A Day in Ubud: Goa Gajah, Monkey Forest, Rice Terraces, Waterfalls & More

If you’re heading to Bali and want to see the best of Ubud without the hassle of planning, this all-inclusive private tour is a fantastic choice. Priced at $95 per person, it covers seven major stops—from the iconic Elephant Cave to lush rice terraces and refreshing waterfalls—plus a delicious lunch with panoramic jungle views. The tour lasts about 8 to 10 hours, making it a full day of sightseeing, exploration, and culture. Your driver/guide—whose knowledge and friendliness get glowing reviews—will also serve as your personal photographer, capturing every moment.

What we love about this tour is how well-rounded it is—covering Bali’s spiritual, cultural, and natural highlights in one go. The attention to detail, like including entry fees and providing a private vehicle, makes it easy and comfortable to enjoy each stop. Two standout features are the thrilling Bali swing experience with stunning jungle vistas and the authentic cultural insights at Tirta Empul temple, where locals perform spiritual cleansing rituals.

A possible consideration is the tight schedule—if you prefer more relaxed visits or want time to linger at each site, this may feel a bit rushed. However, for those eager to maximize a single day in Ubud, this tour hits all the high notes efficiently.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Ubud’s top attractions without the stress of organizing transport or entrance logistics. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate guides who are personable and knowledgeable, as many reviews praise their driver’s professionalism and charm.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and cultural experiences
All-inclusive package with entry fees, lunch, and private transportation
Experienced guide serving as a personal photographer and cultural interpreter
Stunning views and adventurous activities like the Bali swing and jungle scenery
Perfect for travelers seeking a full-day, hassle-free discovery of Ubud’s highlights
Good value considering the private transport, guided insights, and all entrance fees included

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Exploring Ubud in a Single Day: What You’ll Experience

When we first read about this tour, what caught our eye was its ability to pack so many must-see sites into one day. It’s a practical approach—especially for travelers with limited time—who want to get a real feel for Ubud’s spiritual, artistic, and natural beauty without the hassle of multiple bookings.

The Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah): An Ancient Sacred Site

Your day begins with a visit the 9th-century Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, a site that combines artistry, spirituality, and history. The carved cave entrance, featuring Hindu deities like Ganesh, immediately transports you back in time. You’ll appreciate that admission is included, removing the need for extra planning. Many reviews highlight the cultural significance of the site, and the ancient bathing pools nearby add a sense of serenity and history.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Close Encounters and Cultural Heritage

Next is the Ubud Monkey Forest, home to over 700 long-tailed macaques. Besides the playful monkeys, you’ll find three ancient temples within a lush jungle setting. This stop is popular not just for the animals but also for its cultural and spiritual importance. Many visitors mention how interactive and fun the monkey encounters are, but it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings, as the monkeys are famously cheeky.

The Ultimate Swing Experience: D’Alas Swing

In a more modern twist, the tour includes a 30-minute visit to D’Alas Swing, where you’ll get to soar over the jungle canopy with an impressive view. Many reviews describe this as the highlight of the trip, thanks to the breathtaking scenery and the thrill of swinging over treetops. The adventure adds an energetic element to the day and provides excellent photo opportunities.

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Lunch with a View at D’Alas Warung

After the swing, you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch at D’Alas Warung, set amidst the jungle. It’s not just about the food—though many find the local dishes tasty—but also the scenic setting that makes the meal special. Having a meal with such panoramic jungle views elevates the experience from just a meal to a memorable moment.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Iconic Bali Scenery

No visit to Bali is complete without seeing the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. This UNESCO-recognized site offers terraced rice paddies that seem to cascade endlessly. For those seeking a bit of adventure, activities like the Bali swing and zip line are available here. Reviewers love the stunning vistas and the chance to capture incredible photos—it’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and adrenaline.

Ulu Petanu Waterfall: A Hidden Gem

The tour’s inclusion of the Ulu Petanu Waterfall offers a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by tropical greenery, this waterfall is a less crowded, tranquil spot to relax and even swim. Many guests appreciate the serene environment and the chance to connect with nature away from the more touristy sites.

Tirta Empul: Sacred Water Spring and Spiritual Cleansing

Finally, the Tirta Empul Temple provides a deep cultural experience. Witness local Hindus performing purification rituals in the sacred spring fountains. The water element is central to Balinese spirituality, and many find the ceremonial bathing both fascinating and meaningful. The site’s UNESCO status underscores its cultural significance, making it a memorable close to your day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the sites, what really elevates this tour is the guidance and service quality. Multiple reviews praise the driver’s professionalism and knowledgeable insights. One reviewer even states, “Driver was on time and professional. He was extremely knowledgeable of Ubud area and all places we visited. He was funny and happy.” The personalized attention, including being your photographer, means you’ll leave with beautiful photos and lasting memories.

The all-inclusive nature of the experience—covering entrance fees, lunch, and transportation—adds to its value. You won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics, making for a relaxed day. Plus, the private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, which is especially valuable when covering several stops over a long day.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the tight schedule. If you prefer to spend more time at each site or want to explore beyond the main attractions, this tour might feel somewhat rushed. Also, since the focus is on popular highlights, it may not allow much time for spontaneous discovery or local wandering.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Ubud’s top attractions without the hassle of individual planning. It’s especially suited for those who value expert guidance, want great photos, and enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and adventure. If you’re short on time but eager to see Bali’s highlights, this is a practical and rewarding choice.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Bali looking for a well-organized, value-packed day, this Ubud tour offers a fantastic blend of culture, natural beauty, and adventure. The inclusion of guided insights, scenic swings, and lush landscapes makes it stand out as an engaging way to discover the heart of Bali.

It’s especially perfect if you want to maximize your experience in a single day and prefer having everything arranged for you—from transportation to entrance fees and meals. The personalized service from your guide adds a touch of warmth and authenticity that many travelers cherish.

This tour provides a balanced, authentic, and fun exploration of Ubud’s most beloved sites, making it a worthwhile addition to your Bali itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 to 10 hours, providing a full day of sightseeing and activities.

What is included in the price?
The $95 fee covers private air-conditioned transport, pickup and drop-off, entry tickets to each site, lunch, and the swing experience.

Are there any extra costs?
Most costs are included, but gratuities are optional and not included in the price.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you might be able to request some flexibility, but the itinerary is designed to cover the main highlights efficiently.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the activities like the swing and waterfalls are generally family-friendly, but check specific site restrictions if traveling with young children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, along with sun protection and water shoes for water spots, are recommended.

Is the guide a good photographer?
Yes, many reviews praise the guide for capturing beautiful photos, which is an added perk.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking at each site, especially at the rice terraces and waterfalls, but the vehicle handles most transportation between sites.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there pickup from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is available from most locations in Sanur, Ubud, Kuta/Legian, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Benoa, and Denpasar.

This active, engaging tour offers a taste of Bali’s spiritual sites, natural beauty, and exhilarating views—all in one memorable day. It’s a smart choice for travelers eager to experience Ubud beyond just a quick visit.