Bali : Ubud Private Tours

You’ve probably heard it before, but Bali truly does have something for all—whether it’s the lush rice terraces, sacred temples, or lively monkey forests. This highly-rated Ubud private tour promises a full day of discovery, tailored to give you a balanced mix of cultural insights, stunning scenery, and authentic local experiences. Priced affordably at just $35 per person, it offers a convenient, hassle-free way to see some of Bali’s most iconic sights without the stress of navigating yourself.

What we love about this tour is the personalized experience it offers—an intimate group size (or private option if you choose), a friendly local driver who acts more like a guide than just a driver, and the flexibility to customize your day. Plus, the thoughtfully curated stops ensure you get a good taste of Bali’s spiritual, agricultural, and natural highlights.

One thing to keep in mind is that the entry fees to certain attractions aren’t included unless you select that option at booking, so it’s wise to budget around $15 extra for all the entrance tickets. This tour mainly suits travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed, yet insightful day exploring Bali’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites.

Key Points

• Highly rated with a perfect 5.0 from over 115 reviews, indicating consistent satisfaction
• Affordable price for a full-day private experience, with flexibility and personalized attention
• Includes important landmarks like the Monkey Forest, rice terraces, waterfalls, and temples
• Experienced guides and drivers, praised for friendliness and local knowledge
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles, with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Flexible booking with free cancellation, ideal for planning with peace of mind

Why This Tour Stands Out

This Ubud private tour is a fantastic way to cover a lot of Bali’s highlights in one day, especially if you’re short on time but still crave an authentic experience. The tour’s three standout features are the knowledgeable guide, the well-balanced itinerary, and the value for money.

The guide’s reputation for friendliness and local expertise is evident from reviews—saying drivers like Santanu and Tyson made the day memorable through their jokes, patience, and willingness to take photos. This personal touch turns a simple sightseeing trip into a genuine connection with Bali’s culture and scenery.

The itinerary is deliberately planned to maximize your experience without feeling rushed—each stop offers enough time to explore, snap photos, or relax. The inclusion of both well-known attractions like Tirta Empul Temple and hidden gems such as Ulu Patanu Waterfall showcases Bali’s diverse appeal.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Hotel Pickup and Initial Drive

The tour begins with hotel pickup from your accommodation in Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Sanur, or Ubud. The drive to Ubud takes approximately 90 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get introduced to Bali’s landscape from the comfort of your air-conditioned vehicle. This seamless start is appreciated in reviews, with guests noting the driver’s friendliness and helpfulness.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Your first stop is the Monkey Forest, home to around 700 Balinese long-tailed macaques. Visitors often comment on the harmony between the monkeys and the three temples within the forest, making it a photographer’s paradise. Reviewers like Mayank_J mention how the “rice fields were awesome,” and the guide’s willingness to take photos added to the experience.

While the admission fee isn’t included, exploring the lush green environment and observing the monkeys in their natural habitat is worth the visit. Prepare to keep an eye on your belongings—these clever creatures are notorious for their curiosity.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Next, you’ll visit one of Bali’s most renowned sights: the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. These steeply terraced fields are a marvel of traditional irrigation and farming techniques, and you’ll love the views here. The terraces, built to maximize rice farming on steep slopes, still operate using the Subak irrigation system, a system UNESCO recognizes for its cultural importance.

Reviewers like groovyloz say, “Our guide was so friendly and informative,” adding that the rice terraces are a highlight. Expect to spend around an hour here to walk around, soak in the scenery, and maybe pick up some souvenirs from local vendors.

Lunch at Tebasari Resto

Midway through the day, you’ll stop for a delicious lunch at Tebasari Resto, which offers a menu blending Indonesian, Balinese, and Western options. The bamboo restaurant is praised for its beautiful jungle views and relaxed atmosphere, giving you a perfect chance to recharge.

Guests appreciate the variety of food and the chance to enjoy local flavors amid stunning surroundings. While the cost of lunch isn’t included, it’s a worthwhile part of the experience, especially for those who want to try authentic Balinese cuisine.

Ulu Patanu Waterfall

After lunch, you’ll visit the Ulu Patanu Waterfall, a lesser-known gem that offers a tranquil setting for photos or a refreshing swim. The waterfall’s freshwater pool is constantly fed by the gushing fall, providing a clean, cool spot to cool down or relax.

Reviewers describe this stop as “hidden” and “beautiful,” with some taking the chance to dip in the water. It’s an ideal nature escape, especially if you enjoy scenic spots off the beaten path.

Tirta Empul Temple

Your final major stop is Tirta Empul, a revered Hindu temple famous for its holy spring water believed to grant wishes. Visitors often mention the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to participate in traditional cleansing rituals—though it’s perfectly fine to just enjoy the view if you prefer.

This stop offers a blend of spiritual and cultural insight, and many guests comment that just being there feels special. The entrance fee isn’t included unless you select the option, but it’s generally around $15 for all sites.

Return Journey

After a full day of exploring, your driver will drop you back at your hotel, completing about a 90-minute drive. Guests consistently appreciate this smooth end to a busy day, with many saying their driver, like Santanu, was “considerate,” “joked around,” and even let them choose music, making the drive enjoyable.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation and Comfort

The tour provides air-conditioned, private transportation—an important detail for comfort, especially after a full day outdoors. Guests mention that the vehicle is clean, modern, and well-maintained, making for a comfortable ride between stops.

Timing and Duration

Spanning about 9 hours, the tour is well-paced, with each stop given roughly 1 to 1.5 hours—enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The early start and late return ensure you see a lot but with some downtime built in.

Cost and Value

At $35 per person, this tour offers an impressive value considering the number of sites visited, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and a private, personalized experience. Entrance fees are separate but manageable, and reviews confirm that the guide’s insights add value to the visit.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Insights

Guests consistently mention how their guides enhanced the experience—sharing stories, taking photos, and making sure everyone felt comfortable. One reviewer said their guide “joked with us, was extremely considerate and patient,” highlighting the personal touch that can turn a sightseeing day into a memorable journey.

The stops themselves vary from well-trodden tourist attractions to quieter, more spiritual sites, catering to different interests. The rice terraces and waterfalls offer natural beauty, while the temples provide a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual life—a perfect balance for many travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring Ubud’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or juggling multiple tickets. It suits those interested in culture, nature, and authentic scenery, especially if you prefer a private or semi-private experience with a friendly local guide.

Families, couples, or solo travelers will appreciate the flexibility and personal touch, and the price point makes it accessible for most budgets. Keep in mind, if you want to skip the entrance fees, you need to select that option beforehand.

The Sum Up

The Ubud private tour from Bali offers an excellent mix of cultural sights, natural beauty, and authentic experiences—all in a comfortable and private setting. You’ll love the knowledgeable guides who make each stop meaningful, the stunning views of rice terraces and waterfalls, and the chance to learn about Bali’s spiritual traditions at Tirta Empul.

The tour’s balance of iconic landmarks and hidden gems makes it one of the best ways to see Bali’s diverse landscape in just one day. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this experience delivers genuine value and memorable moments.

For those who want a curated, hassle-free day with plenty of flexibility and local insight, this tour is a top choice. Just remember to bring some cash for entrance fees and a sense of adventure—Bali’s magic is waiting to be discovered.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Bali accommodation in areas like Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, and Ubud, making your day stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 9 hours, giving ample time to explore each site at a relaxed pace.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees are not included unless you select that option at booking. Expect to budget around $15 for all destinations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, sun protection, and modest attire when visiting temples are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if your family enjoys outdoor activities and cultural sites. It’s a private experience, so you can tailor the pace accordingly.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers a set itinerary, but private tours typically allow some flexibility—ask your driver/guide on the day.

Is food included?
Lunch at Tebasari Resto is not included but is a recommended stop for delicious local and Western options.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group participates—perfect for personalized attention and flexibility.

Should I book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 17 days ahead, and reviews confirm the tour’s popularity and reliability.

In essence, this Bali Ubud tour combines cultural insight, natural beauty, and excellent value, making it a memorable addition to your Bali trip. Whether you’re after iconic sights or hidden gems, it’s a balanced, rewarding way to experience Bali’s charm.