Electric bicycle tour in quaint South Ubud

A Gentle Ride Through South Ubud’s Authentic Countryside

If you’re looking to experience Bali’s lush rural landscapes without the physical strain of a traditional bike ride, this electric bicycle tour in South Ubud might be just right. For $49, you get about two hours of guided cycling through rice paddies, small villages, and along the sacred Ayung River. You’ll visit Bali’s UNESCO-listed rice terraces, learn about the traditional Subak irrigation system, and end with a delicious Balinese-style lunch.

What we especially like about this tour is how accessible it is — the electric bikes make climbing hills and navigating dirt trails effortless**, allowing you to focus on the scenery and local life. Plus, the small-group format (max 12 participants) ensures a relaxed, engaging experience without feeling like just another tourist herd.

However, keep in mind that the ride is relatively short, so if you’re craving a more intense cycling adventure, this might feel a bit light. Also, some reviewers mention that instructions during riding could be clearer, especially when turning or stopping, which is worth considering if you’re new to bikes or unfamiliar with Bali’s rural roads.

This tour is well-suited for most travelers who enjoy light outdoor activity, authentic village scenery, and cultural insights. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a gentle ride over a rigorous workout, and especially for anyone curious about Balinese rural life away from the busy tourist spots.

Key Points

• Ease of riding: Electric bikes make covering the varied terrain simple and accessible.
• Authentic villages: Glide through Balinese villages without travelers, witnessing local life firsthand.
• Stunning scenery: View rice terraces, river vistas, and waterfalls, all within a short ride.
• Cultural insights: Enjoy learning about Subak irrigation and local customs.
• Local meal: The included Balinese lunch enhances the cultural experience.
• Small group: Up to 12 people, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

A Close Look at the South Ubud Electric Bike Tour

Balinese landscapes are celebrated for their beauty, but seeing them from a bicycle offers a uniquely immersive perspective. This two-hour electric bike tour takes you through the quaint villages south of Ubud, a part of Bali often missed by visitors who stick to the more tourist-heavy center. For just $49, this adventure combines scenery, culture, and comfort — all on a guided, small-group basis.

What’s Included and How It Works

Your day begins with pickup (as offered), and the tour includes all necessary gear — electric bikes, helmets, bottled water, and insurance. The tour is guided by a knowledgeable local, who helps you navigate the lanes and trails, making it suitable even for those with limited cycling experience. The air-conditioned vehicle used for transfers adds a touch of comfort, especially if the Bali heat is already making itself felt.

The Itinerary: From Rice Fields to Waterfalls

Starting in Mambal, just south of Ubud’s busy center, you’ll cruise through fields of chili plants, papaya trees, and colorful flowers. The route uses small, farmer-only roads, enhancing the feeling of being part of the local landscape rather than just observing it.

The first highlight is the green rice terraces, a UNESCO-listed site, where we loved the way the terraced paddies shimmered in the sunlight. Our guide shared insights about Subak — Bali’s traditional irrigation system — which helps keep the rice fields lush and productive. We appreciated this cultural touch, as it deepened our understanding of Balinese agricultural life.

Next, you’ll pass by the famous Green School, an innovative eco-educational campus built from bamboo, and then follow the river downstream toward a traditional Balinese compound. Here, your reward is a delicious local lunch, served in a modest but inviting setting. The food, including local spices and fresh ingredients, was one of the tour’s standout moments, as highlighted by one reviewer who called it “the high point.”

Finally, the route offers views of the Ayung River and nearby waterfalls, making for picturesque photo opportunities. Expect plenty of photo stops and moments to soak in the peaceful rural scenery.

What Reviewers Really Say

While most travelers found the experience delightful and authentic, some pointed out minor issues. One reviewer, Wendy from Paris, noted, “The lunch was the high point. The ride was through rice paddies and in the jungle with only minimal street riding.” She also mentioned that the guide was attentive, but instructions about turning or stopping could be clearer. We agree that clear communication during the ride is vital, especially in more complex areas.

Another aspect valued by many is the small group size. With fewer than six travelers per guide, the tour feels more personal. This setup helps in asking questions about the rice terraces, local life, or Balinese culture, making it a more engaging experience.

The Value of This Tour

At $49, this tour offers excellent value for a guided experience that combines scenery, culture, and local cuisine. The inclusion of transportation, a quality electric bike, lunch, and insurance makes it straightforward and hassle-free. For travelers eager to see Balinese countryside at a relaxed pace, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on authenticity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy light outdoor activity and are curious about local village life, rice terraces, and river views, this tour fits well. It’s particularly suitable for those with limited cycling experience or who prefer a gentle ride rather than a strenuous challenge. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find it a comfortable way to connect with Bali’s rural side.

The Practical Aspects

Timing and Group Size

You can choose between a morning or afternoon departure, making it easy to fit into your Ubud itinerary. The small group size (max 6 travelers) ensures a more relaxed experience, with plenty of opportunity to interact with your guide.

Ride Difficulty and Preparation

The electric bikes remove much of the physical effort, but you should wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for cycling. Bali’s sun can be strong, so don’t forget sunblock. The minimum height requirement (140/150 cm) means most travelers can participate.

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers most expenses, alcoholic drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some if you wish to toast the end of your ride.

Cancellation Policy

Flexibility is available with a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. That’s helpful if you want to keep your plans open or adjust due to weather or other factors.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This electric bike tour in South Ubud offers a peaceful and authentic glimpse into rural Bali. Its scenic views, cultural insights, and delicious lunch make it a well-rounded experience for those seeking a relaxed, meaningful adventure. The guides’ local knowledge and the small-group setting elevate the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

While the ride is on the gentle side and might not satisfy those craving a vigorous workout, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a low-impact way to explore Bali’s countryside. The cost reflects good value for a guided tour that combines scenery, culture, and comfort.

If you’re interested in seeing rice terraces, local villages, and waterfalls, and prefer a guided, small-group ride that doesn’t wear you out, this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy authentic experiences and want to learn about Balinese agricultural traditions while enjoying the stunning scenery.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, as long as they meet the minimum height requirement of 140/150 cm and are comfortable on an electric bike. The ride is gentle with minimal street riding.

Will I need to do any physical exertion?
Not much, thanks to the electric assist. It’s designed to be accessible for most people, even those with limited cycling experience.

Can I choose a specific departure time?
Yes, there are options for morning or afternoon departures, allowing you to fit it into your schedule.

What should I wear on the tour?
Wear comfortable, breathable clothes, suitable shoes for cycling, and don’t forget sunblock.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Balinese lunch is included, along with water and coffee/tea.

How many people typically join this tour?
It’s a small-group experience, usually with no more than 6 travelers, ensuring a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

What scenery will I see?
Expect rice terraces, river views, small villages, chili fields, and waterfalls — plenty of photo opportunities.

Will I have enough guidance during the ride?
Your guide is attentive, but some reviews suggest clearer instructions during turns and stops could help. Still, guidance is knowledgeable and friendly.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

To sum it up, this electric bicycle tour offers a smooth, scenic, and culturally enriching way to explore Bali’s countryside south of Ubud. Whether you’re a casual cyclist, a curious traveler, or someone simply looking for a relaxing day out, it’s a well-priced experience that combines stunning views with meaningful cultural insights, all delivered in a small-group setting.