Setting out on a half-day tour in Ubud that combines lush rice terraces and peaceful waterfalls offers travelers a wonderful taste of Bali’s natural beauty. The experience promises scenic views, light adventures, and moments of tranquil relaxation—all packed into just a few hours. This particular tour is ideal for those who want to see Bali’s countryside without committing to a full-day excursion or disrupting their broader travel plans.
What we love about this tour is its balance of activities and rest. The serene walk through the rice terraces offers a peek into Bali’s farming traditions, while the waterfall provides a cool, quiet escape from crowded tourist spots. Plus, the door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off make it quite convenient. However, it’s worth noting that some optional activities like ziplining or swinging come at an extra cost, which might add to the overall expense if you choose to indulge.
This tour is especially suitable for travelers seeking an authentic, scenic experience that doesn’t require strenuous effort. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of Bali’s landscape will find this itinerary perfectly suited, provided they’re comfortable with some light walking and a moderate pace.
Key Points
- Beautiful landscapes: The rice terraces and waterfall provide stunning photo opportunities and memorable views.
- Inclusive experience: Hotel pickup, private transportation, and entry fees are included, offering a hassle-free day.
- Affordable value: At just under $18 per person, the tour provides a lot of scenery and relaxation for the price.
- Optional activities: Ziplining or swinging can spice up your visit but are at an additional cost.
- Short but sweet: Suitable for travelers with limited time who want a quick but meaningful encounter with Bali’s countryside.
- Authentic rural charm: The stops highlight traditional Bali farming and local natural spots, away from commercialized areas.
👉 Check out our guide to the 8 Best 2 Day Tours In Ubud
Contents
- Key Points
- A Closer Look at the Day
- Starting Point and Duration
- The Rice Terrace: Abian Desa
- Ulu Petanu Waterfall
- Additional Stops and Flexibility
- What’s Included and What Costs Extra
- The Experience and Reviews
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Ubud
- More Tours in Ubud
- More Tour Reviews in Ubud
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Ubud we have recnetly reviewed
A Closer Look at the Day
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ubud.
Starting Point and Duration
The tour begins at 10:00 am from the meeting point at Pepito Market in Ubud, an easy central location. With a total duration of 3 to 4 hours, it’s designed for those wanting a quick yet immersive experience. Since it is a private tour, your group will have the driver’s full attention, and the timing remains flexible based on your preferences. The journey is conducted in private transportation, meaning you’re not sharing with strangers—a plus for those who value comfort and a personal touch.
The Rice Terrace: Abian Desa
The first stop, Abian Desa Rice Terrace, is a showcase of Bali’s iconic agricultural landscape. You’ll walk through vibrant, terraced fields that reflect centuries of traditional rice farming. We loved the way this site balances natural beauty with activity options—ziplining or swinging above the fields provides a thrill and fantastic photo moments.
The experience here isn’t just about looking at the paddies. You can engage in light activities such as a sky-high swing or even cycling on a sky bike, which offers panoramic views of Bali’s countryside. The adventure element adds a fun twist, turning a simple walk into a memorable highlight. Many visitors, like Jess_F, have praised the friendliness of the driver and the enjoyment of the waterfalls, noting the scenery as truly beautiful.
Ulu Petanu Waterfall
Next, the tour takes you to Ulu Petanu Waterfall, an often-overlooked gem. Surrounded by lively jungle and terraced rice fields, the waterfall offers a peaceful retreat away from busy tourist hubs. The short, scenic walk to the waterfall is suitable for all ages—making it a perfect spot for families or those with limited mobility.
The waterfall flows into a shallow pool, inviting you to dip your feet or just listen to the gentle cascade. Many travelers find this spot refreshing and calming, with some even taking a quick swim or snapping photos in the lush environment. The reviews highlight how this quiet corner of Bali’s landscape feels untouched and offers a moment of genuine tranquility.
Additional Stops and Flexibility
If time permits, your driver might stop at a nearby restaurant with stunning rice views, a plantation, or a temple. These brief visits are optional but can round out your experience, giving you a deeper sense of local life and scenery. The tour’s flexibility is a strong point—your driver will adjust the stops based on your interests and pace.
What’s Included and What Costs Extra
The tour’s price of $17.66 per person covers transportation, guide service, entry fees for the rice terrace and waterfall (total IDR55,000 or about $3.80 USD), and insurance. The private transportation means you’ll avoid crowded groups, and hotel pickup and drop-off streamline the experience.
Optional activities like ziplining or swinging are available at IDR200,000 (~$13.50 USD) per person, which might seem a bit steep for some travelers but offers a memorable adventure, especially for adrenaline lovers.
Meals are not included, but there are local restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a meal with a view, often at reasonable prices. The value here is quite good considering the scenic spots and the saved hassle of organizing transport and entry.
The Experience and Reviews
Travelers consistently praise the stunning views and friendly service. Jess_F sums it up nicely, stating, “Our driver made the trip very enjoyable, great English, very friendly. We had so much fun at the waterfalls, they were beautiful.” The positive feedback suggests this tour strikes a balance of fun, comfort, and genuine Bali scenery.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers with limited time but who want a meaningful glimpse of Bali’s countryside. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers looking for light adventure and peaceful scenery. If you’re after authentic landscapes without a strenuous hike or long day, this tour will fit nicely into your Bali itinerary.
Final Thoughts
This half-day tour offers a solid value for those eager to see Bali’s iconic rice terraces and waterfalls in a relaxed setting. The combination of scenic views, light activities, and convenient logistics makes it a great choice for travelers who want to maximize their experience with minimal hassle.
The stunning views, friendly guides, and peaceful spots make this a memorable outing. While optional activities like ziplining are available at extra cost, the core experience remains engaging and beautiful enough to satisfy most nature lovers.
If you’re someone who appreciates authentic landscapes, serene settings, and a touch of adventure, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable taste of Bali’s countryside. It’s a well-balanced choice for a quick escape into the lush, green heart of Ubud.
Half Day Tour Ubud Rice Terrace with Activities and Waterfall
FAQ
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 10:00 am, making it an easy morning activity that leaves plenty of time to continue exploring Ubud later in the day.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Just confirm your location when booking.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on stops and activities, perfect for a half-day plan.
What activities are available at the rice terrace?
You can walk through the terraces, and if you wish, enjoy activities such as ziplining or swinging over the paddies, though these are optional and at an extra cost.
Are there any additional costs during the tour?
Yes, the entry fee for the rice terrace and waterfall is IDR55,000 (~$3.80 USD). Optional activities like ziplining are at IDR200,000 (~$13.50 USD) per person. Meals are at your own expense.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the short, scenic walk to the waterfall and the gentle activities make it suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with light walking.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are advisable. Bringing a swimsuit or towel is optional if you want to dip into the waterfall pool.
This tour is a delightful way to enjoy Bali’s countryside without overextending your day. With its combination of scenic beauty, gentle activities, and friendly service, it’s an authentic experience worth considering during your stay in Ubud.
