Discover Bali’s Highland Wonders with the Private Ubud and Volcano Day Trip
If you’re after a day that combines natural beauty and cultural richness, this private tour is an excellent choice. For around $38.47 per person, you’ll spend roughly 9 hours exploring iconic spots in Bali’s interior — from lush rice terraces to ancient temples, and stunning volcanic landscapes. The tour picks you up directly from Ubud or many south Bali hotels, which means no stressful planning or navigating local traffic. Instead, you’ll relax in an air-conditioned vehicle while a friendly driver takes you between some of Bali’s most photogenic and meaningful sites.
What we love most about this tour is its well-balanced itinerary: it hits both natural splendors like waterfalls and lakes and cultural jewels such as Gunung Kawi Temple. Plus, with private transportation and a knowledgeable driver, you get the flexibility to customize your stops or skip anything that doesn’t spark your interest — a real advantage over group tours. Another highlight: the included sarong for temple visits, making sure you’re respectful and well-prepared without extra hassle.
One possible consideration: the entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget a little extra for sites like the waterfall, temple, and rice terraces. Also, some travelers might want to add a visit to the Bali swing, which is optional and not included in the base price. This tour suits curious travelers eager to experience Bali’s scenic and spiritual heart without the stress of driving or overly rigid schedules.
This tour is ideal if you’re visiting Ubud and want a comprehensive, authentic look at Bali’s highland treasures. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate stunning mountain views, ancient shrines, and lush landscapes, all delivered in a private, flexible setting.
Key Points

- Comfort and convenience: Private transportation and hotel pickup make it easy to enjoy Bali’s sights without hassle.
- Diverse highlights: From waterfalls and rice terraces to temples and volcano views, the week’s highlights are well-chosen.
- Flexible itinerary: The private nature allows you to focus on what interests you most.
- Authentic experiences: Visit a 1,000-year-old temple and see traditional rice irrigation systems.
- Cost-effective: At just over $38 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a full day’s exploration.
- Moderate walking and outdoor activity: Expect some walking at sites like the waterfalls and rice terraces.
An In-Depth Look at the Ubud and Volcano Day Trip
Starting with the logistics, this private tour kicks off at 9:00 am, giving you a relaxed start to your day. The vehicle is air-conditioned, clean, and well-maintained, according to recent reviews. Having a dedicated driver means you won’t have to worry about navigation or timing — just sit back and enjoy the scenery.
Why this tour works well is primarily due to its carefully curated stops. The first is Tegenungan Waterfall, located along the sacred Petanu River. The waterfall offers a refreshing spot to take photos or even enjoy a quick swim if you’re feeling adventurous. The water cascades down a sharp drop, and the setting is lush and peaceful. Since admission isn’t included, you might want to bring some cash, but the natural beauty compensates for the small extra expense.
Next is Mount Kawi, a site famous for its rock-cut shrines carved into the cliff face. These shrines date back over a thousand years and are considered a spiritual site for Balinese Hindus. Visitors often comment on the unique archaeological features and the peaceful atmosphere. Wearing a sarong is mandatory here, which is provided by the tour, allowing you to enter with respect and ease.
The journey continues to Kintamani Highland, a volcanic caldera area with stunning views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. This is a highlight for many travelers — the landscape is dramatic, with steaming volcanoes and lush green surroundings. The towns here, such as Penelokan and Toya Bungkah, offer excellent photo opportunities and a chance to understand Bali’s volcanic history. While this stop is mainly for sightseeing, the panoramic vistas are unforgettable.
The last major stop is Tegalalang Rice Terrace, arguably Bali’s most famous rice field. The terraced paddies, irrigated by a traditional subak system, create a patchwork of green that’s perfect for photographs. The site can get busy, but the views remain spectacular. Walking along the terraces, you can appreciate the ingenuity of Balinese farming practices that have been passed down for centuries.
What travelers consistently praise is the ability to customize the experience, as one reviewer noted: “we went to the places we wanted and were able to drop the ones that were not of interest to us.” The driver, Dewa, was described as friendly, polite, and funny — making the long day feel more like a shared adventure than a tour.
Since entrance fees are not included, you should expect to pay separately at each site. Be prepared for some walking, especially at the waterfalls and rice terraces, where uneven paths are common. Also, consider bringing some cash for meals and souvenirs.
The value of this tour lies in the comprehensive experience it offers. For less than fifty dollars, you get a full day exploring Bali’s highlights with the comfort of private transport. Compared to booking each site independently, it saves time and stress, especially with a local driver who knows the area well.
Overall, this tour is highly suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, all-in-one day of sightseeing. It’s particularly good for those who love scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and avoiding the complications of self-driving in Bali. Families, couples, or small groups will find it a cost-effective way to see Bali’s best highland sights.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Ubud
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
If you’re visiting Bali and want a comfortable, flexible, and cost-effective way to see some of the island’s most stunning sights, this private Ubud and volcano day trip hits the mark. The stunning views of Mt. Batur and Lake Batur alone make it worth considering, alongside the chance to visit ancient shrines and lush rice paddies. The private nature means you can tailor the day to your interests, adding or skipping stops as you desire.
The value proposition is clear: for a reasonable price, you get a full day of diverse experiences with a knowledgeable guide who makes the journey enjoyable. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and stress-free logistics. If long lines or large tour groups aren’t your thing, this offers a personalized, authentic Bali experience.
Considering the glowing reviews and the carefully chosen itinerary, this tour provides a taste of Bali’s interior that’s both manageable and memorable — a great way to step beyond the beaches and explore the island’s highland soul.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, giving you a relaxed morning start.
Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up from Ubud or many south Bali hotels, and your private vehicle is included for the entire day.
Are entrance fees part of the price?
No, entrance fees to sites like waterfalls, temples, and rice terraces are not included, so be prepared to pay separately at each location.
How long does the tour last?
The whole experience lasts approximately 9 hours, giving ample time to visit each site without rushing.
Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can usually discuss preferences with your driver, choosing to spend more or less time at certain sites.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s appropriate for most travelers, but consider the walking involved at some sites when planning for young children.
What should I bring?
Bring cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, a camera, comfortable shoes for walking, and possibly a swimsuit for the waterfall if you want to swim.
Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, leaving flexibility to choose where and what to eat during the day.
What’s the best part of this tour?
Many travelers highlight the stunning mountain and lake views, along with the chance to see ancient shrines and lush rice terraces.
Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, most of the year, but confirm with the provider to check for any seasonal changes or weather considerations.
This private Ubud and volcano day trip offers a balanced slice of Bali’s most scenic and cultural highlights. It’s a thoughtful way to spend a full day exploring, especially if you prefer the comfort and flexibility of a private guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, it promises a memorable and authentic Bali experience that captures the island’s natural beauty and spiritual depth.
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- Highlights of Ubud & Mount Batur Volcano – Private Day Trip
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More Ubud experiences we've covered
- North Bali Nature and Heritage Private Tour
- Kintamani Instagramable Cafe With Mount Batur Jeep Tour
- All Inclusive Nusa Penida Tour Package
- Rural Charm of Bali Tour
- Ubud Zip-Line Adventure, Rice Terrace & ATV Quad Bike
- Dirt Bike Tours with fully trained Guides – full day tours with relax time frame
- Ubud and Tanah Lot Tours
- White Water Rafting Ubud Experience Include Lunch
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- KUBER ATV Bali Tunnel / Waterfall and Ayung Rafting
- Ubud : ATV Temple Run Adventure
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