Bali: Sacred Monkey Forest, Rice Terraces & Ritual Tour

Traveling through Bali offers endless opportunities to encounter its vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and spiritual traditions. This 10-hour tour by BaliYasaTrans aims to combine those elements into a well-rounded day that highlights some of the island’s most iconic sights. It’s designed for curious travelers eager to see Bali’s natural beauty, experience its spirituality, and taste its rich coffee culture — all comfortably arranged in a private group setting.

What we find most appealing about this experience? First, it’s a thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances wildlife encounters, scenic views, and cultural rituals. Second, the flexibility to choose activities based on your interests makes it feel personalized rather than cookie-cutter. Third, the inclusion of a spiritual cleansing ritual at Tirta Empul adds an authentic, meaningful touch. That said, it’s a long day with multiple stops, so it might not suit those seeking a more leisurely pace or have mobility concerns.

If you’re after a meaningful introduction to Bali’s heart and soul, this tour promises a rich, balanced experience. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors, nature lovers, and those wanting a deeper connection to Bali’s spiritual practices. Just keep in mind the physical activity involved, particularly at the rice terraces and optional quad biking.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blending wildlife, culture, nature, and spirituality.
• Private group ensures a personalized experience and flexibility.
• Authentic rituals like the water temple cleansing add depth.
• Scenic rice terraces and lush jungle views deliver picture-perfect moments.
• Includes coffee tasting at a traditional farm, appealing to coffee enthusiasts.
• Long but rewarding day with multiple stops and optional activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour aims to give you a genuine glimpse of Bali’s cultural essence and natural beauty in a single day. Starting with pickup from six convenient locations, including Sanur, Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, and Sukawati, the tour makes it easy to hop on and get going. Once underway, expect a mix of guided sightseeing, photo stops, and optional adventure activities.

The core of the day is the visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud. Here, you’ll walk through a lush jungle environment populated by playful macaques, with a guided tour that helps you understand their role in Bali’s spiritual and cultural landscape. Reviewers mention the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, which makes the wildlife encounter engaging rather than just a photo opportunity.

Next is the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, which truly encapsulates Bali’s iconic landscape. With its cascading fields and traditional irrigation system, it offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate local farming practices. Some travelers enjoy the optional zipline for an adrenaline rush, but even walking along the terraces provides ample scenic beauty.

The tour also includes a visit to a traditional coffee farm, where you can sample Bali’s famous kopi luwak and learn about local coffee production. Reviewers often highlight the quality of the tasting and the chance to see the process up close, making it a highlight for coffee enthusiasts.

The spiritual component takes center stage at Tirta Empul, a water temple where a ritual cleansing is performed. This experience is designed to clear negative energy and promote spiritual renewal. Several travelers have described it as a “meaningful” and “peaceful” moment, adding depth to their day in Bali.

Finally, the trip wraps up with a break in Ubud, giving you time to relax, explore, or revisit any sites you loved. Drop-offs are available at multiple locations, making it easy to continue your Bali adventure afterward.

In-Depth Breakdown of Each Stop

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

This lush sanctuary is more than just a tourist site; it’s a spiritual hub for locals and visitors alike. The monkeys, mostly macaques, are accustomed to human presence but should be observed with caution. The guided tour provides insights into the monkeys’ significance in local myths and practices. Visitors often comment on the lively atmosphere and the friendly guide who makes the experience both fun and informative. Expect to spend about an hour here, enough to get some great photos and learn about the conservation efforts.

Ubud and Surroundings

After the monkey forest, the tour makes a quick stop in Ubud proper for photo opportunities and to soak in the artsy vibe. Some guests opt for an off-road adventure or quad biking, which adds an extra thrill if you’re into adrenaline. These activities last around 1.5 hours and are perfect for those seeking more active experiences.

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Tegallalang Rice Terrace

The iconic rice terraces are a must-see. The walk here is a gentle, scenic experience, with many stopping for pictures or just to soak in the peaceful green vistas. For the more adventurous, ziplining over the terraces offers a unique perspective — though this is an optional activity. Expect about an hour here, with plenty of time to appreciate Bali’s farming heritage and natural beauty.

Coffee Tasting Experience

The stop at a traditional coffee farm offers a welcome break from sightseeing. Here, you’ll taste Bali’s famous coffee and learn about the harvesting process. Reviewers mention the high-quality coffee and the friendly staff who explain the different varieties. It’s a relaxed, flavorful experience that appeals to coffee lovers and curious travelers alike.

Tirta Empul Water Temple

This sacred site is the spiritual highlight for many. The water temple’s holy spring is used for purification rituals, which visitors can participate in by bathing in the spring under the guidance of a priest. The experience is often described as profound and calming, giving visitors a chance for spiritual reflection. Expect about an hour at this stop, with some visitors taking part in the ritual and others observing.

Ubud Break & Drop-off

The tour ends with a break in Ubud, giving you time to explore local markets, grab a bite, or simply relax. Drop-offs cover Seminyak, Canggu, Sukawati, Kuta, and Sanur, offering good flexibility for the rest of your day.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation: The tour provides private transportation, which is clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned. It’s a big plus, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

Group Size: Since it’s a private group, expect a more intimate experience, tailored to your interests and pace.

Duration & Timing: Starting times vary, but generally, the day lasts around 10 hours. It’s a full itinerary that requires good stamina, especially considering the number of stops.

Cost & Value: While the exact price isn’t listed, the tour includes multiple attractions, a professional guide, and private transportation — all of which add to its value. The inclusion of a spiritual ritual and cultural experiences makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an authentic, enriching day.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking quite a bit. A change of clothes might be useful, especially if you participate in the cleansing ritual or outdoor activities. Cameras and cash are also recommended.

Limitations: The tour isn’t suitable for travelers over 70, due to the physical activity involved. Also, additional charges may apply for pickups outside the designated areas.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right For You?

This Bali tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the island’s natural beauty, spiritual practices, and local culture. Its private, flexible nature makes it suitable for travelers who want a personalized experience without the hassle of self-planning. The inclusion of authentic rituals and scenic stops ensures you’ll leave with memorable moments and a deeper understanding of Bali’s soul.

If you love exploring on foot, enjoy learning about local traditions, and want to see Bali beyond the typical postcard images, this tour hits the sweet spot. The long day packed with diverse activities is perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and are eager to maximize their time on the island.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility issues, some stops might require extra stamina. It’s also a great choice for coffee lovers and those interested in spirituality, giving a comprehensive taste of Bali’s cultural landscape in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation from six pickup points is included, making it easy and comfortable to start your day.

Can I customize the activities?
The tour offers options like quad biking and ziplining, allowing you to choose based on your interest. However, the core itinerary is fixed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, lightweight clothes, and a change of clothes are recommended, especially if participating in the cleansing ritual or outdoor activities.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, walking around the rice terraces and participating in the ritual cleansing at Tirta Empul involve some physical movement, but the pace is manageable.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 10 hours, from pickup to drop-off, with multiple stops along the way.

What’s the best time to join?
Check the availability for starting times, but mornings are typically preferred to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Is this suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it may be less suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this Bali tour provides a thoughtfully curated day that balances natural beauty, culture, and spiritual renewal. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to experience Bali’s authentic side in a comfortable, private setting. Expect a mix of scenic views, meaningful rituals, and lively wildlife — all wrapped into a single, unforgettable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: