Bali: Ubud Highlights Tour with Private Guide and Transfers

Exploring Bali doesn’t have to mean rushing from one spot to another or feeling overwhelmed by choices. For just $37 a person, this 10-hour private tour offers a curated experience that takes you to some of the most iconic sights around Ubud, all with the comfort and flexibility of your own guide. Expect visits to lush waterfalls, sacred temples, and stunning rice terraces, plus plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines cultural insight with scenic beauty. The personal guide makes all the difference—delivering stories, answering questions, and adjusting the itinerary when needed. Plus, the included hotel transfers mean you won’t waste time trying to find your way around or negotiating transportation. However, keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive overview of Ubud’s top attractions without the hassle of planning. It’s especially popular among first-time visitors, families, or those interested in a mix of nature, culture, and authentic Bali experiences.

Key Points

• Private guide and transfers offer flexibility and convenience.
• Includes admission tickets to key sites like Tirta Empul and Sacred Monkey Forest.
• Highlights include waterfalls, rice terraces, and temples—perfect for photo lovers.
• Cost-effective at $37 per person, providing good value for a full-day experience.
• Best suited for those wanting a guided, stress-free day exploring Ubud’s best.
• Not including lunch allows travelers to customize meal options.

A Closer Look at the Ubud Highlights Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour is designed to maximize your time with a private guide who will escort you around Ubud’s most celebrated sights. The cost of $37 covers most essentials: your driver, admission tickets (for sites like the Monkey Forest and Tirta Empul), air-conditioned transportation, and water to stay hydrated. The hotel pickup and dropoff from multiple popular areas—Nusa Dua, Kuta, Sanur, Seminyak, and around Ubud—make it easy to start your day without logistical headaches.

Your guide will be an English speaker, making explanations about each site accessible and engaging. This personalized approach means you can spend more time at the spots that interest you most, whether that’s snapping photos at waterfalls or soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of a temple.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Visit

1. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary:
A natural habitat and a must-see for first-timers, this forest is home to hundreds of playful macaques. As one of the earliest stops, it sets a lively, nature-filled tone for the day. Guests mention how the guide’s knowledge enhances the visit, and that the forest’s lush greenery and ancient temples make for fantastic photos.

2. Tibumana Waterfall:
This waterfall, with its 20-meter cascade and shallow pool, is considered a “secret gateway” to a Balinese god, according to local beliefs. The surrounding moss-green cliffs and clear water make it a peaceful spot to relax and snap some stunning shots. Visitors like Fadi_H appreciated having a friendly guide to help navigate the area, noting it’s a highlight for both adventure and photo opportunities.

3. Kanto Lampo Waterfall:
A more adventurous site, Kanto Lampo is smaller but offers a chance to walk behind the waterfall—perfect for those wanting an Instagram-worthy shot. Reviewers rave about it as an “adventure and photo spot” rolled into one, and many find it less crowded than some other waterfalls.

4. Tegalalang Rice Terrace:
No trip to Ubud is complete without visiting these iconic terraces. The terraced fields are a marvel of Balinese agriculture and scenery, with landscapes stretching for miles. Guests frequently comment on how breathtaking the views are, and that it’s a must-stop for capturing Bali’s rural charm.

5. Terrace River Pool Swing:
While not included in the ticket price, this is a popular “Instagram photo spot” where you can swing over the jungle canopy. It’s a fun addition if you’re after a bit of thrill and memorable photos—just be prepared to pay extra.

6. Tirta Empul Temple:
Ending the day at this Hindu water temple offers a chance for spiritual reflection. You’ll see how locals perform ritual purification in the spring-fed pools, and learn about its significance. Guests mention how the guide’s insights about Balinese customs make the experience more meaningful.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Multiple reviews highlight how guides like Esa, Made, and Putu bring Bali’s culture to life through their stories and explanations. Guests describe guides as “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “flexible,” often adjusting the pace to suit kids or those with limited mobility. The personal touch enhances the tour’s value—it’s not just about ticking boxes, but truly experiencing Bali’s essence.

The Transport and Duration

The air-conditioned vehicle is comfortable, and the 10-hour duration feels just right—long enough to cover the main sights without rushing. The tour’s start early and finish in the early evening, giving you time to relax afterward or explore more on your own.

The Value for Money

While $37 might sound modest, it packs a lot into the day. The included admission tickets save you time and hassle, and the private guide makes your experience more tailored and informative. Compared to larger group tours, the private setup means more flexibility and less waiting around.

Of course, the lunch isn’t included, so you should plan for snacks or a meal stop. But this also means you can choose whatever suits your taste and budget, rather than being tied to a set menu.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Bali or those with limited time who want a broad overview. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic, guided experience that combines culture, scenery, and a touch of adventure. If you’re seeking a stress-free day with knowledgeable guides and stunning sights, this tour delivers.

Conversely, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or want to include specific sites not listed, you might want to consider customizing your day or choosing another option. But for a well-rounded, affordable introduction to Ubud, this tour hits most of the highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and dropoff are available from multiple popular areas around Bali, including Nusa Dua, Kuta, Sanur, Seminyak, Batuan, Bali Collection, Batuan Beach, Puri Lukisan Museum, Kemenuh, Saraswati Temple, Puri Saren, Champuan Ridge, and Ubud Art Market.

Are admission tickets included?
Most of the entrance fees, such as for the Monkey Forest, Tibumana Waterfall, Kanto Lampo Waterfall, and Tirta Empul Temple, are included in the price.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat after the tour or bring your own snacks.

What transportation is used?
An air-conditioned vehicle with a driver will transport you comfortably between sites.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are often flexible and willing to adjust based on your interests or pace.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with kids, and the guide’s friendliness helps make the experience enjoyable for all ages.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of personal guidance, covering top attractions, and excellent reviews for value and service makes it a popular choice for travelers wanting an authentic Ubud experience.

How much does the tour cost, and is it worth it?
At $37 per person, it offers good value, especially considering the included tickets and personalized service. Most guests find it a worthwhile investment to see Bali’s highlights comfortably.

Final Thoughts

This Bali Ubud Highlights Tour offers a balanced mix of culture, natural beauty, and flexibility, all bundled into an affordable package. It’s ideal for those who want a rundown without the stress of organizing transport or worrying about missing key sights. With a friendly guide, well-chosen stops, and good reviews from fellow travelers, you’re in capable hands.

The private nature of the tour means your experience is tailored to your interests, and the included tickets save both time and money. The scenic waterfalls, lush rice terraces, and sacred temples will leave you with lasting memories—and lots of photos to share. Just remember to bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, and you’ll be ready for a fantastic day exploring Bali’s best.

In summary, if you’re after a value-packed, authentic, and flexible way to see Bali’s top attractions, this Ubud Highlights Tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided experience that truly immerses them in Bali’s natural and spiritual charms, all at an accessible price.