Bali Horse Riding Activity and Full-Day Trip in Ubud

Traveling through Bali often means balancing scenic sights with culture, and this private day trip in Ubud aims to deliver both. While we haven’t personally ridden the horses or explored every corner, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that combines adventure with cultural discovery.

What really catches our eye are the horseback riding along Saba Beach, the chance to visit Ubud’s iconic Monkey Forest and Ubud Palace, plus the stunning vistas of Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Tegenungan Waterfall. We love how this tour promises a seamless mix of outdoor activity, scenic views, and cultural insights—all in one day.

However, a key consideration is the weight limit of 90 kilograms for horseback riding, which might exclude some travelers. Also, while the tour covers many highlights, it’s quite packed, so those who prefer a more leisurely pace might find it a bit rushed.

This experience suits travelers who want an organized, comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for those keen on balancing adventure with cultural exploration and who value having private transfers to maximize comfort and flexibility.

Key Points

• All-in-one Day Trip: Combines horseback riding, cultural sights, and natural beauty.
• Private Transport & Guides: Ensures comfort, personalized attention, and efficient time-management.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit traditional villages, temples, and rice terraces for a genuine feel.
• Value for Money: With all entrance fees, lunch, insurance, and transport included, it offers good value.
• Group Size & Customization: Private tour means flexibility and exclusivity.
• Review Feedback: Enthusiastic guides and scenic stops make this a memorable day, despite some minor constraints like the weight limit.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Bali Horse Riding at Saba Bay

Starting your day, you’ll be greeted at the stables near Saba Beach for a one-hour horse riding session. The horses are described as tame and healthy, which should ease any nerves, especially with a professional guide providing safety instructions beforehand. Riders will enjoy a 10 km trail along the volcanic sands, feeling the breeze from the Indian Ocean and seeing the black sandy beach—a particularly unique feature in Bali.

Reviewers mention Putu, the driver, as friendly and informative, adding a personal touch to the experience. One reviewer states, “Putu was a very friendly driver and lunch was good! Sceneries in Ubud were nice too,” emphasizing the friendly guidance and scenic backdrop.

Celuk Village – Gold and Silver Artisans

Next, you’ll visit Celuk Village, a hub for Balinese goldsmiths and silversmiths. The galleries lining the main road showcase intricate jewelry, giving travelers the opportunity to see local craftsmanship firsthand. This stop is particularly meaningful for those interested in artisan traditions or looking for unique souvenirs.

A reviewer notes, “The silver and gold shops line the roads,” indicating a lively, craft-focused atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to appreciate Bali’s artisan skills and maybe pick up a one-of-a-kind piece.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

A visit to Ubud Monkey Forest offers a chance to see over 400 long-tailed macaques in a lush, green setting. The balance here is between fun and understanding that these mischievous creatures are also part of Ubud’s spiritual identity, owned and operated by the local village.

Guests often comment on the fun yet slightly chaotic atmosphere, with some mentioning the “greedy long-tailed macaques,” so it’s advisable to keep belongings secure. Expect around an hour here, perfect for wandering the shaded paths and snapping photos of the playful monkeys.

Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren)

The Royal Palace is a highlight for lovers of architecture and Balinese culture. Built in the early 19th century, the palace’s traditional Balinese style, peaceful gardens, and occasional dance performances offer a glimpse into Bali’s regal past.

One traveler describes it as “the focal landmark of Ubud,” and highlights its well-preserved architecture. It’s a brief stop but packed with charm and cultural significance.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

No Bali trip is complete without marveling at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. With its iconic terraced landscapes, this site offers panoramic views that are perfect for photos and soaking in Bali’s agricultural heritage. According to history, it was passed down by Rsi Markandeya in the eighth century, adding a spiritual layer to its beauty.

Expect to spend about an hour here, where you can walk along the terraces, admire the intricate irrigation system, and feel the cool mountain air.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Finally, your day winds down at Tegenungan Waterfall, a popular spot praised for its spectacular height of up to 20 meters and lush surroundings. It’s a perfect place for a quick dip or simply to admire the cascading water set against green rocky walls.

Reviewers mention the sound of the water and the local stalls that serve snacks and drinks, making it a relaxing end to an active day. It’s recommended to allocate around an hour here.

Additional Stops & Practicalities

On the way, you’ll pass famous wood carving villages and temples, adding more cultural flavor, even if brief. The tour’s inclusion of private transfers from most South Bali locations and Ubud means you’ll avoid the hassle of navigation and enjoy a smooth ride throughout the day.

The tour is priced at $120 per person, which includes all entrance tickets, lunch, insurance, and private transport. Considering the variety of stops and the personalized experience, this is quite reasonable, especially for those who prefer an organized, all-inclusive day out.

What’s Included & What Not

Included are air-conditioned vehicle, professional driver, safety equipment, all entrance tickets, lunch, and insurance. Not included are personal expenses and alcoholic beverages, which you might want to budget for separately.

Considerations

• The weight limit of 90 kg is important for horseback riding; some reviews mention this as a drawback if you’re close to or over it.
• The minimum age for participation is 5, making it family-friendly, but the maximum age is 60.
• Dress code is smart casual, so comfortable attire suitable for outdoor activities and temples is recommended.
• Bring sunscreen and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One review mentions that adding a brief horse introduction and letting the horses go faster could make the ride more exciting, reflecting the desire for a slightly more adventurous experience. Another highlights that the lunch was good, and the scenic views in Ubud added to the day’s charm.

Participants also noted the guides’ knowledge and friendliness as a standout feature, making the experience more personal and engaging.

The Sum Up

This Bali full-day tour offers a compelling mix of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and natural beauty—all in one package. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, private experience that covers key highlights without the stress of planning every detail.

The horseback riding along Saba Beach offers a rare chance to enjoy Bali’s volcanic sands with expert guidance, while the visits to Ubud’s cultural landmarks deepen your understanding of local traditions. The scenic stops at rice terraces and waterfalls ensure you leave with a camera full of memorable shots.

While the tour offers excellent value, travelers should be mindful of the weight limit and the busy schedule, which might feel rushed for some. Still, for those seeking an authentic, varied day with all logistics handled, this trip hits most marks.

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors, families, or anyone eager to see Bali’s diverse sights in one go.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, private air-conditioned transfers are included from most South Bali locations and Ubud.

How long is the horseback riding activity? The horseback riding lasts about one hour, covering roughly 10 km along Saba Beach.

Are there age restrictions for this tour? The minimum age is 5 years old, and the maximum age is 60. The tour also has a weight limit of 90 kg.

What should I bring for the day? Sunscreen, a camera, comfortable clothes, and possibly a hat.

Is vegetarian lunch available? Yes, a vegetarian option can be requested when booking.

How much time is allocated for each stop? Each main stop is typically around an hour, with some shorter visits like the palace (~30 mins).

Are all entrance fees included? Yes, all entrance tickets, along with insurance and taxes, are included in the price.

Will I get a guide during the stops? The tour includes professional guides and a driver, ensuring you get local insights and smooth logistics.

Can I customize the tour timing? Yes, the itinerary offers flexible timing based on your preferences, within the overall schedule.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, thorough look at what to expect from Bali’s Horse Riding and Ubud Full-Day Tour. With its mix of scenic rides, cultural sights, and natural wonders, it could be just the Bali adventure you’re looking for.