Ubud Hidden Waterfalls and Rice Terrace Tours: An Authentic Bali Day
If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Bali’s most picturesque spots without the hassle of navigating yourself, this private tour of Ubud’s waterfalls and rice terraces might just be the perfect fit. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit some of the most stunning waterfalls, wander through lush rice paddies, and end your day soaring on a traditional swing with breathtaking views.
What stands out about this experience is the seamless combination of nature’s beauty and cultural insight. We love how it offers the flexibility of a private tour, the access to lesser-known natural gems, and the chance to learn about local irrigation practices firsthand. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious local lunch makes the day feel complete. However, keep in mind that the swing isn’t included in the price, which might be an extra cost if you want that memorable flying photo.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded day of natural beauty, cultural learning, and fun photo opportunities—all comfortably arranged with private transport. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Bali, this trip promises a meaningful glimpse into the island’s lush landscapes and authentic charm.
Key Points
- Private, Personalized Experience: The tour is exclusively for your group, led by a friendly, English-speaking driver and guide.
- Stunning Waterfalls: Visit three of Ubud’s most popular waterfalls, with the opportunity to swim at Tibumana and explore hidden gems inside a cave.
- Cultural and Scenic Walks: Walk through verdant rice paddies and learn about traditional irrigation systems, gaining insight into Bali’s rice farming heritage.
- Flexible Schedule & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, with all entrance fees included if you opt for that package.
- Photo Opportunities Galore: From waterfalls to the rice terraces to the swing—perfect for capturing Bali’s natural beauty.
- Cost-Effective: At $75 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of sights, activities, and local cuisine.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
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The Waterfalls: Nature’s Masterpieces
Your day begins around 9:00 am with a pickup from your accommodation. First stop: Kanto Lampo Waterfall, a popular spot for striking Instagram photos thanks to its stone walls and crystal-clear water. The waterfall’s accessibility and photogenic qualities make it a favorite among visitors, and the admission ticket is included, so no surprises there.
Next, around 10:00 am, you’ll head to Tibumana Waterfall, which is renowned for its lush, green surrounding forest. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim in the cool waters—something many reviews highlight as a highlight. One traveler mentioned how the natural setting with beautiful rocks made the waterfall perfect for relaxing and cooling off.
Your last waterfall stop is Tukad Cepung Waterfall, a little different because it’s partly inside a cave. Expect to walk through a short trail and then view the waterfall inside a natural stone enclosure, where sunlight streams through gaps in the cave roof, creating a magical scene. This “hidden” waterfall is often praised for its unique setting, with one reviewer describing it as “inside a cave with sunlight penetrating the green forest.”
Lunch: Authentic Balinese Flavors
Around 1:00 pm, it’s time for a well-deserved break at Waroeng D’Yoni, a local eatery recommended by both locals and travelers alike. The set menu offers traditional dishes, giving you a taste of Bali’s rich flavors. Multiple reviewers found this part of the tour to be a pleasant, authentic experience, enjoying the chance to relax and refuel before continuing.
The Green Carpet: Tegalalang Rice Terrace
At 3:00 pm, you’ll walk through the famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace. As one reviewer pointed out, this is an excellent spot to learn about Bali’s traditional irrigation system—subak—while soaking in the stunning layered landscape. The rice paddies’ lush greenery and the opportunity to chat with your guide about local farming techniques make this stop both scenic and educational.
Final Adventure: The Swing
The last stop around 4:00 pm is the Aloha Ubud Swing, a popular spot for photos that makes you feel like you’re flying. While the swing isn’t included in the tour price, many travelers find it well worth the extra. One reviewer remarked that the experience “feels like flying like a bird,” and the views from the swing are stunning, making it a perfect finale to your day.
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Practicalities and What You Need to Know
Transportation & Timing
This is a private tour, so your driver and guide are all yours. Expect a comfortable ride in a private vehicle as you hop from one location to the next, with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel. The full itinerary lasts roughly 10 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Cost & Value
At $75 per person, this tour offers a fantastic value considering the inclusion of all entrance fees (if you select that option), a private guide, transportation, and a delicious local lunch. You’re paying for convenience, authentic insights, and access to some of Bali’s most photogenic and lesser-known spots.
Reviews & Guide Expertise
Reviewers highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. “Yanse is a very friendly person with perfect English and a great sense of humor,” said one guest. Another praised guide Ady for his attentiveness, taking more time than scheduled to ensure the group saw the best sights. These personal touches elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.
Considerations
While the tour is quite comprehensive, the swing can be an additional expense if you want to include it. Also, be prepared for some walking, especially at Tukad Cepung and Tegalalang, which involve walking through rice paddies and caves. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but a reasonable level of mobility will help you enjoy every aspect.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, all-in-one Bali experience without the stress of planning each detail. It’s great for those who love nature, scenic views, and cultural insights, especially if you’re enthusiastic about photography. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find plenty to enjoy here, thanks to the private nature and flexible pace.
If you’re after a day that combines stunning waterfalls, lush rice terraced landscapes, and unique photo ops, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially appealing for visitors keen to see Bali’s natural beauty while also learning about local farming and traditional irrigation.
The Sum Up
This Ubud Waterfalls and Rice Terrace tour offers a balanced, authentic glimpse into Bali’s verdant landscapes. With private transport, experienced guides, and a well-curated itinerary, it delivers value-packed adventures suitable for a wide range of travelers.
You’ll love the variety—swimming at Tibumana, exploring a hidden cave waterfall, strolling through terraced rice paddies, and capturing memorable photos on the swing. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge add a personalized touch that makes the experience even more special.
While the price is quite reasonable, keep in mind that the swing might be an extra cost, and some walking is involved. But for those craving natural beauty and cultural insights in a comfortable, private setting, this tour is a smart choice.
Overall, it’s a great way to spend a full day exploring Bali’s lush landscapes, especially if you want a flexible, personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and memorable moments.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it very convenient for travelers staying in Ubud or nearby areas.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, providing enough time to visit all the stops comfortably without feeling rushed.
What is the price per person?
The tour costs $75.00 per person, which covers entrance fees (if the option is selected), lunch, private transport, and guiding.
Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, if you select the option, all entrance fees for the waterfalls and rice terrace are included in the tour price.
Can I swim at the waterfalls?
Yes, at Tibumana Waterfall you can enjoy swimming in the natural pool, which is often highlighted as a refreshing highlight of the day.
Is the swing included in the tour price?
No, the swing is not included and is an additional expense if you want to experience the flying photo opportunity.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking and climbing may be involved, especially at Tukad Cepung and Tegalalang.
What is the best time of day for this tour?
Starting early, around 9:00 am, maximizes your time at each site and helps avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like Tegalalang.
This tour offers an authentic, scenic day with knowledgeable guides and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to combine adventure, culture, and natural beauty in Bali.
More Dinner Experiences in Ubud
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More Dining Experiences in Ubud
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