Best of Ubuds Highlights Full-Day Tour

An honest look at exploring Ubud’s best with a guided private tour

If you’re planning a trip to Ubud and want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or waiting in lines, this Best of Ubud Highlights Full-Day Tour might be just what you need. With a seamless private vehicle, an experienced guide, and all entry fees included, it promises a well-rounded day exploring temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and vibrant markets.

What we love most about this experience is the efficiency and flexibility it offers—no crowded buses or confusing public transport, just a dedicated guide taking you from one stunning spot to another. Plus, the reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Dastra or Arde truly elevate the day with their insights and local tips.

One consideration to keep in mind: at around 9 hours, this tour is quite full-on, especially if you’re prone to traveling at a relaxed pace. It’s best suited for those who want a thorough overview of Ubud’s major sights without spending days on it. If you love a mix of nature, culture, and local flavor, this tour is a fantastic option.

Key Points

Comprehensive exploration of Ubud’s top sights in one day.
Private transport means no waiting or navigating public transport yourself.
All entrance fees included—no hidden costs or queues.
Knowledgeable guides add meaningful context and make the experience fun.
Flexible optional stops allow you to tailor your day if time permits.
Great value for money considering the number of sites and personalized service.

A detailed look at what this tour offers

The convenience of a private guided day

Starting at 8:30am, this tour offers a private air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off available from your hotel in Ubud or nearby areas like Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Benoa, and Denpasar. This means you get to skip the stress of hailing taxis or figuring out public schedules, especially in a place like Bali where traffic can be unpredictable.

Your guide, who also serves as the driver, is fluent in English and ready to answer questions or share insights about each stop. Many reviewers praise guides like Dastra and Arde for their friendliness and extensive knowledge, making the trip both educational and entertaining.

The itinerary: a rich tapestry of sights

The tour covers a wide variety of Ubud’s most iconic spots, each offering a different flavor of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage.

Celuk Village – Jewelry art at its finest

Our journey begins in Celuk Village, renowned for its gold and silver jewelry craftsmanship. Here, you can admire the intricate designs and even discuss with the guide which art village—Mas or Batuan—you might want to explore later. For those interested in Balinese artistry, this provides a glimpse into local craftsmanship that’s both authentic and visually impressive.

Reviewers note that this stop sets the tone for the day—fascinating, colorful, and a great way to appreciate local artistry up-close.

Tegenungan Waterfall – Nature’s refreshment

Next, we head to the stunning Tegenungan Waterfall, a favorite for many visitors. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfall offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to feel the cool spray and listen to the soothing rush of water.

Expect about an hour here, which gives plenty of time for photos, a quick dip, or simply soaking in the scenery. Travelers often comment on how impressive this waterfall looks and how accessible it is compared to other waterfalls in Bali.

Goa Gajah — The Elephant Cave Temple

Then, it’s time for a cultural stop at the Elephant Cave, dating back to the 11th century. This complex features an ancient cave with carved stone entrances, bathing pools, and stone stupas. It’s a meaningful site for locals and visitors alike, offering a peek into Bali’s spiritual past.

One review highlights how guides like Dastra go beyond just ticking boxes—they share stories and explain the significance of the carvings, which greatly enriches the experience.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace — A rice paddy masterpiece

No visit to Ubud is complete without seeing the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Here, the terraced paddies stretch across the hillside, creating a breathtaking view. It’s a favorite photo spot and a chance to appreciate Bali’s hardworking rice farmers.

We loved the way the guide explained how the rice terraces are maintained and their importance to local agriculture. This stop usually lasts about an hour, giving enough time to walk around, take photos, and soak in some serenity.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Monkey Forest is a lively, slightly chaotic, but undeniably charming part of Ubud. With over 1,000 long-tailed macaques roaming freely, it offers a close-up look at Bali’s playful primates in their natural habitat.

Many reviewers say that their favorite part was watching the monkeys play and exploring the lush forest. Just a heads-up: keep your belongings secure, as the monkeys are quite curious and mischievous.

Ubud Traditional Art Market

The tour includes a free hour of self-guided exploration at the Ubud Art Market. This is a lively space filled with stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and textiles to souvenirs. It’s a perfect spot to haggle for unique gifts or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Alternatively, you can visit nearby sites such as Puri Saren Palace or Saraswati Temple if you prefer a cultural stroll instead.

Optional stops—tailor the experience

The tour’s flexible design allows you to add extra stops if time permits. Options include beautiful temples, scenic mountain views, waterfalls, or even a Bali-style spa experience. Reviewers appreciated the ability to customize the day or just relax at a chosen site.

How does it feel to travel in style?

Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an expert guide makes this experience a smooth and comfortable affair. You’ll appreciate the time saved, especially when moving between the attractions. Plus, all parking fees and gas are included, so no unexpected expenses pop up.

The value of the experience

At just $28.37 per person, this tour offers incredible value. Considering the number of sites visited, the private transport, and all entrance fees covered, it’s a cost-effective way to see Ubud’s highlights. Many reviews mention how well-organized and punctual the service is, making the day stress-free.

The tour is perfect for those who want a rundown of Ubud without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or couples eager to cover a lot in a single day.

What travelers say

Judith from the reviews praises the private nature and punctuality, mentioning that her guide and driver were “early and patiently waiting.” She appreciated that all entrance fees were paid, which saved her time and hassle. She also found the experience relaxing and enjoyable.

Joanne highlights how this guided tour is better than DIY exploring, allowing her to enjoy the sights without worrying about transportation or logistics. Meanwhile, Sheena emphasizes the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, which made the day all the more special.

Karyn calls her day “wonderful” and praises her guide, Arde, for his promptness and local insights, confirming that this tour is great for those wanting to see a diverse range of sites without rushing.

Anne emphasizes the Monkey Forest as her favorite, noting how much fun it was to see the monkeys and enjoy the lush scenery. She mentions that the rice terraces were “okay,” but the overall experience was memorable and well-paced.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, all-in-one day of sightseeing with the convenience of private transport. It’s perfect if you’re eager to tick off major attractions and learn about Bali’s culture through a knowledgeable guide.

It suits those with limited time but a desire for a fuller picture of Ubud’s highlights. If you’re traveling in a group or as a couple, the private setting adds a personal touch that enhances the experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as it’s designed to be accessible and comfortable. However, if you have mobility issues, some sites like the rice terraces or waterfalls might require extra walking.

Does the tour include lunch or snacks?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase them at each site or bring your own. The tour provides bottled water and enough time for breaks.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, many optional stops are available if there’s enough time, allowing you to tailor your experience to your interests.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably with modest clothing for temples, and bring a hat and sunscreen for outdoor stops like waterfalls and rice terraces.

Are entrance fees paid for me?
Yes, if you opt for the included entrance fees package, all site tickets are covered—saving you time and money.

How long is the free time at Ubud Art Market?
You get about an hour to explore at your own pace, shop, or visit nearby sites.

What’s the best way to book?
Booking is straightforward online, and most travelers book about a month in advance. Confirm your pickup time and location, and you’re all set.

Final thoughts

This Best of Ubud Highlights Full-Day Tour packs a lot into a single day, making it perfect for those who want a comprehensive, worry-free experience of Bali’s cultural and natural treasures. The private transport and expert guides elevate the journey from just sightseeing to a memorable, educational adventure.

While it’s a busy day, the flexibility to include optional stops means you can customize it to your interests. It’s an excellent value considering the cost, convenience, and quality of the experience.

If you’re after a deep dive into Ubud’s top attractions without the stress of planning or navigating Bali’s often chaotic traffic, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for first-timers eager to get a broad, authentic taste of what makes Ubud so special.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of culture, nature, and practicality. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you with lasting memories—and maybe a few new favorite spots.