Bali: Water Temple, Waterfalls and Unesco Rice Terrace Tour

Bali is a place woven with vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and spiritual sites. This tour promises a full day exploring some of the island’s most stunning sights—waterfalls, temples, and rice terraces—that showcase Bali’s natural charm and deep-rooted traditions. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and unique experiences.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the opportunity to visit hidden waterfalls like Leke Leke and Banyumala, explore iconic temples such as Ulun Danu Beratan and Tanah Lot, and walk through the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making each stop both beautiful and meaningful. However, the 10-hour duration means it’s a pretty full day, and some may find the pace a little tight, especially if the traffic is heavy.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and cultural sites in one trip. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a well-organized day with plenty of opportunities to capture great photos and learn about Bali’s heritage. If you’re after a relaxing, stress-free way to see many highlights, this tour could be perfect — just be prepared for a long day on the road.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covering waterfalls, temples, and rice terraces
• Expert guides with extensive knowledge about Bali’s culture and history
• Well-rated transportation ensuring comfort during the long day
• Flexible booking options including ticketed and non-ticketed entry
• Ideal for photography with many Instagram-worthy views
• Slightly long hours may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues

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An In-Depth Look at the Bali Water Temple, Waterfalls, and Rice Terrace Tour

A Perfect Mix of Nature and Culture

This tour is crafted to give a snapshot of Bali’s diverse landscapes and spiritual sites. Starting early, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation—whether in Kuta, Ubud, or other key areas—making it easy to fit into your Bali itinerary. The tour lasts about 10 hours, so it’s a commitment but one that packs a lot of value for those eager to see the highlights in a single day.

First Stop: Leke Leke Waterfall

Your day begins with a visit to Leke Leke Waterfall, a lesser-known gem that offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. Reviewers mention it as a hidden oasis of tranquility, perfect for photos and a quick swim if you’re feeling adventurous. Expect about an hour here, including walking around 30 minutes to reach the waterfall, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Merta, who is described as gentle, polite, and full of insights about the environment and local flora. One reviewer noted, “Merta’s thoughtful commentary and kindness really made the experience special,” which is a common sentiment about the guides’ personal touch.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Next, you’ll visit the famous Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, sitting on the edge of Lake Bratan. This iconic water temple is known for its floating appearance and scenic views. It’s a great photo spot, especially with the peaceful lake and mountains in the background. The guide will share cultural stories, making the visit more meaningful.

Reviewers mention that guides often skip the crowds by visiting early or later in the day, which enhances the serenity of the experience. One guest appreciated the friendly guidance and the chance to understand the significance of the temple’s architecture.

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Banyumala Waterfall: A Tropical Treasure

After lunch, the trip continues to Banyumala Waterfall, which many describe as enchanting and less crowded. It’s a tropical haven perfect for a refreshing dip or simply relaxing with the sound of cascading water. The short trek involves walking through lush jungle terrain, so sturdy shoes are needed, and it’s important to be prepared for a 30-minute walk again.

Guests highlight that the driver and guide respect your pace and give useful tips. One reviewer said, “He respected our tempo and gave us useful tips,” making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Living Heritage

Perhaps the highlight for many is the visit to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The vast, beautifully terraced fields are a testament to Bali’s traditional farming methods, offering expansive views perfect for photography. You’ll spend about an hour wandering through the terraces, gaining insights into the Subak irrigation system that supports these fields.

Travelers have described this part of the trip as breathtaking, with the opportunity to take stunning landscape shots. One reviewer shared, “We caught the terraces at just the right time in the morning, which meant fewer travelers and better photos.” It’s a chance to connect with Bali’s agricultural roots and observe its sustainable practices.

Tanah Lot Temple: Sunset and Spiritual Vibe

The final stop is Tanah Lot Temple, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop by the sea. Known for its spectacular sunsets, it’s a top Bali icon and perfect for ending the day on a high note. Expect about an hour here, including a guided explanation of the temple’s legend and significance.

Many reviewers mention that visiting Tanah Lot during the late afternoon results in beautiful lighting and peaceful surroundings, although the tour may skip this if time is tight or if traffic is heavy. The area is lively but also offers a sense of spiritual calm amid the crashing waves and panoramic views.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour is praised for its highly-rated transport, with 94% of reviewers giving it a perfect score. Vehicles are comfortable, air-conditioned, and well-maintained, making long drives more bearable. Pickup and drop-off are included and available from major Bali locations such as Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu, providing flexibility for travelers.

The tour runs for about 10 hours, but actual timing can vary based on traffic and how long you spend at each site. Travelers often comment that guides are flexible about timing, especially if they sense you want more time at certain sights. For those worried about costs, options are available for both ticket-included and pay-at-destination visits, with most attractions accepting cash in IDR.

What to Bring and Tips

• Swimwear and change of clothes for waterfall swimming
• Insect repellent for jungle walks
• Cash for entrance tickets and small purchases
• Proper shoes for walking and short treks
• An umbrella or poncho (provided if it rains)

Additional Notes

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking requirements. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more than just sightseeing. Several reviewers mention their guides by name, like Wayan, who was described as “fantastic” and “a great photographer,” adding a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

What We Love and What to Consider

Pros:

• The balance of natural beauty and cultural insight makes this tour a well-rounded choice.
• Knowledgeable guides help you understand Bali’s traditions and history, enriching each stop.
• The scenic spots, especially the rice terraces and waterfalls, are truly stunning and perfect for photos.
• The comfortable transport and flexible options add convenience, especially for a long day.

Possible Drawback:

• The long duration could be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to a full packed day. Some may find the pace a little rushed, particularly during crowded or traffic-heavy periods.
• If the weather turns bad, outdoor visits like waterfalls and temples could be less enjoyable, though rain gear is provided.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers and culture seekers eager to see Bali’s diverse attractions in one go. It offers a great value for those who want to maximize their day with guided insights, stunning scenery, and convenient logistics. It’s ideal for photo enthusiasts and anyone wanting a snapshot of Bali’s natural and spiritual essence.

If you prefer small, intimate tours or want more flexibility, check whether the operator offers options for private or semi-private experiences. Be prepared for a full day with some walking and time in the car, but in return, you get a comprehensive glimpse into what makes Bali so captivating.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from major Bali locations are included. The transportation is comfortable, air-conditioned, and highly rated.

Can I choose to skip any attractions?
The tour is structured to visit all listed sites, but guides are flexible about timing and may suggest skipping certain stops if needed, especially during traffic or bad weather.

Are entrance tickets included?
You can select an option with all tickets included or pay at the destination in cash, mostly in IDR. Guide assistance makes purchasing tickets smooth.

How much walking is involved?
Expect about 30 minutes of walking at each waterfall site and some gentle trekking. Proper shoes are recommended for these short walks.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, change of clothes, insect repellent, cash, and proper shoes. Rain gear is provided if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues due to walking. The tour involves some short treks and uneven paths, especially around waterfalls.

To sum it up, this Bali water, temple, and rice terrace tour packs an incredible amount into a single day. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, you’ll enjoy stunning views, cultural insights, and memorable moments. It’s a fantastic way to see a broad swath of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual sites without the stress of planning each stop yourself. Perfect for those who want a full, authentic experience and are happy to spend a long day exploring.

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