Ubud: Monkey Forest, Water Temple, Rice Terrace, Waterfall

Balinese scenery and culture collide in this full-day private tour through Ubud’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re after lush nature, spiritual temples, or playful monkeys, this experience promises to deliver. While it’s priced at a very reasonable $28 per person, the value depends on your expectations for comfort, authenticity, and depth of experience.

What we love about this tour is the seamless blend of nature and culture, the attentive guides who go above and beyond, and the chance to see Bali’s top spots in just one day. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that certain sites might be busy or require some planning around dress code and behavior. This tour caters well to travelers who want a comprehensive yet flexible introduction to Ubud’s best.

If you’re someone eager to explore Bali’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating solo, this package is a smart pick. It’s especially suited for first-timers, those short on time, or travelers wanting an efficient, guided overview of Ubud’s natural beauty and spiritual sites.

Good To Know

• Affordable and Value-Packed: At $28, this full-day tour offers access to major Ubud attractions with transportation and guides included.
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Romy or Santanu, share insights and ensure you don’t miss the details that make each site special.
• Comfortable Transportation: Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle means you stay cool and relaxed, especially on Bali’s sunny days.
• Authentic Experiences: From playful macaques to sacred water temples, expect genuine encounters with Bali’s culture and nature.
• Flexible and Personalized: The private nature of the tour allows for some customization—whether you want to linger longer or skip a stop.
• Good for All Ages: With attentive guides and manageable schedules, it’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Discovering the Highlights: A Breakdown of the Itinerary

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Our journey begins with the Monkey Forest, a 12.5-hectare forest teeming with over 700 Balinese long-tailed macaques. It’s a playful, sometimes mischievous spectacle; reviewers mention that the monkeys are largely calm but cheeky enough to grab sunglasses or food if left unattended.

Travelers report that guides like Romy or Ketut are excellent at managing these curious creatures, making sure visitors can enjoy the monkeys safely. One reviewer appreciated Romy’s courteous and knowledgeable manner, saying, “I thoroughly enjoyed my trip and would 100% recommend Romy as a driver/guide.” The forest itself is lush, with winding paths leading to ancient statues and shaded groves, creating an immersive jungle vibe just outside Ubud town.

Tirta Empul Water Temple

Next, the tour takes you to Tirta Empul, a site famed for its spring water where Balinese Hindus perform purification rituals. Here, you’ll see tiered fountains, stone sculptures, and manicured gardens—perfect for snapping photos or learning about local spiritual practices.

Reviewers highlight how guide explanations help make sense of the water temple’s significance, but some note that the dress code (covering shoulders and knees) and rituals might require a quick read-up beforehand. One reviewer pointed out that the tour’s itinerary lacked clear info about what to wear or expect at the temple, so it’s wise to come prepared.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

After the spiritual cleansing, it’s time for some breathtaking scenery at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Set on a hillside, this UNESCO-recognized landscape features perfectly tiered rice paddies that seem to cascade down in every direction. The design is so precise that it looks like a living painting.

Reviewers love the chance to walk along the narrow paths, watch local farmers at work, and take stunning photos. One mentioned that their guide, Ketut, was “a lovely guide” who helped them appreciate the craftsmanship behind the terraces. Expect a brisk walk and plenty of photo stops — just watch your footing on the uneven paths.

Tegenungan Waterfall

The final stop is Tegenungan Waterfall, a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters spilling over volcanic rocks. It’s suitable for bathing, wading, or simply soaking in the scenery. Many guests mention that the waterfall is very photogenic and offers a refreshing end to the tour.

One reviewer enjoyed the water’s cleanliness and the natural setting, describing it as suitable for playing around or just relaxing. The water isn’t too forceful, making it family-friendly and fun for a quick swim. Remember to bring your towel and dry clothes — some reviewers noted that packing a change of clothes is a good idea.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transport & Comfort: Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle means you beat the Bali heat and arrive at each destination refreshed. The tour typically lasts between 8 to 10 hours, providing enough time for each stop plus some flexibility. You’ll be picked up from most Bali areas, including Ubud, and dropped off at your hotel, which is especially convenient.

Guides & Personal Touch: The reviewers consistently praised the guides, describing them as courteous, knowledgeable, and engaging. Many mentioned guides like Romy, Restu, Bayu, and Santanu by name—highlighting their helpfulness, flexibility, and ability to answer questions about Bali’s culture and sites.

Pricing & Value: At $28 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the transportation, guiding, and access to four major spots. Optional entry fees or tickets are extra, which means you can choose whether to include these based on your budget. For instance, including all tickets costs an additional $16 per person but ensures smooth entry without extra hassle.

Time Management: The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing and leisure, with most stops around 40 minutes to an hour. Reviewers appreciated the flexibility, with guides happy to adjust if you want to linger longer or skip a stop—though some noted that info about certain sites, like the Water Temple, could be clearer regarding dress code and rituals.

Food & Miscellaneous: Food is not included, but there are plenty of options available at each site or nearby eateries. Bottled water is provided, which is a thoughtful touch, especially on hot days. Remember to bring your camera, extra clothes, and sun protection.

Authentic Experiences and What You’ll Take Away

Many reviewers shared that the tour isn’t just about ticking off sites but about truly experiencing Bali’s culture. Visiting Tirta Empul offers a glimpse into the island’s spiritual life, while the Monkey Forest provides playful encounters with nature. The rice terraces showcase traditional farming practices, and the waterfall delivers a refreshing dose of Bali’s natural beauty.

One guest noted, “The places we visited were a really good mix of what is available to see in Ubud,” emphasizing the tour’s comprehensive nature. Guides like Santanu or Wayan Budiarta go beyond mere commentary, offering insights into local customs, history, and even practical tips. Several reviewers appreciated how guides made the day personalized, helping with photography, pacing, and answering endless questions.

Notably, the guides’ friendliness and knowledge seem to be a recurring highlight, turning what could be a generic sightseeing day into an engaging experience. Many leave with the feeling of having made a local friend, not just a tourist guide.

The Value of This Tour

Considering its low cost, the value is impressive. For just $28 (plus optional tickets), you gain access to Bali’s top sights with private transport and expert guidance. The flexibility of a private tour means you can tailor your day — linger longer at your favorite sites or skip the less appealing ones.

Most reviews mention that guides like Romy, Santanu, or Ketut enhanced the trip by sharing personal stories, cultural insights, and making everyone feel comfortable. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Bali’s often busy traffic is a huge plus, saving you time and stress.

While the sites can be busy, the small group setting and the attentiveness of guides help create a more intimate experience. The inclusion of bottled water and modern, air-conditioned vehicles also boosts comfort, making the long day more enjoyable.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want to see Ubud’s highlights efficiently without sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to get a broad sense of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual sites. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the flexibility and personal attention.

If you’re on a budget but still want a meaningful experience, this tour hits a sweet spot. It’s also ideal for those who don’t want to worry about transport logistics or planning multiple entrances and tickets. And if you’re someone who loves authentic stories and local tips, the guides’ friendly, knowledgeable approach really shines.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour price?
The $28 price covers private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver/guide, parking fees, and bottled water. Ticket prices for specific sites are optional and can be added for an extra $16.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviewers mention that the waterfall and monkey forest are family-friendly. Just be mindful of the monkeys’ cheeky behavior and pack dry clothes for the waterfall.

How long does the tour last?
Expect a full-day experience of approximately 8 to 10 hours, with enough time at each site for photo stops, short walks, and some leisure.

Are guides flexible with the schedule?
Most guides are very accommodating. You can ask to spend more time at your favorite spots or skip a site if needed. Guides like Romy and Santanu are known for their friendly, adaptable service.

What should I wear?
For temples like Tirta Empul, dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees. Most guides will advise on this, but it’s good to come prepared.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of nearby eateries or food stalls at each stop. Bring cash or cards for meals or snacks.

Can I customize the tour?
While the itinerary is quite structured, the private nature allows for some customization, especially if you inform your guide in advance.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Most tours operate in the morning, starting with the monkey forest and ending at the waterfall. Early start helps avoid crowds and midday heat.

What if it rains?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Ubud tour packs a lot into one memorable experience. For a budget-friendly price, you gain access to Bali’s most photogenic sites and spiritual landmarks, all while enjoying the comfort of private transport and the expertise of attentive guides. The mix of cultural insight, stunning scenery, and playful wildlife makes it a well-rounded way to get a taste of Bali.

Ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time, this tour offers flexibility, authenticity, and a genuine connection to Bali’s essence. If you want a hassle-free day that combines nature, spirituality, and local life, this is a solid choice.

For travelers who prioritize meaningful experiences over luxury, this tour hits the mark. And with the high praise for guides like Romy and Santanu, you’re in good hands to learn, laugh, and make lasting memories.

In summary, this tour is perfect for those seeking an authentic, well-organized, and budget-conscious introduction to Ubud. Whether you’re eager to take photos, learn about local customs, or just enjoy Bali’s natural beauty, it offers a balanced, enjoyable day out that’s hard to beat at this price point.