Experience Bali Your Way with a Private Driver in Ubud
Imagine exploring Bali’s most famous sights—Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, rice terraces, waterfalls, and temples—at your own pace, with a friendly, English-speaking driver. For just $18 per person, this custom tour offers 8 to 10 hours of personalized sightseeing, picking you up from your hotel in Ubud or nearby areas. It’s a flexible, private way to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of rigid group tours or crowded buses.
What we love about this experience? First, the freedom to craft your own itinerary means you can focus on the sights that excite you most—whether that’s stunning temples or lush rice terraces. Second, the personalized attention from your driver, many of whom are praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and helpful suggestions, makes this feel like a day spent with a well-informed friend.
One thing to consider: all admissions are not included, so if you’re eager to explore inside the temples or visit certain attractions, budget for tickets. This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want flexibility, enjoy authentic local insights, and value comfort and convenience.
If you’re visiting Bali and prefer a tailored experience over a cookie-cutter group tour, this private driver service is likely to fit your style perfectly.
Key Points
- Complete Flexibility: Design your own itinerary and visit Bali’s top sights at your own pace.
- Personalized Service: Friendly, English-speaking drivers who offer local insights and tips.
- Convenience: Door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off make the day stress-free.
- Value for Money: At $18, this private tour offers excellent value, especially with the personalized experience.
- Best for Curious Travelers: Ideal for those who appreciate authentic, flexible, and comfortable exploration.
- No Fixed Schedule: The tour lasts approximately 8-10 hours, allowing ample time for visits and photos.
Exploring Bali with a Private Driver: An Honest Review

Bali is a treasure trove of incredible sights—ancient temples, vibrant markets, lush rice paddies, and waterfalls that seem to tumble straight out of a dream. But navigating the island can be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to see many spots in a day. That’s where a private driver in Ubud becomes a game-changer. For around $18 per person, you get a dedicated vehicle and guide who adapts your day to your interests, making it both practical and fun.
This tour is a flexible alternative to standard group excursions. It runs about 8 to 10 hours, offering ample time to cover a handful of Bali’s must-see destinations without feeling rushed. The setup—door-to-door hotel pickup, private air-conditioned vehicle, and a friendly English-speaking driver—means you can focus on enjoying the sights without the worry of transport or navigation.
The Highlights and Itinerary
While the tour is customizable, it often includes some of Bali’s most iconic stops. From the spectacular Tanah Lot Temple, perched on a rocky outcrop in the sea, to Uluwatu Temple, clinging to a cliff with panoramic ocean views, these sites are picture-perfect. You can also stroll through the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, marveling at the lush, layered fields that are a postcard favorite. For animal lovers, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary offers a fun (and occasionally mischievous) encounter with Balinese monkeys.
Other highlights include the Ubud Art Market, a lively hub where local crafts and textiles showcase Bali’s artistic spirit, and Mount Batur, a popular spot for sunrise hikes that reward early risers with sweeping views (though you’d need to arrange an early start, which this tour can help with). The Besakih Temple, Bali’s largest and holiest, offers a spiritual experience and stunning views, while Tirta Empul, with its sacred spring water, is perfect for those interested in local rituals.
A special feature is the chance to visit Nusa Penida, a nearby island famous for its incredible beaches and clear waters. While not all drivers include this in their standard itinerary, the flexibility means you can opt for this adventure if your driver is familiar with the area.
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What the Reviews Say
Many travelers praise their guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness. One reviewer mentions that their driver “gave us so many options and is great with talk and explanations all day,” highlighting the value of a driver who doubles as a local guide. Another shared that their driver “had many ideas to make the best of our stay in Bali,” ensuring a tailored experience.
Some travelers emphasize the authentic and relaxed atmosphere; for example, one said, “It was so fun going up the mountain in the jeep, the breakfast was tasty, and soaking in the hot spring after was so relaxing.” The ability to customize your day, combined with the comfort of private transport, clearly appeals to those wanting a more intimate Bali experience.
Transportation and Comfort
The air-conditioned vehicle, often praised for its comfort and good condition, makes long drives pleasant, especially in Bali’s sometimes warm climate. The drivers are skilled in navigating Bali’s often chaotic roads, ensuring safety and a smooth ride. As one reviewer put it, “He negotiated the roads safely, not easy in Bali,” which speaks volumes about the professionalism of the drivers.
The Value and Cost
At $18 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. While admission fees are not included, that allows you to choose which sites to pay for, avoiding unnecessary expenses if you’re just interested in viewing the temples from the outside or taking photos. Many reviewers have gone on to book the same driver for additional days or airport transfers, crediting the experience for its reliability and personalized service.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who value flexibility and personal attention. If you prefer to avoid the rigidity of scheduled group tours and want to explore Bali through your own lens, this is an excellent choice. It’s also suited for those who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and want insider tips on the best places to eat, shop, or take photos.
Why Choose This Private Tour?

This Bali driver service delivers more than just transportation; it creates a personal, authentic experience. Instead of following a set itinerary, you can prioritize what interests you most—be it temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, or markets. The drivers’ friendly approach and local knowledge shine through in reviews that mention their helpfulness, patience, and willingness to go the extra mile—whether it’s taking photos or suggesting hidden gems.
The cost is reasonable considering the personalized service and flexibility; you get a dedicated driver for a full day, with amenities like bottled water and air conditioning, making it a comfortable way to explore. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which enhances the experience by providing context and stories behind each site.
This tour is especially suitable for independent-minded travelers, small groups, or couples who want to make the most of their time in Bali without feeling rushed or constrained. Whether you’re visiting Bali for a week or just a day, having a local driver who listens to your preferences ensures you see what you want, when you want.
About the Experience Provider

East Bali Tour has garnered high praise for their professional, friendly drivers and flexible services. The reviews show consistent satisfaction with guides who are not only safe drivers but also eager to share local insights, making your day more enriching and memorable.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private vehicle with air conditioning, fuel, and a friendly English-speaking driver. Bottled water is also provided for your comfort.
Are admission tickets included?
No, admission tickets to attractions are not included. You’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you wish to enter temples or sites.
Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, this is a custom tour, so you can choose which sights to visit or ask your driver for recommendations based on your interests.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on your chosen itinerary and pace.
Is this suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, especially if planning to walk around temples or rice terraces.
What if I want to visit Nusa Penida?
You can request this during your booking; the flexibility allows you to incorporate a visit to Nusa Penida if your driver is familiar with the area.
What is the cost per person?
The price is $18 per person, making it an affordable, private alternative to group tours.
To sum it up, this private Bali driver experience offers a wonderful blend of flexibility, local insight, and comfort. It’s best suited for those who want to see Bali at their own pace without sacrificing safety or convenience. With consistently positive reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, it’s a reliable option for small groups, couples, and independent travelers eager for an authentic, personalized adventure. If you’re craving a day of discovery tailored to your desires, this tour checks all the boxes.
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