Ubud: Monkey Forest, Rice Terraces and Jungle Swing Tour

Planning a day trip around Ubud that hits all the highlights? This private tour offers a balanced blend of wildlife, culture, natural beauty, and a dash of adventure. With a personal English-speaking driver, you’ll enjoy a smooth, flexible experience that keeps you in control. What really makes this tour shine is the combination of iconic spots—like the sacred monkey forest and spectacular waterfalls—with the chance to snap those perfect jungle swing photos. And at just around $25.65 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to get a comprehensive taste of Ubud.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized touch—your own driver means no rushing or crowded groups. Second, the variety of stops ensures you experience different aspects of Bali: wildlife, traditional culture, and stunning scenery. Third, the professional guides and staff at attractions, especially the swing staff, make for memorable moments. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees are not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.

This tour is ideal if you’re after an efficient, all-encompassing day that covers top sights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview or travelers with limited time who want to see Bali’s best in one go. If you’re seeking a very tailored or exclusive experience, you might prefer a more customized or private arrangement, but for many, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Enjoy the comfort of private transportation and your own driver, avoiding crowded group tours.
• Diverse Attractions: Covers wildlife, rice terraces, temples, waterfalls, and Bali’s famous jungle swing.
• Flexible and Informative: Guides are recognized as knowledgeable, sharing insights about each site.
• Great Value: At just $25.65, it includes transportation, bottled water, parking, and your driver’s expertise.
• Authentic Highlights: Visit sacred sites like Tirta Empul and see Bali’s famed arts and crafts.
• Timing & Convenience: The tour runs about 8 to 10 hours, with stops designed for ample exploration.

A Close Look at the Itinerary

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The tour kicks off at the Monkey Forest, home to around 700 Balinese long-tailed macaques living amidst ancient temples. It’s a lively, slightly mischievous spot where the monkeys roam freely, and you can walk along the 12.5-hectare forest trail. Reviewers rave about the harmony of the site—“monkeys live in harmony with the temples,” and the experience is described as “brilliant” and “a fantastic taste of Ubud.” Although the entrance fee isn’t included, many find the visit worthwhile for the chance to see monkeys up close in their natural environment.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Next, you’ll head north to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, one of Bali’s most iconic landscapes. The lush greenery and layered fields create a postcard-perfect scene. Visitors often comment on the “magical” view and the chance to observe traditional farming activities. Many reviewers enjoy a walk through the terraces, taking photos or trying the famous jungle swing—professional photographers are on hand to help capture your best shots. The swing experience is a hit, often described as fun and exhilarating.

Tirta Empul Temple

The tour then brings you to Tirta Empul, a temple famous for its holy water springs and purification rituals. Visitors often find this to be a meaningful cultural experience—“a special blessing ritual on purification,” as one reviewer notes. Each spring at Tirta Empul has a different symbolic meaning, helping visitors cleanse negative energies. The site offers a glimpse into Balinese spiritual practices, and many find it to be a peaceful, enlightening stop.

Tegenungan Waterfall

After culture, it’s time for Tegenungan Waterfall. Surrounded by jungle greenery, this waterfall is one of the most beautiful in Ubud. You can opt to walk down to the base and experience the cool spray or simply admire the view from above. Reviewers love the lush setting and say it’s perfect for photos—“great views and stunning scenery.” It’s a relaxing, visually impressive spot that showcases Bali’s tropical beauty.

Arts & Crafts Stops

Between attractions, the tour includes opportunities to visit Ubud’s renowned arts and handicraft galleries—silver, wood carvings, paintings, and batik. These stops add a cultural layer, giving you a chance to see artisans at work and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. Many travelers appreciate these as authentic glimpses into Bali’s creative spirit.

Ubud Jungle Swing

No Bali visit is complete without experiencing the famous jungle swing. Staff are friendly, helping you find the perfect pose for your photos. As one reviewer mentions, “the swing staff helped us take some great pictures,” making it an enjoyable, lighthearted finale to the trip. It’s a playful experience that adds a sense of adventure and fun to your day.

What the Tour Includes and What to Expect

Practical Details

This tour is tailored for those who want a stress-free day with all logistics handled. Your English-speaking driver picks you up from your preferred location—Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, or others—and transports you comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle. The price covers parking fees and bottled water, ensuring a smooth experience without hidden costs.

Duration and Pacing

Spanning roughly 8 to 10 hours, the schedule is designed to give you enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. Each major attraction—like the monkey forest, rice terraces, and waterfall—is allocated about 1.5 hours. The swing stop is a shorter, more playful hour. Reviewers consistently mention how their guides provided ample time at each location and even helped with photos, adding to the overall enjoyment.

Flexibility and Personalization

Since this is a private tour, you have some control over the pace and stops. Many reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness—they often share interesting stories or insights that go beyond basic facts. This personal touch makes a big difference, turning a sightseeing trip into a more memorable experience.

Analyzing the Value and Experience

At just over $25, the tour offers excellent value when you consider the inclusions—private transport, bottled water, parking, and a knowledgeable driver. Entrance fees are not included, so budget for those separately, but the overall cost remains reasonable given the comprehensive itinerary.

Reviewers highlight that the guides are “very kind,” “incredibly knowledgeable,” and attentive, which enhances the experience significantly. Many mention how their guides took the time to ensure they understood each site and felt comfortable, making the trip more authentic and less rushed.

The mix of nature, culture, and adventure means you get a well-rounded perspective of Ubud’s highlights. The combination of scenic spots like the rice terraces and waterfalls with cultural sites like Tirta Empul means you leave with both beautiful photos and meaningful memories.

Who Would Love This Tour?

• First-time visitors to Bali looking for a broad overview of Ubud’s top sights
• Travelers wanting a personalized, flexible experience away from large groups
• Those interested in culture—blessings, temples, arts
• Nature lovers eager to see Bali’s iconic landscapes and waterfalls
• Anyone wanting fun photo opportunities, especially on the jungle swing

Final Thoughts

This Ubud sightseeing tour hits many of Bali’s highlights without the hefty price tag or overwhelming crowds. Its strength lies in the private, flexible approach—your own driver, your own rhythm, and the chance to explore at your leisure. From monkeys swinging through the forest to the roar of Tegenungan waterfall, each stop offers a memorable snippet of Bali’s vibrant spirit.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and authentic experiences make it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to maximize their day in Ubud. It’s especially suited for those who value comfort, personalized service, and a mix of adventure and culture.

While entrance fees are extra, most travelers agree that the overall value far outweighs the cost. Whether you’re snapping pictures on the swing, marveling at rice terraces, or blessing yourself at Tirta Empul, this tour offers a well-rounded and enjoyable Bali experience.

FAQ

Is this tour private or group?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
Your private driver, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, parking fees, and the driver’s expertise are included. Entrance fees are optional and not included.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the stops?
While the itinerary is set, the private nature of the tour offers some flexibility, and your driver can accommodate your preferences.

Do I need to pay for entrance tickets separately?
Yes, entrance tickets are not included in the standard price, so you should budget for these at each site.

Is pickup available from my location?
Yes, pickup is offered from various locations including Ubud, Kuta, Sanur, Canggu, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, and Legian.

What is the jungle swing like?
It’s a fun experience with staff helping you capture great photos. It’s a brief, exhilarating activity that adds adventure to your day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially since the activities are mostly sightseeing and photo opportunities, but always check the specific site restrictions.

Are there any dining options included?
Lunch is not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan for a meal on your own during the day.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities, plus sunscreen and hats are recommended.

This tour offers a delightful mix of Bali’s natural beauty, spiritual sites, and cultural charm—all wrapped into a manageable day, making it perfect for those wanting to see the best of Ubud without the hassle.