Ubud: Monkey Forest, Cretya Pool & Zipline Shared Tour

Experience Review: Ubud: Monkey Forest, Cretya Pool & Zipline Shared Tour

If you’re planning a day trip to Ubud and want to squeeze in a mix of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and a splash of adrenaline, this tour offers a well-rounded option. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, detailed reviews and the itinerary paint a picture of a thoughtfully curated experience that balances culture with sheer relaxation.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see playful monkeys up close at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, enjoy stunning rice terrace vistas that Bali is famous for, and unwind at Cretya Ubud’s jungle dayclub—a place that looks as good as it sounds. Plus, the zipline over Tegallalang rice terraces adds a dash of adventure to the day.

A small but notable consideration is the shared nature of transportation—which can mean variable pick-up times and the need for patience. The tour runs for around six hours, making it a great option for travelers who want a full but manageable day without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s ideal for those who seek a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and leisure—perfect for first-timers or those wanting a quick overview of Ubud’s highlights.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines wildlife, scenic views, and relaxation in one full day.
• Authentic Encounters: Close-up with monkeys in a well-known sanctuary.
• Stunning Vistas: Rice terraces and jungle vistas that Bali is celebrated for.
• Flexible Experience: Customizable food and drinks at Cretya Ubud.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with helpful insights.
• Group Dynamics: Shared transfers and group tours promote social vibes but may require punctuality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Ubud in a Day: What to Expect from the Tour

Getting Started: Pickup & Orientation

The tour begins with pick-up options from three locations—Badung Regency, Sukawati, or Ubud itself—making it accessible for most travelers. The shared transfer means you’ll be riding with other visitors, which can be fun or slightly chaotic depending on traffic and timing. Expect to be ready in your hotel lobby about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup, with the driver possibly stopping to collect others en route.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Close Encounters with Playful Monkeys

The first stop is at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, where you’ll spend roughly an hour exploring. The guide will accompany you, offering insights into the sanctuary’s history and the long-tailed macaques that inhabit it. Visitors often note the mischievous behavior of the monkeys, who are curious about visitors’ belongings.

One reviewer, Sofia from Italy, mentioned how their guide made everyone feel comfortable and even brought traditional sweets during the car ride—a thoughtful touch that sets a friendly tone. The temple ruins and lush jungle scenery create a mystical setting, and you’ll learn about the significance of the area while keeping an eye on your belongings, as monkeys are known for grabbing food, sunglasses, or bottles if left unattended.

Tip: Wear modest clothing for temple visits and be cautious with food or shiny objects to avoid unwanted monkey attention.

Cretya Ubud: Chill Out at Bali’s Trendiest Jungle Dayclub

Next, the tour takes you to Cretya Ubud, an upscale dayclub that combines luxury poolside lounging with superb jungle and rice terrace views. You’ll spend roughly 1.5 hours here, giving you time to relax, take photos, and enjoy some refreshments. The infinity pools are terraced into the landscape, giving you the sensation of swimming among the treetops.

Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery and relaxing atmosphere. One traveler, GetYourGuide’s reviewer, appreciated the attentive staff and the fact that they were able to find a special pool for their children—an important detail for families.

Food and drinks are optional but available—so you can customize your experience with fresh fruit smoothies, cocktails, or light bites. Just note that the experience is more about leisure than organized activities here, so bring your sunscreen, swimwear, and a good camera.

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Tegallalang Zipline: A Dose of Adventure

After soaking in the jungle atmosphere, the tour moves to Tegallalang, where you’ll experience a zipline ride that lasts about an hour. Flying over the iconic rice terraces offers an adrenaline rush set against Bali’s most recognizable landscape.

This activity is suitable for most, but be prepared for a bit of walking and standing in line. The zipline provides a unique perspective on Bali’s terraced fields and adds excitement to an otherwise relaxed day. Reviewers like Etienne from France appreciated guides who gave helpful tips and ensured safety, making the experience accessible and enjoyable.

Drop-offs and Flexibility

The tour concludes with drop-offs at your chosen location—Sukawati, Badung Regency, or Ubud—allowing some flexibility for your day’s plans. The entire experience lasts about six hours, including travel time, so plan your day accordingly.

The Value of This Ubud Day Tour

This experience is priced as a shared group tour, which keeps costs reasonable and includes entry tickets to the Monkey Forest and rice terraces. The inclusion of a live English-speaking guide means you not only see the sights but also understand their cultural context, making the trip more meaningful.

One of the most appreciated aspects, according to reviews, is the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Sofia from Italy noted her guide’s warmth and thoughtfulness, which greatly enhanced her day. Similarly, Naro was praised for his brilliant explanations, making even the most casual sightseeing interesting.

While some reviewers mentioned customer service issues at Cretya Ubud, overall, the experience at the pool was described as relaxing and picturesque. It’s important to consider that group tours may involve some waiting or slightly rushed moments, but they offer a good balance for travelers wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning everything independently.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 6 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Transport: Shared transfers mean you’ll be picked up at your hotel and driven between sites; bring patience for traffic.
• Cost & Value: The price covers entry tickets, guiding, and transportation, presenting good value for a packed day.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, cash for small purchases, and perhaps a waterproof case for your valuables.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 18 or guests with mobility issues, and modest clothing is required at temple sites.
• Weather & Safety: Expect some walking on uneven terrain and stairs; weather can impact activities like ziplining.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Beyond the main sights, the reviews reveal some unexpected highlights. Sofia appreciated the welcoming attitude of the guides, who often give tips about local customs and hidden spots. Several travelers mentioned the stunning views from Cretya, which elevate the relaxation experience, making it more than just a poolside lounge.

One traveler, Lamar from the US, shared a less positive experience with customer service at Cretya, highlighting the importance of being aware of potential service discrepancies. Still, such situations seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, and overall, the scenery and guides make up for minor inconveniences.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour perfectly suits first-time visitors to Ubud who want a snapshot of Bali’s best sights without the hassle of full-day planning. It’s especially appealing for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts who enjoy seeing wildlife, terraced landscapes, and temples in one go.

Families or travelers looking for a relaxing yet active day will appreciate the mix of gentle exploration, lounging at Cretya, and a splash of adventure with the zipline.

However, those with mobility issues or young children under 18 may need to look for more accessible options, as walking and stairs are involved, and Cretya has age restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Ubud day tour offers a practical balance between sightseeing, adventure, and leisure. The combination of a sacred monkey sanctuary, breathtaking rice terraces, and a chic jungle pool makes for a memorable, photo-worthy day. The presence of knowledgeable guides adds a layer of authenticity, helping you connect with Bali’s vibrant culture and stunning nature.

For travelers seeking a well-organized, value-packed experience that hits multiple highlights without the need for extensive planning, this tour makes an excellent choice. It’s a wonderful way to see some of Ubud’s top attractions comfortably and conveniently—especially if you appreciate a guided, social atmosphere.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, shared transfers are part of the experience, with pickup and drop-off at designated locations.

How long will I spend at each site? Expect around one hour at the Monkey Forest, 1.5 hours at Cretya Ubud, and about an hour for the zipline, totaling roughly six hours including travel.

Can I bring my kids on this tour? The tour is not suitable for children under 18, mainly due to Cretya Ubud’s age restrictions.

Are the attractions included in the price? Yes, the entry tickets for the Monkey Forest and rice terraces are included, along with guided sightseeing.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes, modest attire for temple visits, and swimwear for Cretya Ubud are recommended.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary? The schedule may change slightly due to weather, traffic, or crowd conditions, but the main stops are consistent.

This tour combines Bali’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and leisure in a way that offers genuine value and authentic moments. Whether it’s your first visit or a quick refresher trip, it’s a solid option to experience Ubud’s highlights in one enjoyable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: