Ubud: Monkey Forest, Temple, Rice Terraces & Waterfall

If you’re planning a trip to Bali, a day tour around Ubud offers a fantastic way to get a taste of the island’s spiritual charm, natural beauty, and vibrant culture — all with the convenience of a private guide. While we haven’t personally participated, this highly-rated, flexible tour seems to tick many boxes for first-time visitors eager to maximize their Bali experience without feeling rushed.

What really caught our eye are the diverse stops, blending nature and spirituality, with options to customize your day. The Sacred Monkey Forest provides a unique up-close encounter with playful primates and ancient statues, while the Tegalalang Rice Terraces promise postcard-worthy views. The Tirta Empul Temple offers an authentic moment of Balinese spiritual cleansing, and the scenic waterfall lets you cool off amid lush greenery. The possibility to add experiences like a coffee plantation visit or a jungle swing makes this tour versatile.

However, a word of caution: this is a longer day, and some travelers might find it a bit busy depending on their pace. The tour’s affordability and private setup make it appealing, especially for those wanting a personalized experience, but it’s worth considering your energy levels if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour suits first-time visitors, curious explorers, and those looking for an engaging mix of culture, nature, and optional adventure — all tailored to your preferences.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary: Choose your favorite spots and add optional activities.
• Private transportation: Comfortably explore in an air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated guide.
• Authentic experiences: Visit sacred temples, lush rice terraces, and waterfalls.
• Flexible duration: From a quick 1-hour overview to a full-day adventure.
• Affordable price point: At just $30 per person, it offers good value for a personalized day.
• Group discounts & mobile tickets: Easy planning and cost savings for groups.

What to Expect from the Ubud Highlights Tour

This tour is designed to give you a broad yet intimate look at Ubud’s most iconic sites, all with the comfort of private transportation and a guide who can tailor the experience to your interests. The flexibility is a major plus—whether you want to focus on spiritual sites, nature, or combine both, your guide can adapt the schedule accordingly.

Starting Point & Pickup

The tour begins in Ubud, with pickup arranged from your hotel or specified location. This saves you from the hassle of navigating Bali’s busy streets and ensures a smooth start to your day. Sharing your WhatsApp number ahead of time helps facilitate clear communication, especially if there are any schedule adjustments.

The Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Often the first stop, the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is a lively, slightly chaotic spot. The forest is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques that are accustomed to visitors, but it’s worth noting that they can be mischievous—so avoid bringing food unless you want furry thieves. The forest’s ancient temples and statues provide a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual heritage, set amid lush greenery.

Many reviews highlight the fun of watching the monkeys interact and the serenity of the temple ruins within the forest. One traveler mentioned, “It’s a playful place but also sacred; I loved seeing the ancient statues surrounded by nature.” Keep your camera ready, but also be cautious with your belongings.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Next, the tour usually includes a visit to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, famous for their stunning, layered greenery. We loved the way these terraces showcase Bali’s traditional irrigation system, known as subak, and give you a chance to snap some memorable photos. Some visitors report the best views are from the upper sections, which may involve a short walk or a small fee for a viewpoint.

If you’re feeling adventurous, optional add-ons like a swing over the rice paddies or a visit to an artisan village can elevate your experience, offering both fun and cultural insights. One reviewer appreciated that “the view from the rice terraces was breathtaking, and the optional swing was a highlight.”

Tirta Empul Temple

The Tirta Empul Temple is a sacred site where locals participate in purification rituals by bathing in holy spring water. Visitors are welcome to observe or join the ritual, which involves rinsing in the water to cleanse body and spirit. The temple’s intricate carvings and spouting water fountains make it visually captivating.

Many travelers find this stop deeply meaningful, quoting one review: “Participating in the purification ritual was an unforgettable spiritual experience.” Remember to dress appropriately—sarongs are often provided, but bringing your own is respectful.

Waterfall & Scenic Views

To cool down and enjoy Bali’s natural beauty, the tour often includes a visit to a waterfall. The lush surroundings and fresh spray make it a refreshing break. The waterfall’s location varies, but it’s generally a peaceful spot for photos and some downtime amidst nature.

Optional Add-ons & Adventure Options

For those craving more adrenaline, the tour offers exciting add-ons like:
– ATV quad biking through jungle and rice fields
– Whitewater rafting on the Ayung River
– Jungle swing & ziplining
– River tubing or canyoneering
– Horseback riding through villages

One reviewer noted, “The optional activities sounded fun, but I was happy just to relax and enjoy the scenery. It’s great that you can tailor the day to your energy level.”

Practical Details & Value

At $30 per person, this tour provides fantastic value, especially considering the private transportation, guide, and flexibility. The tour lasts from 1 to 9 hours, so you can choose a quick overview or spend a full day exploring at your own pace. The inclusion of bottled water and gasoline in the price ensures comfort and convenience.

The maximum of 6 people per car (or 4 with luggage) makes for a personalized experience without feeling crowded. The private setup means your guide can focus on your interests, whether it’s culture, photography, or adventure.

The Experience of the Guide

While the reviews don’t specify individual guides, many mention the “friendly local expert” guiding them through each stop. This personal touch often enhances the experience—your guide can share stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks, making each visit richer.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

• First-time visitors eager to get a broad overview of Ubud’s highlights
• Culture and spirituality enthusiasts interested in temples and traditional rituals
• Nature lovers wanting to see rice terraces and waterfalls
• Travelers seeking flexibility with optional add-ons and customizable stops
• Budget-conscious explorers looking for an affordable, private experience

Final Thoughts

This Ubud tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Bali’s spiritual sites, lush landscapes, and cultural treasures—all at an accessible price. The private nature of the trip means you won’t be tied to a rigid schedule, allowing for a more relaxed or activity-packed day depending on your mood.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Bali’s natural and spiritual essence, with optional activities to suit different energy levels. If you’re visiting Bali and want to maximize your time with a flexible, personal guide, this tour could be just what you need.

Overall, it’s an excellent option for those who want a meaningful, affordable day in Ubud—whether you’re in Bali for a week or just passing through, it offers a solid introduction to this enchanting part of the island.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and gasoline. Personal expenses are not included, so bring some cash for optional activities or souvenirs.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from about 1 hour to 9 hours, allowing you to choose how much of Ubud you want to explore in a day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible. Our local team will contact you after booking to tailor the day based on your interests, whether that’s temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, or optional adventures.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Absolutely. The maximum per car is 6 people without luggage or 4 with luggage, making it a good option for families or small groups wanting a personalized experience and comfort.

Do I need to prepare anything for the temple visit?
Yes, dress modestly—bring a sarong if you prefer, although they are often provided. Respectful attire is appreciated at sacred sites like Tirta Empul.

Are there any physical challenges?
Most stops involve some walking, but the tour can be adapted. If you have mobility issues, let your guide know so they can plan accordingly.

To sum it up, this Ubud tour from Nusa Dua offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and optional adventure, all at a reasonable price point. Its private, customizable approach makes it ideal for travelers who want control over their day while experiencing the best of Bali’s spiritual and scenic highlights. Whether you’re after a spiritual journey, a scenic photo tour, or a bit of both, this experience is worth considering for your Bali itinerary.