Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours - What’s Included & What’s Not

Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours

If you’re looking to see Bali’s iconic sights without the hassle of planning or navigating crowded groups, this Ubud and Tanah Lot tour might just be your perfect fit. With its full-day itinerary, private transportation, and well-curated stops, it offers a relaxed yet comprehensive way to soak in Bali’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and spiritual sites.

What we love about this tour: First, the personalized experience through private transport means you won’t be stuck with strangers or waiting around. Second, the diverse mix of stops—from waterfalls to rice terraces—gives you a genuine taste of Bali’s natural beauty and rich traditions. Lastly, the all-important sunset at Tanah Lot is a highlight that makes the day extra special.

One thing to keep in mind is that admission tickets are not included at each attraction, so you’ll need some cash on hand, and possibly some time to purchase tickets. This isn’t a guided tour where everything is handled for you, but rather a flexible day where you control how much time to spend at each spot.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of cultural, scenic, and iconic Bali experiences without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, personalized service, and a well-paced itinerary.

Key Points:

Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours - Key Points:

  • Private tour experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility
  • Comfortable round-trip transport by air-conditioned minivan
  • Multiple highlights covering Bali’s culture, nature, and spiritual sites
  • Sunset at Tanah Lot offers a memorable photo opportunity
  • Cost-effective at $40 per person, considering the variety of stops
  • Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for ease and convenience

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours - A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour is packed with seven stops designed to showcase Bali’s most photogenic, meaningful, and fun locations. It’s a thoughtful mix that balances natural wonders, traditional performances, and cultural landmarks.

1. Barong & Kris Dance

Your day kicks off with a traditional Balinese dance performance, lasting about an hour. Known as one of Bali’s most popular dances, the Barong & Kris dance offers a glimpse into local mythology and storytelling through vibrant costumes and energetic movements. Though the admission ticket isn’t included, watching this dance is a captivating way to begin your immersion into Bali’s cultural fabric. The guide can share insights into the story behind the dance, which often depicts the struggle between good and evil.

2. Tegenungan Waterfall

Next, you’ll visit Tegenungan Waterfall, one of Ubud’s most stunning natural attractions. This waterfall is easily accessible and offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially if you love a dramatic backdrop of cascading water surrounded by lush greenery. Reviewers mention it’s “the best place for taking selfies,” which makes sense given how photogenic it is. You’ll spend about an hour here, and while entry fees are separate, the view alone makes it worth the visit.

3. Tegalalang Rice Terrace

The iconic Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a must-see. Its terraced fields, carved into the hillside, exemplify Bali’s agricultural artistry. We loved the way the sunlight hits the green layers, creating an almost surreal landscape. Visitors often comment that this stop offers some of the best photo ops on the entire trip, and it’s a great spot to absorb the peaceful rhythm of traditional rice farming. Expect approximately an hour here, with the chance to walk along the narrow paths, take in the views, and perhaps sip some coffee at a nearby café.

4. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

This rain forest sanctuary in Ubud is home to thousands of long-tailed macaques and ancient temples. It’s quite the lively and slightly chaotic spot—monkeys are curious and mischievous, so it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings. One reviewer highlights the beautiful forest and the temple as “the most beautiful rainforest with beautiful temples,” emphasizing its unique atmosphere. Expect about an hour to explore, observe, and maybe snap some fun photos with the playful monkeys.

5. Tanah Lot Temple

The grand finale is a visit to Tanah Lot, arguably Bali’s most famous temple. Perched on a rock formation, the temple offers spectacular views, especially during sunset—when the sky turns golden, and the temple silhouette becomes a picture-perfect scene. You’ll spend about two hours here, which allows plenty of time to enjoy the sunset, explore the surrounding grounds, and appreciate the spiritual significance of this sacred site. The admission fee isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours - What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour’s inclusions make it a comfortable and straightforward experience. The driver/guide provides commentary along the way, and hotel pickup and drop-off mean you’re not worrying about transportation logistics. The air-conditioned minivan and private vehicle ensure a smooth ride across Bali’s scenic roads, which can sometimes be bumpy or crowded.

However, admission tickets to each attraction are not included—a typical approach for budget-conscious tours, but something to prepare for. You’ll want to carry some cash for entry fees, especially at attractions like Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, and Tanah Lot.

Food and drinks are also not included, so either bring snacks or plan to purchase refreshments at specific stops. The tour lasts around nine hours, so packing water and comfortable shoes is highly recommended.

How the Tour Comes to Life: Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One comments that their driver, Gunawan, was “very kind and relaxed,” which contributed to a stress-free day. Another traveler highlights how last-minute bookings were accommodated smoothly, indicating good flexibility and responsiveness from the team.

The guides seem to excel at sharing stories that bring the sights to life, whether it’s explaining the mythology behind the dance or pointing out hidden details in the rice terraces. They’re also attentive in adjusting the pace—if you want to skip a stop or spend more time, they’re usually happy to accommodate.

The stunning scenery is a recurring theme—reviewers love the lush landscapes, from the vibrant greenery of Tegunungan Waterfall to the expansive rice terraces. The sunset at Tanah Lot is frequently described as one of the finest moments of their Bali visit, with the sky turning hues of pink and orange as the temple stands majestically against the backdrop.

Practical Details & Tips

Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours - Practical Details & Tips

  • Price: At $40 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the private transport and multiple stops. It avoids the cost and chaos of group tours by giving you a more intimate experience.
  • Duration: Spanning roughly 9 hours, it provides enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.
  • Booking: It’s best to book at least 82 days in advance, which suggests this is a popular choice among visitors.
  • What to Bring: Cash for admission fees, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera.
  • Who It’s For: Ideal for travelers wanting a rundown of Bali’s highlights with the comfort of private transport and flexibility in timing.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours - The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Ubud and Tanah Lot tour offers a balanced mix of Bali’s natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and iconic landmarks. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a personalized, relaxed day with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll love it if you want to see the best photo spots and learn about Balinese traditions without the hassle of planning or crowded group tours.

It’s also a fantastic choice for those who value comfort, as the private transport ensures a smooth experience, and the flexible itinerary means you can tailor your day according to your interests. For just $40, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of Bali—perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a time-efficient yet memorable day.

While it’s not all-inclusive, the flexibility allows you to choose your own adventure, whether that’s skipping an attraction or adding some local snacks. With positive reviews highlighting friendly guides and stunning scenery, this experience proves to be a dependable and enjoyable way to explore Bali’s highlights.

FAQ

Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours - FAQ

Are the admission tickets included in the tour price?
No, the admission fees are not included. You will need to pay separately at locations like Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, and Tanah Lot.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as it’s designed to be flexible and accessible. However, be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, from hotel pickup to the sunset at Tanah Lot.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops.

Can I skip any attractions?
Yes, you can ask the driver to skip certain stops if you prefer more time at other locations or want to reduce the number of attractions.

How early should I book?
It’s recommended to book at least 82 days in advance, given the high demand and popularity of the tour.

What makes this tour special compared to others?
Its private, personalized approach, combined with a well-chosen itinerary and positive guide reviews, makes it stand out.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned minivans and private vehicles, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

This comprehensive Bali tour covers what matters most—stunning scenery, cultural insights, and a flexible, stress-free experience. Perfect for those wanting a memorable day that hits all the highlights without the hassle.