Private Ubud Tour: Monkey Forest, Waterfall & Rice Terrace

If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want to make the most of your day in Ubud, a private tour like this one offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic experiences. From encounters with playful monkeys to stunning waterfalls and iconic rice terraces, this tour covers the highlights in a relaxed, personalized way.

What we love about this tour? First, the flexibility it offers—you can enjoy a tailored experience with an English-speaking guide who doubles as your driver. Second, the value for money, with entrance fees included and a comprehensive itinerary for only about $32 per person. Third, the authentic insights from guides who are passionate about Balinese culture, making each stop more meaningful.

One thing to consider is that some stops, like Tegenungan Waterfall, involve stairs, so comfortable footwear is a must. Plus, since it’s a private tour, your group’s pace and interests shape the day—making it perfect for first-timers, couples, and families seeking a hassle-free way to see Ubud’s top sights.

This experience suits travelers who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning each detail, especially those new to Bali or visitors with limited time. If you love engaging guides, scenic views, and a mix of culture and nature, this tour is a superb choice.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Private, all-inclusive tour with flexible timing.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: From temples and rice terraces to waterfalls and monkey sanctuaries.
• Great Value: $32 per person includes entrance fees, transport, and guide service.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides and memorable sights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup/drop-off and air-conditioned vehicle.
• Suitable for All: Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, and families wanting a comprehensive Ubud day trip.

An In-Depth Look at the Ubud Experience

The Comfort of Private Transportation & Guided Service

One of the first things we noticed about this tour is how smoothly everything runs thanks to private transportation. Your guide, usually an English-speaking local, will pick you up directly from your hotel—saving you time and hassle. This means no waiting around for large groups or dealing with crowded buses. Plus, the air-conditioned vehicle is a nice touch on Bali’s sometimes hot days, keeping your journey comfortable.

Reviews emphasize guides like Juli, who are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and flexible. They’re great at managing timing, ensuring you get the most out of each stop without feeling rushed. Juli, for instance, made the day memorable with his tips and local insights, enriching the sightseeing experience.

Exploring the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Starting your day with the Monkey Forest puts you right in the heart of Ubud’s vibrant atmosphere. This sanctuary is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques playing among ancient temple ruins. While the entrance fee is optional, exploring the forest for about an hour is included, giving you enough time to stroll and snap photos.

Reviewers loved how guides explained the monkey behavior and history, adding context to the encounter. Of course, safety rules apply—no feeding or sudden movements—so you’ll want to follow instructions to keep the fun safe. The lush greenery and the chance to observe these intelligent primates make this stop a highlight.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Iconic and Instagrammable

Next, you’ll visit the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, famous for its expansive, terraced fields that seem to cascade down the hillsides. It’s one of Ubud’s most photographed sights and a real treat to see in person. The panoramic views are breathtaking, and you’ll have ample time (about an hour) to walk around, take in the scenery, and get those perfect shots.

Reviewers mention how the views are even more stunning than they appear in photos. Some noted that walking along the terraces offers a peaceful break from busy city touring. The rice paddies are a living landscape showcasing Bali’s traditional subak irrigation system, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Being able to witness this ancient method in action adds cultural depth to the scenic beauty.

Visiting Pura Puseh Desa Batuan

A highlight of this tour is a visit to Pura Puseh Desa Batuan, one of Bali’s oldest traditional Hindu temples. Its classic Balinese architecture, with intricate stone carvings and vibrant offerings, provides a window into the spiritual life of locals.

Guides often share stories about local traditions and the significance of the temple’s design, making the visit more meaningful. The temple’s serene atmosphere also offers a chance for reflection and appreciation of Bali’s spiritual heritage. This stop provides a calming contrast to the more active sightseeing spots.

Tegenungan Waterfall: Refreshing and Picturesque

A favorite among reviewers is the Tegenungan Waterfall—a lush spot where the water plunges into a pool surrounded by jungle. Expect a short walk involving stairs, so comfortable shoes are recommended, but the cool spray and scenic backdrop make it worthwhile.

Many visitors use this stop for photos or simply to relax amidst nature. The waterfall’s setting, with tropical greenery and the sound of rushing water, creates a truly refreshing experience. Some guests mentioned Juli’s helpfulness in making sure everyone stayed safe while enjoying the water.

Optional Cultural & Artistic Stops

Depending on your interests and time, the tour includes optional visits to local art villages like Celuk, famous for silver jewelry, or traditional batik painting workshops. These stops give a chance to see artisans at work and perhaps purchase unique souvenirs.

The Ubud Market also makes an appearance, offering a lively shopping scene with stalls selling everything from textiles to crafts. It’s a great place to soak in local flavors and perhaps practice your bargaining skills.

The Royal Palace & Water Garden

Situated centrally in Ubud, the Ubud Palace is a beautiful Balinese structure with high aesthetic value. It has been the residence of the royal family since the late 19th century and hosts cultural performances.

Nearby, the Tirta Empul Water Temple boasts a sacred water spring, with fountains and a lotus pond, decorated with intricate carvings. Visitors often enjoy observing or participating in purification rituals here, adding a spiritual dimension to the day.

Walking the Campuhan Ridge & Museum Stops

For those interested in Bali’s agricultural engineering, the Campuhan Ridge Walk offers a gentle trek with scenic vistas and insights into Bali’s subak system. Alternatively, the Don Antonio Blanco Museum showcases Balinese art and provides a relaxing garden setting with colorful parakeets.

Visitors praise guides for their knowledge on Balinese customs and traditions, making even quick visits educational.

Why This Tour Offers Value

At $32 per person, this tour packs in a lot. Entrance fees to major sites like Monkey Forest, temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces are included, which often makes standalone visits more expensive when adding transportation and guides. Plus, the private setup ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd.

Guests consistently mention the professionalism of the guides, especially Juli, Komang, and Wayan, who make the experience engaging with their insights and friendliness. Several reviews highlight how they tailor the day, making each stop both enjoyable and educational.

The inclusion of bottled water throughout the day is a thoughtful touch, especially on Bali’s warm days. The comfort of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics—no stress about finding meeting points or navigating busy streets.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the itinerary is comprehensive, the day’s pace depends on traffic and your group’s interests. Some stops, like Tegenungan Waterfall, require walking and stairs, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some physical activity.

Lunch isn’t included, giving you the flexibility to choose a local warung or pack snacks, which can add to the day’s personalization. Personal expenses and tips are also extra, so budget accordingly if you want souvenirs or to tip guides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Ubud tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting to maximize a single day, couples seeking a romantic yet cultural experience, and families who prefer a flexible, guided outing. It’s especially well-suited for those who value high-quality guides and want a trusted, all-in-one solution to explore Ubud’s top sights without the hassle of organizing each stop separately.

If you prefer a structured day with comprehensive sightseeing and cultural insights, this tour offers remarkable value. Conversely, if you love off-the-beaten-path adventures, you might find this tour hits the main highlights but doesn’t explore lesser-known spots.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private Ubud tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Bali’s beauty and culture at an affordable price point. The combination of scenic natural sites, sacred temples, and traditional villages makes it a comprehensive introduction to the region. The guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, turn a standard sightseeing day into a memorable experience.

The convenience of hotel pickup, included entrance fees, and flexible scheduling make it an excellent choice for travelers who prefer hassle-free planning. It’s especially perfect if you’re short on time but want to tick off multiple highlights in one day.

If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and value-packed Bali experience, this tour checks all the boxes. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and an open curiosity for Bali’s vibrant culture and stunning scenery.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth start and end to your day.

What’s the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and your pace.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, fees for Monkey Forest, temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces are included in the price.

Can I customize this tour? Since it’s a private experience, guides are flexible and can adapt the schedule based on your interests and timing.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking and stairs. Bringing swimwear and a towel is advised if you plan to enjoy the waterfall.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but keep in mind there are some stairs and walking involved.

This detailed, balanced review highlights why this private Ubud tour stands out as a reliable, authentic, and value-packed option for exploring Bali’s cultural and natural treasures.