Hidden Ubud: Waterfalls & Sacred Temples

Discovering Ubud: Waterfalls & Sacred Temples Tour — An Honest Review

Choosing a tour in Bali that balances culture, scenic beauty, and flexibility can be tricky. This Hidden Ubud: Waterfalls & Sacred Temples tour, offered by GoExploreBali, promises a full-day adventure that checks all those boxes. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it sounds like a wonderfully authentic way to experience Ubud’s highlights.

What we love about this experience is its private nature, offering personalized attention and a flexible schedule. The scenic drives through lush countryside make the journey just as memorable as the stops themselves, and the stunning waterfalls and UNESCO rice terraces provide plenty of photo-worthy moments. The knowledgeable guide, Dewa, receives high praise for his friendliness and insight, making the whole day feel warm and genuine.

A possible consideration is that entrance fees aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget around IDR 200K (~$13) per person for tickets. Also, the tour is quite full, lasting up to 10 hours, which might be tiring for some travelers wanting a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re eager to pack in a wide variety of highlights in one day, this tour is a great fit for couples, small groups, or families looking for an immersive Bali experience.

This tour suits travelers who want cultural insights, enjoy beautiful scenery, and prefer private, guided experiences over crowded group tours. If you love having flexibility and a personal touch, this is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Private Full-Day Experience: Personalized attention with a driver-guide, flexible itinerary, and the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Tirta Empul or Goa Gajah, both steeped in Balinese spirituality.
• Stunning Landscapes: Walk through the UNESCO-listed Tegallalang rice terraces and swim at hidden jungle waterfalls.
• Authentic Balinese Cuisine: Optional local lunch (own expense) with scenic countryside views.
• High-Quality Guides: Many reviews praise Dewa for his friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness.
• Cost-Effective: At $35 per person, the tour provides excellent value, especially considering private transportation and guided insight.

The Itinerary in Detail

Hotel Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day kicks off at 8:30 AM with pickup from your hotel in Seminyak, Kuta, or nearby areas. The drive to Ubud is part of the charm, as you get to watch Bali’s lush landscape roll past your window. Unlike larger group tours, this private experience means you won’t be squeezed into a bus crowded with strangers — instead, it’s just your group and your guide, Dewa, who’s often praised for his friendly demeanor.

Tirta Empul or Goa Gajah

The first stop is either Tirta Empul, famous for its holy spring water and spiritual cleansing rituals, or Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), which offers a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s spiritual past. Both sites are steeped in history and spiritual significance.

• Tirta Empul: Visitors often comment on the peaceful ambiance of the water temples, and the opportunity to participate in traditional purification rituals if you wish.
• Goa Gajah: Known for its intricate carvings and mysterious caves, it offers a slightly more archaeological vibe and a chance to learn about Balinese spirituality.

Your guide will share insights into each site’s cultural importance, making the experience more meaningful. Expect about an hour at this stop, including time to explore and take photos.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Next, you’ll visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll walk through the emerald-green fields, marveling at centuries-old irrigation systems, and capturing those classic Bali shots—think terraced rice paddies cascading down hillsides.

Travelers who love photography or appreciate agriculture will find this spot particularly captivating. Many reviewers mention how walking through the terraces makes them appreciate the labor involved in rice farming and Bali’s traditional farming techniques.

Jungle Waterfall Refreshment

After the rice terraces, it’s time for some cooling off. The tour includes a stop at Tegenungan or Tukad Cepung waterfalls, both lush, hidden gems. These waterfalls are accessible for a quick swim or just to marvel at the natural beauty.

Tegenungan Waterfall is highly praised for its scenic jungle surroundings and the chance to cool down in the refreshing water. One review mentions how the waterfall stop made them appreciate Bali’s natural side, especially after a warm morning of sightseeing.

Optional Visit to Sacred Monkey Forest

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is optional but often recommended for animal lovers. Home to playful long-tailed macaques, this ancient forest is also a spiritual site with temples scattered amid the jungle.

Many travelers enjoy this stop for its lively monkeys and the chance to wander through a peaceful yet lively environment. Some reviews highlight the guide’s helpfulness in navigating the area and ensuring a safe experience with the monkeys.

Scenic Drive & Local Lunch

The tour includes a scenic drive through Ubud’s villages and rice fields, culminating at D Alas Warung for a local lunch option (at your own expense). The drive itself offers fantastic views, and the restaurant provides a chance to relax and soak in the countryside atmosphere.

Return and Hotel Drop-off

In the late afternoon, your driver will take you back to your hotel, ending the day. Many reviewers appreciate this seamless, comfortable return, especially after a long day out.

The Value and What You Get

For $35, this private tour offers remarkable value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, your private vehicle, and a knowledgeable driver-guide—all contributing to a smooth, personalized experience. The admission tickets to key sites are included, saving you time and hassle.

Since meals and entrance fees are not included, you’ll want to budget for those separately, but the flexibility allows you to choose your preferred dining options and not be tied to a strict schedule.

Several reviews praise the guide Dewa for his politeness, knowledge, and helpfulness, which can elevate a sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural experience. Several travelers mention how Dewa took beautiful photos and videos, making their memories last longer.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value personalized service and want to explore Ubud’s highlights without the constraints of a large group. It’s especially suited for couples, small families, or friends who appreciate a flexible itinerary and authentic encounters.

If you’re after cultural insights, photogenic landscapes, and natural beauty all wrapped into one day, this tour delivers. It’s also a great choice if you want the convenience of private transportation with a guide who knows the ins and outs of Bali’s spiritual and scenic sites.

Final Thoughts

This Hidden Ubud: Waterfalls & Sacred Temples tour offers an excellent way to experience Bali’s spiritual heart and natural wonders in one day. The private format means you can tailor the experience slightly to your interests, and the knowledgeable guide ensures you gain meaningful insights along the way.

While it’s a full-day adventure, the pace is generally well-managed — enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The combination of cultural visits, breathtaking landscapes, and optional animal encounters makes it a well-rounded Bali experience.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, personalized, and authentic way to explore Ubud, this tour strikes a fine balance between value and memorable moments. Just remember to come prepared for a day full of walking, exploring, and soaking in Bali’s natural and spiritual riches.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if your accommodation is in Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, or Nusa Dua areas.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, from around 8:30 AM until late afternoon.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets are not included but are approximately IDR 200K (~$13) per person. The guide can assist with logistics.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and some cash for meals or souvenirs. Bottled water is provided.

Can I visit the Sacred Monkey Forest?
Yes, visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest is optional and can be included if you wish, depending on your interest and time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but keep in mind it’s a full-day tour with some walking and outdoor activities.

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially since it’s a private tour with limited spaces.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse of Ubud’s spiritual and natural treasures, delivered in a comfortable and personalized way. Perfect for travelers seeking flexibility, insight, and unforgettable scenery.