Best Ubud & Tanah Lot Excursion

Exploring Bali’s Cultural and Natural Wonders: The Best Ubud & Tanah Lot Excursion

This private day trip around Bali blends culture with breathtaking scenery, making it a favorite among visitors who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning. For just $69 per person, you’re picked up from your hotel and taken on a 10-hour journey that covers some of Bali’s most iconic sights—Ubud’s art and rice terraces, the Sacred Monkey Forest, a coffee plantation, and the famous Tanah Lot temple at sunset.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances cultural insights with stunning vistas. The guide, Abdi, is not just knowledgeable but also friendly and flexible, making the entire day feel personalized and relaxed. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite packed—so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you might want to consider how long you want to spend at each site. Still, for those who want a well-rounded Bali experience in one day, this is an excellent choice.

Ideal for travelers who love culture, nature, and photography, this tour offers a rich taste of Bali’s diverse charm. It suits those who appreciate guided insight and want everything organized—especially if they’re visiting Bali for the first time or are limited on time but want to see the highlights.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees, lunch, bottled water, and private transportation make this a hassle-free day.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit local artisan workshops, a coffee plantation, and Ubud’s Monkey Forest for genuine cultural encounters.
• Stunning Views: From rice terraces to sunset at Tanah Lot, visuals are a major highlight.
• Flexible and Personal: The private format means the day can adapt to your pace and interests.
• Expert Guidance: Friendly, knowledgeable guides like Abdi enhance the experience with insider insights.
• Comfort in Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, especially in busy Bali.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Start with the Art of Bali at Yana Art Gallery (formerly Daging Wood Carver)

Your day begins with a hotel pickup by your private driver, who will whisk you off to Ubud, Bali’s art and cultural hub. The first stop is an artisan workshop—originally called Daging Wood Carver but moving to Yana Art Gallery—where you’ll witness skilled craftsmen creating intricate Balinese wood carvings. This is a fantastic chance to see traditional techniques in action, and you can even purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs directly from the artisans.

Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Next, your journey takes you into the lush surrounds of the Monkey Forest. The reviews highlight how much visitors enjoy observing the long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat. Be prepared for lively scenes—reviewers mention encountering a large number of monkeys, which adds to the thrill. Although admission isn’t included in the tour price, the experience of wandering through this green sanctuary with its ancient temple ruins is well worth the extra. The guide, Abdi, provides insights into the monkeys’ behavior, which adds an educational layer.

The Iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Then it’s time for the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces. It’s easy to see why this spot is a photographer’s paradise—vast, emerald-green terraces carved into the hillsides, offering sweeping views that seem to stretch forever. The guide often shares fascinating insights about the subak irrigation system, Bali’s traditional water management technique. Many travelers, like Zouhair, comment on the breathtaking scenery and the value of having a guide explain the significance of these terraces, making photo sessions more meaningful.

Visit Uma Pakel Agro Tourism (Coffee Plantation)

A highlight for many is the visit to the coffee plantation, where you can taste the world’s most expensive coffee—Luwak coffee. The process of how civets help produce this unique brew is both unusual and informative. Reviewers mention that the experience is quite engaging, especially if you’re a coffee lover. You get to sample various local brews and learn about Bali’s traditional coffee-making techniques, enriching your understanding of local agriculture. The guide often shares stories about the civets’ role, making this stop more than just a tasting.

The Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple

The final stop is perhaps the most iconic—Tanah Lot. About an hour’s drive from Ubud, this temple sits dramatically on a rock formation, surrounded by crashing waves. The sunset view here is spectacular, and many reviews mention how stunning the light display is as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak in Bali’s spiritual atmosphere. Although entrance fees aren’t included, the experience of witnessing the temple glow against the setting sun makes it worthwhile.

The Practical Side: Logistics, Value, and Tips

Transportation and Group Size

Having private transportation means you avoid crowded buses and rigid schedules—your guide Abdi is there to tailor the pacing. The tour is designed for just your group, ensuring a personalized experience. Many reviews praise Abdi for his friendly attitude and responsiveness, making the long day comfortable and engaging.

Pricing and Value

At $69, this tour offers impressive value considering the inclusions: all entrance fees, lunch, bottled water, and transport. When you factor in the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, plus the opportunity to explore Bali’s main attractions without stressful planning, it’s a solid deal. The price also covers the logistics of visiting popular sites that are spread out across the island.

Timing and Pace

The itinerary packs several stops into a 10-hour window. While some might find this a tight schedule, others appreciate the efficiency. The early start helps maximize the views—especially at Tanah Lot—and ensures you beat some of the crowds at the popular sites. Keep in mind, the tour is quite full, so if you prefer a leisurely visit, you might want to discuss extending time at certain stops or choosing fewer sites.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to budget separately for alcoholic drinks or additional snacks, as these aren’t included. Entrance fees for the Monkey Forest, rice terraces, and Tanah Lot aren’t covered either, but the cost is minimal compared to the overall value.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights from Reviews

The reviews show how much travelers appreciate guides like Abdi, who make the day informative and fun. One reviewer called him “wonderful,” noting his friendliness and knowledge. Another reviewer from France mentioned how punctual and kind the driver was, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

Many travelers highlight the stunning scenery—from the lush rice terraces to the sunset at Tanah Lot—making this tour not just about ticking boxes but truly experiencing Bali’s natural beauty. The visit to the coffee plantation also stands out as a unique, hands-on experience that’s both educational and delicious.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for those who want a comprehensive Bali experience without the hassle of organizing multiple sites themselves. If you enjoy learning about local culture, taking photos of beautiful landscapes, and witnessing iconic landmarks, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer private, guided experiences that respect their pace and interests.

Those with limited time in Bali, or first-timers eager to see the highlights, will find this tour offers a well-rounded overview. However, if you crave a more relaxed, unhurried visit, you might want to discuss extending your time at certain spots or choosing fewer stops.

The Sum Up

This private Ubud & Tanah Lot tour offers outstanding value for travelers eager to see Bali’s cultural and natural highlights in one day. From the artistry in Ubud’s workshops and the lively Monkey Forest to the scenic rice terraces and the unforgettable sunset at Tanah Lot, each stop provides a unique glimpse into Bali’s diverse charm. The inclusion of lunch, bottled water, and transportation simplifies the day, making it an excellent choice for those seeking convenience alongside authentic experiences.

The guiding hand of Abdi, praised for his friendliness and deep knowledge, elevates the day from a simple sightseeing trip to an engaging cultural journey. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to maximize your Bali experience, this tour covers the essentials with professionalism and warmth.

While it’s a packed schedule, most travelers find it worthwhile for the chance to see many of Bali’s most famed sites comfortably and efficiently. If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed day that combines scenic beauty, local culture, and memorable moments, this excursion ticks all the right boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup in a private vehicle, making it convenient and hassle-free to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time, site visits, and lunch.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to sites like the Monkey Forest, rice terraces, and Tanah Lot are not included but are generally nominal.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $69.00 per person, which covers transportation, lunch, bottled water, and parking fees.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for optional souvenirs or additional snacks should suffice.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if traveling with young children to ensure suitability and comfort.

This comprehensive Bali adventure is ideal for those wanting a full day of memorable sights, cultural insights, and stunning views—all in one well-organized package.