Ubud: Monkey Forest, Rice Terrace, and Waterfall

Exploring Bali’s lush landscapes and vibrant culture through a guided tour around Ubud promises a mix of natural beauty, memorable wildlife encounters, and scenic vistas. This particular experience, rated 5 out of 5 by travelers, is designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse of the area’s most iconic sights, all within a comfortable 9-hour window.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to walk among long-tailed monkeys in their natural habitat at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Second, the chance to marvel at the Tegallalang rice terraces, with their breathtaking, verdant layers. And third, the thrill of being close enough to admire the blossoming beauty of a waterfall at Blangsinga.

A note of caution: the itinerary involves walking in sometimes humid conditions, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. If you’re someone who loves nature, picturesque scenery, and a bit of adventure, this tour is likely to be a hit. It’s especially perfect for travelers wanting a balanced mix of wildlife, cultural landscapes, and relaxing natural views—all in a single day.

Good To Know

• Authentic wildlife experience with long-tailed monkeys in their natural habitat
• Scenic beauty at Tegallalang rice terraces and Blangsinga waterfall
• Variety of activities including walking, sightseeing, and optional adventurous pursuits
• Comfortable private group with a flexible schedule and professional guide
• Suitable for those looking for a full-day immersion into Bali’s natural charm
• Includes a local lunch with views of the rice terraces

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Ubud Monkey Forest

Your adventure begins at 8:30 am with a pickup from your hotel. The highlight here is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where you’ll get the chance to walk close enough to groups of long-tailed monkeys in a sanctuary that’s used to visitors, yet still maintains a natural vibe.

While the monkeys are generally calm due to community care, the tour guide emphasizes strict rules—no food, no touching, and avoiding eye contact. We loved the way the guide explained the behavior of these creatures, making us feel safe while still allowing us to enjoy the moment.

This part of the tour provides a rare chance to observe primates in a setting that is both natural and accessible. Expect a guided walk that lasts about an hour, during which your guide might share interesting tidbits about the monkeys and their habitat. Reviewers have appreciated the calm demeanor of the animals—one even noted, “The monkeys are used to the crowd, but they are calm and well-treated by the community.”

Exploring Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Next stop: Tegallalang, a village famous for its stunning rice terraces. Here, you’ll be stopping for about an hour, with ample time to snap photos of the layered greenery that seems to stretch endlessly.

The terraces are not just beautiful—they’re a testament to traditional Balinese rice farming. We found the walk along the terraces to be a peaceful experience, and some visitors even share that visiting during planting or harvest seasons (May or September) offers added authenticity and activity.

For those seeking a little adventure, the site offers options like zip-lining, swings, and sky bikes, which can turn this scenic stop into a fun, active experience. The view from the restaurant here is also a highlight; after some walking, you’ll stop for lunch with a view of the terraces—perfect for relaxing and soaking in the scenery.

Reviewers frequently mention how the scenic views made the experience memorable. One guest said, “We loved the way the terraces were laid out in layers, and the view from the restaurant was breathtaking.”

A Refreshing Stop: Blangsinga Waterfall

After a hearty lunch, the tour continues towards Blangsinga Village, home to a beautiful waterfall that is accessible and close enough to appreciate the raw power and natural beauty of the cascading water.

While swimming directly under the waterfall isn’t recommended (and often discouraged for safety), visitors can enjoy the view from designated viewing points. For those wanting to cool off, the nearby D’Tukad River Club offers pools and cold beverages, along with a relaxing atmosphere enhanced by music.

The waterfall’s natural rock formation creates a veil of water that’s perfect for photos, and many visitors find the proximity—being so close to the falling water—adds a sense of connection to nature. One reviewer noted, “The waterfall was even more stunning in person, veiling under natural rock formations, and the pools at D’Tukad River Club offer a nice alternative.”

Practical Aspects and Tour Details

This tour is priced as a private group experience, which means you can enjoy a more personalized and flexible outing. The duration of 9 hours is well-structured, balancing sightseeing with enough time at each stop. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off—just be ready 10 minutes early—and a live guide fluent in English and Spanish.

Transportation is comfortable, with a focus on efficient, stress-free travel between sites. The tour’s small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd, allowing for more personal encounters with the scenery and wildlife.

Pricing offers good value considering the full itinerary, guided experience, and included lunch. You’ll also appreciate the option to reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility in planning your Bali trip.

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What to Bring and What to Remember

Pack essentials such as a hat, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable outdoor clothing. If you plan to take a dip at the pool, bring swimwear and a change of clothes. Cash is recommended for souvenirs or additional snacks. Most importantly, respect the rules—feeding, touching, or bringing food to animals is prohibited—and follow your guide’s instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights. It’s suited to those who appreciate nature photography and are comfortable walking in outdoor environments. Because of the walking involved and the outdoor nature of the stops, it’s less suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues.

The tour is perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking an authentic, immersive day in Bali. If you’re looking for a comprehensive look at Ubud’s natural treasures while enjoying some adventure and relaxation, this tour covers all bases.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Ubud day tour delivers a genuinely rewarding experience. You’ll enjoy stunning views of rice terraces and waterfalls, encounter friendly monkeys in their habitat, and relax with a local lunch overlooking lush landscapes. The fact that it’s a private tour means personalized attention, flexibility, and comfort, especially for those who prefer avoiding large groups.

For anyone craving a full-day immersion into Bali’s natural beauty, this trip offers a well-rounded, value-for-money package. The combination of wildlife, scenery, culture, and optional adventure makes it a versatile choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who prioritize authentic experiences and memorable photo opportunities.

If your Bali trip includes a day to explore Ubud’s highlights, this tour is an excellent pick to make the most of your time, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged and enchanted.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Most likely yes, especially if children enjoy walking and outdoor scenery. However, very young kids may need extra supervision around animals and waterfalls.

What should I wear?
Outdoor clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and biodegradable sunscreen are recommended. If planning to swim at the pool, bring swimwear and a change of clothes.

Can I take photos of the monkeys?
Yes, but follow the guide’s instructions: avoid eye contact, feeding, touching animals, and bringing food or drinks into the monkey forest.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant with views of the rice terraces.

How long is each stop?
Expect around an hour at Monkey Forest, an hour at Tegallalang, and about an hour at the waterfall, with additional time for lunch and transportation.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private group, you may be able to discuss some options with your guide, but the core itinerary is as outlined.

What if I want adventure activities?
Tegallalang offers options such as zip-lining, swings, and sky bikes, which can add extra fun and adrenaline to your day.

This Ubud tour provides a balanced, authentic experience that captures the essence of Bali’s natural charm. It’s a fantastic way to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed, making it ideal for those eager to explore Bali’s scenic and wildlife treasures in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby