fees, which is worth considering if you prefer a seamless experience without extra payments at each stop.

Booking & Availability:
Most travelers book about 23 days in advance, indicating it’s popular but still accessible. The tour is recommended by 100% of reviewers, most of whom give a perfect 5-star rating.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers have praised the guides, especially noting their knowledgeability and friendliness. One reviewer shared that Tude was very engaging and tailored the tour to their interests, making the experience more memorable. Others appreciated the driver’s flawless navigation, especially since Bali’s roads can be busy.

The scenery consistently impresses; one reviewer marveled at the rice terraces, calling them a “very impressive surprise,” especially since they had never seen such a well-maintained and picturesque landscape before. The Monkey Forest was highlighted as “fascinating,” with visitors enjoying the playful monkeys and the sense of harmony between nature and spirituality.

However, some travelers noted traffic as a drawback, which can affect the schedule. That said, the overall impression remains positive, citing the good value and the ability to see multiple top sights in a single day.

The Sum Up

This Bali Ubud tour offers an excellent way to see the essential sights without feeling rushed. The combination of natural beauty, cultural sites, and vibrant markets makes it perfect for first-timers or those short on time. The private transport, knowledgeable guides, and affordable price point ensure you get a convenient and enriching experience.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and culturally immersive day in Bali, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and a flexible schedule. Just remember, Bali traffic can be unpredictable, so some patience and a sense of humor are your best companions.

For those seeking a balanced introduction to Ubud’s charm—this tour promises a memorable, hassle-free day filled with beautiful sights and cultural insights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed to be accessible for most travelers, including families and older visitors, as it involves mostly walking and sightseeing in comfortable vehicles.

Can I choose to include entrance fees?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade to include entrance fees, which can make the day smoother since you won’t need to pay at each site separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and how long you spend at each stop.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, water, and your camera. Wearing lightweight clothing is recommended, especially for the warmer parts of the day.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, onboard Wi-Fi is provided, so you can stay connected during your excursion.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 23 days in advance, so planning ahead is a good idea, especially during peak seasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins for a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
The base price is $25, but if you opt for the entrance fee upgrade, that will be an additional cost, which is still quite reasonable considering the convenience.

This tour balances culture, natural beauty, and practical comfort, making it an ideal way to explore Ubud’s highlights in one full, engaging day.