Rice terrace tour and Ubud area tour

Introduction

This rice terrace and Ubud area tour promises a full day of discovering Bali’s iconic sights, from lush rice paddies to sacred temples. Offered at a competitive price of $55 per group (up to five people), it’s a popular choice for those seeking an immersive yet flexible Bali adventure. The tour is carefully crafted to showcase some of Ubud’s most celebrated attractions, with a good balance of nature, culture, and unique experiences.

What we really like about this tour is the private transport and personalized pacing. Having your own vehicle with WiFi and bottled water makes the day comfortable and convenient, especially after long walks or sightseeing. However, some travelers might find the itinerary’s pace a little tight—especially if you love lingering at each spot or want to explore more in-depth. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see Bali’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation or entry tickets. It’s ideal if you want a flexible, all-in-one day trip that hits the main sights with ease.

Key Points

• Private, air-conditioned transport ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
• Visit iconic spots like the Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Tirta Empul Temple.
• Includes WiFi and bottled water for a more pleasant experience while on the move.
• Entry tickets are not included, so be prepared to purchase tickets on-site.
• The tour is perfect for small groups of up to five travelers seeking an authentic Bali experience.
• Cancelation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Our day begins with a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest, one of Ubud’s most famous attractions. This lush, well-maintained jungle sanctuary is home to friendly long-tailed macaques. Guests frequently mention how the monkeys are quite tame—“the monkeys are gentle and curious,” one reviewer notes—making for some fun moments but also a need to be cautious with personal belongings. The forest’s vibrant greenery and ancient temple ruins create a mystical atmosphere, perfect for photos and wandering. The admission is not included, so be prepared to buy an entrance ticket on arrival.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Next, we drive to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning, layered paddies carved into the hills. Here, you’ll get an instant sense of Bali’s traditional irrigation system—the subak—and the sheer ingenuity behind the terraced fields. Many guests love how the view captures Bali’s lush natural beauty, often described as a “photographer’s paradise.” We recommend setting aside about two hours, including some time to walk down into the valley for a more intimate look at the paddies. Keep in mind, admission tickets are not included, so plan to purchase them on the spot.

Tegenungan Waterfall

A short drive takes us to the Tegenungan Waterfall, a scenic spot popular among visitors for its accessible location and powerful cascade. At around one hour, this stop offers a nice break from walking and a chance to dip your toes or even take photos behind the waterfall’s veil of water. Some reviewer comments mention the strong water flow and the beautiful surrounding jungle as highlights. It’s a great spot for a quick, refreshing experience, though it can get crowded during peak times.

Tirta Empul Temple

The tour concludes with a visit to Tirta Empul, a sacred Hindu water temple famous for its purifying ritual pools. Visitors can witness or participate in the bathing rituals, which are believed to have healing properties. The atmosphere here is serene and spiritual, and many travelers find it a meaningful ending to their day. Expect about two hours at this site, including time for a walk around the complex. As with other spots, entry tickets are not included, so plan accordingly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi onboard, mineral water, and parking tickets. This setup makes the day seamless—no need to stress about navigating or finding your way between sites. The small group size (up to 5) means a more personalized experience, with flexibility to adjust the itinerary slightly if needed.

Not included are lunch and the entrance fees for each attraction, which vary. Most visitors find that bringing some cash for entrance tickets and snacks works best. Some reviews suggest that the value here lies more in the convenience and personalized service rather than the tour itself, which is still a very affordable way to see some of Bali’s top sights.

Practical Tips and Insights

• Timing matters: The tour lasts about 10 hours, so start early to avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like Tegalalang and Tirta Empul.
• Wear comfortable clothes and bring a hat or umbrella, especially for sunny weather. Some stops involve walking or climbing steps.
• Tickets: Have some cash ready for entrance fees, which you’ll purchase on-site.
• Photo opportunities are plentiful but be respectful of local customs, especially at temples.
• Be cautious with monkeys—they’re playful but can snatch items if left unattended.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

One traveler appreciated the friendly guide who explained the significance of each site, though specific guides aren’t named. The peace at Tirta Empul was also highlighted, with one reviewer mentioning the “sense of calm and renewal.” The convenience of WiFi and bottled water on the bus was appreciated, and many felt the flexibility of the private tour made the experience more relaxed than a group tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for small groups or families looking for a well-organized day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those interested in Bali’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and scenic vistas, especially if they value comfort and flexibility. It might not be the best choice for travelers on a strict budget since entrance fees are extra, but for those wanting a cost-effective, personalized Bali experience, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to see a balanced mix of Bali’s iconic rice terraces, spiritual temples, and waterfalls, this private tour offers a convenient and comfortable way to tick those boxes in one day. The inclusion of private transportation, WiFi, and a small group size makes for a smooth experience, while the itinerary covers Bali’s essential highlights.

While it’s a good value overall, keep in mind entrance fees are separate, so budget accordingly. The tour’s flexible approach allows you to enjoy each site at your own pace, which is especially helpful at popular spots that tend to get crowded. If you’re new to Bali or short on time but want a genuine taste of Ubud’s best, this tour offers a balanced, authentic glimpse of the island’s natural and spiritual charm.

FAQ

Are transportation and WiFi included?
Yes, the tour provides private, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi on board, making your day comfortable and connected.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 10 hours, allowing ample time to visit all the main sites without feeling rushed.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, the entrance fees for monkey forest, rice terraces, waterfall, and temple are not included. You’ll need to purchase tickets on-site.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers indicate that the tour is suitable for most ages, especially since it’s private and flexible. Just keep in mind the walking involved and the need for some patience at crowded sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in Ubud and ends in Bali, covering all areas of the island as needed, with flexible arrangements.

This Bali tour strikes a good balance between convenience, authenticity, and value—making it a solid choice for small groups eager to explore Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual sites with ease.