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Discover Bali’s highlights in a single day with this private Ubud tour, visiting temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and more — all with expert guide and seamless transport.
Exploring Bali’s Hidden Gems in One Day: Ubud Tirta Empul Temple Swing And Waterfall Tour
If you’re looking to see some of Bali’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each step, this private Ubud tour is a fantastic choice. Covering temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and cultural performances, it packs an impressive amount into about 10 hours. What makes this tour stand out is the use of a professional private driver, ensuring you avoid the confusing traffic and crowded schedules that can plague self-guided adventures.
One thing we really appreciate is the seamless logistics — pickup from many Bali locations, all entrance fees included, and a flexible itinerary that lets you focus on the sights rather than the details. Yet, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget some extra time and money for a meal. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a curated, hassle-free day exploring Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual sites with an expert guide.
We love the personalized attention and the way the tour balances culture with stunning scenery. A potential consideration is the long day’s schedule, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find it a bit full-on. This experience is perfect for those eager to tick off Bali’s highlights in a single, well-organized day.
This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Bali’s cultural, spiritual, and natural highlights. We’ll break down what you can expect at each stop, how the experience feels, and why it’s a good pick for different types of travelers.
Looking for more options in Seminyak? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The day kicks off with a captivating Barong & Kris Dance at Jambe Budaya. This performance is more than just entertainment; it’s an animated storytelling of Bali’s mythology, illustrating the battle between good and evil through vibrant costumes and dramatic dance. We loved the way the dance blended myth and history, giving us a sense of local storytelling tradition. The guide explained that Balinese dances are taken very seriously here, and watching such a classic piece really sets the tone.
This performance runs from 9:30 to 10:30 AM and is free of charge, providing a cultural primer before heading into the more interactive attractions.
Next, the tour visits the Ubud Monkey Forest, a lush rain forest sanctuary home to a lively troop of monkeys. What’s fascinating is the holy poll located inside — visitors can toss a coin and make a wish, with some believing their wishes may come true. The monkeys are used to people, and while they are mostly friendly, the guide mentioned to keep a close eye on belongings and avoid feeding them.
One reviewer shared, “We enjoyed the Monkey Forest a lot — the atmosphere is magical, and the monkeys are adorable but playful.” Expect about an hour here, enough to snap some photos and stroll through the scenic paths.
The famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace is next on the itinerary, offering stunning vistas of terraced fields carved into the hillside. This is a highlight for many visitors, and the view doesn’t disappoint. During your visit, you’ll stop at the Boni Bali restaurant and Warung for lunch — a practical choice as they offer Indonesian, Balinese, Western, Halal, and vegetarian options. Reviewers appreciated the variety, noting that the fresh wind and scenic surroundings make for a relaxing lunch break.
We loved the way the landscape’s intricate terraces create a patchwork of lush green, and the opportunity to take photos on the swings and platforms adds a fun, social-media-worthy element.
Adding a dash of adrenaline and fun, the Bali Swing experience is a standout feature. It’s a chance to capture incredible photos swinging high above the jungle, with panoramic views of the tree canopy and river below. Reviewers relished the opportunity to snap social-media worthy shots, describing it as “the best time to add to your Bali photo collection.” This activity lasts about an hour and is optional, but most guests find it a fun and memorable addition.
One of the main highlights, the Tirta Empul Temple, is renowned for its holy water purification ritual. Here, you’ll have the chance to participate in or observe the traditional blessing ceremony, which involves cleansing rituals believed to rid the spirit of negative energy. The guide explained the significance of each spring, adding context to this spiritual experience.
A reviewer mentioned, “The temple is beautiful and peaceful; the ritual was a moving experience.” Expect about an hour at this site, with all entrance fees covered, making it effortless to enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
In the quiet village of Tampaksiring, you’ll enjoy complimentary tea and hot coffee while learning about local medicinal herbs and tropical flowers. The guide provided educational insights into traditional Balinese medicine, giving us a deeper appreciation for the island’s natural remedies. It’s a relaxing break and a chance to connect with the local way of life.
The final stop is the Tegenungan Waterfall, famous for its accessible location and stunning panorama. It’s one of Bali’s most popular waterfalls because it’s easy to reach and offers impressive views of the cascading water amid lush surroundings. Visitors can walk close to the falls or simply enjoy the view from the observation points. The reviewer noted that “nothing beats the view of Tegenungan, especially if you want a quick but breathtaking nature experience.”
Expect about an hour here, allowing time for photos and soaking in the fresh spray.
This tour covers all entrance fees, meaning you won’t need to worry about additional costs once you’re on the bus. The private transportation with air conditioning, combined with an English-speaking guide, ensures a comfortable and informative experience.
At around $23 per person, the value is impressive considering the full day’s itinerary. Plus, if you book a three-day tour, you might even enjoy complimentary airport transfers — a thoughtful bonus.
Lunch is not included, so plan to spend around IDR 50,000 to 150,000 on a meal, depending on your appetite and preferences. The tour also includes insurance, adding peace of mind.
An aspect travelers consistently praised was the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, especially the driver Matu, who was described as going “above and beyond.” Guests appreciated the personalized tips on praying at temples and capturing photos, making the experience more meaningful and less rushed.
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate. The pick-up and drop-off from most Bali locations add to its convenience. The tour operates with safety measures, including vaccinated guides, so you can relax knowing health protocols are in place.
The long duration ensures you see a lot, but it also means you’ll want to start early and wear comfortable shoes. The included private vehicle makes the long drives more bearable, and the air conditioning keeps everyone cool.
This experience suits first-time visitors eager to get a rundown of Ubud’s highlights without the stress of planning. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups who want a mix of culture, nature, and adventure on a budget. The private guide and transportation make it ideal for those who prefer a tailored, intimate experience.
For travelers with limited time but high energy levels, this tour hits the sweet spot — a full day packed with memorable sights and new insights. If, however, you prefer a slower pace or more time at each site, consider splitting the activities into multiple days.
This Ubud Tirta Empul Temple Swing and Waterfall Tour offers excellent value, combining Bali’s best natural and cultural attractions into a single, seamless day. With private transport, all entrance fees taken care of, and an engaging guide, it minimizes hassle and maximizes memorable moments. Expect stunning vistas, spiritual rituals, fun photo ops, and cultural insights that elevate your Bali experience.
It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a well-organized, authentic taste of Bali’s highlights without the stress of DIY planning. The optional activities like the Bali Swing provide fun and unique photo moments, while the visits to temples and rice terraces deepen your understanding of local traditions.
This tour balances culture with natural beauty, making it a smart pick for those eager to see Bali’s top sights efficiently and comfortably.
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation with air conditioning is included, covering pickups and drop-offs across many Bali locations.
What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, allowing enough time to visit all the key sites comfortably.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance tickets for the attractions are covered, so you won’t need to pay extra at any of the stops.
Can I skip activities I’m not interested in?
Since it’s a private tour, you can communicate your preferences with the guide, but the itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time to purchase your own meal at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace stop.
What activities are optional?
The Bali Swing is optional, so you can choose whether to participate or skip it for more leisure at other stops.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 51 days in advance is typical, but it’s wise to reserve sooner if you’re traveling during peak season.
Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the tour is accessible, but keep in mind the long day and walking involved. It’s best suited for those in moderate health.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, especially for temple visits and water activities. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a camera for the stunning views.
Are health and safety measures in place?
Yes, guides are vaccinated, and safety protocols are observed, including measures related to COVID-19.
This tour offers a fantastic glimpse into Bali’s spiritual and natural wonders, wrapped in comfort, convenience, and genuine local insights. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Bali visitor, it’s an experience worth considering.