Bali Full Day Tour: Highlights of Ubud and Hidden Waterfall

If you’re heading to Bali and want a taste of everything—from iconic temples to secret waterfalls—this full-day tour might just be your best bet for a well-rounded introduction. For $89 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring some of Ubud’s most famous sights, plus a few lesser-known treasures, all in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The tour is private, so it’s tailored to your pace and interests, which means you can skip or linger at each stop as you please.

What we really appreciate about this experience are two things: first, the balance between popular sights and hidden gems, which gives you a fuller picture of Bali. Second, the knowledgeable guides—like Eka, who gets high praise for being flexible, considerate, and full of insights. On the downside, if you’re traveling alone, the cost might feel a bit steep since private tours tend to be pricier per person. Still, if you’re after a smooth, curated way to see Bali’s highlights with some local flavor, this tour fits the bill.

This tour suits travelers who want an efficient, flexible day without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple tickets. It’s especially ideal for first-timers wanting a comprehensive sample of Bali’s natural beauty, spiritual sites, and local culture—all in one day.

Key Points

• Customizable private experience for a relaxed, personalized pace
• Visit iconic sites like the Sacred Monkey Forest and Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Explore lesser-known treasures such as Kehen Temple and Tukad Cepung Waterfall
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle for maximum comfort
• Includes lunch, bottled water, and all fees for a hassle-free day
• Highly praised guides make the experience engaging and informative

Exploring the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Your adventure begins in Ubud’s famous Sacred Monkey Forest, a lush jungle home to hundreds of long-tailed Macaques. This sanctuary isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a religious complex with Balinese Hindu temples, tranquil rivers, and moss-covered stones. Here, you’ll get close to nature and spirituality in a setting that feels both sacred and lively.

Travelers rave about guides like Eka, who ensures safety and offers interesting insights. One reviewer said, “Our driver and guide Eka was very good. He was flexible, knowledgeable, very considerate and made sure we were safe.” Expect to spend about an hour wandering this peaceful forest, taking photos, and observing monkeys in their natural environment.

It’s a lively, engaging start that offers a mix of wildlife, religion, and nature—perfect for those seeking authentic Bali experiences that go beyond just sightseeing.

Walking Through Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Next up is the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a classic Bali image. The terraced paddies spread out in a lush green mosaic, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to see traditional rice farming methods. You can walk along narrow paths, stand among the fields, and soak in the views that epitomize Bali’s rural charm.

The guide will probably point out how rice is traditionally planted and harvested here, giving you a glimpse into local life. This stop lasts about 45 minutes, but it’s enough time to explore, take memorable photos, and maybe buy some local crafts or snacks from nearby vendors.

Many visitors mention how stunning the scenery is—one reviewer noted, “You can walk between the fields, stand among the green and take some pictures as a memento.” It’s a peaceful, photogenic spot that makes you appreciate the island’s agricultural heritage.

Lunch with a View at Mount Batur

After the rice terraces, the tour heads to the Kintamani area, where a buffet lunch is served overlooking Mount Batur and Lake Batur. This is a highlight for many: not just for the delicious food but also for the spectacular panoramic views. Here, you’ll enjoy a relaxed hour taking in the mountainous scenery, perfect for resting your legs after walking.

The views are often praised; one reviewer mentions the “beautiful panorama of Mount Batur and the calm Lake Batur,” which makes the meal more than just fuel—it’s a scenic experience in itself. The natural beauty of this area is enough to make anyone pause and appreciate Bali’s volcanic landscape.

Visiting Kehen Temple: A Sacred and Less Touristy Spot

Next, the tour takes you to Kehen Temple, a significant yet less crowded Hindu temple in Bangli regency. It’s the former royal temple of the Bangli Kingdom and has remained a sacred site, maintaining its quiet reverence through generations. This authentic temple is ideal for travelers wanting to experience local spiritual practices without the tourist crowds.

Expect to spend about an hour here, wandering among stone carvings, intricate gateways, and tranquil courtyards. Visitors appreciate that Kehen remains untouched by the tourist hype, which helps preserve its sacred atmosphere. One reviewer called it an “interesting and peaceful” place, perfect for those seeking spiritual serenity away from the busier Ubud spots.

Discovering Tukad Cepung Waterfall

The final stop is the Tukad Cepung Waterfall, a true hidden gem tucked beneath a jungle cave. This waterfall is special because it’s situated deep inside an open cave, creating a surreal setting where sunlight filters through gaps, illuminating the waterfall and mossy surroundings.

You can expect about an hour here—enough to walk along the trail, take photos, and marvel at this natural wonder. The waterfall’s uniqueness is a big hit with travelers, who often describe it as a “natural gem” and beautiful spot to end your day. The walk to the waterfall involves a short hike, but most find it manageable even with moderate fitness levels.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This private tour includes bottled water, a buffet lunch, and all fees, making it a straightforward, stress-free experience. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drives between sites, which is especially appreciated in Bali’s tropical heat. Pickup is offered, and the tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to spend more or less time at each stop.

The tour begins at 8:00 am, giving you a full day to see diverse sights without feeling rushed. Since it’s a private experience, your guide—like Eka received high praise—will tailor the day based on your interests, making it ideal for those seeking a customized adventure.

Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as some walking and hiking are involved, especially at waterfalls and rice terraces. But overall, the pace is manageable, and guides are attentive to safety and comfort.

Authentic Experiences and Value

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Eka, making the experience not just about ticking boxes but about understanding Bali’s culture and natural beauty. The combination of must-see sights and hidden treasures—from sacred temples to waterfalls—offers excellent value for the price.

While the cost might seem high for solo travelers, the private nature of the tour means you get undivided attention and the flexibility to customize your day. The included lunch and all fees further simplify planning, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for first-timers who want a comprehensive, stress-free introduction to Bali. It appeals especially to those who appreciate authentic sites and natural beauty, rather than just tourist traps. It’s suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable walking and exploring varied terrain.

If you value local insights, flexibility, and covering a lot of ground in one day, this tour offers a good balance of convenience and depth. It’s also great for couples, families, or small groups wanting a personalized experience without the hassle of self-organizing multiple visits.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers? Yes, as long as they are comfortable with walking and some hiking. The tour involves walking around temples, rice terraces, and waterfalls.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Bottled water is provided, but additional snacks or personal items are up to you.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since it’s a private tour, guides may be flexible to some extent, but the main stops are fixed for the best experience.

How long are the drives between sites? Expect some longer drives (around 30 minutes) between major stops, all in air-conditioned comfort.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, but keep in mind that as a private tour, the cost per person may be higher compared to group options.

Are all entrance fees included? Yes, all fees for the listed attractions are included in the price.

What if I want to spend more time at a certain site? Let your guide know—since it’s private, they can often accommodate your preferences.

When should I book? It’s best to book at least 10 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

This Bali full-day tour offers a well-rounded, flexible way to explore Ubud’s highlights and some of its lesser-known spots. We loved the combination of iconic sights like the Tegalalang Rice Terrace and the Sacred Monkey Forest with the tranquility of Kehen Temple and the adventure of Tukad Cepung Waterfall. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and inclusive pricing make it a strong value—perfect for first-time visitors eager to see a broad swath of Bali in one day.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the personalized experience and variety of sites make it worth considering for those wanting a hassle-free, authentic taste of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage. If you’re after an immersive, flexible day led by friendly guides, this tour is a solid choice.

Whether you’re a culture lover, nature enthusiast, or simply want a convenient way to see Bali’s highlights—the “Highlights of Ubud and Hidden Waterfall” tour offers a memorable, well-organized day in this beautiful island paradise.