Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace

Exploring Ubud in Bali offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual heritage. This private full-day tour promises a comprehensive experience, weaving together iconic temples, lush waterfalls, and scenic rice terraces. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, detailed reviews and extensive itinerary descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private guide and air-conditioned transport ensure comfort and flexibility. Second, the inclusion of local insights and personalized attention elevates the experience beyond a typical sightseeing day. Third, the affordable price point of $27 per person offers remarkable value for such a full itinerary. On the flip side, the absence of included entrance fees means you’ll need to budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers seeking an authentic, well-rounded day in Ubud—perfect for those who want to see cultural landmarks, enjoy scenic vistas, and have the flexibility to customize their experience. If you enjoy a mix of nature, spirituality, and local flavor, this private tour could be an ideal choice for your Bali adventure.

Key Points

Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace - Key Points

  • Private Tour with Flexibility: Enjoy a personalized experience with your own guide and vehicle.
  • Coverage of Ubud’s Highlights: Temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and cultural stops.
  • Affordable Price: At $27 per person, it offers good value compared to many other tours.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with air-conditioning and bottled water.
  • Informed Guides: Reviewers praise guides for their hospitality and knowledge.
  • Additional Costs: Entrance tickets and food are not included, so plan your budget.

Exploring the Itinerary: A Day Filled With Diversity

Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace - Exploring the Itinerary: A Day Filled With Diversity

Dewa Putu Toris – Artistic First Stop

The day begins with a visit to Dewa Putu Toris, where you can observe a talented local artist at work. This stop lasts about an hour and provides a rare glimpse into Balinese artistic traditions. Many reviews highlight the value of seeing authentic local craftsmanship and even purchasing unique artworks.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – Playful Encounters

Next, you’ll stroll through the Ubud Monkey Forest, home to long-tailed macaques. This popular spot is not just fun but also offers a chance to observe these cheeky primates in their lush habitat. Reviewers mention the monkeys being “awesome” and highlight the importance of keeping personal belongings secure, as the monkeys are quite curious. Expect to spend around an hour here, with entrance tickets included, making it a highlight for animal lovers and camera enthusiasts alike.

Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah) – A Cultural Landmark

The Elephant Cave is a must-see, featuring a 7-meter-tall cave carved into the cliffside. The entrance, adorned with a mythical “Boma” figure, hints at the spiritual significance of the site. Inside, you’ll find Hindu temples and artifacts that showcase Bali’s spiritual architecture. Many travelers appreciate this stop for its blend of history and scenic surroundings. Expect to spend about an hour exploring the caves, temples, and the nearby plantations.

Kumulilir – Relaxation & Coffee Tasting

A slower-paced stop awaits at Kumulilir, where you can unwind with views of the valley and indulge in locally sourced herbal teas and coffee. Reviewers note that this quiet haven offers a refreshing break and an opportunity to savor Bali’s renowned coffee culture. You can expect a leisurely hour here, with the added bonus of learning about the local coffee and herbal tea production.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace – Iconic Bali Landscape

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, one of Bali’s most photographed sights. The lush, green terraced fields cascade down the hillside, framed by coconut palms, creating an idyllic scene. Travelers report that this spot provides fantastic photo opportunities and a true sense of Bali’s rural charm. Expect around an hour here, giving you time to walk along the terraces and take in the scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace - What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers notable convenience with hotel pickup and drop-off, plus bottled water and air-conditioned transportation, making for a comfortable experience. The guide, speaking English, provides insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of each site.

However, entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to pay for each attraction separately—be prepared for this additional cost. Food is also at your own expense, meaning you can choose to enjoy a local meal or snack at your leisure.

Authentic Experiences & Review Insights

Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace - Authentic Experiences & Review Insights

Feedback from past travelers emphasizes the quality of guides, with many mentioning guides like Anta, Nata, and Wayan—all praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and patience. One reviewer shared that Anta was “very great and hospitable,” and another praised Wayan for being “friendly and explaining every part of the visit.”

The reviews also highlight how well-organized the day was, with punctual pickups and a relaxed pace that allows for meaningful exploration. The scenic views at waterfalls and rice terraces are frequently described as “beautiful” and “breathtaking,” making the tour memorable for nature lovers.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace - Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

  • Bring cash for entrance fees and any souvenirs or additional snacks.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, especially at outdoor sites like rice terraces and waterfalls.
  • Allocate extra time for photo opportunities—many travelers mention how stunning these spots are.
  • Stay hydrated—the tour provides bottled water, but it’s wise to carry your own as well.
  • Be flexible—the private nature of this tour allows you to linger or skip certain sites based on your interests.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace - Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Ubud day tour is ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s well-suited for those interested in Balinese culture, nature, and photography—especially if you enjoy engaging guides who can share local insights.

It’s also perfect for small groups or solo travelers who want a personalized touch, given the positive reviews praising the guides’ hospitality. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordability, but just remember to factor in additional costs for entrance tickets and food.

The Sum Up

Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace - The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Ubud’s most captivating sights, blending cultural sites, natural beauty, and local flavor. The private guide and transportation create a smooth and personalized experience, while the moderate price point makes it accessible for many travelers.

The stops at Elephant Cave, Monkey Forest, and Tegalalang Rice Terrace provide iconic Bali photo moments, while the coffee tasting at Kumulilir adds a relaxing, flavorful break. The attention to detail from guides like Anta and Wayan, as highlighted in reviews, ensures you’re cared for and well-informed.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Bali, this tour offers a practical, engaging way to see Ubud’s highlights in one day. It balances sightseeing with authentic encounters, making it a worthwhile addition to any Bali itinerary.

FAQ

Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace - FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, including travel time and site visits, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in Ubud or nearby.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You should budget extra for visiting sites like the Monkey Forest, Elephant Cave, and rice terraces.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you have the flexibility to spend more or less time at certain locations and possibly skip some stops if needed.

What should I bring?
Water, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and cash for entrance fees and souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved and the interest level of children, especially at outdoor sites.

How experienced are the guides?
Reviews praise guides like Anta, Nata, and Wayan for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness, making your day more enjoyable.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, but there are plenty of local cafes near Ubud where you can enjoy traditional dishes.

How is the vehicle?
The tour uses private, air-conditioned transport, ensuring comfort during the day’s travels.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Ubud tour fits your Bali travel plans—combining value, ease, and a genuine taste of Bali’s natural and cultural treasures.