Bali: Private Sangeh Monkey Forest, Temple & Waterfall Tour

This Bali tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s lesser-known yet truly captivating spots. While many travelers stick to the popular temples and beaches, this experience takes you into the heart of Bali’s natural beauty and traditional charm, all with the comfort of a private guide. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a personalized, flexible day that balances wildlife encounters, sacred sites, and lush scenery.

What we love about this tour? First, the private setting means you get undivided attention from your guide, making the experience more engaging and tailored to your interests. Second, the variety of stops—from monkey forests to waterfalls—keeps things fresh and exciting. Third, the authentic local vibe shines through, especially in places like Bongkasa Rice Terrace, where the views are breathtaking.

A quick note of caution: this is a full-day adventure, so it requires good walking shoes and a sense of curiosity for discovering Bali beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s best suited for active travelers who want an intimate look at Bali’s natural and cultural highlights without the crowds.

Key Points

• Private tour offers customized experiences and personal attention.
• Includes diverse stops such as wildlife, temples, waterfalls, and rice paddies.
• Flexible itinerary allowing you to focus on your interests, with options to skip certain stops.
• Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, enhancing your understanding of Bali.
• The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
• Ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, culture, and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour? An In-depth Look

Exploring the Sangeh Monkey Forest

Your day begins in the lush Sangeh Monkey Forest, a hidden gem where hundreds of long-tailed macaques roam freely among towering nutmeg trees and ancient temple ruins. Unlike some crowded parks, this place is known for its relaxed, private feel, which many reviewers appreciate. As one traveler noted, their guide carefully managed interactions with the monkeys, making it safe and fun for everyone.

Expect plenty of photo opportunities and close encounters with playful monkeys. It’s a chance to see wildlife in a more natural setting, without the chaos often associated with more commercialized parks. The guide’s insights help you understand the significance of the site, which is not just about the animals but also the local myths and traditions tied to the forest.

Admiring Taman Ayun Temple

Next up is Taman Ayun Temple, a UNESCO-recognized site renowned for its stunning traditional architecture. Surrounded by lotus ponds, this royal temple provides a peaceful atmosphere perfect for absorbing Balinese spiritual culture. Reviewers consistently mention how the guide’s detailed explanations enhance the visit, transforming it from a simple sightseeing stop into a meaningful experience.

The temple’s intricate wood carvings and layered pagoda-style shrines are visually striking, and the grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Many guests comment on how this stop offers a glimpse into Bali’s religious traditions, with some even mentioning how the landscaped gardens and serene reflecting pools add to the sense of calm.

Refreshment at Leke Leke Waterfall

Leke Leke Waterfall is a true highlight, especially if you’re into natural beauty and tranquility. The waterfall is located in a lush jungle setting, and the crystal-clear waters invite you to take a refreshing dip or simply enjoy the soothing sounds of cascading water.

One reviewer loved that their guide offered personalized tips on the best spots for photos and ways to enjoy the waterfall while being respectful of the environment. It’s a peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist spots, with natural surroundings that make you feel like you’re discovering a secret hideaway. Keep in mind that it involves some walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Sights at Bongkasa Rice Terrace

The tour concludes at the Bongkasa Rice Terrace, where emerald-green paddies stretch as far as the eye can see. This is the quintessential Bali landscape, perfect for photos and peaceful reflection. Many travelers describe it as a “picture-perfect” spot to appreciate Bali’s agricultural life and natural beauty.

Guests have praised how their guides shared insights into local farming practices and rice cultivation stages, making the scenery even more meaningful. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a busy morning, soaking in the views and capturing memorable photos.

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts with a flexible pickup from Ubud, Kuta, Denpasar, or Badung Regency—whichever suits your location. From there, your driver and guide will take you on a journey tailored to your interests, with roughly an hour allocated to each stop for exploration, photos, and free time.

Sangeh Monkey Forest is first, where your guide ensures a safe and engaging encounter with the monkeys. After about an hour exploring and taking photos, you’ll head to Bongkasa Rice Terrace for scenic views and cultural insights. Following that, you’ll visit the Leke Leke Waterfall, which offers both natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere.

The last stop is the Taman Ayun Temple, a serene place to appreciate Bali’s spiritual heritage before heading back to your accommodation. The entire tour lasts approximately 9 hours, making it a full but comfortable day of sightseeing.

What’s Included

• Private transportation with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide
• Flexible itinerary with the option to customize or skip stops
• Entrance fees to sites (if applicable)
• Pick-up and drop-off at your preferred location

Practical Considerations

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring essentials like camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or those with mobility issues.

The tour’s private group setting means you avoid the crowds and can ask questions at your own pace, which many reviewers found to be a significant advantage. The guides—like Gede and Nyoman—are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to customize.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler from Austria shared how their guide Nyoman perfectly customized the day, skipping waterfalls to include a coffee tasting, which made their experience more personal and enjoyable. They appreciated being able to visit sites before the crowds, thanks to the flexible schedule.

A guest from France highlighted Joe’s helpfulness and expertise, saying, “we highly recommend him for guided tours,” which underscores the importance of having a passionate guide. Another reviewer praised Budi for his patience and knowledge, especially when explaining the different stages of rice farming at Bongkasa.

What makes this tour stand out?

Many reviews mention the personalized approach and the knowledgeable guides who go beyond surface-level information. The flexibility to tailor the day means you get a more meaningful experience—whether that’s focusing more on wildlife, temples, or just soaking up the scenery.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t listed here, this type of private, full-day tour generally offers excellent value considering the personalized service, private transportation, and access to lesser-visited sites. Many travelers felt the price justified the quality of the experience, especially with guides who provided both cultural insights and practical tips that enhanced their day.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want a balanced mix of nature and culture without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you’re looking to explore off-the-beaten-path spots with a knowledgeable guide by your side. The private nature ensures a flexible, intimate day—great for couples, families, or small groups seeking a more personalized adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Bali: Private Sangeh Monkey Forest, Temple & Waterfall Tour offers a well-rounded day of discovery that combines wildlife encounters, sacred sites, and stunning landscapes. Its flexible, private setup makes it stand out, especially for those who want to avoid touristy crowds and have a guide tailor the experience to their preferences.

You’ll leave with not only beautiful photos but also a deeper understanding of Bali’s culture and natural environment. This tour’s balance of adventure, tranquility, and cultural insight makes it a smart choice for anyone wanting to see a side of Bali that few visitors experience.

Who should consider this tour? If you’re after a personalized, immersive day that highlights Bali’s authentic charm, this is a fantastic pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy active exploration and meaningful cultural exchanges, all wrapped up in a comfortable private setting.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for active travelers and those over 1 year old, as it involves walking and outdoor activities. It’s not recommended for the elderly over 70 or for babies under 1.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs about 9 hours, offering plenty of time to explore each site without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private, so guides can adapt the itinerary based on your preferences or requests.

Are entrance fees included?
The tour includes entrance fees to the sites, making it convenient and straightforward.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water are recommended for a smooth day.

Is the tour accessible if I have mobility issues?
It is wheelchair accessible, but some walking on uneven terrain may be required.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

This private Bali tour delivers a genuine and memorable experience, perfect for those wanting to see the island’s natural beauty and rich traditions without the crowds. With knowledgeable guides and a flexible approach, it’s a wonderful way to create personalized Bali memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: