Bali Ubud: Gorilla Cave ATV, Monkey Forest & Temple with Lunch

Summary

Ubud quad bike adventure, sacred monkeys and temple rituals with lunch

You’ll feel mud on your skin during an ATV ride through Ubud’s wild side, watch monkeys play in ancient forest temples, and share lunch with new friends after exploring Batuan Temple’s carvings. Expect laughter, local stories from your guide, and small moments you’ll remember long after you’ve washed off the day.

What’s the experience like?

“You sure you want to go first?” our guide grinned, handing me the helmet. I could smell damp earth before we even started the ATVs — that kind of green, heavy air that sticks to your skin in Bali. The engine rumbled under me (honestly louder than I expected), and suddenly we were off, bouncing past rice paddies so bright it almost hurt my eyes. There was this one tunnel — pitch black and cool inside — where I let out a laugh that echoed weirdly. Mud splattered everywhere. My shoes were a lost cause after the first river crossing but, honestly, I didn’t care.

After peeling off muddy boots (and realizing I’d somehow managed to get clay on my ear?), we cleaned up and headed for the Monkey Forest in Ubud. The place felt half-wild: monkeys darting across mossy statues, locals lighting incense near little shrines tucked between banyan roots. Our guide Wayan pointed out a mother monkey grooming her baby — he said they’re always watching for snacks, so keep your bag zipped. It smelled like wet leaves and something sweet from the temple offerings. I tried to say “terima kasih” and Wayan laughed — probably butchered it.

The last stop was Batuan Temple, which looked almost unreal with all those carved gates and black-and-gold umbrellas fluttering in the breeze. We watched a few villagers bringing baskets of fruit for prayers. The stone felt cool when I rested my hand on it (I do that sometimes without thinking). Lunch after was simple but good: rice, chicken satay, some spicy sambal that caught me off guard — in a good way. Sitting there with everyone still picking mud from their hair… yeah, I still think about that view over the fields.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV ride, Monkey Forest, and Temple visit

• Ride quad bike through jungle and rice fields
• Explore Monkey Forest and see wildlife
• Visit Batuan Temple in village

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Bali ATV tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

How long does it take to reach the ATV starting point from Ubud?

The quad bike adventure is about 20 minutes north of Ubud center.

What is the minimum age for driving an ATV solo?

The minimum age is 16 years old for a single ride.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

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

Is lunch provided during the day trip?

Yes, a local lunch is included after visiting Batuan Temple.

Can children join the ATV ride?

Children aged 9-15 can join as tandem riders with an adult present.

What should I wear or bring for the ATV experience?

You’ll be given helmet and boots; expect to get muddy so wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entry fees and insurance, helmet and boots for the quad bike ride (plus showers afterward), guidance from a local instructor throughout every step of the adventure, plus a traditional Balinese lunch before heading back home clean but probably still smiling about something silly that happened on the trail.