Bali : Ubud Private Tours

Booking a tour in Bali can be overwhelming with so many options vying for your attention. This particular Ubud Private Tour stands out thanks to its comprehensive itinerary, personalized approach, and highly positive reviews. For just $35 per person, you get a well-rounded day exploring Bali’s most iconic sites, with the comfort of private transport and an experienced, friendly driver guiding the way.

What we really love about this tour is the flexibility it offers—each stop is thoughtfully timed, giving you a taste of Bali’s spiritual and natural treasures without feeling rushed. The private nature means you can tailor your experience, ask questions, and really soak in each spot’s atmosphere. A small caveat: since it’s a full-day adventure, be prepared for a fair amount of walking and some busier spots. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a curated, authentic experience but with enough free time to truly enjoy each location.

If you’re curious about Bali’s temples, lush rice terraces, and hidden waterfalls, and prefer a private guide to enhance your day, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid crowded group tours but still get a deep dive into Ubud’s highlights.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour ensures flexibility and a tailored day.
• Diverse Highlights: From temples and rice terraces to waterfalls and monkey forests.
• Authentic Insights: Friendly guides provide local knowledge and photo opportunities.
• Value for Money: For $35, you get a full-day experience with convenient pickup and bottled water.
• Timing & Pacing: Well-organized schedule with enough time at each stop for photos and exploration.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees are not included, so budget around $15 cash for various sites.

A Detailed Look at the Ubud Private Tour

Seamless Pickup and Transport

The tour kicks off with pickup from your hotel or villa in Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, or other nearby areas. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps you comfortable as you travel approximately 90 minutes to Ubud. Our reviews highlight the benefit of having a private driver—one guest mentioned their driver, Santanu, was not only friendly and considerate but also took the time to joke, take photos, and let travelers choose the music.

This personalized transport means fewer worries about navigating Bali’s sometimes chaotic roads and more focus on enjoying the scenery. It’s a real perk, especially if you’re traveling with family or in a small group, making the day much more relaxed and enjoyable.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Your first official stop is the Monkey Forest, where you’ll encounter about 700 Balinese long-tailed macaques. As one reviewer noted, the monkeys and temples coexist in harmony, creating a lively yet peaceful atmosphere. Walking through lush greenery, you’ll see ancient temples and the playful antics of the monkeys, which are both adorable and mischievous.

While the admission is free, it’s worth noting that the tour’s price doesn’t include entry fees, so budget roughly $15 cash—this small expense grants access to this iconic site. Expect around 1.5 hours here, ample time to snap photos, observe the monkeys, and soak in the vibrant jungle surroundings.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Next, you’ll visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, one of Bali’s most famous sights. The steep, emerald-green fields curve down the valley, showcasing centuries-old Subak irrigation systems still used by local farmers. As one reviewer mentioned, the terraces are stunning, and the traditional farming methods keep the landscape authentic.

Expect about an hour here, enough to walk along the terraces, enjoy the views, and perhaps buy some local crafts or coffee. While the tour doesn’t include the entrance fee, the scenery alone makes it worth a visit. Many travelers comment on how peaceful and photogenic this spot is—ideal for capturing memories.

Lunch at Tebasari Resto

Midday, you’ll stop at Tebasari Resto, a bamboo restaurant perched in the jungle, offering a menu blending Indonesian, Balinese, and Western dishes. Reviewers frequently praise the delicious food and beautiful setting, which provides a restful break from sightseeing. Expect about 1.5 hours here—plenty of time to savor a meal, chat with your guide, and enjoy the lush surroundings.

Ulu Patanu Waterfall

The next highlight is the Ulu Patanu Waterfall, a lesser-known gem that offers a refreshing dip in its freshwater pool. The waterfall is scenic, with gushing water and a natural setting perfect for photos. One reviewer mentioned they enjoyed taking a swim and relaxing in this cool escape.

This stop is approximately an hour, giving you time to wander, snap pictures, or even take a quick dip if you’re feeling brave. The water’s purity and the surrounding greenery make it a peaceful retreat amid Bali’s more crowded sites.

Tirta Empul Temple

The tour concludes at Tirta Empul, a revered temple famous for its holy spring water believed to grant wishes. Visitors can soak in the water, which many find spiritually uplifting, or simply admire the ornate architecture and tranquil environment.

One reviewer called it “outstandingly beautiful,” emphasizing that even if you choose not to bathe, the temple’s atmosphere and intricate carvings are worth appreciating. Expect about an hour here. The entrance fee is not included, so carry around $15 in cash for all the sites.

Return Journey

After a full day of exploration, your driver will take you back to your hotel or villa, usually around 90 minutes away, depending on your location. Reviewers mention that the comfortable vehicle and punctual service make the return trip just as pleasant as the day’s adventures.

What the Tour Includes and What to Budget For

The package includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a private, English-speaking driver, and all parking fees. Bottled water is provided, which is a thoughtful touch on Bali’s warm days.

However, you should set aside around $15 cash for entrance fees at various sites—these are not included unless you opt for the paid entry option. Food and drinks are also on your own, allowing you to choose your preferences at lunch.

Why We Think It Offers Good Value

The $35 price tag is quite reasonable for a full-day, private tour with a knowledgeable guide. Considering the convenience, comfort, and personalized attention, it’s a solid deal. Plus, the flexible itinerary means you can ask your driver to spend more or less time at certain spots, making the experience truly your own.

Authentic Experiences, Guided by Locals

Based on reviews, guides like Tyson and Santanu are praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile—whether that’s taking photos, joking around, or letting travelers customize parts of the day. This kind of personal touch turns a standard sightseeing trip into a memorable day.

Many reviewers also appreciated the careful pacing, which avoids the exhaustion of overly rushed tours. You’ll get enough time at each attraction to appreciate the scenery, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day in Ubud, with the flexibility to enjoy Bali’s natural and spiritual sites at a relaxed pace. It suits small groups or families who prefer privacy and personalized attention. The mix of temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces offers a well-rounded Bali experience—perfect for first-timers or those wanting to revisit Ubud’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail.

If you’re someone who values authenticity, comfort, and local insights, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s also great for those who enjoy a good photo opportunity combined with culture.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including pickup, travel time, and visits to six main locations.

Is the entrance fee included?
No, entrance fees are not included unless you select the paid entry option. Expect to budget around $15 cash for all site visits.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for entrance fees, comfortable clothes, sun protection, and a camera. It’s also a good idea to carry a small towel if you plan to swim at the waterfall.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can ask your driver to spend more or less time at specific locations or suggest other nearby attractions.

Is food included?
No, lunch is on your own at Tebasari Resto or elsewhere. The restaurant has a variety of local and Western options.

How comfortable is the transportation?
Very. The vehicle is air-conditioned, clean, and private, providing a comfortable ride between sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes. The stops are scenic and engaging, but keep in mind some walking and the need to carry cash for entrance fees.

What do reviewers say about guides?
Guides like Tyson and Santanu are praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and helpfulness, making the day more enjoyable and memorable.

How do I book this tour?
You can book through Viator or similar platforms, with most tours being booked 17 days in advance on average.

Final Thoughts

This Ubud private tour offers a well-balanced, value-packed way to explore Bali’s highlights with minimal hassle. The combination of iconic temples, lush rice fields, hidden waterfalls, and friendly guides makes it a fantastic option for those seeking an authentic yet comfortable experience.

You’ll enjoy the convenience of door-to-door pickup, the flexibility to tailor your day, and the chance to capture beautiful memories at Bali’s most photogenic spots. The tour’s success lies in its ability to blend cultural insights with natural beauty, all wrapped up in a private, relaxed setting.

Whether you’re a first-timer eager to tick off Bali’s must-see sights or a seasoned traveler craving a personalized day, this tour is likely to meet—and perhaps even exceed—your expectations. Just remember to bring some cash for entry fees, allocate enough time at each stop, and keep your camera handy—you won’t want to miss these views.

In summary, if you’re after an authentic, flexible Bali experience that combines natural beauty with cultural richness, this Ubud private tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to explore comfortably, learn from local guides, and come away with memorable photos and stories. It’s a fantastic way to see Bali’s highlights without the rush—making it a worthwhile addition to any Bali itinerary.