If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want to get a good introduction to Ubud’s most iconic sights, this full-day tour could be just what you need. It offers a chance to experience everything from playful monkeys and lush rice fields to spiritual temples and relaxing hot springs—all in one well-organized package. It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors who want to see as much as possible without the hassle of planning transport or navigating unfamiliar roads.
What we like most about this tour is how it combines authentic cultural experiences with stunning natural scenery. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it a stress-free way to explore. On the flip side, the long day can be quite packed, and some optional activities like the swing are not included, which might be worth considering. Overall, it’s a practical choice for travelers eager to tick off Ubud’s top highlights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.
This tour suits travelers who want an efficient, guided introduction to Ubud’s best sights—especially those with limited time or first-timers who prefer a hassle-free experience. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides who can share insider insights along the way.
Key Points
- Hassle-free transportation ensures you avoid navigation stress and maximize sightseeing time.
- Balanced itinerary covers major attractions, blending cultural, spiritual, and natural highlights.
- Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insider info and help with photo opportunities.
- Flexible options like the optional swing allow personalized experiences.
- Value is excellent, especially given all entrance fees and lunch included for just $35.
- Authentic experiences like the sacred temples and natural hot springs deepen your understanding of Bali’s culture.
👉 Check out our guide to the 8 Best 2 Day Tours In Ubud
Contents
- Key Points
- A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
- Convenience and Comfort from the Start
- Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace
- Tirta Empul Temple
- Mount Batur and Lunch with a View
- Batur Natural Hot Springs
- Optional Aloha Ubud Swing
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives
- Practical Tips for Travelers
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Ubud
- More Spa & Hot Springs 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 Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Ubud
Convenience and Comfort from the Start
One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the hotel pickup and drop-off. It removes the challenge of figuring out transportation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Bali’s traffic or roads. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride across the roughly 10-hour day. This setup allows you to focus on enjoying the sights rather than stressing over directions or parking.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Your first stop is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Here, you’ll encounter friendly, mischievous monkeys in a lush jungle setting. It’s a favorite for many because it’s fun and slightly unpredictable—watch your belongings! The admission ticket is included, and with about an hour allocated, you’ll have ample time to stroll through the forest, observe the monkeys, and snap some photos of ancient temple ruins entwined with greenery.
A traveler review highlights the fun: “I highly recommend this tour, our guide Yanse was wonderful, caring and takes great pictures.” The monkeys are a highlight, but the real value lies in experiencing a living piece of Bali’s spiritual harmony.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Next, you’re off to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a postcard-perfect patchwork of emerald-green fields carved into the landscape. The tour offers a chance to admire the views and learn about traditional irrigation systems that sustain Bali’s rice production. The one-hour visit provides enough time for photos, a quick walk along the terraces, and learning about local farming practices.
One reviewer notes, “We saw the rice fields and enjoyed the stunning vistas,” emphasizing how this stop is a must for anyone wanting a scenic snapshot of rural Bali.
Tirta Empul Temple
A key cultural experience awaits at Tirta Empul Temple, a site renowned for its ancient spiritual cleansing rituals. You’ll learn about Balinese religious traditions and maybe even participate in a soul-cleansing ritual if you choose. The guided explanation helps visitors grasp the significance of the water springs and temple architecture, making it more than just a photo stop.
The one-hour duration allows you to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, and understand why locals hold this temple sacred. The admission fee is included, ensuring smooth entry.
Mount Batur and Lunch with a View
Midday, the tour moves to Mount Batur for a buffet lunch overlooking the volcanic crater. This two-hour break is a highlight for many—great food paired with an unforgettable view of the volcano. You’ll savor local flavors while gazing out over the landscape, making it a satisfying pause in your busy day.
Travelers mention that this was “a fantastic place for lunch with a volcano view,” and the relaxed atmosphere lets you recharge before the next activities.
Batur Natural Hot Springs
After lunch, it’s time to unwind at the Batur Natural Hotspring. Here, you can soak in the warm waters, which many find to be a soothing end to the day. The hot springs are known for their relaxing qualities and the chance to pamper yourself amid natural surroundings.
One review describes the experience as “romantic and rejuvenating,” adding that it’s a calming way to connect with Bali’s natural geothermal activity. The two hours allocated here are usually enough for a leisurely soak and some downtime.
Optional Aloha Ubud Swing
For those craving a bit more adventure, the Aloha Ubud Swing is available as an optional add-on. Flying like a bird over the treetops offers fantastic photo opportunities and a thrill for adrenaline lovers. The swing isn’t included in the base price but can be booked separately.
Most travelers who try it mention how fun the experience is, with the added bonus of capturing memorable photos. If you’re a photography enthusiast or just want a unique view of Bali’s lush landscape, it might be worth the extra cost.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $35, you get quite a bit: all entrance tickets (if you select that option), a knowledgeable driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, all activities, and a buffet lunch with volcano views. This package offers fantastic value, considering the number of sights and amenities.
However, things not included are dinner, personal expenses like souvenirs, and the swing if you choose to do it. This allows flexibility, so you can decide whether to indulge in more optional activities.
The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives
The reviews underscore the tour’s strengths: expert guides who share interesting insights and help with photos, and the stunning views at nearly every stop. One traveler called the guide “wonderful, caring and takes great pictures,” which clearly enhances the overall experience. Another mentioned that, despite traffic delays, they still managed to visit key sights, appreciating the professionalism of the guide.
The long day is described as “packed with great places of interest,” which is true—if you’re someone who appreciates efficiency and a well-curated itinerary, this tour delivers. It ensures you see the highlights without the stress of independent planning or transportation.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Bring comfortable shoes, especially for walking at the rice terraces and temples.
- Pack a hat and sunscreen for outdoor stops.
- If you wish to participate in the spiritual ritual at Tirta Empul, be mindful of appropriate attire—cover shoulders and knees.
- Consider booking the optional swing in advance if you’re keen on capturing that perfect shot.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families (children must be accompanied by an adult) and those with vegetarian preferences (vegetarian options are available).
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Ubud who want to see the essential sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. It’s also great for travelers who value insightful storytelling and authentic cultural experiences. If you enjoy combining scenic views with a bit of spiritual insight and some relaxation in hot springs, this itinerary hits the mark.
It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a structured, guided day rather than exploring independently—especially if time is limited. The balance of natural beauty, cultural sites, and leisure activities makes it a well-rounded introduction to Bali’s spiritual and scenic core.
Final Thoughts
This full-day tour offers an excellent way to maximize your time in Ubud, combining must-see sights with a comfortable, guided experience. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and all entrance fees included, it represents good value for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Bali’s highlights. It’s especially ideal for first-timers and those who prefer a hassle-free approach to sightseeing.
While the day can be intense with several stops, the variety keeps it interesting, and the chance to learn about Balinese culture from passionate guides truly adds depth. The optional swing lets you add a splash of adventure, perfect for capturing memories and sharing your Bali story.
In short, it’s a thoughtfully curated day that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture—making it a smart choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive and enjoyable Bali experience.
Monkey Forest, Holy Water Temple & Hot Springs Tours
“I highly recommend this tour, our guide Yanse was wonderful, caring and takes great pictures. Tour can be slightly altered if you want to skip part…”
FAQ
Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making your day more convenient and stress-free.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, allowing ample time to enjoy each stop.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, if you select the option, all entrance tickets are included in the price.
Can I skip any part of the tour?
Yes, the guide can often tailor the itinerary if you want to skip certain stops, especially at your discretion.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially for walking. Modest attire is advised at temples.
Can I participate in the spiritual cleansing ritual at Tirta Empul?
You might find the opportunity to join in the ritual, which is an integral part of the temple experience, and guided explanations will help you understand its significance.
Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available; please advise at the time of booking if needed.
This tour combines the best of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual culture in a single, accessible package. Its balance of guided insights, scenic stops, and relaxation makes it an ideal introduction for those new to Ubud or Bali in general.
