Ubud Excursion: Barong Dance, Art Villages, Nature, Temple and Waterfall

Balinese culture, stunning waterfalls, intricate art, and centuries-old temples—this Ubud excursion covers it all. While we haven’t personally taken the tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary make it clear this is a well-rounded way to experience Bali’s artistic soul and natural beauty without the hassle of planning. For just $67 per person, you get a full day of sight-seeing with a private guide, which adds a lot of value for those wanting an authentic, personalized touch.

What we love about this experience is how it combines cultural highlights like the legendary Barong dance and temple visits with breathtaking natural scenery such as Tegenungan Waterfall and the Monkey Forest. Plus, visiting traditional craft villages offers a genuine insight into Bali’s artisanal roots. One possible consideration is that the tour is quite packed—so if you’re someone who prefers a slow, relaxed pace, you might find it a tad busier than you’d like.

This tour suits travelers eager to experience Bali’s diverse attractions in one day—whether you’re into arts and crafts, local dance, or natural scenery. It’s perfect for those who want a structured yet flexible experience, with the added benefit of hotel transfers and a friendly, knowledgeable guide. Let’s walk through what makes this tour a great Bali introduction, and why it might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines cultural performances, art villages, temples, and waterfalls.
• Private Guide: Personalized attention ensures a flexible and engaging day.
• Excellent Value: At $67, it offers a lot for a full day’s exploration.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit craft villages and see traditional Balinese art and carving.
• Natural Beauty: Includes Tegenungan Waterfall and the Monkey Forest—two must-see spots.
• Flexible Stops: Optional additional stops allow for some customization if time permits.

An Impressive Introduction to Ubud’s Cultural Heart

This tour promises a balanced glimpse of Bali’s spiritual traditions and artistic craftsmanship. Starting early in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel—whether you’re staying in Ubud or other major south Bali locations like Seminyak or Kuta—making for a seamless start. The highlight here is the Sahadewa Barong Dance—a vibrant and theatrical presentation of Balinese mythology featuring the iconic masked monster and a fiery dance that viewers often describe as mesmerizing. One reviewer noted, “the dance was the most popular part of the trip,” and it’s easy to see why. Watching this dance allows visitors to gain insight into local legends and religious symbolism without needing a guide to explain every detail.

The dance is lively, colorful, and full of action—an engaging introduction to Bali’s artistic storytelling. The added fire performance, which often accompanies the dance, heightens the excitement and makes for fantastic photos. The inclusion of this show in the morning allows you to kick off the day with a burst of Balinese culture, setting an energetic tone for the rest of the tour.

Visiting Bali’s Art Villages: From Jewelry to Wood Carving

After the dance, the journey continues to Celuk Village, renowned for its goldsmiths and silversmiths. Here, you can marvel at traditional craftsmanship, observing how local artisans craft intricate jewelry with age-old techniques. Reviewers frequently praise the opportunity to see authentic craftsmanship up close, with one noting, “the jewelry in Bali is amazing, and I loved seeing the gallery and workshop.”

Next comes a visit to Dewa Putu Toris, a painting studio showcasing a variety of styles—Balinese Traditional, Kamasan, Naive, and Decorative. It’s a chance to appreciate Bali’s vibrant art scene and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. The gallery’s blend of art and local culture provides a deeper understanding of Balinese aesthetics, which visitors have found enriching.

In Kemenuh village, the tour visits a wood carver’s workshop—a favorite for those interested in traditional crafts. Watching artisans carve wood with precision offers a tangible connection to Bali’s artisanal traditions. Reviewers emphasized that seeing the carving process firsthand was a rewarding experience, giving a new appreciation for the craftsmanship behind souvenirs and home decor.

Exploring Religious and Historic Sites

The tour’s next stop is the Puseh Batuan Temple, a beautifully preserved religious site nestled within a sprawling complex of shrines and traditional architecture. Visitors often comment on the impressive stone motifs and the tranquility of the grounds. It’s a chance to experience Bali’s spiritual side—something that’s hard to capture in guidebooks but makes a lasting impression.

A highlight for many is the Tegenungan Waterfall, located in the lush jungle just outside Ubud. You’ll love the views of cascading water amid greenery, with steps allowing closer access to the falls. As one reviewer said, “the waterfall’s scenery is stunning, and you can get right up close,” making it perfect for photos or just soaking in nature’s power. The short walk down offers a refreshing break from the busier sites, and the sound of rushing water is incredibly relaxing.

Encountering the Sacred Monkey Forest

No trip to Ubud is complete without a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. This lively habitat houses over 700 long-tailed macaques—playful, mischievous, and sometimes cheeky. Visitors frequently mention how much fun they had watching the monkeys interact, and how close they could get without feeling unsafe. One reviewer called it the “highlight of the tour,” noting that the monkeys seem used to visitors and add a lively charm to the experience.

Seeing these animals in their naturalistic habitat, amidst ancient trees and temple ruins, offers a fun yet culturally significant experience. It’s a reminder of Bali’s harmonious blend of nature and spirituality.

Optional Stops and Personalization

While the main itinerary is quite full, the tour allows for optional stops if time permits—making it slightly customizable to your interests. This flexibility is a bonus for travelers who want to focus more on certain sites or perhaps skip one or two.

The entire day is supported by a private, air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide, ensuring comfort and easy communication. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Yasmika and Made Mundane for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility, which elevates the experience beyond just ticking off sights.

Analyzing the Value

At $67, this tour packs significant value. It covers transportation, entry fees, and a personalized guide—saving you the hassle of navigating Bali alone or organizing multiple tickets. The small group setting, or private arrangement, means you can ask questions, customize the pace, and get tailored insights about each site.

The inclusion of popular attractions like the Monkey Forest and Tegenungan Waterfall, combined with the cultural dance and craft visits, delivers a well-rounded Bali experience in just one day. Reviewers have appreciated the balance of culture and natural beauty, which means you’re not just seeing sights—you’re understanding them.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Be ready early in your hotel lobby, as pickups start around 8:30 am.
• Wear comfortable shoes—many sites involve walking and stairs.
• Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat, especially for the waterfall and outdoor craft visits.
• If you’re keen on photography, the waterfall, dance, and temple sites offer fantastic photo opportunities.
• Consider optional stops if your schedule permits, or discuss preferences with your guide.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Ubud tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to Bali’s culture, art, and natural scenery. It’s particularly suited for those with limited time but wanting a taste of everything, from dance and temples to waterfalls and wildlife. Families, first-time visitors, and art enthusiasts will find it especially rewarding.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided experiences with a personal touch, this tour’s focus on knowledgeable guides and flexible stops makes it stand out. It’s also a good fit for those who want a full-day, hassle-free adventure that captures the essence of Bali without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a private air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off in Ubud and most of south Bali, an English-speaking guide, entry fees to attractions, parking, and gas.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 9 hours, starting around 8:30 am and ending in the late afternoon.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour offers optional stops if there is time available, allowing some degree of flexibility based on your interests.

What sites will I visit?
Highlights include the Barong Dance, craft villages (Celuk, Batuan, Mas), Batuan Temple, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Monkey Forest Sanctuary.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility—some sites involve stairs or uneven terrain, like the waterfall.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, water, camera, and possibly a hat for outdoor sites.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase during the day.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of cultural performances, artisan visits, and natural scenery, plus the flexibility and personalized guide service, offers a well-rounded Bali experience at a reasonable price.

Final Thoughts

This Ubud excursion from Bali 4U Tours offers an engaging mix of Bali’s artistic traditions, spiritual sites, and natural wonders. It’s a trip designed for curious travelers who want to see the best of Bali in a single day without sacrificing depth or authenticity. Thanks to knowledgeable guides, a well-curated itinerary, and great value, it’s a smart choice for first-time visitors or anyone eager to soak up Bali’s vibrant culture.

Whether you’re captivated by dance performances, inspired by local artisans, or simply seeking scenic beauty, this tour delivers an authentic taste of Ubud’s magic—making it a worthwhile addition to your Bali adventure.