If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want a taste of the island’s vibrant culture, scenic landscapes, and local crafts, this Ubud Village, with Rice Terrace and Waterfall Visit is worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, travelers consistently praise its well-rounded approach, guided insights, and the chance to see both famous and lesser-known spots.
What we love about this experience is how it combines the highlights of Ubud in one day — from traditional dance performances and bustling markets to serene waterfalls and lush rice terraces. The focus on authentic cultural encounters and the variety of stops make it a compelling choice for first-timers or anyone looking to get a broad sense of Ubud’s charm.
A potential consideration is the full-day schedule, which can feel a bit packed for those wanting a more relaxed pace or more time at each location. But with hotel pickup, transportation, and entry fees included, the value and convenience are hard to beat. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, cultural activities, and a bit of shopping — especially if you’re eager to see Bali’s diverse highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits.
Key Points:
- Comprehensive Tour: Combines cultural performances, markets, scenic rice terraces, waterfalls, and local crafts.
- All-Inclusive: Hotel pickup, transport, entry fees, and a guide make for a hassle-free experience.
- Authentic Encounters: Watch traditional dance, visit artisan villages, and explore Bali’s real craftsmanship.
- Diverse Scenery: Experience lush rice terraces, a stunning waterfall, and scenic countryside views.
- Value for Money: At $49, the tour offers a full day of diverse activities, making it an excellent budget option.
- Expert Guides: Reviewers highlight knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the experience.
A Detailed Look at the Ubud Village Tour
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Starting at Batubulan: The Traditional Dance and Fire Performance
The day kicks off with a visit to Batubulan Village to watch the Barong and Fire Dance. Starting around 9:30 am, this dance dramatizes the eternal struggle of good versus evil—an iconic Balinese story. The Barong, depicted as a mythological animal, symbolizes protection and good spirits, while Rangda embodies chaos and evil.
The performance, which lasts about an hour, is both lively and visually captivating, featuring intricate costumes and vibrant movements. Reviewers praise the guide Gede for his knowledge, noting he added extra local stops and insights that enriched the experience. Many mention that the dance itself is a highlight, providing a window into Balinese mythology and spiritual beliefs.
Celuk Village: Jewelry and Craftsmanship
Next, the tour heads to Celuk Village, famed for its gold and silver jewelry. Just an hour from the airport and close to Sanur and Ubud, this village offers a chance to see artisans at work and browse bustling markets. If you’re into jewelry, you’ll appreciate the chance to buy authentic pieces directly from the makers, with reviewers advising to bargain starting at 65% off — a great way to practice haggling and score a good deal.
The short 20-minute stop is enough to appreciate the craftsmanship and maybe pick up a unique souvenir. Many guests find the market atmosphere lively and authentic without being overly commercialized.
Ubud Cultural Arts: Painting, Carving, and Local Art
From jewelry, the tour moves into the heart of Ubud’s artistic scene with visits to local ateliers. The stop at a Rai, Name Plate, Painting, and Carving studio offers insight into Bali’s thriving artist community. Ubud’s scenic rice paddies, monkey forest, and banyan trees serve as a beautiful backdrop for this cultural hub.
Here, travelers can observe talented artisans and even hone their bargaining skills, as prices tend to be on the higher side. The review mentions that products can be expensive, but bargaining can lead to significant discounts, making this a worthwhile shopping stop for those interested in Bali’s art scene.
Mas Village: Wood Carving Masterpieces
No visit to Bali is complete without experiencing its renowned wood craftsmanship. Mas Village is renowned for its skilled wood carvers, creating intricate figures that blend naturalism with humanist themes. The high caliber of craftsmanship is recognized worldwide, with many masters hailing from this artistic hub.
This 20-minute stop gives a quick peek into Bali’s artisan traditions and offers the chance to purchase handcrafted wood art. Reviewers note that Mas Village is the perfect place to see how Balinese artisans translate natural beauty and spiritual themes into wood.
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Ubud Market & Palace: Local Life and Cultural Performances
The lively Ubud Market is a must-visit. The traditional market sells fresh produce and daily essentials, while the arts market offers textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Adjacent to the market is Ubud Palace, home to the royal family, which hosts evening dance performances like Legong, Barong, and Ramayana Ballet.
This stop is ideal for absorbing local life and shopping for authentic Balinese crafts. Many travelers enjoy browsing the vibrant stalls and watching performances that showcase Bali’s rich dance traditions, often held in outdoor courtyards.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Iconic Bali Views
One of Bali’s most photographed sights, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace offers sweeping views of lush greenery and gentle terraces carved into the hillside. The scenery is postcard-perfect, with coconut trees dotting the landscape and a small river winding through the valley.
Guests can walk along the terraces, take photos, and even browse nearby shops selling painted woodcarvings. The review mentions that the area is bustling with vendors, so bargaining can turn into a fun activity here. The scenery provides a perfect moment to breathe and appreciate Bali’s agricultural heritage.
Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation: The Coffee Experience
No trip to Bali is complete without tasting its famous coffee, especially Kopi Luwak. The Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation offers a chance to see how civet coffee is made, from the beans eaten and excreted by civets to the roasting process. Visitors can sample various coffees and learn about their unique production.
The reviewer highlights the aromatic quality of the coffee, and the experience is enhanced by the opportunity to buy fresh beans directly from the source, often at a reasonable price. It’s a fascinating insight into one of Bali’s most exclusive products.
Tegenungan Waterfall: Natural Beauty and Refreshment
The tour wraps up with a visit to Tegenungan Waterfall, renowned for its lush surroundings and natural pools. The area is well-developed, with natural spring showers and bathing spots. Many guests mention that the waterfall’s lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot for photos or a quick dip.
The 30-minute stop is a refreshing end to the day, allowing travelers to relax and soak in Bali’s natural splendor.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At just $49, this full-day experience covers a lot of ground. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, entrance fees, and the guidance of knowledgeable locals, which together cut down on hassle and hidden costs. While it’s a busy schedule, the variety of stops ensures you get a well-rounded introduction to Ubud’s culture, art, and landscapes.
The reviews consistently praise the guides, especially Gede, for their friendliness and depth of knowledge. The inclusion of traditional dance performances and visits to artisan villages adds layers of cultural richness that purely sightseeing tours often miss.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see Bali’s best highlights without the stress of planning multiple excursions. It’s perfect for travelers interested in culture, art, and scenic beauty, especially those who enjoy learning from friendly guides and exploring authentic local crafts.
It also suits those on a budget, as the comprehensive price offers significant value considering the diverse range of activities packed into a single day. But keep in mind, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or longer time at each stop, this tour might feel a bit rushed.
Final Thoughts
This Ubud Village and Cultural Tour offers a comprehensive, engaging introduction to Bali’s artistic and natural treasures. With its well-curated stops, friendly guides, and inclusive pricing, it’s a practical choice for travelers who want a rich, authentic experience without the hassle of arranging everything independently.
From dynamic dance performances to serene rice terraces and bustling markets, the tour captures the essence of Ubud’s charm. It’s especially valuable for those new to Bali, eager to get the most out of a single day and gain a genuine sense of Bali’s unique spirit.
For anyone seeking a balanced mixture of culture, scenery, and local flavor, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to wear comfortable clothes and be ready for a full day of exploring Bali’s vibrant heart.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup offered?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient option for travelers staying in Ubud or nearby areas.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, covering multiple stops from morning until late afternoon.
What is included in the price?
The price of $49 covers all taxes, fees, handling charges, bottled water, transportation, a guide, and entry fees to the attractions.
Do I need to bring lunch?
Lunch is not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during your stops.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress code is smart casual.
Can I customize or add extra stops?
Since this is a private tour, guides may be flexible for extra requests, but it’s best to confirm directly with the provider.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviewers mention that guides like Gede are very friendly, informative, and go above and beyond to enhance the experience.
Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The rice terraces, waterfalls, and markets offer fantastic photo opportunities throughout the day.
In summary, this tour provides a rich, authentic glimpse of Ubud’s culture, art, and natural beauty, making it especially perfect for first-timers and curious explorers. Its combination of scenic views, cultural performances, and artisan stops make it a well-rounded choice that balances value with memorable experiences.
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