Ubud DayTrip : Monkey Forest – Rice Terrace – Jungle Swing – Water Temple

Planning a day around Ubud’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed? This tour offers an immersive experience that combines nature, culture, and a bit of adventure—all for an affordable price. With an average booking notice of 21 days, it’s clear this is a popular choice for travelers eager to maximize their Bali visit.

What we love about this experience? First, the quality of the guides, who know the ins and outs of each location. Second, the stunning scenery, from lush rice terraces to roaring waterfalls. And third, the value for money—covering multiple major sights for just $36 per person. The only thing to keep in mind? The day’s pace can be quite full, so it’s best suited for travelers who want to see a lot in one day and don’t mind an early start. This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a well-rounded taste of Ubud’s natural beauty and spiritual sites, especially if you prefer private or small group experiences.

Key Points

• Affordable yet comprehensive: A full day covering major Ubud highlights for just $36.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Agus, Tyson, and Santanu can make or break the experience.
• Stunning scenery: From rice paddies to waterfalls, visuals are a highlight.
• Flexibility and customization: Guides will adjust based on your needs, like last-minute pickup requests.
• Active and engaging: Swinging between trees and exploring temples keeps the day lively.
• Well-reviewed: Consistently rated 5 stars, with many praising guides and scenery.

The Itinerary in Detail: What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour is thoughtfully designed to cover Ubud’s top attractions, with each stop offering something unique. Here’s a thorough breakdown that shows what you can expect and why each place is worth your time.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Your adventure begins with a visit to Monkey Forest, a lush, moss-covered sanctuary where playful monkeys roam freely. The experience isn’t just about watching monkeys—it’s about walking through a corridor of ancient temples and guardian statues, many of which are covered in moss, adding a mystical, almost Jurassic feel.

According to reviews, the guide’s knowledge really elevates this experience—one traveler mentioned how their guide took great care in explaining the significance of the temples and shared interesting facts about the monkeys’ behavior. Expect to see monkeys swinging through the canopy, lazing along pathways, or munching bananas—an excellent opportunity for photos. The park’s admission is free, but be prepared for close encounters; one reviewer noted a playful monkey trying to play with her hair, making it a memorable, if slightly unpredictable, visit.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Next, the tour heads to Tegalalang Rice Terraces, arguably Bali’s most iconic landscape. These steeply terraced fields extend down into the valley, with neat irrigation channels called Subak, a traditional Balinese water management system still in use today.

Here, many travelers rave about the views—”You’ll love the views,” as one reviewer said, with the landscape offering a perfect backdrop for photos. It’s also an opportunity to learn about traditional rice farming methods while soaking up the lush scenery.

One of the main draws is the Jungle Swing, perched between two palm trees with the rice terraces sprawling below. This swing isn’t just for thrill-seekers; it’s a chance to feel like you’re flying over the landscape. A reviewer mentioned how the swing “hangs between two palm trees and overlooks picturesque rice paddies,” making it a fun and scenic activity. The admission is free but expect to pay for the swing if you want to try it.

Tegenungan Waterfall

The journey continues with a visit to Tegenungan Waterfall—a lively, accessible waterfall located outside the highlands, offering a refreshing break. Unlike other waterfalls in Bali, it’s relatively close to the coast, making it unique.

Here, you can snap some photos or even dip into the freshwater pool, which many find invigorating after a day of walking. One reviewer loved how close they could get to the water and appreciated how clean and inviting the pool looked. The admission is free, but if you wish to swim, bring your towels and flip-flops.

Tirta Empul Temple (optional)

The final stop is Tirta Empul Temple, famous for its holy spring water believed to grant wishes when you bathe in it. Tourists can participate in a traditional purification ritual or simply enjoy the serene temple grounds.

Many visitors, including a reviewer who called it “outstandingly beautiful,” appreciated the tranquil atmosphere. The water is open for public use, and while the admission is free, if you choose to soak, you’ll likely pay a small fee or donation. Keep in mind that women on their period are advised not to enter, respecting local customs.

The Practical Side: Transport, Guides, and Value

This tour’s price tag of $36 per person in Bali is quite competitive, especially considering it includes private pickup and drop-off in most Bali hotel areas including Seminyak, Ubud, Legian, Kuta, Jimbaran, Sanur, Tanjung Benoa, and Nusa Dua. The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay cool and relaxed despite Bali’s tropical heat.

Having a private or small group experience means flexibility—guides like Agus, Tyson, and Santanu are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the entire day more enjoyable. Several reviews mention how guides customized the tour based on individual interests, which can make your experience feel personal and less rushed.

In terms of timing, the tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, fitting in multiple major attractions without feeling too hurried. The admission fees are typically included unless you opt to do additional activities like the swing or water entry, which are paid separately.

The value here is noteworthy. For just $36, you’re getting access to several top sights, a private vehicle, and a guided experience with knowledgeable locals. Considering individual entry fees are free at most sites, the price mainly covers transportation and the guiding service—both of which many reviewers say are excellent.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially for their local knowledge and personalized approach. One reviewer appreciated how their guide, Restu, “takes care of every single detail and gives interesting information about local traditions,” and another called Santanu “very friendly and took great pictures.”

The scenery is another highlight. Travelers loved the rice terraces, with one describing the landscape as “picturesque” and another saying it’s “definitely a trip worth making.” The waterfall and water temple also get high marks for their beauty and serenity.

The adventure aspects, like the Jungle Swing, are described as “so much fun,” making the trip not just about sightseeing but also experiencing Bali’s more playful side.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive Ubud experience without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s perfect if you enjoy nature, culture, and a bit of adventure all in one day. The affordable price point makes it appealing for budget-conscious travelers who value guided insights and authentic sights.

It’s a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting to see Bali’s most famous spots, especially those interested in photography, nature, or cultural sites. The trip’s flexibility and customization options also make it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a hassle-free day with a knowledgeable guide.

The Sum Up

This Ubud DayTrip offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and adventure that makes it an excellent value for anyone wanting to explore Bali without breaking the bank. The experienced guides elevate the experience, providing insights and making sure you get the most out of every location.

You’ll love the stunning landscapes—from lush rice terraces to roaring waterfalls—and the chance to learn about Bali’s spiritual traditions at Tirta Empul. Plus, the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off saves you time and energy, allowing you to focus on enjoying each moment.

While the day is packed, it’s well-suited for travelers who want an active, full-day itinerary that hits Bali’s highlights efficiently. Just be ready for an early start and a busy schedule, but rest assured—you’ll return with fantastic memories and plenty of photos.

This tour delivers authentic experiences, expert guidance, and great value. It’s a perfect choice if you want to get a feel for Bali’s rich landscapes and cultural richness in just one day.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes private pickup and drop-off in most Bali hotel areas, including Seminyak, Ubud, Kuta, and others.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 8 to 9 hours, allowing ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are all site entry fees included?
Most entrance fees at the sites are free unless you choose to do optional activities like the Jungle Swing or water entry, which are paid separately.

Can I customize the tour?
Guides are known to help customize the itinerary based on your interests and needs, making for a more personalized experience.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase during the day.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy outdoor activities and nature.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and exploring outdoor sites, plus sun protection like hats and sunscreen are recommended.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most sites involve walking on paved pathways, but it’s best to check with the tour provider for specific mobility concerns.

This tour delivers a full, memorable taste of Bali with a friendly guide, stunning scenery, and a fantastic value—an experience worth considering for your Bali itinerary.