Ubud Tour With Monkey Forest, Rice Terrace, Waterfall, Temple

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Planning a day around Ubud’s highlights can feel overwhelming, especially with so many beautiful spots scattered across Bali’s lush landscape. That’s where this private guided tour shines. For around $30.89 per person, you get a well-paced, personalized experience that hits some of the most iconic sights Ubud has to offer—without the hassle of self-driving or navigating crowded spots.

What makes this tour stand out are a few key perks: a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle that takes care of the logistics, and a local guide who not only drives but also shares insights into Bali’s culture and traditions. Two things we really appreciate are the flexibility of a private tour—so you can tailor the experience slightly if needed—and the variety packed into a single day. One possible consideration? Though billed as a full-day experience, some reviews mention it can feel a little long, especially with young kids.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, seamless way to see multiple attractions without the stress of planning each stop. It’s perfect for those who appreciate local insights, enjoy seeing natural beauty, and want an authentic taste of Bali’s spiritual and cultural sites.

  • Personalized experience: Private tour means your group’s pace and interests shape the day.
  • Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pick-up make for a stress-free outing.
  • Cultural and natural highlights: Includes temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, and a monkey forest—covering Bali’s diverse charm.
  • Flexible and informative guides: Guides share culture, history, and local stories, making the sights more meaningful.
  • Value for money: For around $30, you get a full day with a driver, multiple stops, and parking fees included.
  • Some attractions cost extra: Entry tickets for sites like Monkey Forest and waterfalls aren’t included, so budget accordingly.

Starting Point: The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Our journey begins at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to over 700 long-tailed macaques. It’s one of Ubud’s most visited spots, and for good reason. Walking along the well-maintained pathways, you’ll encounter ancient temples, giant banyan trees, and the playful, curious monkeys. The forest isn’t just a petting zoo; it’s a spiritual site where monkeys roam freely among centuries-old stone carvings and lush greenery.

According to reviews, many travelers find this stop enchanting. One visitor noted, “The monkey forest is nice,” while others especially appreciated the opportunity to observe the monkeys in a natural setting. Keep in mind, admission tickets are not included, so plan to buy tickets on-site or online. Travelers should also watch their belongings—monkeys are clever and can snatch small items.

👉 Check out our guide to the 8 Best 2 Day Tours In Ubud

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Art Village: Mas Carving Center

Next, we visit the Mas Carving Center, a charming hub of Balinese craftsmanship. Here, you can see artisans at work creating intricate wood carvings, jewelry, and paintings. The best part? It’s a free stop—no entrance fee required—and offers a chance to witness local artisanship up close.

Many reviews mention this as a relaxed, educational break. It’s a chance to see how traditional Balinese arts are made, and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. It’s more of a visual experience than interactive shopping, so don’t expect high-pressure sales; it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ubud.

The Stunning Tegalalang Rice Terrace

One of Bali’s most photographed spots, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace offers panoramic views of layered rice paddies carved into the hillside. We loved the way the sunlight hits the terraces, creating a patchwork of green shades. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and the view gives you a sense of Bali’s agricultural life.

You’ll likely spend about an hour here, soaking in the scenery or capturing some family photos. It’s a popular place, so expect some crowds, but the sweeping vistas are worth sharing with fellow travelers. Entrance isn’t included, but parking fees are covered in the tour.

Spiritual Reflection at Tirta Empul Temple

Next, the Tirta Empul Temple is a beautifully restored Hindu water temple famous for its holy spring water ritual. Visitors come to participate in or observe the traditional purification baths. The temple’s intricate stonework and tranquil pools evoke a sense of reverence and history.

Many travelers mention how meaningful this stop is, especially as a window into Balinese spiritual practices. Since admission isn’t included, plan for a small fee. Remember that modest dress is required for temple visits, so wear appropriate clothing or bring a shawl.

Refreshing Nature at Ulu Petanu Waterfall

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to the Ulu Petanu Waterfall, a lesser-known but stunning natural spot. The waterfall is tucked away near Ubud, offering a peaceful setting away from crowds. You can enjoy the crisp air, take photos, and even dip into the cool water if you’re feeling brave.

This stop is roughly 45 minutes long, providing a relaxing finale to a busy day. While the entrance fee isn’t included, many reviews emphasize that the waterfall’s beauty makes it worth the extra expense. Travelers often find the setting perfect for a quiet moment before heading back to their hotel.

Practical Details and Travel Comfort

Throughout the day, your private driver and guide ensure smooth transitions between stops. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives comfortable, especially in Bali’s tropical heat. The tour’s starting point is flexible—hotel pickup is included, saving you the hassle of finding meeting points. Parking fees are also covered, which is a nice added touch that keeps costs transparent.

Most travelers find the timing to be well-managed. The total duration is about 8 to 10 hours, though the actual sightseeing time at each site varies. Some reviews mention the day feeling a bit long, particularly for families with young children, so consider your group’s stamina.

Authentic Experiences and Cultural Insights

What sets this tour apart are the guides—many reviews mention guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share Bali’s stories. One traveler appreciated the “interesting additional information” received from their guide, while another highlighted how their guide helped them learn about Balinese traditions.

This added layer of cultural context makes the experience more enriching than just ticking sites off a list. Whether it’s explaining the spiritual significance of Tirta Empul or sharing stories about local art at Mas Village, guides help transform sightseeing into learning.

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Ubud Tour With Monkey Forest, Rice Terrace, Waterfall, Temple



5.0

(78 reviews)

99% 5-star

“This USA great way to see the real Bali. You can tailor the day accordingly. Our guide Radek was first rate”

— peter w,

From $31/person


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Value Considerations

At roughly $30.89, this tour offers significant value. You’re paying for transportation, a private guide, and the convenience of door-to-door service. While some attractions require extra tickets, the overall package is budget-friendly compared to arranging separate taxis or rental cars.

Many reviews underline the value—some say it’s more than enough for the experience, and praised the guides and smooth organization. A few criticize the tour for being over-priced or too short, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day in Ubud. It suits those who appreciate cultural insights and natural beauty, and who prefer the comfort of private transport and a knowledgeable guide. Families with kids will enjoy the flexibility and engaging stops, especially the monkey forest and waterfalls.

If you’re on a budget but still want a meaningful experience that covers the highlights, this tour provides a reliable, well-organized option. It’s also suitable for first-time visitors eager to get a broad sense of Ubud’s essence without missing out on any major sites.

This Ubud tour packs a punch, giving travelers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and spirituality. The private nature of the experience means you can enjoy a leisurely pace, ask questions, and explore sites more deeply than in a large group. For the price, it’s a solid investment in a memorable day—especially with guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

While there are some extra costs for site entries, the overall value remains high. The comfort of air-conditioned transport and the convenience of hotel pickup make it an easy choice for busy travelers looking to optimize their Bali adventure.

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Ubud’s must-sees, this tour is worth considering. It delivers authenticity, comfort, and variety—key ingredients for a memorable Bali day.

Are hotel pickups included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup for added convenience, making it easier to start your day without logistical stress.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and the time spent at each site.

Are all entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets for sites like Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul Temple, and Ulu Petanu Waterfall are not included. You should budget for these separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children find the experience enjoyable, especially the Monkey Forest and waterfall. Just be mindful of the overall length for very young kids.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera. You might also want to carry a towel and dry clothes if planning to dip in waterfalls or water temples.

Can I customize this tour?
As a private tour, there’s some flexibility to discuss your interests with your guide, though the itinerary is generally fixed for efficiency.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this Ubud highlights tour. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal service, it’s a strong choice for those eager to experience Bali’s essence comfortably and affordably.

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