Private Full Day Enjoy Bedugul and Jatiluwih Rice Terrace

Discovering Bali’s Highlands: A Practical Review of the Private Full Day Tour to Bedugul and Jatiluwih Rice Terrace

Bali’s reputation is built on its vibrant beaches and lively nightlife, but the island’s highlands hide a different kind of magic — lush landscapes, serene temples, and endless rice terraces. This private full-day tour offers a fantastic way to see Bali’s scenic heart without the hassle of self-driving winding mountain roads. Instead, a dedicated driver takes care of transportation, leaving you free to soak in the views and enjoy each stop.

What we really love about this experience is its convenience — door-to-door service makes the day smooth, especially if you’re staying in Ubud or the southern resorts. The diversity of sights packed into one day is impressive, from tranquil lakes to intricate rice terraces. Plus, the local market visit adds a charming touch of everyday Balinese life. The only consideration? If you’re not used to long drives or walking, some stops might require moderate physical effort. That said, it’s perfect for travelers craving an authentic, immersive day in Bali’s highlands.

This tour is ideal for those seeking cultural insight, breathtaking scenery, and a hassle-free way to explore Bali’s interior. It caters well to people with moderate fitness levels who want a full, relaxing day without the stress of navigating on their own.

Good To Know

• Private Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated driver ensures a smooth ride and local insights.
• Scenic Highlights: From twin lakes to rice terraces, enjoy picturesque views and iconic Bali landmarks.
• Cultural Touch: Visits to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and a local market provide authentic cultural experiences.
• Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, making it personalized and flexible to your interests.
• Value for Money: For $107 per group (up to five), the experience offers a comprehensive and well-organized day out.
• Moderate Physical Effort: Expect some walking and sightseeing, suitable for travelers with average fitness.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Wanagiri Hidden Hills: The First Glimpse of Bali’s Scenic Highlands

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel — whether you’re in Ubud or another southern Bali spot. The drive to Wanagiri Hidden Hills takes approximately three hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy the changing landscape. Once there, you’re greeted with panoramic views of the Twin Lakes — Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan — framed by lush greenery and rolling hills. These lakes are less crowded and offer peaceful scenery, making them an excellent start to your day.

While the reviews don’t specify detailed activities here, travelers love the serenity and the chance to take photos of the lakes with the mountains in the background. “We loved the way the hills rolled on forever — it was a real mellow start,” one reviewer noted. Keep in mind, admission to Wanagiri Hidden Hills isn’t included, so plan for a small extra fee if you want to explore further.

Lake Beratan and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: Bali’s Iconic Water Temple

The next stop, about an hour’s drive, is the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple on Lake Beratan. This floating temple, often featured in Bali postcards, appears to drift on the water with its multi-tiered thatched towers. The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, and is considered one of Bali’s most sacred sites.

Visitors often comment on the tranquil atmosphere and the picturesque setting. “It’s a stunning spot with the mountains in the background,” a traveler shared. Keep in mind, an admission fee applies, but the views and cultural significance easily justify it. Expect to spend about two hours here, including some time for photos, exploring the temple grounds, and soaking in the spiritual ambiance.

Bedugul Market: A Taste of Local Life

From the temple, the tour heads to Bedugul Market, just a 30-minute drive away. This traditional market, known as Candi Kuning, offers fresh fruits, vegetables, and local produce. It’s a lively hub where locals shop and mingle, providing an authentic glimpse into Balinese life.

This stop is especially appreciated by travelers who enjoy observing daily routines and trying local snacks. For instance, one review mentions, “It was great to see locals buying fresh produce — it felt genuine and not touristy.” The market visit lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to walk around, browse, and maybe pick up some souvenirs.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: The Crown Jewel of Bali’s Green Heart

The final destination, about an hour from Bedugul, is the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces — arguably Bali’s most stunning and expansive rice terrace landscape. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, these terraces showcase Bali’s traditional Subak irrigation system, a UNESCO-recognized cultural landscape that’s been in use for centuries.

Walking among these terraces, you’ll understand why this site is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike. The terraces stretch as far as the eye can see, with farmers tending to their crops amid the terraces. “We spent most of our afternoon here, and it was worth every minute,” said one reviewer. Expect a generous five hours at Jatiluwih, giving plenty of time to walk along paths, take photos, and absorb the peaceful atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

Transportation and Comfort

The private car with driver ensures a comfortable journey, especially on Bali’s sometimes bumpy mountain roads. The vehicle is air-conditioned and private, meaning no need to share with others — perfect for group comfort and flexibility in timing.

Tour Duration and Timing

The entire tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning to maximize daylight hours. The schedule is quite full, but the pacing allows enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. Expect to start around 7-8 AM, with the last stop wrapping up in the late afternoon.

Cost and Value

At $107 for a group of up to five, the tour offers solid value, considering the number of stops, transport, and guided insights. The price doesn’t include entrance fees, which vary by site, but overall, it’s a reasonable investment for a full day of sightseeing.

Fitness Level

While the tour is generally manageable, some walking is involved at each site, especially the terraces and temple grounds. Reviewers note that moderate physical fitness is recommended, but it’s not overly strenuous.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

From reviews, a notable insight is that the driver and guide are friendly and knowledgeable, offering tips on the best photo spots and cultural tidbits. Some travelers mentioned that the driver was flexible with timing and open to extra stops if requested.

A tip from a reviewer: “Try to arrive early at Ulun Danu Beratan to avoid crowds and get better photos.” Also, bringing a camera with a good zoom or wide-angle lens will help capture Bali’s sweeping landscapes.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour of Bedugul and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces offers a well-rounded glimpse of Bali’s highland scenery and culture. It strikes a good balance between scenic beauty, cultural insight, and hassle-free transportation, making it ideal for travelers who want a seamless, authentic experience without the stress of self-driving.

The value for money is clear, with a comprehensive itinerary that covers Bali’s most iconic highland sights in one day. Whether you’re interested in nature, photography, or local markets, this tour delivers a satisfying dose of Bali’s serene interior.

If you’re looking for an immersive day that showcases Bali’s lush landscapes and cultural treasures, this tour is a solid choice — especially for those who prefer guided comfort and thoughtful planning.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers private transportation, an English-speaking driver, petrol, and parking fees. Entrance fees to individual sites are not included.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from your hotel to Wanagiri Hidden Hills takes about three hours. Other stops range from 30 minutes to an hour apart, depending on the location.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, generally, the tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Expect some walking at the temples and rice terraces, but no strenuous activity is involved.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a camera, and some cash for admission fees or souvenirs.

Will I have time for photos?
Absolutely. The itinerary allows ample time at each site for photos and exploring.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour, so your driver can be flexible with timing and minor additional stops if requested.

What is the best time to visit Jatiluwih Rice Terraces?
While the tour runs year-round, visiting early in the morning avoids crowds and offers better lighting for photos.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included but is available at a local restaurant with views over the rice terraces, allowing you to enjoy local flavors.

What makes this tour value for money?
For a full day of sightseeing, inclusive transport, and a private guide, the cost of $107 per group offers a hassle-free way to see some of Bali’s best scenery without hidden charges.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this Bali highlands tour matches your travel style and interests. With stunning landscapes, cultural highlights, and a private, comfortable setup, it’s a wonderful way to explore Bali’s interior in a day.