Best of Ubud – Kintamani Volcano View – Private Tour

Exploring Bali’s Central Highlands with a Private Touch

If you’re looking to experience Bali beyond the crowded tourist spots, the Best of Ubud – Kintamani Volcano View – Private Tour offers a personalized day of discovery. For just $63 per person, you’ll enjoy a full day (around 8 to 10 hours) with your own driver and guide, who will take care of the logistics while you soak in some of Bali’s most iconic sights. From the lively Ubud Monkey Forest to the breathtaking vistas of Mount Batur, this tour strikes a satisfying balance between culture and scenic beauty.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience: First, the door-to-door private transfer means no stressful navigation or crowded buses, making it perfect for a relaxed, flexible day. Second, the customizable pace allows your guide to tailor stops to your particular interests, whether that’s exploring temples, enjoying a coffee plantation, or taking more time at the rice terraces.

A possible consideration is that the tour excludes entrance fees, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. It’s also a full-day outing, so if you’re short on time or prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit packed.

This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, personalized experience of Bali’s lush landscapes and cultural treasures, especially those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and stunning views without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Private, Personalized Experience: Your own driver and guide ensure flexibility and intimacy.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits include temples, rice terraces, a volcano view, and a monkey sanctuary.
• Cultural Insights & Scenic Views: Enjoy Bali’s spiritual sites and breathtaking landscapes in one day.
• Cost-Effective Value: For $63, you get door-to-door service and guided commentary, making it a worthwhile splurge.
• Excluded Entrance Fees: Budget extra for entry tickets to temples and attractions.
• Flexible Stops: If you’re not keen on the monkey forest, it can be swapped for Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring temple, adding customization.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Convenience of Private Transportation

The tour’s standout feature is the door-to-door pickup and drop-off, which means you won’t need to worry about navigating or finding transport. This is especially valuable in Bali, where traffic can be unpredictable. Your driver, who speaks English and is experienced, is also your guide, offering insights and answering questions along the way. Knowing that fuel costs are included and that the vehicle is comfortable makes for a smooth ride through Bali’s scenic highlands.

Exploring Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Your day begins with a visit to Goa Gajah, Bali’s famous Elephant Cave. This 45-minute stop is free to enter but offers a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s spiritual past. The carvings of mythological creatures on the cave walls are a delight for history buffs or anyone interested in Bali’s Hindu influences. We loved how this site feels like stepping into a mythic story — quiet, mystical, and surrounded by lush greenery.

Tirta Empul: Sacred Spring with Ritual Significance

Next, you’ll visit Tirta Empul, renowned for its holy spring water used for purification rituals. The temple’s tranquil atmosphere and the ritual baths provide a meaningful cultural experience. We appreciated the opportunity to observe local Balinese participating in their spiritual practices, which adds authenticity to the visit. Remember, the admission is free, but you’ll need a sarong — which the tour provides.

Panoramic Views at Kintamani Highland

A highlight for many is the stop at Penelokan Kintamani, where panoramic views of Mount Batur and the surrounding greenery stretch out before you. This area offers some of Bali’s finest volcano vistas, perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. The 30-minute stop is brief but impactful, giving a taste of Bali’s volcanic landscape.

The Stunning Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Next, you’ll stroll through the Ceking Rice Terrace, famous for its dramatic, layered rice paddies that follow the contours of the valley. This UNESCO-listed site is a photographer’s paradise, with lush greenery and intricate terrace formations. We loved the way the terraces seem to cascade down the hillside, providing a peaceful yet awe-inspiring backdrop.

Ubud Monkey Forest or Tampaksiring Temple

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a crowd favorite, home to long-tailed macaques amid tropical forest. The 10-hectare area features ancient temple ruins, lush trees, and playful monkeys. One review mentions that if you’re not keen on the Monkey Forest, it can be replaced with Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring temple, which offers a quieter, equally historic alternative.

Additional Details and Practical Tips

• Timing: The tour lasts roughly 8 to 10 hours, accommodating traffic and sightseeing at a leisurely pace.
• Cost: At $63, the price includes all transportation, guiding, sarongs, and entry to key sites. Entrance fees are not included, so plan for those separately.
• Group Size: This is a private tour for just your group, which means more flexibility and personalized attention.
• Booking: It’s often booked around 90 days in advance, so plan accordingly, especially during peak seasons.

What Real Travelers Say

One reviewer aptly captured the experience, saying, “Great experience to the heart of Bali. Seeing temples without a crowd, learning more about Art & Mythology with an amazing guide who will customize the tour to your pace and interest.” This highlights the tour’s personal touch and the guiding quality, which really enhances the visit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is best suited for travelers who value flexibility, personalized attention, and a mix of cultural and scenic highlights. It’s ideal if you want to avoid tourist crowds and see Bali’s spiritual and natural landmarks at your own pace. It also suits those interested in learning about Balinese art, mythology, and religious practices from a knowledgeable guide.

The Sum Up

Taking this private, guided day trip from Ubud means enjoying Bali’s top sights with a personal touch. The combination of temples, rice terraces, and volcano views provides a well-rounded glimpse of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual traditions. The convenience of door-to-door service and the option to customize stops make this a smart choice for those who prefer a more relaxed and targeted experience—without the hassle of solo planning.

While the price is reasonable for the level of service and access, remember to budget for entrance fees. The guide’s insights and the stunning vistas make this tour especially valuable for first-timers or anyone wanting an authentic look at Bali’s highland charms. If you want a day that combines cultural discovery with breathtaking scenery, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience for just your group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

How long does the tour last?
Typically, it runs about 8 to 10 hours, including stops and travel time.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers a private driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, fuel surcharge, sarongs for temple visits, and entry to the temples and attractions listed.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you should plan to pay those separately at each site.

Can I customize the stops?
You can replace the Monkey Forest with Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring temple if preferred, allowing some flexibility.

Is food included?
No, meals are not part of the tour, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan for lunch on your own.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 90 days ahead, especially during busy seasons.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes. It’s ideal for those comfortable with walking and spending a full day exploring.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and extra cash for entrance fees and souvenirs.

This tour offers a well-rounded, flexible way to explore Bali’s lush highlands and spiritual sites, led by a knowledgeable guide who makes sure you see what matters most in a relaxed, authentic manner.