Ubud City Tour II: Monkey Forest, Palace, Art Market, and Rice Terrace

Discover the Best of Ubud in Half a Day: Monkey Forest, Palace, Art Market, and Rice Terrace

If you’re looking to maximize your time in Ubud without missing out on its iconic sights, this Ubud City Tour II offers a well-rounded glimpse into Bali’s natural beauty and cultural charm. While it’s a condensed experience—roughly 8 hours—it packs in some of the most beloved spots in and around Ubud, making it perfect for travelers with a tight schedule.

What we love about this tour is its convenience—personalized transfers from your hotel mean no fuss or navigating Bali’s sometimes tricky transport. The expert driver doubles as a local guide, sharing interesting insights along the way, which adds authenticity and depth to the experience. Plus, it’s affordable at $65, considering all the sights included.

That said, some may find the Palace a bit underwhelming compared to the other highlights, and the tour’s fast pace might leave you wishing for more time at each stop. Still, it’s ideal for first-timers eager to tick off Bali’s top attractions in a short window. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive intro to Ubud without committing to a full day or multiple excursions.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, Art Market, and scenic rice terraces.
• Private transfers ensure comfort and efficiency, ideal for short stays.
• Expert driver provides local insights that enhance understanding of each site.
• Freedom to explore each stop at your own pace, with some options like hiking or photography.
• Affordable price point offers great value considering all inclusions.
• Good for time-sensitive travelers who want a snapshot of Ubud’s highlights.

Introduction to the Ubud City Tour II Experience

This tour offers a practical and accessible way to see Ubud’s essential sights in just half a day. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation or guides on their own. For $65, you get a well-organized itinerary that includes transfers, entrance fees, and a friendly driver eager to share insights.

Three standout features make this experience particularly appealing. First, the personalized private transfer means you won’t be stuck in a crowded bus or waiting around for others. Second, the diverse stops—from wildlife encounters at Monkey Forest to cultural insights at Ubud Palace—capture the spirit of Bali. Lastly, the scenic rice terraces provide stunning photo opportunities and a window into Bali’s traditional farming practices.

A potential consideration is that the Palace might feel less exciting compared to the other spots, according to some reviews, but overall, the tour offers a balanced overview. This tour is best suited for first-time visitors, travelers with limited time, or those wanting a snapshot of Bali’s most Instagram-worthy sights.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Monkey Forest is arguably Ubud’s most famous attraction—and for good reason. It’s a lush, green sanctuary where about 340 Crab-eating Macaque monkeys roam freely among ancient temples and towering trees. Visitors find it a fascinating mix of wildlife, spirituality, and history.

Expect to see groups of monkeys lounging, playing, and occasionally approaching visitors for snacks (or cheeky selfies). The guides and reviews highlight that taking photos with the monkeys is a highlight—just be mindful of your belongings! As one reviewer put it, “Take a selfie with the monkeys, it was the best part,” emphasizing how close-up encounters can be quite memorable.

The sanctuary also serves as a religious site for locals, so respectful behavior is encouraged. The site’s lush surroundings and the chance to observe monkeys in their natural habitat make this stop both fun and educational.

Stop 2: Puri Saren Palace

Ubud Palace, or Puri Saren, is centrally located and offers a peek into traditional Balinese architecture and culture. While some find that it’s less of a “must-see” compared to other stops, it’s still an important cultural landmark. The palace is the residence of the local royal family and hosts nightly dance performances, adding an extra layer to your visit.

Reviewers noted that the palace itself is “nothing special and could have been missed,” yet its location and the nearby Ubud King’s Family Temple give it historical importance. The short 15-minute stop allows for quick photos and a chance to appreciate the intricate carvings and traditional styles.

Stop 3: Ubud Traditional Art Market

This bustling market is a shopper’s paradise, albeit with some caveats. Vendors sell everything from silver jewelry and handmade textiles to wood carvings and souvenirs. The narrow, crowded alleys are filled with color, sounds, and the aroma of local snacks.

Expect some hustle—the stalls are packed and often hung with items from ceiling to floor. One reviewer commented that it’s a good place if you’re into shopping, but be prepared for the sensory overload and the occasional unpleasant smell. It’s a great spot to haggle for souvenirs or simply browse authentic local crafts.

Stop 4: Happy Swing Bali

For adrenaline lovers or those looking for a picture-perfect moment, the Happy Swing is a highlight. Suspended from a cliff edge, the swing offers spectacular views of lush greenery and rice paddies below. Swings like this give you an exhilarating feeling of flying while capturing stunning photos.

The tour’s 1.5-hour time allotment allows you to enjoy the thrill, take plenty of photos, and soak in the scenery. Reviewers rave about the spectacular views, noting that the combination of excitement and natural beauty makes it worth the visit.

Stop 5: Tegalalang Rice Terrace

No trip to Ubud is complete without a visit to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. This UNESCO-famous landscape features vibrant green paddies carved into the hillside, creating a patchwork of terraces that seem to stretch infinitely.

Visitors often stop here for photos, enjoy a coffee at one of the many kiosks, or take a short hike. The cool, breezy air and panoramic views make it a peaceful yet awe-inspiring place. Travelers mention that it’s also a good spot for painters and nature lovers.

Most reviews agree that while the rice terrace is stunning, the donation to farmers for trekking or exploring is at your discretion—some choose to contribute to support local agriculture.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s $65 price point covers quite a lot: private transportation, an English-speaking driver, all entrance tickets, and taxes. This makes it an excellent value considering the convenience and the number of sites visited. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off saves you the hassle of figuring out transportation, especially if you’re staying in Ubud or south Bali.

However, note that meals are not included, and if you wish to do some trekking at the rice terraces, a donation to the farmer is optional. Travelers have noted the driver’s knowledge and attentiveness, with some mentioning that their guides shared many interesting details that enriched the experience.

Personal Experiences & Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently praised the driver-guides for their professionalism and friendliness. One reviewer said, “Our driver Mera shared so many interesting details,” which highlights the value of local insights in making the tour more meaningful.

The Monkey Forest was a clear favorite, with the chance to interact directly with the macaques. One traveler even described it as “completely worthwhile to see,” illustrating how memorable this stop is. The rice terraces also received high praise for their scenic beauty, with many capturing stunning photos and appreciating the cool, breezy atmosphere.

On the downside, some found the Ubud Palace underwhelming—described as “just ho-hum”—but others appreciated the cultural context it provided, especially when coupled with the nearby art market, which offers a chance to pick up unique souvenirs.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Ubud without a full-day commitment, this tour hits the mark. The combination of wildlife, cultural sites, markets, and scenic landscapes offers a well-rounded experience that balances fun, culture, and natural beauty.

Travelers who value local guides with knowledge, hope for stunning photo opportunities, and want good value for money will find this tour highly appealing. Its logistical convenience makes it especially suitable for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule.

While it may not satisfy the craving for deeper exploration at each site, it provides an excellent overview that can be supplemented with additional visits later. This tour offers an effective, enjoyable way to introduce yourself to Bali’s unique charm.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning by mid-afternoon, making it perfect for a half-day adventure.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, private transfers from your hotel are included, covering many addresses in Ubud and southern Bali.

Are entrance tickets included?
All entrance fees for Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, Art Market, and Happy Swing are included in the price.

Can I do hiking at the rice terraces?
While the tour includes a visit to Tegalalang Rice Terrace, trekking or hiking is optional and at your own expense—donations to farmers are encouraged if you choose to explore more.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Most travelers, including families, can participate. The experience is flexible, but always consider the age of children, especially around the Monkey Forest and swing.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about an hour at Monkey Forest and the rice terrace, 15 minutes at the palace, and around 1 hour at the art market and swing, allowing for photos, browsing, or a quick snack.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. Be prepared for some walking and the crowds at markets.

This Ubud City Tour II delivers a compact but rewarding glimpse into Bali’s culture and scenery, making it ideal for short stays or first-time visitors eager to see the highlights with ease.