Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – Kintamani – Lake Batur Tour

Traveling through Bali offers endless opportunities to see its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, but with so many options, picking the right tour can be tricky. This full-day tour of central Bali, priced at just $33 per person, promises a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and scenic views—all tailored for first-time visitors looking for good value without sacrificing quality.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is how it brings together some of Bali’s most iconic sights—like the Sacred Monkey Forest and Tegalalang Rice Terraces—with breathtaking views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. The inclusion of a night market also adds a local flavor that’s often missed in more typical packages. However, since the tour involves quite a bit of moving around with multiple stops, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and some walking.

A potential consideration is the entrance fees, which are not included in the base price, adding about IDR 115,000 (roughly $8-9 USD) per person, depending on the stops. For travelers on a tight budget, this is manageable but worth noting. This tour is ideal for first-timers eager to tick off Bali’s top attractions in one go, especially those who want a mix of nature, culture, and local life.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $33, it offers great value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Diverse Stops: From sacred temples and lush rice terraces to volcano views and waterfalls.
• Guide and Transport: Includes a knowledgeable English-speaking driver, private vehicle, and hotel pickup.
• Flexible Experience: Since it’s a private tour, your group’s pace and interests shape the day.
• Additional Fees: Entrance fees are extra, so budget around IDR 115,000 for all stops.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Well-suited for those new to Bali wanting a broad overview.

Introduction to the Bali Day Tour

If you’re visiting Bali for the first time, chances are you want to see as much as possible without it feeling rushed or overwhelming. This Sacred Monkey Forest – Kintamani – Lake Batur Tour offers exactly that—a taste of Bali’s natural beauty and cultural highlights in one well-organized day. It’s a package that balances sightseeing with some relaxed moments, making it perfect for first-timers or those with limited time.

What we find particularly appealing is the combination of popular attractions—like the sacred monkey sanctuary and the rice terraces—paired with spectacular mountain and lake views. The price point is another draw; at just $33, it’s a budget-friendly way to cover a lot of ground, especially considering the hotel pickup and private transportation are included.

On the flip side, the day can be quite packed, with six stops that each offer their own unique experiences. For travelers who prefer a slow pace or highly detailed visits, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s a great way to get a quick, authentic taste of central Bali’s highlights.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Our journey begins at the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud, a site renowned for its lush greenery and lively monkeys. Here, you get the chance to stroll among ancient carved artworks, sculptures, and temples, with the monkeys freely roaming around. Visitors often comment on how close you can get to the monkeys—some even say it’s a little unnerving but fascinating. It’s a chance to understand a bit about Balinese culture and religion intertwined with nature.

The admission fee is IDR 80,000, which isn’t included in the tour price. The guide typically provides insights into the significance of the temple and the role of monkeys in local culture. Expect about an hour here, enough time to snap photos and observe the playful antics of these intelligent creatures.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Next, the tour heads to the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces, often seen flooding Instagram feeds. The terraced fields are a stunning example of traditional Balinese irrigation and farming techniques. While it can be crowded—especially during peak hours—the crush of travelers doesn’t diminish the beauty of the view.

Most visitors use this stop for photos, but the terraces are still remarkably well-preserved. Some reviews mention that despite the touristy atmosphere, the scenery remains breathtaking. The entrance fee here is IDR 20,000, and around an hour is sufficient to walk the terraces, take photos, and soak in the lush green vistas. It’s a perfect spot for a quick but memorable experience.

Kintamani Highland

Then, the tour ventures to Kintamani, a fertile volcanic region surrounding Mount Batur. The main viewpoint here offers panoramic views of the caldera, Mount Batur, and the scenic lake below. It’s a place that makes you feel tiny against the vast landscape.

Travelers often mention how incredible the vistas are—“the best view of the whole Kintamani area,” one reviewer says. It’s a great spot for photos, especially if you visit during sunrise or sunset, though this tour usually stops during daylight hours. The admission fee is IDR 20,000, and you’ll spend about two hours here, including time for lunch if desired.

Lake Batur

Adjacent to Mount Batur lies Lake Batur, a crescent-shaped body of water that offers tranquility and excellent photo opportunities. Surrounded by high walls of the caldera, the lake’s reflective surface is stunning against the backdrop of mountains.

The visit here provides a serene break from the more active stops. Reviewers highlight how beautiful and peaceful the setting is—”a perfect place for photography and relaxing.” Expect about two hours at Lake Batur, giving you time to walk along the shore or simply enjoy the view.

Tegenungan Waterfall

The Tegenungan Waterfall is a favorite for lovers of nature and photography. Falling 20 meters over dark volcanic rocks, it creates a dramatic cascade into a quiet pool. Visitors often mention climbing the cliffs nearby and discovering a small hidden waterfall or sacred spring.

The waterfall is quite accessible, with a modest entrance fee of IDR 20,000, and you’ll typically spend around two hours here. Many reviews mention how refreshing it is to stand under the cascade or take photos from the cliffs. It’s also a fun spot for a quick dip if you’re feeling brave.

Gianyar Night Market

Concluding the day, the Gianyar Night Market exposes you to Bali’s vibrant local food scene. Open after 6 or 7 pm, the market buzzes with activity and a variety of delicious, reasonably priced dishes. Visitors often comment on how authentic and varied the food is—think grilled meats, satay, tropical fruits, and traditional snacks.

The market’s lively atmosphere, colorful stalls, and the chance to try dishes you might not find elsewhere make it a memorable experience. For many, this is the ideal way to end the day, with a casual stroll and a tasty dinner. The admission here is free, but plan for about an hour or more to explore and eat.

What’s Included & What to Expect

The tour provides a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle with a knowledgeable English-speaking driver, hotel pickup, and return. Bottled water is also included, making the long day more comfortable. Since it’s a private tour, it offers flexibility—if you want more time at one stop or to skip another, you can usually arrange that with your guide.

However, all entrance fees are not included in the base price. Expect to pay around IDR 115,000 (roughly $8-9 USD) for the tickets across all stops, which covers the Monkey Forest, rice terraces, Kintamani, Lake Batur, and Tegenungan Waterfall. This is a reasonable additional expense considering the value of the sights.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Reviews note that guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, often sharing cultural insights, which enriches the experience. Travelers appreciate the good communication, and some mention their guides went out of their way to suggest photo spots or explain the history behind each site.

As this is a full-day tour, wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection. Be prepared for some walking, especially at the rice terraces and waterfall. Also, remember to carry cash for entrance fees and snacks or souvenirs at the night market.

The tour’s timing typically starts with early pickup; most are ready to start around 7-8 am, finishing around 6-7 pm, giving a comprehensive glimpse of Bali’s central attractions.

The Sum Up

This Sacred Monkey Forest – Kintamani – Lake Batur Tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience for those eager to see Bali’s highlights without overspending. The itinerary balances nature, culture, and local life, making it perfect for first-timers and travelers wanting a taste of everything.

You’ll love the scenic views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, the playfulness of the monkeys, and the chance to walk through green rice terraces that still feel authentic despite their popularity. The inclusion of a night market for dinner adds a fun, local atmosphere that many tours overlook.

While it’s a busy schedule, the private transport and guided insights help keep things comfortable and informative. The additional costs for entrance fees are reasonable and transparent, so you won’t face surprises. This tour is a fantastic value for travelers looking for an authentic, fun-filled Bali day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking. The private nature allows for some flexibility based on your family’s needs.

Are the entrance fees included in the price?
No, they are paid separately—approximately IDR 115,000 per person across all stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen, especially for outdoor stops like rice terraces and waterfalls.

Does the tour include lunch?
Lunch is not included in the package, but there are opportunities to buy food at certain stops, especially at Kintamani and the night market.

How long is each stop?
Most stops are between 1-2 hours, with the exception of Kintamani and Lake Batur, which allow for about two hours each.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and return transfers are included, making it convenient to start your day without hassle.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While it’s mostly fixed, your driver can usually accommodate minor tweaks to suit your interests.

Is this tour suitable for elderly travelers?
Generally yes, but consider mobility needs for walking at certain sites, especially the waterfall and rice terraces.

What is the best time of day to do this tour?
Most travelers prefer starting early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially at outdoor stops.

In essence, if you’re after an authentic, budget-friendly way to experience Bali’s scenic and cultural jewels, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a great option for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle and are happy to spend a full day exploring some of the island’s most beloved sites.