Best of Ubud Tours: Waterfall, Rice Terraces & tjampuhan ridge walk

Traveling through Bali’s cultural heart, Ubud, offers a delightful mix of nature, tradition, and local life. We’re here to share a detailed look at one of the most popular tours in the area — a full-day exploration that promises stunning scenery and authentic experiences, all wrapped in a private, hassle-free package.

What we love about this tour: First, the variety — from waterfalls to temples, artsy markets to scenic walks. Second, the personal touch of a private driver that ensures flexibility and comfort. And third, the unbeatable value at just $42 per person, which includes a full day of sightseeing and transport. The only thing to keep in mind is that, with so many stops packed into one day, it’s a fairly full schedule — so if you’re seeking a relaxed, slow-paced experience, you might want to consider a more tailored option. This tour suits travelers craving a comprehensive, authentic taste of Ubud’s highlights in one go.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Private transport and a dedicated driver make for a stress-free day.
• Diverse Highlights: From waterfalls and rice terraces to temples and markets, the tour showcases Bali’s diverse beauty.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit markets, art villages, and temples to connect with local culture.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking scenery, especially at the rice terraces and ridge walk.
• Great Value: At $42, the tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized day with flexibility.
• Perfect for First-Timers: Ideal for travelers wanting a broad introduction to Ubud.

Exploring Ubud’s Rich Tapestry of Sights

This tour is essentially a curated snapshot of Ubud’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites, all in one day. We appreciate that it’s designed as a private experience, meaning your group gets tailored attention and the freedom to linger or move on based on your preferences. The way it’s arranged makes it especially appealing for first-time visitors eager to get a broad overview without the hassle of booking multiple trips or navigating public transportation.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Ubud Traditional Art Market

Your day begins at the bustling Ubud Traditional Art Market, where the lively atmosphere reveals the vibrant local commerce. It’s a short stop, about 45 minutes, but enough time to soak in the colors, haggle for souvenirs, or simply people-watch. From what we gather, it’s a great place to see the lively, authentic side of Ubud’s daily life, making it more than just a tourist trap.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Next, you’ll visit the Tegenungan Waterfall, a favorite for its sheer beauty and ease of access. Standing about 15 meters high, the waterfall’s powerful, clear flow is mesmerizing, especially when framed by the lush greenery of Kemenuh Village. Visitors who’ve been here mention the water is refreshingly clean, perfect for a quick photo or a dip if you’re feeling brave. The one-hour stop allows enough time to enjoy the scenery before moving on.

Saraswati Temple

The Saraswati Temple in Ubud is renowned for its tranquil lotus pond and intricate Balinese architecture. Though admission is free, the temple offers a peaceful retreat amid the busy tour schedule. It’s a lovely spot for photos and to appreciate the spiritual side of Bali’s culture, with some reviewers noting that it’s a nice contrast to the more energetic sites.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

For those who love a little outdoor activity, the Campuhan Ridge Walk offers about an hour of scenic strolling along a narrow trail atop gentle hills. The 2-kilometer track is perfect for soaking in panoramic views and feeling the breeze. Many find this walk calming and refreshing, a gentle break from the busier stops, and reviewers rave about the stunning vistas, especially around sunset.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Arguably Bali’s most iconic sight, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a must-see. The layered green terraces carved into the hillside offer some of the most breathtaking views in Bali. Expect plenty of photo ops and a chance to understand the traditional irrigation system (subak). We loved the way the terraces unfold in a series of lush steps, making it a photographer’s paradise, especially in the soft light of late morning or late afternoon.

Ubud Art Villages and Market

While the itinerary mentions a market and art villages, the focus remains on the lively art scene. You might find yourself browsing local crafts or observing artists at work, adding an authentic touch to your day.

Puri Saren Palace and Batuan Temple

Your final stops include the Ubud Palace—a grand royal residence with traditional Balinese architecture — and Puseh Batuan Temple, which adds a spiritual layer to your exploration. Both sites provide insight into Bali’s rich religious and royal traditions, with options for tranquil wandering or photos.

How the Tour Works in Practice

Transportation is a key feature here. The tour offers hassle-free round-trip transport from select locations in southern Bali, which is a big plus for those staying in places like Seminyak or Kuta. The vehicle is described as clean and cool, and the driver is noted for friendliness, making the long day more comfortable.

The tour begins promptly at 7:00 am, giving you the full 10 hours to absorb the sights. Since it’s a private tour, your group can enjoy a more personalized experience, with the flexibility to spend more or less time at each site depending on your interests.

For those concerned about costs, the tour includes the driver, transport, and in most cases, entrance fees and optional performances (depending on the package). The available options include full packages, which incorporate entrance tickets and performances, or charter packages, where you pay for entrances separately. This setup offers transparency and lets you customize your day.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

One of the best things about this tour is how it combines scenic beauty with cultural moments. Reviewers mention how enjoyable it is to see the different sides of Bali — from the natural wonder of waterfalls and rice terraces to vibrant markets and temples. The guide and driver, praised for their friendliness and punctuality, help make the experience seamless.

The rice terraces are especially appreciated for their stunning vistas. Visitors describe the terraces as “beautiful and impressive,” with some quoting that the views are “unmatched” and “perfect for photos.” The walk along Campuhan Ridge is short but sweet, providing a peaceful break with sweeping views of the lush landscape.

Insights from Reviewers

A review from a tourist points out that “nothing was boring or complicated,” emphasizing the smooth flow of the day. Another mentions the joy of trying Luwak coffee at a local plantation, a unique Bali experience that often surprises first-timers.

Since the tour is designed for most travelers, it’s accessible, but it does involve a fair amount of walking and some uneven surfaces at sites like the rice terraces and ridge walk. Those with mobility concerns should consider this.

Value and Who This Tour Suits Best

At $42 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the depth and variety of sites visited, as well as the comfort of private transportation. It’s a well-structured day that hits all the highlights without feeling rushed, making it ideal for travelers who want a rundown in one day.

This experience particularly suits first-time visitors to Ubud or travelers with limited time who want to maximize sightseeing without the stress of planning multiple visits. It also appeals to those seeking a mix of nature, culture, and local flavor, with enough flexibility to make the day your own.

Final Thoughts

This tour packs together Bali’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites into a single, well-organized day. The private aspect enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized moments and comfort. The combination of waterfalls, rice terraces, temples, markets, and scenic walks captures the essence of Ubud—balancing natural beauty with cultural depth.

If you’re after a practical, enriching introduction to Bali’s art, nature, and spiritual sites, this tour offers incredible value. It’s an excellent way to see a lot without the hassle, especially if you’re new to the area or want a flexible, guided experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces at sites like the rice terraces and ridge walk.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip transport from select southern Bali locations is provided, with a clean, comfortable vehicle and a friendly driver.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, giving you a full day to explore.

Are entrance fees included?
It depends on the package you select. Full packages include entrance tickets, while charter packages do not, so you’ll need to pay separately if you choose the latter.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s some flexibility to spend more or less time at certain sites if you discuss your preferences with the driver beforehand.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, which covers all the major stops comfortably.

Is lunch included?
The provided information doesn’t specify lunch, so it’s best to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the day.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of stunning scenery, cultural insights, private service, and great value makes it a top pick for first-time visitors.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for souvenirs or additional expenses.

In the end, this Ubud tour strikes a balance between scenic beauty, culture, and practical comfort — perfect for those wanting a memorable and hassle-free day in the Bali’s cultural heart.