Ubud Bali Cycling Tour

Our review of the Ubud Bali Cycling Tour offers a straightforward look at what this popular activity provides. While we haven’t personally pedaled through Bali’s lush landscapes, we’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your Bali itinerary.

This tour promises a five-hour journey that takes you beyond the busy streets into rural villages, rice paddies, and secret back roads. It’s perfect for those wanting a gentle introduction to Bali’s countryside without the need for extreme endurance. Key perks include convenient pickup, a variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels, and a chance to connect with local life. On the flip side, some reviewers mention that it’s more of a scenic ride than an off-road adventure, so if you’re craving serious mountain biking, it might not hit that mark.

This tour appeals most to travelers interested in cultural sights, stunning views, and an easy-paced ride. It’s particularly suited for families or those who prefer a relaxed exploration rather than intense physical activity.

Key Points

• Flexible routes cater to different experience levels, from easy to challenging.
• Authentic cultural experiences include visits to local villages, rice farming, and observing traditional crafts.
• Beautiful scenery includes rice paddies, bamboo forests, and secret back roads.
• Comfortable and safe with helmet and safety gear provided.
• Convenient pickup and transport make it easy to join the tour hassle-free.
• Good value for money at around $41.54 per person, considering the scenery and cultural insights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides helmet and safety equipment, alongside private transportation from your hotel. If you want to explore more of Ubud’s area beyond the tour, transport charges are extra—about IDR 500k per car. It’s worth noting that the tour is designed for groups of up to 10 travelers, making it a more intimate experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Start Point & Timing
The adventure kicks off at Ubud Palace at 8:30 am, a central, easily accessible location. From here, expect about five hours of riding, including stops for sightseeing, cultural visits, and lunch.

The Scenic Ride
The core of the experience is the bike ride itself, which is mainly downhill, offering a relaxed pace that lets you soak in the views. The route covers more than just the usual rice paddies—off-road paths, secret back roads, dense plantations, and bamboo forests make appearances, providing that authentic Balinese rural atmosphere.

Cultural & Local Stops
Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to visit traditional villages, learn about rice and vegetable farming, watch wood carvers at work, and observe local family life. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the tour stops allowed us to see the everyday routines of villagers, which was a highlight.”

Lunch & Return
Post-ride, a traditional Indonesian lunch served in a modern Balinese family home offers a taste of local hospitality. This meal is a chance to relax and discuss the day’s highlights before the ride back to Ubud.

The Real-World Experience: Authenticity and Comfort

While some reviews indicate the activity is “unchallenging,” that’s precisely what makes it appealing for many. It’s more family-friendly than adrenaline-pumping, making it suitable for a range of ages and fitness levels. One reviewer describes it as a “wonderful concept for seeing the area, being in nature, and being introduced to local sights,” emphasizing the experience’s educational and scenic qualities.

Many travelers appreciate the easy-going pace, noting that it’s a fun way to spend a couple of hours without feeling exhausted. The bike safety gear adds a sense of security, especially important for those not regular cyclists.

The views are often cited as a standout feature, with the lush greenery and rice paddies providing a picturesque backdrop. You’ll love the chance to stop for photos whenever you wish, capturing Bali’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cycling experience is ideal for families with children, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day out. It’s suitable for those new to cycling or who prefer a gentle ride rather than technical off-road biking. It also appeals to travelers interested in local culture, as the stops give a meaningful look at Balinese daily life.

If your idea of adventure involves more challenging terrains or adrenaline rushes, this may not satisfy your craving. Still, if you’re after a peaceful, culturally enriching experience that showcases Bali’s countryside, this tour offers great value.

Practical Tips for Your Ride

• Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes suitable for cycling.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent—the ride exposes you to the sun and nature.
• Expect a fair amount of stopping and photo-taking, so keep your camera or phone handy.
• Hydrate well before and during the ride, especially in Bali’s warm climate.
• Consider the additional transport costs if you plan to explore other parts of Ubud, as the tour does not include transport outside the pickup zone.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking a relaxed way to see Bali’s countryside, the Ubud Bali Cycling Tour offers a pleasant, culturally immersive experience at a reasonable price. The scenic views, combined with opportunities to interact with local communities, make it a memorable outing for many.

While it’s not designed for thrill-seekers or mountain biking enthusiasts, it shines in providing an authentic, safe, and scenic introduction to Bali’s rural charm. The flexibility of routes and the focus on culture make this a worthwhile addition for travelers wanting a laid-back, landscape-filled day.

To sum it up, it’s a solid choice for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting to enjoy Bali’s natural beauty without the challenge of difficult rides. Just be prepared for a comfortable, scenic pedal rather than an intense adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the routes are flexible and can be adapted for different experience levels, with options from easy to more challenging rides.

What is included in the price?
Helmet and safety equipment are provided, along with private transportation to and from your hotel.

Can I stop for photos during the ride?
Absolutely. The tour allows you to stop whenever you want to take photos or explore a bit more.

How long is the cycling part of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around five hours, with the bike ride being a significant part, mostly downhill and very scenic.

Are there any additional costs?
Transport outside Ubud, if needed, costs about IDR 500k per car. The tour price is listed for at least two people, with a small extra fee for solo travelers.

What is the tour start time?
It begins at 8:30 am from Ubud Palace and ends back at the same meeting point.

Whether you’re after a peaceful day exploring Bali’s lush landscapes or eager to learn about local life, the Ubud Bali Cycling Tour offers a good-value, scenic introduction to the island’s rural charm.