Best of Ubud : Elephant Cave Temple, Monkey forest, Rice Terrace

Planning a day trip around Ubud? This private, full-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of Bali’s iconic temples, lush waterfalls, and stunning rice terraces—all with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and your own guide. At just $27 per person, it’s hard to beat this value for a personalized and immersive experience.

What we really love about this tour is the flexibility it offers—you’re not stuck in a big group or on a rigid schedule. Plus, the reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Anta and Wayan make the day more engaging with insightful stories and local tips. One possible consideration? Since entrance fees aren’t included, you’ll need to budget for those separately. This tour is perfect for travelers eager to see Bali’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks at a relaxed pace, with the option to customize a bit along the way.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with a dedicated guide and transport
• Highlights include waterfalls, temples, rice terraces, and local coffee tastings
• Flexible schedule allows for a relaxed exploration of Ubud’s top sights
• Excellent value considering the guide, transport, and inclusions
• Authentic insights from guides who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge
• No entrance fees included, so plan accordingly for additional costs

An In-Depth Look at the Ubud Tour

This tour is a thoughtfully curated introduction to some of Bali’s most photographed and culturally significant sites. It caters well to travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. With a duration of about 8 hours and hotel pickup included, it’s an efficient way to cover quite a bit of ground comfortably.

Start at Dewa Putu Toris – Artistic Flair and Local Talent

Your day begins with a visit to Dewa Putu Toris, a local artist known for his skillful drawings on canvas. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s vibrant art scene. According to reviews, the artist’s talent shines through as he creates intricate pieces, and the experience gives travelers a chance to appreciate Bali’s creative spirit firsthand. You might even pick up a unique souvenir directly from the artist.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – Up Close with Macaques

Next, you’ll wander through the famous Monkey Forest in Ubud. This lush sanctuary is home to long-tailed macaques, and it’s a highlight for many visitors. The forest is far more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a lively, green habitat with ancient temples and statues. Reviewers note that the monkeys are “awesome,” and the walk is enjoyable, particularly because guides like Wayan or Abu often share fascinating stories about the monkeys’ behavior and the significance of the forest to local culture. Be prepared for some cheeky macaques and keep your belongings close!

The Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah) – A Cultural and Spiritual Marvel

The highlight for many is the Elephant Cave, or Goa Gajah. This 7-meter-tall cave carved into the cliff is a must-see for its striking entrance figure of a Balinese animal, known as “Boma.” The site’s Hindu temples and artifacts reveal a quiet spiritual ambiance amidst picturesque surroundings. Reviewers mention that wandering around the temple complex offers both a sense of history and tranquility. Your guide will likely share stories about the cave’s significance, making this stop both educational and inspiring.

Coffee and Tea at Kumulilir – A Taste of Bali’s Flavors

After exploring temples and forests, you’ll pause at Kumulilir, a serene spot overlooking the valley. Here, the focus is on relaxation and appreciation of Bali’s coffee culture. You can sample various herbal teas and locally grown coffees, gaining a deeper understanding of the island’s rich agricultural tradition. Several reviewers mention how this stop offers a peaceful break with beautiful views, making it a highlight for those who love tasting authentic flavors. Be aware that this stop is included in the tour, but any additional purchases are on your own tab.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace – Iconic Bali Views

Finally, no trip to Ubud is complete without seeing the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. This UNESCO-listed site showcases Bali’s traditional irrigation system and beautifully tiered fields. The sight of lush green paddies, coconut trees, and the gentle sounds of water and wind makes it a photographer’s paradise. Reviewers praise the “beautiful rice fields” and note that you’ll get plenty of opportunities for photos and to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Your guide can help you find the best vantage points or suggest a quick walk through the terraces.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour is designed for those who value comfort and flexibility. The private air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth ride, and a dedicated guide means you’ll get personalized commentary tailored to your interests. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off—saving you time and hassle—and mineral water is provided to keep you refreshed.

The cost of $27 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the guide, transport, and the chance to see multiple sights in one day. Keep in mind, entrance fees are not included, so you should budget a few extra dollars for each site, depending on what you want to explore fully.

A notable point from reviews is the high praise for guides like Nata, Abu, and Wayan. Guests consistently describe their guides as friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to go the extra mile—sometimes spending additional time to ensure guests are satisfied. For solo travelers, an extra fee is charged, which helps cover the guide’s costs and ensures a personalized experience.

Timing-wise, the tour starts early to maximize the day, often with pickups around 8 or 9 AM. The schedule provides enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, with breaks for photos and brief rests.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

What sets this tour apart is not just the highlights but the authentic touch provided by guides who share local insights. For example, the guide’s commentary at the Monkey Forest or Goa Gajah often includes cultural context that makes the experience more meaningful. The coffee stop at Kumulilir is praised for its tranquil setting, offering a taste of Bali’s agricultural side that many visitors miss on more generic tours.

Reviewers also mention that the tour offers a relaxed pace, which is ideal if you prefer to avoid the rush of large group excursions. You’ll get ample time at each site, and the private vehicle means you can customize how long you stay at each stop if desired.

Value for Money

At $27, this tour delivers excellent value considering the personalized experience, expert guides, and multiple must-see sights. While entrance fees aren’t included, the affordability makes it easy to add those costs, and the overall experience feels well worth it. Many travelers have noted that they learned a lot from their guides and appreciated the extra attention and care.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, flexible, and value-packed day exploring Ubud’s top sights. It suits those who appreciate cultural stories, natural beauty, and a relaxed pace. Solo travelers will find the extra fee for a solo booking reasonable, especially given the personalized service. Families or small groups will enjoy the intimacy of a private tour, avoiding the crowds and rigid schedules of larger excursions.

If you’re interested in balancing sightseeing with leisure, sampling local flavors, and soaking up Bali’s scenery through a knowledgeable guide, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees are not included. You should plan to pay for each site separately, although the tour’s affordability makes this manageable.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but solo travelers are asked to pay an extra charge of 300K to cover guide expenses. The tour is private, so you’ll have your own guide and vehicle.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from pickup in the morning to drop-off in the late afternoon.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and some cash for entrance fees and personal purchases. Water is provided.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you have some flexibility to spend more or less time at certain stops, depending on your interests.

Is hotel pickup offered?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Ubud are included, making for a hassle-free experience.

Final Thoughts

This Best of Ubud tour offers an excellent blend of Bali’s cultural treasures and natural beauty, all delivered with a personal touch. The guides’ friendly demeanor and local knowledge bring each site alive, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The inclusion of stops like the Monkey Forest, Elephant Cave, and rice terraces ensures you get a comprehensive glimpse of what makes Ubud so special.

The price point is highly attractive, especially considering the private transport and guide service. While entrance fees are separate, the overall value remains strong—particularly for travelers who want a relaxed, immersive day without the stress of organizing every detail.

In short, if you’re after a well-rounded, authentic Bali experience with the comfort of a private guide, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those eager to explore at their own pace, enjoy local flavors, and take home memorable photos from Bali’s most scenic spots.

Note: Always check current details and availability before booking, as times and prices can vary.