Ubud Tour with Swing, Temple, Monkey Forest, and Waterfall

Ubud Tour with Swing, Temple, Monkey Forest, and Waterfall: An Authentic Day Out in Bali

If you’re planning to explore Ubud, Bali’s cultural heartland, you’ve likely come across this comprehensive tour that promises to cover the best highlights in a single day. From lush rice terraces to sacred temples, playful monkeys, and a scenic waterfall, this tour is designed for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun—all with the convenience of door-to-door service.

What we love about this experience is its focus on personalized transport and carefully curated stops—you get the flexibility of a private guide, plus the chance to see some of Bali’s most Instagram-worthy spots. However, with a packed itinerary, be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, which may feel rushed if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

This tour is perfect for those who want to maximize their time in Ubud without the hassle of navigating Bali’s sometimes chaotic traffic. It’s especially suited for first-timers eager to see the essentials with ease, or anyone looking for a snapshot of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual sites—all in one well-organized day.

Key Points

• Convenience and Comfort: Private round-trip transfers from your Ubud or South Bali accommodation make logistics a breeze.
• Diverse Highlights: From rice terraces and waterfalls to temples and art villages, the tour offers a well-rounded Bali experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Expect to see macaques in their natural habitat and learn about local arts and crafts.
• Value for Money: At just over $80 per person, the tour includes numerous entrance fees and a dedicated guide.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Authentic Experiences: Guided visits to Tirta Empul, the Monkey Forest, and a coffee plantation bring culture.

A Deep Dive into the Ubud Tour Experience

Comfortable, Hassle-Free Transportation

What makes this tour stand out is the door-to-door private transfer. You won’t need to worry about navigating Bali’s busy streets or haggling with local drivers—your friendly guide/driver will handle all logistics. This setup is particularly valuable if you’re short on time or prefer a stress-free day. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long drive between stops comfortable even on Bali’s warmer days.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Iconic Bali Views

The first stop, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, is an absolute must-see. With its undulating green fields, it’s the quintessential Bali landscape, perfect for photos. Reviewers mention how stunning the views are and note that the short 30-minute visit is enough for great pictures without feeling rushed. Expect to see the rice paddies carved into the hillside, offering a glimpse into traditional Balinese irrigation systems called subak.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Playful and Pleasurable

Next up is the Sacred Monkey Forest, where you’ll encounter hundreds of gray macaques freely roaming among ancient Hindu temples and lush jungle. The guides know exactly where to find the most active and photogenic monkeys, and some reviewers mention how they appreciated their guide’s knowledge about the animals and the history of the sanctuary. Be mindful of your belongings—many travelers recommend keeping bags closed and away from the monkeys’ reach, as cheeky macaques are known for snatching snacks or sunglasses.

One reviewer shared how they loved feeding the monkeys, describing it as a fun and memorable experience. Others noted that the atmosphere is lively, making it a favorite stop for families and animal lovers.

Tegenungan Waterfall: Refreshing and Scenic

After monkey business, it’s time for some water action at Tegenungan Waterfall, Bali’s most popular waterfall. The 30-minute stop allows you to get close enough for a quick swim or just enjoy the view from the surrounding area. Several travelers appreciated how accessible the waterfall is, with steps leading down to a swimming spot where you can cool off. Be prepared for a short walk from the parking area, but the natural beauty makes the effort worthwhile.

Tirta Empul Temple: Spiritual Significance

The Tirta Empul Temple is a highlight for those interested in Bali’s spiritual customs. This holy site is famous for its purification pools, where locals and travelers alike participate in a traditional cleansing ritual. As one reviewer noted, you might witness Balinese doing a holy purification before prayers, adding an authentic touch to your visit. An entry fee is included, and the guides often provide insightful commentary about the temple’s history and significance.

Arts and Crafts Villages: Culture in Action

The tour continues with visits to Semar Kuning Artist Cooperative, Tohpati Village, Celuk Village, and the Mas Carving Center. These stops are ideal for those interested in arts, crafts, and local craftsmanship. You’ll see artisans at work, learn about batik weaving, silver jewelry making, and wood carving, and have opportunities to purchase unique souvenirs.

Many reviewers appreciated these stops for their authenticity and the chance to support local artisans directly. This adds a more meaningful dimension to your shopping, emphasizing craftsmanship over mass-produced souvenirs.

Ubud Swing & Campuhan Ridge Walk: Stunning Photo Ops

The Happy Swing Bali offers an adrenaline-pumping photo opportunity over the lush jungle canopy. Expect about an hour here—enough time to get some iconic shots, as many travelers mention how the swing provides spectacular views with a feeling of floating above the rice fields.

If time allows, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is a nearby scenic trek, offering panoramic views without the crowds. Though it’s a passing point on the tour, it’s worth mentioning for its aesthetic appeal and peaceful atmosphere.

Optional Extra: Local Market Passes

While not a formal stop, the tour route takes you past Ubud Market, giving a quick glimpse of local life and bustling stalls. Some travelers enjoy the market’s lively vibe, but note that shopping time isn’t included in the itinerary.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback on this tour is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—notably Amporna and Pong—who are described as friendly, caring, and local experts. Many felt very safe and well cared for, even as solo travelers or women exploring alone.

The scenic highlights, especially the rice terraces and waterfall, are mentioned repeatedly as their favorite parts. Several reviewers highlight the swing experience, saying it’s “amazing,” “beautiful,” and “great for photos.” One shared that their guide was also their “personal photographer,” helping capture perfect moments.

Others appreciated the cultural stops, like the Tirta Empul Temple and the arts villages, as authentic ways to engage with Bali’s traditions. The stops at the coffee plantation received particular praise for their educational value and tasting experiences, although some noted that souvenirs are available for purchase here.

The value for the price ($83.60 per person) is seen as excellent, given the number of sites included and the private, personalized nature of the tour. Travelers also liked the flexibility—the tour is private, so if you want to linger longer at a particular spot, your guide can often accommodate.

Highlights from reviews

• “My tour guide Pong was very informative and caring. I traveled to Bali solo, so he made sure I was comfortable the entire time.”
• “The swing and rice terrace views were breathtaking, and my guide was a great photographer.”
• “Dodik, our guide, made the day super fun and was so knowledgeable about the area.”
• “The trip from start to finish was incredible, with a friendly driver and smooth transitions between stops.”

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: Expect a full 8-10 hour day, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
• Price: At ~$83, the tour provides outstanding value considering the number of stops, entrance fees, and private transport.
• Best for: First-time visitors, solo travelers, couples, or groups wanting a hassle-free experience.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 33 days in advance, so plan early if you want a spot.
• Inclusions: The tour covers major entrance fees, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, making it a convenient all-in-one option.
• Extras: Food and drinks aren’t included, so bring snacks or plan to buy at stops.
• Weather considerations: The tour is weather-dependent; if rain causes cancellations, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

The Sum Up

This Ubud tour offers a well-rounded Balinese experience—combining natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities—all while avoiding the stress of navigating Bali’s busy roads. With knowledgeable guides, stunning photo opportunities like the swing, and authentic cultural stops like Tirta Empul, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without rushing or feeling overwhelmed.

The experience is especially good for first-timers or those with limited time in Bali who want a rundown. The private transport adds a layer of comfort and flexibility, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a stress-free day out.

While it packs a lot into one day, many find that the balance of activities keeps the experience lively and engaging, with enough time to appreciate each location. Just be prepared for a full day of sightseeing—you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and bring a sense of adventure (and maybe a camera for those picture-perfect moments).

This tour provides excellent value, authentic encounters, and a smooth, worry-free way to explore some of Ubud’s best-loved sights. Whether you’re capturing those perfect Instagram shots or soaking up local spirituality, it’s a memorable way to experience Bali’s magic.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes private air-conditioned round-trip transfers from your Ubud or South Bali accommodation.

How long does the tour last? The full experience is approximately 8 to 10 hours, making it a full day of exploration.

Are entrance fees included? Most major sites, including Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Monkey Forest, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Tirta Empul Temple, include their entrance fees in the tour price.

Can I customize the stops? This is a private tour, so your driver/guide can often accommodate slight changes or special requests.

Is food provided? No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan to buy refreshments along the way.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely. Reviewers mention feeling safe and well cared for, even as solo travelers.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for temples and outdoor activities, and bring a hat and sunscreen.

Is there time for shopping? You can visit the art villages and jewelry centers, but shopping is not part of the scheduled itinerary.

What’s the best time to book? Most travelers book about 33 days in advance; mornings tend to be less crowded than afternoons.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

This tour is a fantastic way to make the most of a single day in Ubud, blending natural beauty, cultural richness, and fun experiences—all with the comfort of private transport and guided insight. Highly recommended for those wanting a seamless, memorable Bali adventure.