amazing waterfall tour with half day

Exploring Ubud’s Hidden Waterfalls: A Practical Half-Day Adventure

When visiting Ubud, many travelers seek an escape into nature that’s both manageable and memorable. This half-day waterfall tour offers exactly that—visiting three lesser-known waterfalls in East Ubud for about five hours, all for $36 per group of up to four people. Led by friendly guides, you’ll experience unspoiled views, lush greenery, and gentle cascades that are perfect for swimming and family fun. From the tranquil Tibumana to the charming Taman Sari, each stop offers a glimpse into Bali’s natural beauty that’s easily accessible.

What we love most about this tour are two specific aspects. First, the intimate experience—with just your group, you’ll beat crowds and enjoy a relaxed pace. Second, the authentic scenery—these waterfalls are not just scenic but also quite accessible, with features like caves and natural pools that add to the sense of discovery. The tour’s flexibility and focus on unspoiled locations make it a great choice for those wanting a quick, authentic nature escape.

A potential consideration is the lack of included admission tickets, which means you’ll need to budget separately for entry to each waterfall. Also, since this is a half-day tour, those looking for a more extensive exploration might find it a bit brief. Still, if your time in Ubud is limited but you want a taste of Bali’s lush natural scenery, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour is particularly well-suited for families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a scenic, relaxing morning with easy swimming options. If you enjoy guided trips with local insights and want to avoid tourist-heavy spots, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Visit three hidden waterfalls in East Ubud, ideal for swimming and family outings.
• Short, manageable tour lasting about five hours with hotel pickup.
• Affordable price at $36 for a private group, focusing on authentic and scenic locations.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable drivers and local guides offering cultural insights.
• No included admission fees, so budget extra for entrance tickets.
• Perfect for travelers with limited time or those seeking a relaxed nature day.

A Deep Dive into the Waterfall Tour Experience

Location and Duration

Starting at 8:00 am, this half-day tour is designed for travelers who want a condensed but comprehensive nature experience without committing to a full day. Ubud, known for its rice paddies and vibrant arts scene, hides these serene waterfalls just outside the town. The total duration of about five hours makes it ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary or as a peaceful morning escape.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $36 per group covers driver and guide services along with hotel pickup and drop-off—a real convenience in a place where transportation can sometimes be tricky. However, the admission tickets to the waterfalls are not included, meaning you’ll need to pay separately at each site. This allows some flexibility to choose which waterfalls to visit or skip if you prefer.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Tibumana Waterfall

Our first stop is the Tibumana Waterfall, a gentle cascade surrounded by lush greenery. The scene here is like stepping into a secret garden—tall trees cling to the cliff walls, and behind the waterfall, there’s a dark, intriguing cave. The water’s hue, a striking blue, hints at a mysterious hole at the bottom of the fall—a feature that adds a touch of adventure.

We loved the tranquility of this spot; it’s perfect for photos and relaxing in the cool water. The cramped cave is not for everyone but adds an element of curiosity. This stop typically lasts about an hour.

Stop 2: Suwat Waterfall

Next, we pass through a scenic route that’s part of the charm—winding roads through rice fields, flanked by bamboo groves, with glimpses of small waterfalls along the way. The Suwat Waterfall is smaller but equally enchanting, with a green backdrop and a few turtles sunning themselves nearby, making it a delightful spot for photos and a gentle swim.

This area’s peaceful surroundings and views of rice paddies are what make it stand out. It’s a favorite for those looking to combine nature with a bit of rural Balinese charm. Expect about an hour here as well.

Stop 3: Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool

The finale is the Taman Sari Waterfall, a two-tiered cascade with a large natural pool at the bottom—perfect for swimming. The upper pool is smaller but offers a relaxing spot to sit beneath the falling water, giving some relief and a chance to soak in the sound of rushing water.

The bottom pool’s size makes it accessible for swimming, and the setting—surrounded by greenery—feels peaceful and untouched. This is a great spot to unwind before heading back. The entire visit here lasts around an hour.

Authentic Scenic Experiences

This tour’s real charm lies in its focus on lesser-known waterfalls, away from the crowded tourist spots. It’s clear from reviews that guides like Wayan and Kadek are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about Bali’s culture and natural environment, enriching the experience beyond just the scenery.

Authenticity and Value

While you’ll need to pay for entrance fees separately, the overall value comes from the personalized service, authentic settings, and the flexibility of a private tour. For just $36, you get a guided, intimate exploration of Bali’s lush waterfalls—something that’s often difficult to find on larger, group tours.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour works best for those who prefer a relaxed pace and want to see natural beauty without big crowds. Families will appreciate the safe swimming options, while photographers will love the serene landscapes. Travelers with limited time in Ubud will find it a perfect quick escape into nature.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for an authentic, affordable, and family-friendly way to see some of Ubud’s best-kept natural secrets, this tour is a fantastic option. Its short duration makes it ideal for a morning or afternoon outing, especially when combined with other activities. The guides’ local knowledge and the beautiful, unspoiled scenery create a relaxed and enriching experience.

Those who value small group or private experiences, want to avoid tourist traps, or simply seek a peaceful nature retreat will find this tour particularly rewarding. Keep in mind the separate admission costs and the fact that the tour is quite focused on the waterfalls themselves, so if you’re after a broader cultural or spiritual experience in Bali, you might want to combine this with other tours.

This half-day waterfall tour offers a cost-effective, scenic, and authentic slice of Bali’s natural charm—ideal for travelers wanting a quick but meaningful nature fix.

FAQs

Are the waterfalls suitable for swimming?
Yes, all three waterfalls feature gentle flows and natural pools that are perfect for swimming, especially for families.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers staying in Ubud.

How much extra should I budget for entrance fees?
The tour price does not include admission tickets, so you’ll need to pay separately at each waterfall location.

What’s the best time of day to take this tour?
The tour starts at 8:00 am, which helps avoid crowds and enjoy the waterfalls in cooler, more comfortable weather.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially since the waterfalls are family-friendly with safe swimming areas, and the pace is relaxed.

How long does each stop last?
Typically, each waterfall stop lasts about an hour, so the whole tour is manageable and not rushed.

Can I skip any waterfalls?
Since admission isn’t included, you can choose to skip any location if you prefer, giving you some flexibility.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, water, sun protection, and possibly a towel—everything else is handled for you with hotel pickup.

This waterfall tour in Ubud is a fine choice for travelers eager to explore Bali’s natural beauty without fuss. It balances authentic scenery, friendly guides, and good value, making for a memorable morning or afternoon adventure.