All Inclusive: Monkey Forest, Rice terrace, Holly Spring Temple

Exploring Ubud’s Hidden Gems: A Detailed Review of the All-Inclusive Bali Day Tour

When it comes to exploring Bali, there’s no shortage of sights to see, but finding a tour that combines key landmarks with authentic experiences and good value can be tricky. This private, all-inclusive tour offers a well-rounded day from the Monkey Forest to the Holy Spring Temple, with an optional stop at a giant swing for those Instagram moments. At just $69.36 per person, it promises a relaxed, personalized way to see some of Ubud’s most beloved sights without feeling rushed.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances famous attractions with genuine insights from your guide, making each stop feel meaningful. Two standout features are the comfortable private transportation—affording flexibility and ease—and the chance to walk among lush rice terraces and ancient temples that most travelers simply glimpse from the outside.

One possible consideration is that the tour is quite full, packing in several stops for a single day, which might leave some travelers wishing for more time at each site. Still, if you prefer a comprehensive snapshot rather than a leisurely linger, this could be ideal. Perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone eager to tick off Bali’s highlights with expert guidance and local stories, this tour suits those wanting convenience and cultural depth.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: Covers entrance fees, sarong rentals, and private guide, making it straightforward and stress-free.
• Diverse Destinations: Combines natural beauty with spiritual sites, providing a well-rounded Bali experience.
• Family-Friendly: Kids are more than welcome, and the tour is designed to be engaging for all ages.
• Flexible Add-Ons: Optional stops like the giant swing elevate the experience for photo lovers.
• Efficient Schedule: Visits are timed for about an hour each, giving you a taste of each site without long waits.
• Personalized Service: Private transportation and guide mean tailored commentary and a comfortable journey.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour begins with the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, an enchanting 12.5-hectare forest that is home to roughly 700 wild Balinese long-tailed macaques. As we walk along the shaded paths, we’re struck by the harmony of nature and spirituality, with three temples tucked inside the forest. Our guide, Eka, shared stories about the monkeys’ behavior and the history of the temples, making it more than just a simple walk. The admission ticket is included, so no surprises there.

Next, we head to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, just north of Ubud. Here, the vibrant green fields are a photographer’s dream, especially with the iconic balcony-style terraces that seem to cascade down the hillside. The highlight is observing traditional farmer activities, which gives a real sense of local life. We appreciated the short walk that allows for plenty of photo opportunities, and the guide’s explanations helped us understand the rice planting and harvesting processes.

The third stop is the Tegenungan Waterfall, surrounded by tropical jungle. Though the waterfall itself is a quick visit, it’s well worth the effort—locals and visitors alike love taking a dip or just soaking in the view from the hilltop. You can choose to go down and stand in the spray or stay up for some stunning photos, all included in the ticket price.

Finally, the Tirta Empul Temple offers a spiritual pause. This site is famed for its holy springs, where locals and travelers participate in purification rituals. Our guide explained that this temple is dedicated to Lord Indra, the water deity, adding context to the experience. The complex’s atmosphere is peaceful, and the included sarongs make attire easy and respectful.

Optional stops, like the giant swing, are available for an extra burst of adrenaline and Instagram-worthy shots, enhancing the fun without disrupting the core itinerary.

What We Loved About This Tour

One of the standout features is the knowledgeable guide—Eka in particular—who shared stories, cultural insights, and answered questions with enthusiasm and clarity. His friendly demeanor made us feel comfortable and engaged throughout the day, which reviews confirmed as a highlight for many travelers.

The variety of sights packed into one day is impressive. From wild monkeys to lush rice paddies and sacred temples, you get a comprehensive taste of Ubud’s natural beauty and spiritual culture. The fact that all entrance fees and sarongs are included means no hidden costs or last-minute surprises, making this a very good value.

That said, the tight schedule could be a downside for those who prefer to linger longer. Each stop lasts about an hour, which is enough to see the highlights but not much more. You might find yourself rushing if you want to explore deeper or take more photos.

This tour is especially well-suited for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a curated, hassle-free way to explore Bali’s cultural heart without worrying about transportation or logistics. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, spirituality, and photo opportunities.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Walking into this lush sanctuary, we’re immediately immersed in an environment teeming with 700 playful macaques. The monkeys seem used to visitors but remain wild, so superstitions about feeding or disturbing them are wise to respect. The interconnected temples—Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal and others—are centuries old, adding a spiritual dimension. Our guide Eka explained that the monkeys are considered guardians of the temples, living in harmony with humans.

The experience is lively, with plenty of opportunities to observe monkey behavior up close. We appreciated the included admission ticket, which saves time and hassle. Key tip: keep belongings secure—these monkeys are curious and clever.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

A short drive takes us to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, a quintessential Bali sight. The terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for their subak irrigation system dating back hundreds of years. Walking along the narrow pathways amid the lush green rice paddies, you begin to understand why this landscape is so iconic.

Our guide shared insights into traditional farming practices, which gave us a deeper appreciation. We also enjoyed the chance to photograph the terraces from different angles, capturing the sweeping views. If you’re interested in Bali’s agriculture, this stop offers an authentic glimpse into daily life, not just a tourist photo op.

Tegenungan Waterfall

The lush jungle surrounds the Tegenungan Waterfall, one of Bali’s few waterfalls accessible from Ubud. Descending the steps, we felt immediately immersed in nature—cool spray, the roar of rushing water, and the vibrant greenery. Visitors often swim in the pool below, but just admiring the cascading falls from the viewing platform is equally rewarding.

If you want to get closer, you can walk down to the base, but be prepared for a short hike and a bit of a scramble. The view from above is superb for photos—our guide Eka pointed out the best spots for capturing the waterfall’s power and beauty.

Tirta Empul Temple

Our final stop is the Tirta Empul Temple, renowned for its sacred spring water used for purification rituals. The complex is serene, with the sound of flowing water and the sight of visitors washing away their sins. We observed locals performing traditional cleansing, which added a respectful, spiritual dimension to the visit.

Wearing the provided sarongs, we entered the temple grounds, which are well maintained and offer a peaceful atmosphere. Understanding its significance as a worship place for Lord Indra helped us appreciate its spiritual importance.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

At just $69.36 per person, this tour ticks many boxes. You get private transportation, which means comfort and flexibility, especially if you want to take photos or ask questions. The all-inclusive nature—covering entrance fees, sarongs, and guide services—eliminates unexpected costs and simplifies planning.

Compared to larger group tours, the private aspect means a more tailored experience. Eka’s engaging commentary and local stories elevate the visit beyond mere sightseeing. Several reviews praised his professionalism and friendliness, emphasizing how much a knowledgeable guide can enrich your understanding and enjoyment.

The tour’s eight-hour duration offers a comprehensive day without feeling too rushed. Each site is given about an hour, allowing travelers to soak in the atmosphere and take plenty of photos. The optional giant swing adds an extra thrill, perfect for those keen on capturing fun, dynamic shots.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

The main limitation is the packed schedule—four major stops in one day. If you prefer a slow pace or wish to explore each site in depth, this tour might feel a bit hurried. It’s designed more for quick exposure and variety rather than deep immersion.

Also, as the tour covers outdoor and spiritual sites, good weather is essential. Planning around the Bali climate—hot, humid, and sometimes rainy—is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a curated introduction to Bali’s highlights. Families will appreciate the flexibility, safety, and inclusive pricing. Photographers and social media enthusiasts will love the scenic stops and optional swing. Budget-conscious travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip with no hidden costs will find this a solid choice.

If you’re looking for a balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and convenience, this experience delivers. It’s also a smart pick for those who prefer a more personalized approach over large group tours, thanks to the private guide and transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, kids are more than welcome, and the stops are engaging for all ages, including the monkey sanctuary and rice terraces.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, all entrance fees, sarongs, and the services of a private guide.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal after the tour.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving ample time to visit each site comfortably.

Can I customize the stops or add more attractions?
As a private tour, you can discuss with your guide Eka about adjustments or additional stops, including optional activities like the giant swing.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it’s a full-day experience designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a relaxed pace.

Are all sites included in the ticket price?
Yes, all entry fees and sarongs are included in the tour price.

What if the weather is bad?
Outdoor sites may be affected, so check the weather forecast. The tour can be rescheduled or adjusted if necessary.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is straightforward online, with most travelers reserving about 44 days in advance.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The private vehicle is modern and air-conditioned, making for a pleasant journey between stops.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive private tour in Ubud offers an excellent way to see some of Bali’s most iconic sights while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of a personalized service. From the playful monkeys to the serene temples and lush rice terraces, you’ll get a taste of Bali’s spiritual and natural beauty in a single day.

The knowledgeable guide, Eka, and the transparent pricing make this experience stand out, especially for first-time visitors or families. Though it’s a full schedule, the carefully curated stops mean you’ll leave with a good overview and plenty of photos.

If you’re after a hassle-free, value-packed way to experience Bali’s cultural heart, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of nature, spirituality, and authentic local stories—all in a comfortable, private setting.

In summary, this private, all-inclusive Bali tour offers a well-balanced blend of popular sights and cultural insights, making it a smart choice for those seeking convenience, value, and authentic experiences in a single day.