Explore Ubud Art Market, Monkey Forest and Rice Terraces

Travelers often dream of Bali’s lush landscapes, vibrant markets, and sacred sites, but sorting through the many tour options can be overwhelming. This particular tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, nature, and adventure in Ubud, all for about $70 per person. It’s designed for those who want a comprehensive taste of what makes Bali special — from its iconic rice terraces to its lively art scene.

What we love most about this tour is the seamless way it combines several of Ubud’s top attractions into one day, without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable local guide — with multiple reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and insight — makes the experience all the more enriching. The only caveat? The tour’s duration can stretch from 6 to 10 hours, depending on your pace and interests, so it suits travelers prepared for a full day out.

This experience works best for those who love exploring diverse sights, appreciate cultural insights, and want a bit of adventure. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Bali who want to tick off the major highlights or anyone wanting an active, well-rounded day in Ubud.

Key Points

Variety of Destinations: Combines markets, temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces for a comprehensive Bali experience.
Authentic Insights: Guided tours feature friendly, knowledgeable guides who share local stories and tips.
Stunning Views: Notable scenery at the rice terraces, waterfall, and jungle swings make for memorable photos.
Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, and included entry tickets ensure a hassle-free day.
Flexible Duration: The tour lasts approximately 6 to 10 hours, allowing for a relaxed or more intense experience.
Great Value: At $70, it offers a full day of diverse activities, snacks, bottled water, and expert guidance — an excellent deal.

A Deep Dive into the Ubud Tour Experience

Starting Point: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Our journey begins at the Monkey Forest, a popular highlight in Ubud. This sanctuary isn’t just a zoo — it’s a spiritual site with ancient temples, lush greenery, and the chance to see Bali’s famous long-tailed macaques up close. The review from Roby’s tour describes him as “friendly and knowledgeable,” and many travelers appreciate guides who share fascinating insights about the forest’s history and ecology. Expect to spend around 1 hour 30 minutes here, soaking in the jungle sounds and watching the playful monkeys.

Travelers often mention that the Monkey Forest is both a fun and slightly unpredictable stop, as the macaques are curious and sometimes cheeky. It’s a chance to connect with Bali’s wildlife in a serene, sacred setting. The ticket is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs.

Exploring Ubud Art Market and Ubud Palace

Next, your guide will take you to the Ubud Art Market, a bustling hub where artisans sell handmade crafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. This is your chance to see local artistry in action and maybe pick up a one-of-a-kind gift. The market’s vibrant stalls are perfect for browsing and bargaining, and it’s also a window into local life.

Adjacent to the market is Ubud Palace, a stunning example of traditional Balinese architecture and religious craftsmanship. While the tour is free to explore the palace grounds, your guide is likely to share stories behind the intricate carvings and cultural significance. Travelers who visited mention that guides share interesting facts, making the visit more meaningful.

The Iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces

From the market, you’ll head to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, famous worldwide for their scenic beauty and traditional irrigation system. Here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and learn about the Balinese subak system — a centuries-old method of rice farming that involves intricate water management.

Photographers and nature lovers adore this spot, especially with the opportunity to take photos on the famous jungle swing. People often comment that the vistas are even more stunning in person than in pictures. The tour allocates about 1 hour for this stop, giving enough time to stroll, take photos, and soak in the landscape.

The Bali Swing Experience

A highlight for many: the Bali Swing. With a 5-star rating, this activity offers a thrilling ride above the jungle, overlooking the rice terraces and rivers. Swinging high above the treetops creates an adrenaline rush and fantastic photo opportunities. The staff are friendly, and there are various swings and spots for capturing memorable images. Reviews mention that this is “an unforgettable adventure,” perfect for those craving a mix of excitement and natural beauty. The swing experience lasts around 40 minutes, including some time to snap photos.

Coffee Tasting at Ubud Sari Coffee Luwak

No trip to Bali is complete without trying the famous Coffee Luwak. This unique experience lets you learn about the process of making one of the world’s rarest coffees, made from beans eaten and excreted by civet cats. Many visitors find the tasting fascinating and enjoy sampling different kinds of Bali’s coffee offerings. Guides providing this experience are knowledgeable about the process and the coffees’ flavors, offering insights that make the tasting more than just a sip.

Tegenungan Waterfall: Nature’s Refreshing End

The tour wraps up with a visit to Tegenungan Waterfall, a 15-meter cascade set amidst lush greenery. It’s easily accessible and offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the nearby viewpoint and the chance to take a dip in the cool waters at the base. Visitors often mention the short hike down and the relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to relax after a busy day. The waterfall’s entrance fee is included, and you’ll spend roughly an hour here.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

The tour includes private transportation with an air-conditioned vehicle, making it comfortable to travel between sites, especially in Bali’s often humid climate. Your guide is the key to the experience — many reviews praise guides like Roby and Putra for their friendliness, professionalism, and local knowledge. They go beyond simple narration, sharing stories that add depth to each stop.

The tour starts early, around 7:00 AM, giving you the full day to explore. It’s flexible, with the possibility of extending your time at certain spots if you wish — perfect for those who love to take their time for photos or in-depth exploration.

Snacks and bottled water are provided to keep your energy up, which is essential given the physical activity involved in walking, hiking, and swinging. The total duration varies, but most travelers find the full experience lasts around 8 hours, with some extending to 10 if they linger at certain spots.

Value for Money

At $70 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the diversity of experiences, transportation, entry fees, snacks, and the expertise of the guides. Many reviewers highlight the professional and friendly guides, which significantly enhances the overall experience. The included activities like the Monkey Forest, rice terraces, and waterfall make the price especially reasonable.

Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, it does involve some walking and a bit of physical activity, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels. The duration can extend to 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day out, especially in warm weather. Also, as with any busy tourist attraction, early mornings are preferable to beat the crowds and get the best lighting for photos.

The Sum Up

This Ubud tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey through Bali’s cultural, natural, and culinary highlights. It’s an excellent option for travelers wanting a comprehensive day that balances sightseeing with adventure, all guided by knowledgeable locals who truly love sharing their homeland.

Perfect for first-timers to Bali, couples, families, or anyone keen to cover multiple attractions in one go, this experience provides a mix of iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path gems. The combination of scenic landscapes, lively markets, and engaging guides makes it a memorable way to spend a day in Ubud.

In short, if you’re after good value, effortless logistics, and authentic insights, this tour ticks all those boxes. You’ll leave with stunning photos, new knowledge, and a genuine appreciation for Bali’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour fee?
All fees and taxes, snacks, bottled water, private transportation, and entry tickets to the Monkey Forest, rice terraces, and waterfall are included.

How long does the tour last?
It generally takes between 6 to 10 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at each site.

Is transportation private or shared?
You will have private transportation with an air-conditioned vehicle and your own driver, ensuring comfort and flexibility.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt the timing or focus based on your preferences, making it a personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection are recommended. Bring swimwear if you want to swim at Tegenungan Waterfall.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Moderate physical fitness is advised as some walking, hiking, and swinging activities are involved.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
Guides share insights, history, and local stories, enhancing your understanding and making the experience more engaging.

Is food included?
Snacks are provided, but meals are not included, so you might want to bring extra snacks or plan for a meal during the day.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather, with a full refund available if canceled in advance.

This Ubud tour is a fantastic way to see Bali’s heart in a single day, combining scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure. Prepare for a day full of memorable sights and friendly guides who are eager to share their homeland with you.