Ubud: Waterfalls & Temple with Rice Terrace Small-Group Tour

If you’re looking to explore Bali beyond the usual beaches and resorts, this Ubud Waterfalls & Temple tour offers a well-balanced blend of nature, culture, and local flavor. It’s a full day packed with picturesque scenery, meaningful cultural insights, and a touch of adventure.

What we love about this experience are the diverse stops, from the sacred Tirta Empul Temple to the stunning Tukad Cepung Waterfall, the small-group size that makes it personal, and the value-packed activities like the coffee tasting and rice terrace views.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves some walking along uneven riverbeds, rocky paths, and short hikes — so it’s better suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness and mobility.

This tour is perfect if you crave an authentic experience that combines Bali’s natural beauty with its spiritual traditions, especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics.

Key Points

• Diverse attractions: visit waterfalls, temples, and rice terraces in one day for a comprehensive Bali experience
• Cultural immersion: participate in a traditional holy water purification ritual at Tirta Empul
• Scenic beauty: enjoy stunning views and photos at Tegalalang Rice Terrace and multiple waterfalls
• Expert guides: learn about Balinese culture from local guides providing insightful commentary
• Active but manageable: expect short hikes, rocky paths, and some slippery surfaces, requiring a moderate fitness level
• Excellent reviews: highly-rated for organization, guides, and value, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 51 reviews

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Ubud Waterfalls & Temple Tour

What to Expect from the Tour

This 8 to 9-hour adventure offers an efficient way to see some of Bali’s most iconic natural and cultural sights, all in a small-group setting. You start with a seamless pickup from your Ubud accommodation or meet at the historic Ubud Palace — a highly photogenic spot right in town.

First stop: Tirta Empul Temple. Known for its spiritual significance, this Hindu water temple is famous for its holy spring water used for purification rituals. Visitors are encouraged to join in, which requires modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees). Sarongs are typically provided, but bringing your own is also a good idea. As one reviewer noted, “The guide was super nice and told us lots of things about Bali, the Temple, and everything else,” making the visit both informative and meaningful.

After soaking up the spiritual atmosphere, you’ll walk along riverside paths and rocky terrain to reach the Tukad Cepung Waterfall. This waterfall is unique because it’s tucked into a canyon, with sunlight filtering through the opening above. Expect a bit of splashing, some slippery stones, and a short climb — but the stunning photos and cool water make it worth the effort. Several guests mention the adventure of navigating uneven paths, so sturdy shoes are a must.

Next, you’ll visit Kanto Lampo and Tibumana Waterfalls. Both are accessible via short scenic hikes, with reviews praising their beauty and the opportunity to swim. “We had a truly wonderful and full day today. Everything was beautifully organised and all the attractions were amazing,” says one reviewer, emphasizing the well-coordinated nature of the tour.

The Cultural and Scenic Highlights

A highlight for many is the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. This UNESCO-famous site offers sweeping views of emerald fields carved into the landscape. Visitors can stroll along the terraces, take photos, and even swing high above the rice paddies (optional with an extra fee). As one guest shared, “Soak in panoramic views and savor a complimentary coffee tasting,” adding a relaxing break to your busy day.

The coffee tasting is included, giving you a taste of Bali’s famous kopi tubruk or other local brews. It’s a nice way to experience something unique to Bali’s agricultural culture without extra cost, and many reviewers appreciated the quality and friendliness of the staff.

Logistics and Practicalities

Transportation is comfortable and highly-rated, with 97% of reviewers giving it a perfect score. The small-group format (usually around 6-12 people) makes the tour more intimate, allowing for better interaction with guides and other travelers.

The timing is well-structured, with pick-up in the morning to maximize your day. Expect some traffic during transfers, which can extend the day a bit but is typical for Bali. The tour does not include hotel transfers unless specifically booked, but meeting at Ubud Palace is straightforward.

What to bring: reliable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, water, and a waterproof bag are recommended. Guides emphasize modest clothing at Tirta Empul, and expect some walking along uneven paths at waterfalls — so moderate fitness is advisable.

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Guides and Reviews

The guides play a big role in making this tour memorable. Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Kar, Samba, and Suker, who are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible. One reviewer mentioned, “He shared his culture and took me through the steps of purification,” which highlights the authentic and personal touch guides bring.

The reviews also highlight the value for money, with guests feeling the experience exceeds expectations considering the attractions visited, the quality of guiding, and overall organization.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers looking for a comprehensive and authentic day trip with a mix of nature, culture, and scenic beauty. Ideal for those who enjoy light hikes, cultural rituals, and stunning photo opportunities. Please note, it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness — the trails aren’t overly long but can be slippery or uneven.

It’s particularly popular among solo travelers, couples, and small groups wanting a personalized, hassle-free way to see Bali’s highlights. Those with mobility issues or pregnant women might find some parts challenging due to walking and uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This Ubud Waterfalls & Temple tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Bali’s natural wonders and spiritual sites. You’ll leave with a handful of memorable photos, new cultural insights, and a deeper appreciation for Bali’s landscape and traditions.

The combination of beautiful waterfalls, the sacred Tirta Empul Temple, scenic rice terraces, and a delicious coffee tasting makes this a fantastic value for anyone wanting a taste of Bali’s essence without overloading your day.

Overall, what we love about this tour is its thoughtful organization, passionate guides, and authentic experiences. It’s a memorable way to explore Bali’s highlights with a small, friendly group, making it a practical choice for travelers who value quality and genuine connection.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is available from several areas including Kuta, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Legian, Canggu, Sanur, and Ubud. If you’re staying in Ubud, you can opt to meet at the designated point.

What should I wear for the temple visit?
Modest clothing is required—shoulders and knees must be covered. Sarongs are usually provided, but bringing your own is optional.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate fitness is recommended as there are short hikes, rocky paths, and slippery surfaces at waterfalls and on trails. Expect some stairs and uneven terrain.

Can I participate in the purification ritual?
Yes. You’ll have the opportunity to join a traditional holy water cleansing. Be sure to bring a change of clothes and a towel.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, a camera, sunscreen, water, and a waterproof bag.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 to 9 hours, including transfers, stops, and free time at each attraction.

Is food included?
Lunch is not included but there’s a break for lunch at a local restaurant, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred meal.

What is the group size?
It’s a small-group tour, typically around 6-12 people, which offers a more personal experience.

In all, this tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting to see Bali’s lush landscapes, dive into local culture, and enjoy a well-organized day with plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: