Ubud Countryside Tour: Campuhan Ridge Walk and Rice Terrace

If you’re dreaming of escaping Bali’s busy beaches for a more tranquil, nature-filled experience, the Ubud Countryside Tour offers a perfect day out. With a solid 5-star rating from 52 reviews and a very reasonable price of $40 per person, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour to be well worth their time and money.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private guide and door-to-door transfers ensure you’ll avoid the hassle of planning and navigating on your own. Second, the diverse itinerary combines scenic walks, cultural visits, and natural waterfalls—giving you a well-rounded view of Bali’s central highlands. Third, the enthusiasm and knowledge of guides like Mour, who reviewers say are generous with their explanations, truly enhance the experience.

A potential consideration? Since the tour includes multiple stops, it can be quite full-packed in 7 hours. For those seeking a very relaxed pace or more time at each site, this might feel rushed. Still, for most, the value packed into this full-day adventure makes it a top pick for those looking to deepen their Bali experience beyond beaches and temples.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor activities, cultural insights, and scenic photography, and who appreciate having a flexible, private guide to tailor the day to their interests.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines nature, culture, and scenery in one day.
• Personalized Experience: Private tour with a knowledgeable guide creates a tailored journey.
• Value for Money: At $40, including all entrance fees if upgraded, it offers excellent value.
• Convenient Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off save stress and time.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit local sites like a traditional Balinese house and a coffee plantation.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Lots of walking, scenic views, and cultural stops make it suitable for those who enjoy being on their feet.

A Deep Dive into the Ubud Countryside Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This full-day tour is thoughtfully designed to showcase Bali’s lush landscapes and cultural richness. Starting with a traditional Balinese house compound visit in Batuan, you’ll gain insight into local architectural styles and social customs. The charm here is the authentic design—several buildings designed for different daily activities, giving you a glimpse into traditional Balinese life. Reviewers note that this stop is a beautiful introduction and is included in the tour price, making it a great value.

Next, you’ll venture into the famous Campuhan Ridge Walk, a 30-minute trek that offers some of the most breathtaking hillside views you’ll find around Ubud. It’s a popular spot among repeat visitors, who praise it as a refreshing escape from the bustling town. The trail is relatively easy and free, making it accessible for most travelers. The cool air and sweeping vistas provide ample photo opportunities, and some reviewers appreciated the peacefulness that this route offers.

The tour then moves to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, a must-see for any Bali visitor. The panoramic views of the tiered paddies stretching down the valley are truly mesmerizing. Many note it’s a great spot for photos and a favorite for painters and nature lovers alike. Near the ledge, there are art kiosks and cafes, perfect for a quick snack or souvenir shopping. Reviewers mention that it’s cool and breezy, offering a comfortable environment to soak in the scenery.

A visit to Tirta Empul Temple follows, where you can observe the sacred springs and learn about their significance in Balinese Hindu practices. The holy springs are believed to have purifying qualities, and many find the experience spiritually uplifting. The temple can get busy but remains a meaningful cultural highlight. Admission is included if you choose the all-inclusive option, and guides often explain the rituals involved.

The final stop is the Tegenungan Waterfall, located conveniently between Ubud and Denpasar. This natural waterfall provides a refreshing end to the day, especially appreciated by nature lovers. The drive down village roads lined with rice fields offers a scenic approach, and the waterfall itself is a popular photo spot, with some reviewers mentioning that it’s a “close natural attraction” easily reached from Ubud.

The Quality of Guides and Transportation

Reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides, particularly Mour, whose explanations and patience are frequently praised. Guests appreciate the personalized attention, which allows for a more flexible experience—more time at sites, or tailored questions about Balinese culture and life.

Transportation is described as comfortable and reliable, with hotel pickups included, removing the stress of navigating Bali’s sometimes chaotic roads. The group size is essentially private, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed experience.

Is the Tour Worth the Price?

At $40 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. When considering the all-inclusive option, which covers entrance fees, it becomes even more attractive. The inclusion of hotel transfers further enhances the value, saving travelers time and hassle.

The reviews consistently praise the tour’s organization, the quality of the guide, and the richness of the experience. One reviewer mentioned that she was the only guest that day but was still offered the same excellent service, highlighting the flexibility and attentiveness of the operator.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, cultural curious travelers, and photo lovers. Those who enjoy a good walk, scenic vistas, and meaningful cultural insights will find it especially fulfilling. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer a private, tailor-made day without the crowds, thanks to the private guide and hotel pickup.

Final Thoughts

The Ubud Countryside Tour delivers a well-rounded Bali experience in a single day. It’s perfect for those who want to explore beyond the beaches and dive into Bali’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The combination of scenic treks, rice terraces, spiritual sites, and waterfalls provides a vivid snapshot of the island’s charm—all with the comfort and flexibility of a private guide.

While it’s a busy itinerary, most travelers appreciate the value for money and the personalized service. The knowledgeable guides, like Mour, make all the difference, transforming what could be a standard tour into a memorable day filled with insights and beautiful views.

If you’re after an authentic, active, and culturally immersive day in Bali, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery—all wrapped up in a manageable 7-hour package.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, a private guide, and all entrance tickets if you select the all-inclusive option.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you’ll have some flexibility with timings and stops, especially if you want more time at certain sites or to skip others.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending by late afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for all age groups?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find some walking sections challenging. The activities are generally accessible for most.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing for walking and layers for varying temperatures, especially since some stops are breezy or cooler.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are cafes and kiosks at some stops for snacks and drinks.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic vistas at Campuhan Ridge, rice terraces, and waterfalls make excellent photo opportunities.

What if I only want to visit a few sites?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, though some stops are part of the core experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 21 days in advance, ensuring availability and planning for your Bali trip.

Overall, the Ubud Countryside Tour combines natural beauty, cultural depth, and a personal touch that few group outings can match. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of Bali’s heartland while enjoying a peaceful, scenic escape from the usual tourist spots.