Bali: Cave Tubing & Tegallalang Rice Terrace Day Trip with Lunch

Summary

Float through Bali’s cave rivers then wander rice terraces with lunch

You’ll float through Bali’s cool cave river near Tegallalang, laugh with your guide as you drift under ancient arches, then walk bright green rice terraces before sharing a local lunch. It’s a day that mixes adventure with quiet moments — perfect if you want something real to remember.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the cave air felt — cooler than outside, a little damp, almost earthy-sweet. We’d just climbed into our tubes at this spot near Tegallalang village, helmets slightly crooked (I never get those straps right), and the guide grinned before pushing us off. The river isn’t wild or scary — it’s more like a slow glide under these old stone arches left from Dutch times. You can hear your own laugh echo in there, which is weirdly fun. At one point I tried to touch the wall and got splashed by something dripping from above — not sure what, but it didn’t matter. The main keyword here is cave tubing Bali, but honestly it felt more like floating through someone’s secret backyard.

After about 45 minutes (felt both quick and long), we dried off and headed for the rice terraces. The sun was out by then, making everything look almost too green. Our guide Kadek pointed out some farmers waving from across the fields — I waved back and nearly slipped on a muddy step. There are plenty of photo spots if you’re into that sort of thing, but I liked just standing still for a second, watching a breeze ripple through all those rows. It’s quieter than you’d expect; even with other people around you mostly hear insects and water trickling somewhere below.

Lunch was simple — Indonesian food that tasted better than anything fancy would have after being out all morning. Someone at our table tried to say thank you in Balinese; Kadek laughed and corrected him gently (I still can’t pronounce it). On the drive back to Ubud I kept thinking about how different the air had felt inside that cave compared to up on the terraces — like two sides of Bali in one day trip from Ubud to Tegallalang. It’s not something you really plan for when searching “day trip machu picchu cusco” or “private wine tour bordeaux,” but this combo sticks with you longer than most tours do.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cave tubing and rice terrace visit

• Travel to Ubud cave river
• Enjoy 45-minute cave tubing adventure
• Swim safely along cave river
• Visit Tegallalang rice terrace cliffs
• Take photos at rice terrace
• Enjoy Indonesian lunch
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does the cave tubing last?

The tubing experience lasts about 45 minutes inside the cave river.

Is hotel pickup included for this Bali tour?

Yes, round trip hotel transfers are included from various hotels in Bali.

Is this activity suitable for children?

Yes, beginners and children can join as long as they are comfortable in water.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Where does this tour take place?

The tubing is on a Dutch heritage river cave near Tegallalang village north of Ubud.

Is lunch provided on this day trip?

Yes, an Indonesian lunch is included after the adventure activities.

What should I bring for cave tubing in Bali?

You’ll want swimwear, change of clothes, sunscreen, and maybe a waterproof camera.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in Bali, all fees and taxes covered up front, safety gear like life jackets provided for tubing on the cave river near Tegallalang village, plus an Indonesian lunch after exploring both the river and rice terraces before heading back comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle.