Swimming At Taman Sari Waterfall & Visit The Best Site Of Ubud

If you’re exploring Bali and want a well-rounded day combining nature, culture, and fun, this private tour in Ubud might just be the perfect choice. It covers some of the island’s most picture-perfect spots—think waterfalls, rice terraces, traditional temples, and lively markets—along with a memorable swim at Taman Sari Waterfall. What makes this tour stand out is not just the variety of sights but the way it’s designed to maximize authentic experiences without feeling rushed.

One thing we really like about this experience is the inclusion of guides and drivers who are both knowledgeable and friendly—they’re eager to share Bali’s stories and local tips, making your visit more meaningful. The scenic stops like Tegallalang rice terraces and Ubud Palace are also great for those Instagram-worthy shots—and a chance to meet local farmers or browse art markets.

A potential consideration is the duration and pace—with multiple stops packed into 7 to 8 hours, it’s a fairly full day. If you prefer a more relaxed itinerary, you might want to prioritize your favorite sites. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, culturally rich day out that’s private and flexible, perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to see Bali’s highlights with a local touch.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining nature, culture, and adventure
• Private tour with a flexible, personalized approach
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and local stories
• High-value price considering entrance fees, transportation, and attractions
• Beautiful stops like waterfalls, rice terraces, temples, and markets
• Great for photography with plenty of scenic and cultural backdrops

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This tour is a carefully curated mix of Bali’s natural beauty and cultural treasures, designed to give you a taste of what makes Ubud so special. For just $32 per person, it offers a full day (around 7 to 8 hours) of exploration, with the comfort of private transportation, included bottled water, and the guidance of friendly, English-speaking drivers or guides.

Starting Point: Early Morning Pickup

The day begins at 8:30 am with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation. The private car makes for a comfortable ride, taking you seamlessly from one stop to the next, while allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

First Stop: Taman Sari Waterfall & Natural Pool

The highlight for many visitors is swimming at Taman Sari Waterfall. It’s one of Ubud’s most scenic natural spots, with the waterfall starting as a single, dramatic drop and then splitting into multiple cascades. The emerald pool at the base is not just a stunning photo setting but also large and deep enough for a proper swim—refreshing after a morning of sightseeing.

Travelers who’ve visited mention that the waterfall’s backdrop is especially picturesque, with lush greenery and cascading water providing a perfect escape into nature. The admission fee is included, so you just need to bring your swimwear and towel. Expect about an hour here, giving enough time to enjoy the water and take photos.

Second Stop: Puseh Batuan Temple

Next, the tour takes you to Puseh Batuan Temple, a village temple dating back to the 10th century. This temple is renowned for its intricate Balinese carvings and authentic architecture. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the impressive craftsmanship—an excellent photo spot and a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual life.

It’s a quiet spot, and the fact that it’s less touristy means you’ll enjoy a more authentic experience. The temple visit lasts about an hour, and while the entrance fee is covered in the tour, remember to dress modestly out of respect.

Third Stop: Tegallalang Rice Terraces

No Bali trip is complete without a visit to Tegalalang Rice Terraces. These dramatic, lush slopes stretch across the valley, offering what many consider some of the most breathtaking views on the island. As you walk around, you’ll have opportunities to meet local farmers and learn about traditional irrigation systems like subak.

Photographers love this spot for its layered terraces and vibrant greenery—especially in the early morning or late afternoon light. Tourists frequently describe it as a “perfect Bali photo opportunity”. Expect about an hour here, giving you time to stroll, take pictures, and maybe buy some handmade crafts from local vendors.

Fourth Stop: d’Alas Swing

Riding high above the rice paddies on the d’Alas Swing is a must-do for thrill-seekers and Instagram enthusiasts alike. The swing offers a sweeping view of the jungle and rice fields, making for stunning photos. As one reviewer put it, their guides were very accommodating when they requested to add this stop last-minute.

The 45-minute experience includes a safety briefing, and you’ll get a chance to capture some memorable images swinging out over the lush landscape—definitely a highlight for many visitors.

Fifth Stop: Ubud Art Market

Next, you’ll wander through Ubud’s traditional art market. It’s free to explore and a fantastic place to find souvenirs, textiles, jewelry, and artwork from local artisans. The lively atmosphere means bargaining is encouraged, and you might score a unique piece to take home.

Many visitors love soaking up the vibrant market scene, and some note that the market allows a peek into everyday Balinese life away from tourist-heavy spots. Allocate about an hour here for browsing and maybe chatting with friendly vendors.

Final Stop: Ubud Palace

The tour wraps up with a visit to Ubud Palace (Puri Saren), an elegant historical complex known for its intricate carvings and lush courtyards. It’s a great spot for cultural photos and to appreciate Bali’s royal architecture.

The palace is very accessible, and the guided commentary provides added insights. It’s a peaceful ending to a busy day, lasting about an hour. Best of all, admission is free, so you can enjoy the atmosphere without extra costs.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $32 covers private transportation in an air-conditioned car, petrol, parking fees, bottled water, and the services of an English-speaking driver or guide. This makes the experience quite good value, especially considering the private nature of the tour and the inclusion of several entrance fees.

However, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat at one of the stops. Also, all individual entrance tickets to the sites are extra, but their costs are relatively modest compared to the overall price.

Personal expenses, souvenirs, and additional activities are not part of the package, so budget accordingly.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Based on reviews, guides Nyoman and Rico consistently receive praise for their knowledge, hospitality, and ability to make the day fun and smooth. One reviewer mentioned that their guides made “the experience so amazing,” with patience and a friendly attitude that left a lasting impression.

Another reviewer highlighted how guides educate visitors, making the stops more meaningful and engaging. The swing, waterfall, and rice terraces are repeatedly called out as favorites, with visitors appreciating the scenic beauty and the ability to capture beautiful photos.

Many reviews also mention that the tour is well-paced, with not much waiting at stops, thanks to the guides’ local knowledge and quick navigation. The flexibility to add stops, like the Monkey Forest, adds a personalized touch.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private tour in Ubud offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities—all at a reasonable price. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a rundown of Ubud without the hassle of organizing each site individually. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the private aspect means you can tailor the experience a bit to suit your interests.

If scenic waterfalls, lush rice terraces, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks appeal to you—and you value a guide who makes the journey informative and enjoyable—this tour is a great fit. Keep in mind, it’s quite full-on, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to dedicate more time to just one or two sites, you might consider customizing your day.

This tour packs in value, variety, and authentic Balinese charm, making it a compelling option for anyone eager to see Ubud’s best in one memorable day.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 8:30 am with pickup from your accommodation.
• Is this a group or private experience? It’s a private tour, so only your group participates.
• How long does the tour last? Expect around 7 to 8 hours, depending on the day’s pace.
• What’s included in the price? Private transport, petrol, parking, bottled water, and an English-speaking guide.
• Are entrance fees covered? No, all individual site entrance tickets are extra.
• Can children join? Yes, children below 3 years are free of charge.
• What should I bring? Bring swimwear, towels, comfortable shoes for walking, and some cash for personal expenses.
• Is lunch included? No, you’ll need to plan for lunch separately.
• Can I customize the stops? Yes, the guides are flexible; you can request for certain sites to be added or skipped.
• What makes this tour special? The combination of natural waterfalls, cultural temples, lush rice terraces, and fun swings makes it both diverse and memorable.

This Ubud tour offers a thoughtful and engaging way to experience Bali’s highlights. Combining scenic beauty with cultural richness, guided by friendly locals, it’s a fantastic option for those wanting a full day of adventure and discovery.