Ubud: Downhill Cycling Tour Through Jungle and Rice Terraces

If you’re seeking an authentic way to see Bali beyond the usual tourist spots, this Downhill Cycling Tour through the lush countryside of Ubud offers a fascinating glimpse into local life, culture, and natural beauty. Spanning about six hours, it combines scenic biking, cultural visits, and delicious local food — all with a relaxed, small-group vibe that keeps things intimate and personalized.

What we love about this experience is how seamlessly it weaves together stunning views of rice terraces, insightful visits to temples and local schools, and the chance to enjoy traditional Balinese cuisine. Plus, the small group size—limited to just 10 participants—keeps the tour relaxed and engaging.

One thing to keep in mind is the physical aspect: the tour is downhill, but you’ll still need to be comfortable cycling for a few hours, and the terrain can be bumpy in parts. This tour is ideal for those wanting an active adventure with authentic cultural encounters and scenic breaks that aren’t just picture-perfect but meaningful.

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor activities, are curious about Balinese culture, and want a well-rounded day exploring Bali’s countryside with knowledgeable guides—Gede being a standout for his attentiveness.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visit local schools, temples, and traditional houses, gaining insights into everyday Balinese life.
• Stunning Scenery: Pedal through rice terraces, coffee plantations, and ancient villages for picture-perfect views.
• Delicious Food: Enjoy a traditional Balinese lunch and local market treats, savoring the island’s flavors.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 people, fostering a personalized, engaging atmosphere.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Gede explain rituals and traditions, making the experience educational.
• Active but Accessible: The downhill route makes for manageable cycling, suitable for most active travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Morning pickup and transfer to Ubud

Your day kicks off with a comfortable drive from your Bali accommodation in an air-conditioned van, setting the tone for a relaxed but enriching day. The trip begins with breakfast in Ubud, giving you fuel for the ride ahead. This part of the tour allows you to settle in and appreciate the peaceful rural mornings of Bali.

Scenic drive through countryside

From Ubud, the journey takes you through 100 hectares of coffee and orange forests, where we see local farmers tending their crops. The roads wind past timeless villages, giving a glimpse into rural life. As you pass by elementary schools, you’ll hear the friendly greetings of villagers, adding a warm, authentic touch to the trip.

Our guide, Gede, is praised for his clear explanations and attentiveness, making sure everyone is comfortable and informed. He’s also quick to share interesting tidbits about Balinese customs and farming traditions, adding depth to what might otherwise be just a pretty ride.

Visiting traditional houses and temples

Next, you’ll stop at a Balinese Traditional House, where the architecture and layout reflect local customs. The gates resemble one another, hinting at a design code unique to Bali. If you’re lucky, you might witness a local ceremony happening, which Gede will gladly explain, illuminating the spiritual significance of these rituals.

Following this, the tour visits an ancient temple, rich in history and often lively with local ceremonies. If a ritual is in progress, you’ll have the chance to observe it firsthand, a rare and colorful experience that highlights Bali’s vibrant Hindu traditions.

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Cycling through rice fields

The highlight for many is the downhill bike ride through the rice terraces—one of Bali’s most iconic landscapes. We loved the way the cool breeze brushed past us as we pedaled through lush, green paddies. The terrain varies from smooth pathways to more rustic, bumpy sections, but it’s manageable thanks to the gentle downhill slope.

Along the way, you’ll see farmers planting or harvesting rice, sometimes inviting you to try your hand at traditional rice planting—a fun, hands-on moment that adds authenticity. The views of terraces cascading down hillsides are mesmerizing and perfect for photos.

Coffee plantation and local market

Close to the end of the ride, we stop at a coffee plantation, where we sampled various brews. Reviewers mention that this part is more of a showcase garden and tasting experience rather than a walk among coffee plants, but it’s still interesting to learn about Balinese coffee production. The tasting session is a highlight, especially if you’re a caffeine enthusiast.

Finally, we explore a local market, bursting with colorful fruits, spices, and vegetables. It’s a sensory adventure—smells, sights, and tastes that make the local life palpable.

Traditional Balinese lunch

After cycling, you’ll relax at a nearby restaurant for a home-cooked Balinese lunch. The meal includes local favorites, offering a genuine taste of the island’s flavors. Many reviews mention how delicious and fresh the food is, making it a satisfying reward after a busy morning.

Return to your hotel

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Ubud, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. The whole day is designed to be smooth, informative, and enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and soak in the surroundings.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Breakfast in Ubud

Starting from your hotel, the tour ensures a comfortable, hassle-free beginning. The presence of an air-conditioned van makes long drives pleasant, especially after early mornings or if you’re not used to Bali’s tropical heat. Breakfast is typically light but hearty enough to prepare you for the day—the perfect fuel for the cycling.

Drive Through Coffee & Orange Forests

We loved the chance to see Bali’s agricultural side—vast forests of coffee, oranges, and other local crops. Gede’s commentary makes this part engaging, explaining how the local farmers tend their crops and giving insights into the importance of agriculture in Balinese life.

Visiting a Traditional House and Temple

Both stops are not just photo ops but windows into local architecture and spiritual practices. The traditional house showcases Balinese design, with its intricate carvings and layout, while the temple visit offers a chance to observe local religious customs—sometimes during lively ceremonies.

Cycling Through Rice Terraces

This is the core of the experience. The downhill route makes cycling accessible for most, and the scenery around you is a photographer’s dream. Riding through the terraces gives you a sense of connection to the land; many travelers find this part peaceful and inspiring.

Coffee Tasting & Market Exploration

The coffee plantation visit may differ from expectations—based on reviews, it’s more of a showcase with tastings rather than a full walk-through. Still, sampling Bali’s famous coffee blends, including the renowned Kopi Luwak, is a memorable highlight. The local market offers a glimpse of everyday life and the chance to pick up some unique souvenirs.

Balinese Lunch

The included lunch is often praised for its authenticity and flavor. Expect traditional dishes prepared with care, providing a satisfying end to your active day.

Return Journey

The ride back to Ubud is scenic and relaxed, with opportunities to reflect on everything you’ve seen. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Group Size

At around six hours, this tour strikes a nice balance between activity and relaxation. Small groups (max 10) foster intimacy, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized insights from guides like Gede.

Transportation and Comfort

Transport is via air-conditioned van, ensuring comfort during transfers. The pickup and drop-off system is straightforward, and the driver is punctual and professional.

Physical Demands

The biking portion is downhill, which makes it manageable for most fitness levels. However, participants should be comfortable cycling for a few hours and prepared for some uneven terrain. Wearing comfortable shoes and bringing sunscreen or a hat is recommended.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, considering the inclusion of meals, professional guides, and multiple cultural stops, this tour offers good value for travelers seeking a comprehensive, authentic experience. It’s especially appealing for those wanting to combine outdoor activity with cultural insights.

What’s Not Allowed

Alcohol and drugs are prohibited, ensuring a respectful and safe environment.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

A traveler from Germany appreciated the delicious breakfast and lunch at the cooking school, highlighting how these food experiences added depth to the tour. They also praised Gede as an excellent guide, noting his attentiveness and ability to explain traditions clearly, which made the cultural parts of the tour particularly meaningful.

Another traveler from the Netherlands simply called the organization “goed georganiseerd” (well organized), emphasizing the smooth flow of the day.

From these reviews, it’s clear that the guide’s knowledge, the quality of food, and the scenic beauty are key highlights—and they’re what make this tour stand out.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This downhill cycling tour through Bali’s rice terraces and villages is ideal if you crave an active, immersive experience that combines scenic beauty with cultural depth. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers who are comfortable cycling for a few hours, and those interested in local traditions and daily life.

The small group size and expert guides make it suitable for travelers who value personalized attention and authentic insights. Families with active children, couples, or solo travelers looking for meaningful adventure will find this tour rewarding.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding day, this might not be the best fit. Also, those expecting a full walk-through of a coffee plantation may find the experience more curated than hands-on.

This tour offers a well-rounded, culturally immersive day with plenty of opportunities for great photos, local interaction, and delicious food — a true taste of Bali’s countryside.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or the elderly?
It’s primarily designed for active travelers comfortable cycling downhill for several hours. Elderly travelers over 95 may find it challenging, but children who are used to cycling might enjoy the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for cycling, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection like a hat or sunscreen are recommended. Lightweight, breathable fabrics work best in Bali’s warm climate.

Is cycling difficult?
The route is downhill, making it manageable for most fitness levels. However, some uneven terrain may require caution, and participants should be comfortable with some physical activity.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Balinese breakfast at the start and a traditional lunch are included, praised for their authenticity and flavor.

How long is the cycling part?
The main cycling segment lasts through rice terraces and villages, with the entire tour about six hours, including transfers and stops.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is designed as a set itinerary, but guides like Gede are known for their attentiveness and might accommodate special interests or questions during the stops.

Are there any restrictions on alcohol or drugs?
Yes, alcohol and drugs are not permitted, ensuring a respectful and safe environment for all participants.

What’s the best time of day to join?
Morning tours usually start with breakfast and enjoy cooler temperatures, making the experience more comfortable and scenic.

This downhill cycling tour from Ubud offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and authentic Bali. Whether you’re after lush scenery, meaningful cultural exchanges, or just a fun day on two wheels, it’s a memorable way to explore the island’s countryside in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: