Best of Ubud: Monkey Forest, Rice terrace, Waterfalll, Temple

Exploring Ubud through this full-day private tour promises a blend of stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and memorable adventures—all at an accessible price of just over $27 per person. While many travelers love the flexibility of a private guide and the chance to see multiple highlights in one day, it’s worth noting that entrance fees are not included, which could add to the overall cost if you choose to visit every site.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, it offers a balanced mix of nature and spirituality, with highlights like the Tegalalang rice terraces and Tegenungan Waterfall providing picture-perfect moments. The Monkey Forest offers a playful encounter with the local macaques, and the chance to see a Tirta Empul temple blessing adds a sacred touch. The tour’s value is enhanced by its flexibility—adding lunch or entry fees makes it more convenient, especially if you want a seamless experience.

However, a potential consideration is the itinerary’s pacing. With several stops packed into roughly eight hours, you’ll want to keep up with the schedule to make the most of each site. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to explore Ubud comprehensively while enjoying personalized transport and insights from a dedicated guide.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between transport-only, or include entrance fees and lunch for convenience.
• Diverse experiences: Mix of cultural, natural, and spiritual sites offers well-rounded insight into Ubud.
• Private transport: Comfort and personalized service are highlights, with a dedicated driver sharing local knowledge.
• Authentic encounters: Opportunities to see monkeys in the forest, witness temple blessings, and admire rice terraces.
• Value for money: At just over $27, the tour provides access to multiple attractions, with options to upgrade.
• Pacing considerations: The itinerary can be busy, so plan to stay flexible if you want to linger longer at specific spots.

An In-Depth Look at the Best of Ubud Tour

The Perfect Introduction to Ubud’s Natural Beauty

This tour is a fantastic way for first-time visitors to get a broad overview of what makes Ubud so special. It’s designed to balance a variety of sights, ensuring you experience Bali’s lush landscapes, spiritual sites, and lively markets all in one day.

Starting with the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, you’re greeted with sweeping views of verdant, perfectly terraced fields that seem to cascade down the hillside. According to one review, the rice fields offer a “perfect view with the green hillside,” and the sight alone makes the early morning worthwhile. While admission isn’t included, most visitors agree that the scenery justifies a quick walk around, soaking in the tranquility and intricate water management of traditional rice farming.

The Waterfall: Nature’s Refreshing Showstopper

Next, the journey takes you to the Tegenungan Waterfall, where a rush of water plunges into a pool below, creating a lively scene. The waterfall is fed by mountain streams, providing a cool, refreshing break from the tropical heat. Travelers have mentioned that the water is very fresh, and the powerful flow is quite a sight. If you’re lucky, you might catch the waterfall in full flow after recent rains, which enhances its dramatic appeal.

While admission isn’t included, many travelers find it well worth the small fee for access, especially if they want to swim or relax by the water. Some visitors even try a cable car for a different perspective, adding an extra dash of adventure.

The Monkey Forest: A Playful but Sacred Encounter

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a highlight for many, especially if you love animals and local culture. Home to roughly 700 long-tailed macaques, this 12.5-hectare forest is not just a playground for monkeys but a spiritual site dotted with ancient temples. It’s a perfect place to observe how wildlife and religious traditions coexist peacefully.

Visitors often comment on the lively monkeys, noting that they are healthy and curious. One reviewer mentioned that the monkeys live in harmony with visitors, who are advised to keep a respectful distance and secure belongings. Walking along the shaded pathways, you’ll find three temples inside the forest—each guarded by the playful monkeys but still deeply sacred.

Spiritual Insight at Tirta Empul

A visit to Tirta Empul Temple offers a glimpse into Balinese spiritual practices. Known for its holy spring water, visitors can witness or even participate in a traditional cleansing ritual. This is a rare chance to see locals performing blessings, which adds a profound cultural element to your day.

The main temple area is bustling with activity, and many travelers find it fascinating to observe the rituals, gaining insight into local spirituality. The admission isn’t included, but many find that experiencing the blessing ritual makes the visit truly meaningful.

Ubud Market: A Vibrant Cultural Hub

Capping off the day is a visit to the Ubud Traditional Art Market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and spices to handcrafted souvenirs. The lively atmosphere offers a chance to mingle with locals and shop for unique keepsakes.

One reviewer described it as a “vibrant hub of Balinese culture,” where the early morning buzz from vendors creates an authentic taste of daily life. Unlike the other stops, admission is included, making it a practical shopping stop before the tour ends.

What to Expect: The Practicalities

The tour includes private transportation, which makes moving between sites comfortable and efficient. Your driver acts as a local guide, sharing insights about Bali’s history and culture, making each stop more enriching. Bottled water is provided, ensuring hydration during the day’s activities.

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, typically starting early to maximize daylight hours. The cost of $27.14 per person is quite reasonable considering the number of sites visited, especially if you opt to include entry fees and lunch. Adding lunch offers a convenient way to enjoy a local meal without extra planning.

Pacing and Flexibility

Since the itinerary involves multiple stops, you’ll need to stay mindful of the schedule. Guests from reviews have noted that the tour was well-paced, but those who like lingering at sights might find it busy. If you’re interested in more relaxed exploration, consider spending longer at spots like the rice terraces or waterfall.

What Reviewers Say

One traveler, Anne_H, praised the “really nice day,” highlighting that the driver was “really good at telling us about things.” She appreciated the mix of activities, including the Jungle Swing, rice fields, and even a cable car ride. She emphasized that the tour felt seamless and well-organized, offering a broad view of Ubud’s attractions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Ubud without the need for separate arrangements. It appeals to those eager to see key highlights in a manageable, single-day format. The private nature means you can customize or skip certain parts if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Families, first-timers, or anyone wanting an affordable yet diverse taste of Bali’s natural and spiritual wonders will find this tour highly rewarding. Those with an interest in wildlife and local culture will especially appreciate the Monkey Forest and Tirta Empul visits.

The Sum Up

This Best of Ubud tour offers excellent value, giving you an authentic, well-rounded glimpse of Bali’s iconic sights. The combination of lush rice terraces, powerful waterfalls, sacred temples, and lively markets creates a tapestry of experiences that showcase Ubud’s unique charm.

The private transport, flexible options, and insightful guide make it a convenient choice for those wanting to maximize their day without the stress of planning. The tour’s focus on natural beauty and culture ensures you leave with a deeper appreciation of Ubud’s magic.

While the schedule can be tight at times, the memories created—stunning views, playful monkeys, sacred rituals—are well worth it. This tour suits travelers who value immersive experiences and want to tick off multiple highlights in one go, especially if they’re short on time or prefer a guided approach.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the base price does not include entrance fees, so you might need to pay these separately at sites like the rice terraces, waterfall, or temples if you choose to visit.

Can I upgrade the tour for more convenience?
Yes, you can select options to include entry fees and lunch, making the day more seamless and allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you enough time to visit all the main sites without feeling rushed.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering a personalized experience with a dedicated driver.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Don’t forget your camera and some cash for optional entry fees or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children who enjoy outdoor activities and gentle walks will find it suitable. Always check with the tour provider if you have specific age concerns.

This detailed review should help you decide if this Best of Ubud tour matches your Bali travel plans. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation—delivering a memorable day in Ubud’s enchanting landscape.