Experience Bali’s Best on a Private Ubud Kintamani Tour
This full-day adventure takes you through some of Bali’s most iconic sights, from the lively Barong Dance to the serene Tegalalang Rice Terrace and the stunning Kintamani volcano. For $70 per person, you’ll enjoy a flexible, personalized itinerary lasting about 8 to 10 hours, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and an experienced English-speaking driver.
What we particularly love about this tour is the mix of cultural performances and scenic landscapes—an authentic taste of Bali’s traditions and natural beauty. The opportunity to see artisans in Celuk Village, explore Ubud’s Monkey Forest, and take in the sweeping views from Kintamani makes it a well-rounded experience.
One thing to consider is that the exact number of destinations may vary depending on traffic and time constraints, so you might not visit all spots every day. Also, food and drinks are not included, so plan for a snack or meal during your day.
This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Bali’s highlights, especially first-time visitors eager to balance culture, scenery, and a touch of adventure.
Key Points
- Balanced itinerary blending cultural performances, artisan villages, and natural landscapes
- Flexible schedule that adapts to Bali’s traffic and timing
- Professional guide with great reviews for friendliness and knowledge
- All-inclusive price covers transportation, entrance fees, and tips
- Authentic experiences like the Barong Dance and local crafts
- Ideal for first-time visitors who want both structure and freedom
Exploring Ubud and Kintamani: A Well-Rounded Day in Bali
If you’re after a well-organized, insightful, and cost-effective way to see Bali’s most captivating sights, the Private Ubud Kintamani Tour offers a great option. For around $70, you get a private guide, air-conditioned transport, and a carefully curated list of destinations that showcase Bali’s rich culture and stunning scenery.
The experience begins with the Barong & Kris Dance, a lively performance that vividly portrays the constant battle between good and evil through traditional Balinese dance. The 40-minute show, with admission included, is a favorite for many visitors, offering a glimpse into local mythology and theatrical storytelling. As one reviewer put it, “what a pleasure it was having Ketut as our driver/tour guide for the entire two weeks.” The dance sets a lively tone, immersing you in Bali’s spiritual storytelling.
Next, you’ll head to Celuk Village, renowned for its gold and silver craftsmanship. Visitors love seeing artisans at work, with many highlighting the proficiency and creativity of local craftsmen. “Most of them are Balinese professionals, artistic and skillful,” a review mentions. With 30 minutes allocated, you’ll have time to browse intricate jewelry and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir. The inclusion of entrance fees makes this stop particularly good value.
From there, the tour moves to Batuan Village, famous for its traditional paintings. This stop is especially loved by those interested in arts, as it offers a free but enriching glimpse into Bali’s evolving art scene. Visitors note how Western influence has shaped local paintings, making them more diverse and vibrant.
The striking Tegalalang Rice Terraces are next, offering postcard-perfect views of lush, layered fields carved into the hillside. Expect to see coconut trees, small rivers, and traditional carvings along the roadside. “Very colorful carvings of flowers, animals and other designs are displayed along the road,” one review highlights, making this spot both scenic and culturally engaging.
A visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest then provides a more playful, interactive experience. The rainforest sanctuary is home to groups of monkeys and is conveniently located in Ubud’s center. Visitors often comment on the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the chance to see Bali’s mischievous monkeys close-up.
Finally, you’ll ascend to Kintamani, a volcanic highland offering breathtaking views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. It’s a highlight for many travelers seeking memorable panoramas. With about an hour here, you can soak in the scenery, snap photos, and enjoy the cool mountain air. One reviewer noted, “We can see the beautiful panorama from Kintamani to overview the active volcano of Batur Mount and wide Lake of Batur in a valley.”
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What’s Included and What to Expect
The tour’s price includes all transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a friendly English-speaking driver, all entrance fees, and taxes. This means no surprises, just a smooth, comfortable ride with professional guidance. The duration is flexible, generally lasting between 8 to 10 hours, although extra hours can be added at a small additional cost—10% of the full-day price.
While the tour offers a great deal of value, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring some snacks or plan to buy a meal during the day. Also, since Bali traffic can be unpredictable, the exact sequence of stops or the number of destinations may vary; some days, you might visit four places, while other days, it could be slightly less.
Authentic Experiences and Practical Details
What makes this tour stand out is the glowing reviews of guides like Ketut, who consistently receive praise for their kindness, professionalism, and local knowledge. One reviewer shared, “Ketut was very punctual and great company for the tour,” highlighting how a good driver can transform a day of sightseeing into a memorable adventure.
The stops themselves are thoughtfully chosen to give you a broad picture of Bali. The Barong Dance isn’t just entertainment but a storytelling session that reveals Balinese mythology. The art villages showcase the island’s creative spirit, while the rice terraces and mountain views reveal Bali’s natural beauty.
Expect to see artisans in Celuk Village working on jewelry, painters in Batuan, and monkeys in their forest habitat—all within a day’s journey. These experiences give travelers a genuine sense of local craftsmanship and daily life.
The convenience of a private tour means you can ask your guide for suggestions or stop for photos whenever you like, making the trip more personalized. Many reviews mention how helpful guides are in assisting with ticket bookings and local tips, adding extra value.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for first-timers who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a personalized experience, as the private nature means flexibility and undivided attention.
If you value cultural stories, like the Barong Dance, or want to learn about local arts and crafts, this tour delivers. It also suits those who appreciate scenic views and want to capture Bali’s iconic landscapes, from the rice terraces to volcanic vistas.
Final Thoughts on Value and Experience
For $70, this private tour offers an excellent balance of guided insight and scenic exploration. The inclusion of key attractions, comfortable transportation, and positive reviews of guides make it a solid choice for travelers eager to see Bali efficiently and meaningfully.
While it’s not a luxury experience, the value lies in its authenticity, convenience, and scope. It’s a great way to cover multiple highlights in one day, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a tailored, hassle-free experience.
If you enjoy engaging guides, scenic beauty, and cultural stories, this tour will suit you well. Just remember, Bali traffic can be unpredictable—yet that’s part of the adventure of exploring an island full of surprises.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and the number of destinations visited.
Is transportation included?
Yes, the price covers air-conditioned transport in a private car or bus, driven by an experienced English-speaking driver.
Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are included, such as for the Barong Dance, Celuk Village jewelry shops, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Ubud Monkey Forest, and Kintamani.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your guide to prioritize certain stops or add extra time at specific places, within the set schedule.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, water, and some snacks or a meal, as food and drinks are not included.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers and children can enjoy this tour, especially given the short stops and engaging attractions.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk option for planning your Bali trip.
Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, especially at rice terraces and temples, so consider mobility when booking.
In sum, this private Ubud Kintamani tour combines Bali’s cultural riches with stunning scenery, guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, it offers an authentic, flexible way to experience the island’s highlights—all at a reasonable price and with the comfort of a private guide.