Half Day Cycling Tour ( Manual Bike )

Discover the Balinese Countryside on a Half Day Cycling Tour

If you’re looking for an authentic way to experience Bali beyond the usual temples and beaches, this Half Day Cycling Tour in Ubud offers a fantastic mix of scenery, culture, and fun. We’ve seen countless reviews praising its easy ride, scenic stops, and knowledgeable guides, making it a top choice for travelers wanting to get a closer look at Bali’s rural charm.

What we really love is how accessible the ride is—most of it is downhill, making it suitable for all fitness levels. The inclusion of local meals and cultural visits makes it more than just a bike ride; it’s a well-rounded experience. Plus, the round-trip hotel transfers and insurance included in the price add a layer of convenience and peace of mind.

However, a potential consideration is the long transfer time—from areas like Kuta or Seminyak, it can take around two hours to reach the start point, which might eat into your day. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, love cultural insights, and want a memorable, value-packed adventure in Bali’s lush landscape.

Who is this tour best suited for?

It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and educational tour that combines nature, culture, and good food. Ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers with moderate fitness who want a leisurely ride through Bali’s beautiful countryside.

Key Points

Accessible for all: Most of the ride is downhill, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Cultural insights: Visits to local Balinese houses and temples give an authentic peek into daily life.
Scenic stops: Rice paddies, village scenes, coffee plantations, and jungle views make for great photo moments.
Excellent value: The tour includes breakfast, lunch, bottled water, snacks, and insurance—all for just $33 per person.
Comfort and safety: Helmets, water, and a knowledgeable guide ensure a safe, smooth experience.
Long transfer times: If staying outside Ubud, expect approximately 2 hours of travel to the meeting point.

A Deep Dive Into the Cycling Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

The tour kicks off at Bayung Gede in Abuan village with a safety briefing from your guide, who goes by the enthusiastic and well-informed Darma or Yoga—reviewers consistently mention their professionalism and local knowledge. You’ll receive helmets and bottled water, setting a tone of safety and comfort right away.

The first highlight is a quick stop at Tegallalang for photos in the famous coffee break spot. This brief 15-minute pause offers a chance to snap shots of Bali’s iconic rice terraces and lush greenery. It’s a perfect warm-up before the main ride.

The next phase takes you deeper into the hills and villages. You’ll cycle through Bayung Gede, where a Balinese house visit reveals everyday life and traditional architecture. Reviewers mention that guides are friendly and eager to share insights, adding value beyond just pedaling.

The Taro Village stop introduces you to Bali’s coffee scene. Sitting in a palm tree garden enjoying your coffee break, you’ll get a taste of local flavors amid swaying leaves. It’s a peaceful moment that many say is one of the tour’s highlights.

In Bresela, you’ll see rice paddies and irrigation systems up close, gaining insight into Bali’s agriculture. This stop is especially appreciated by those who enjoy learning about local farming practices, with some reviews mentioning how fascinating it is to observe rice growing firsthand.

The final stretch leads you to Payangan, where the tour concludes at Klusa Payangan. From here, you’ll head to the Greenkubu Restaurant for a well-deserved Indonesian buffet lunch, often highlighted as a delicious, plentiful meal amidst beautiful surroundings. Reviewers rave about the quality of both breakfast and lunch, noting they enhance the overall value.

The Ride: What It Feels Like

Most reviews describe the route as mostly downhill, making the ride very manageable and fun. It’s not a challenging trek; rather, it’s a relaxed cruise through scenic villages, rice fields, and jungle paths. Expect gentle gradients, paved roads at the start, and some off-road sections—suitable for beginners but still engaging enough for seasoned riders.

A standout quote is from a 77-year-old reviewer who biked 7,900 miles last year: “Very easy ride mostly downhill,” proving this is accessible for older travelers or those less confident on bikes. Guides like Ben and Yoga are praised for their attentiveness, helping to keep everyone comfortable and safe.

The Food and Cultural Exposure

The included breakfast and lunch are more than just fuel—they’re a part of the experience. The tour begins with a breakfast at the Greenkubu Restaurant, offering traditional Indonesian dishes, and continues with a buffet lunch featuring local flavors in a stunning setting. Many reviewers emphasize the quality and variety of the meals, with some saying they are the highlight of the day.

Visiting a Balinese house and a village temple provides a glimpse into local spirituality and architecture. These stops are well-paced and designed to give you meaningful insight without feeling rushed. Guides often share stories and explanations that deepen understanding of Bali’s cultural traditions.

Transport and Group Size

Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, which is appreciated after the long transfer from popular hotel areas like Seminyak or Kuta. The tour operates with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a friendly, manageable group size. Pickup options are offered, making logistics easier, particularly after a long morning of riding.

Authenticity and Value

The reviews consistently praise the expert guides—Darma, Yoga, Ben, Made—for their friendliness, patience, and local knowledge. They’re not just riding along but actively enriching the experience with cultural stories, safety tips, and support.

At just $33 per person, this tour offers incredible value, covering transportation, meals, bike use, helmets, snacks, water, and insurance. Considering the variety of stops, the scenic beauty, and the culture, many feel it’s money well spent.

Some reviewers note the long transfer times for those staying outside Ubud, which is worth considering if you’re pressed for time. However, for those arriving in Ubud or nearby, it’s a manageable start to a day full of adventure.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Arrive early for the 7:00 am start to maximize your day.
• Wear comfortable clothing, and consider bringing a hat and sunscreen, especially for the sunny sections.
• Bring a small camera or phone for capturing the gorgeous rice terraces and village scenes.
• Consider your fitness level—most of the ride is downhill and relaxed, but be prepared for some off-road sections.
• Expect the transfer if you’re staying outside Ubud, so plan accordingly to avoid being rushed.
• Check your hotel’s pickup options, as this tour offers convenient hotel transfers.

Final Thoughts

This Half Day Cycling Tour in Ubud strikes a great balance between scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxed activity. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a gentle, educational adventure without strenuous effort. With friendly guides, delicious meals, and picturesque stops, it’s a memorable way to experience Bali’s true rural character.

From rice paddies and traditional houses to coffee plantations and sacred temples, this tour offers a comprehensive look into Bali’s everyday life. Plus, its affordability and inclusive offerings make it a standout choice for those seeking value and authenticity.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this tour promises a fun, informative day that leaves you with lasting impressions of Bali’s vibrant countryside. Just remember to pack your curiosity and a camera, and you’re all set for a delightful journey.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel to the start point are included, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the transfer?
For those staying outside Ubud, particularly in areas like Kuta or Seminyak, it takes about 2 hours to reach the starting point.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including stops, meals, and transfers.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are given to all participants for safety, along with bottled water and snacks.

Is the ride suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Most of the route is downhill, and reviews mention that even older travelers or those with moderate fitness levels find it very manageable.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes breakfast, lunch, bottled water, snacks, helmets, insurance, and transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; the tour is designed to be accessible for a wide age range.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for cycling and warm weather. Bringing sun protection is recommended.

Is there structural support if I get tired or have mechanical issues?
Guides are attentive and supportive, and the route is mostly downhill, making fatigue less likely, but assistance is available if needed.

This cycling tour offers an engaging, scenic, and culturally rich experience, ideal for travelers wanting to see Bali from a different perspective—on two wheels and with plenty of authentic moments to remember.