Ubud Tour with Swing, Waterfalls, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest

Exploring Bali’s Ubud in a Day: A Practical and Authentic Tour Experience

If you’re planning a day trip to Ubud, this Ubud Tour with Swing, Waterfalls, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest offers a comprehensive look at Bali’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. Promising an 8-hour adventure, it combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and playful activities, all wrapped up in private, air-conditioned comfort.

What we love most? The diverse itinerary, which hits key spots like the iconic rice terraces and sacred temples; the authentic cultural touches such as watching silver artisans and batik painting; and the personalized, private nature of the tour, ensuring your experience feels intimate and tailored.

One thing to consider: the tour is quite full, so if you’re after a leisurely, relaxed pace, it might feel a bit rushed at certain stops. Still, for those eager to see a lot in one day, this is a flexible and value-packed option.

This experience suits solo travelers, couples, and families alike—especially those who want a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty without strenuous hikes or complex logistics.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering Bali’s top highlights in a single day
• Private, air-conditioned transport for comfort and convenience
• Authentic cultural insights including artisan workshops and temple rituals
• Kid-friendly pace with playful activities like the monkey forest and batik painting
• Flexible temple visit options tailored to your interests
• Hassle-free experience with all entrance fees, water, towels, and sarongs included

Exploring Each Stop in Detail

Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Bali’s Iconic Landscape

We start our day with a visit to the famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace, often described as Bali’s postcard-perfect scene. Walking along the narrow paths, you’ll be immersed in lush, emerald paddies carved into the hillside. What’s particularly special here is the included jungle swing, which allows you to soar above the rice fields for breathtaking photos. The tour guide, well-versed in the UNESCO-listed subak irrigation system, explains how this traditional method sustains the rice farming for centuries—adding cultural depth to your visit.

Expect about an hour here, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning. Reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see Bali’s agricultural roots up close.

Tirta Empul Temple: Sacred Water Rituals

Next, we head to Tirta Empul, a revered water temple where locals have been performing purification rituals for over a thousand years. The tour includes sarongs and explanations of the ritual, with the option to participate or simply observe. The guide’s insights help demystify the spiritual significance, making it accessible even for first-timers.

While most travelers find this a highlight, it’s worth noting that menstruating women are not allowed inside the temple**, which is a standard restriction. Many reviewers found the experience meaningful, with one mentioning that the temple rituals provided a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual life.

Ubud Art Market

A quick browse through Ubud’s bustling Art Market offers a chance to pick up handcrafted souvenirs. While shopping isn’t the main focus, the vibrant stalls showcase local crafts, textiles, and artwork. It’s a lively contrast to the natural and spiritual stops, providing a taste of local commerce and artistry.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

A walk through the Monkey Forest is both fun and slightly mischievous. The cheeky macaques are used to visitors and are often seen playing among ancient stone temples. Your guide is helpful in pointing out the best photo spots and sharing stories about the forest’s spiritual significance.

Although some might worry about the monkeys stealing snacks, the guide’s tips help keep things safe. Reviewers particularly appreciated the expert guidance and the playful atmosphere of this stop.

Tegenungan Waterfall

After a short jungle hike, you’ll arrive at Tegenungan Waterfall, a powerful 15-meter cascade surrounded by lush greenery. Here, you can swim in the cool pool, capture stunning photos from bamboo decks, or simply relax and enjoy the sound of rushing water.

The walk down is about 5-10 minutes, and most guests find it manageable—even with kids. The waterfall is less crowded early in the day, so arriving promptly can enhance your experience.

Celuk Village: Silver Artisanship

A visit to Celuk Village showcases Bali’s highly skilled silversmiths. Watching artisans craft intricate jewelry using traditional techniques is fascinating, and you’ll have the chance to purchase authentic silver pieces directly from the source. The process is detailed, requiring patience and craftsmanship, which adds value to any purchase.

Reviewers loved the personalized insights into jewelry making and found the shop visits well worth the time.

Bali Bidadari Batik

The day wraps up with a hands-on batik painting demonstration at Bali Bidadari Batik. Learning how wax and dyes create beautiful fabrics offers a tactile connection to Bali’s artistic traditions. Browsing the gallery, you can find unique souvenirs—though purchases are optional.

Guests appreciated the interactive element and the chance to create something memorable to take home.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Hassle-Free Comfort: The private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day, even in Bali’s tropical heat. Bottled water, cold towels, and sarongs contribute to a smooth experience.

Authentic Cultural Encounters: Watching silver artisans, participating in temple rituals, and learning batik techniques give you a genuine taste of Balinese culture, beyond just sightseeing.

Flexible and Personal: Being a private tour, it allows for some customization—whether you want more temple time, fewer stops, or specific interests. The guide’s explanations help deepen your understanding and appreciation of each site.

Value for Money: At $63.75 per person, including all entrance fees and some cultural activities, this tour offers excellent value—covering significant sights without the stress of multiple bookings or transportation logistics.

Transport and Logistics

The tour includes private transportation with air conditioning, which is a significant advantage in Bali’s warm climate. Pick-up is offered from Seminyak, simplifying your planning. The timing allows you to avoid the crowds, especially at popular sites like the rice terraces and waterfall.

Most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide, with one reviewer mentioning Gus Alit by name, indicating a high level of service and local expertise. The small-group format fosters a personable atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and engage with the sites.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Solo travelers will enjoy the chance to connect with others in a small group, while couples can revel in romantic moments at the jungle swing and waterfalls. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly pace and fun activities like the monkey forest and batik painting.

Those seeking a comprehensive, yet manageable, day of exploring Ubud’s highlights will find this tour well-suited. It balances natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic experiences—all wrapped in comfort and convenience.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

This Ubud day trip offers a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Bali in a single day. The combination of scenic landscapes, sacred sites, artisan workshops, and playful activities makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want to see a lot without feeling rushed.

The local guides bring the sites to life with their insights, making the experience both educational and memorable. The included cultural elements like the silver craft demonstrations and temple rituals add a meaningful touch that elevates the tour beyond typical sightseeing.

Given its affordability, flexibility, and thoughtful itinerary, this tour provides great value for anyone wanting an authentic, fun, and comprehensive taste of Ubud.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is kid-friendly, especially with activities like the monkey forest and batik painting. It has a relaxed, playful pace designed to suit all ages.

Are all entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are covered—such as Tegalalang Rice Terrace, swing, Monkey Forest, Tirta Empul, and Tegenungan Waterfall—if you select those options when booking.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, which includes travel time, sightseeing, and cultural activities. It’s designed to fit comfortably within a day.

Does the tour include lunch?
Lunch is not included, but there are stops for refreshments, including coffee and tea mid-trip, and plenty of water. You might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase food during the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, some customization is possible—discuss your preferences with your guide beforehand.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. Sarongs and lockers are provided for temple visits, and modest dress is encouraged.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Most stops involve walking or a short hike, such as the descent to Tegenungan Waterfall. It’s best suited for those with moderate mobility.

What is the weather like?
Most of the tour is outdoors, so be prepared for hot or rainy weather depending on the season. Good rain gear and sun protection are recommended.

How do I book this tour?
You can book through the provided link, with most bookings made at least a week in advance to secure your preferred date.

This thoughtfully curated Ubud tour balances natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and fun, making it a standout choice for a full Bali experience in just one day.