Private Bali Custom Tour: Waterfall, Rice Terrace & Ubud

Summary

Flexible Bali Day Trip with Local Driver

If you want to see Bali your own way—with no set schedule or big tour crowds—this private custom tour is perfect. You’ll get local tips from your driver, visit places like Tegenungan Waterfall and Tegalalang Rice Terrace at your own pace, and have time to explore Ubud’s markets or try Balinese coffee along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Bali always feels a bit heavy with humidity, but our driver—Wayan—was already waiting in the lobby at 9 sharp, holding up my name on a little sign. He smiled and asked what we wanted to see most that day. We tossed around ideas: temples, waterfalls, maybe some shopping? Wayan listened and then helped us map out a route that actually made sense for the day—no rushing from one end of the island to the other.

First stop: Tegenungan Waterfall. You can hear it before you see it—a low rumble mixed with birds and scooters in the distance. The path down is lined with warungs selling fresh coconut water (don’t skip it if you’re already sweating). We took our time on the steps; they’re a bit uneven and get slippery after rain. Down by the falls, there’s this cool mist that hits your face—felt so good after the walk. Some folks were swimming, but I just dipped my toes in and watched locals setting up for photoshoots on the rocks.

Next up was the famous swing over Tegalalang’s rice terraces. I’ll admit, I hesitated at first—the swings look scarier than they are—but once you’re up there, it’s just green everywhere below you. There are bird nest photo spots too if heights aren’t your thing. Afterward, we wandered through the rice fields themselves; a couple of farmers waved as we passed by and pointed us toward a stall selling young coconuts chilled in a cooler.

We stopped at a small coffee plantation nearby—nothing fancy, just rows of cacao trees and vanilla vines twisting around bamboo poles. The owner showed us how they roast beans over an open fire. We tried tiny cups of ginger tea and thick Balinese coffee while chickens scratched around underfoot.

Last part of our day was Ubud Palace and its busy art market right across the street. The palace itself isn’t huge but has these intricate stone carvings you could stare at for ages. The market is packed—sarongs hanging everywhere, wood carvings stacked high, silver jewelry glinting in every direction. I bargained for a woven bag (probably still paid too much) and grabbed some fried banana from a street vendor outside.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Custom Bali Private Tour

• Hotel pickup and itinerary planning
• Visit Tegenungan Waterfall
• Experience Bali giant swing
• Walk through Tegallalang Rice Terrace
• Tour coffee and spice plantation
• Visit Ubud Palace and Art Market

Top questions

Can I change my itinerary during the tour?

Absolutely! Your driver will help adjust plans as needed so you can spend more or less time at each spot.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?

Yes—it’s flexible for all ages and fitness levels. Baby seats are available if requested in advance (small extra fee).

How long does the tour last?

The private tour runs up to 10 hours starting from 9am; latest finish is 7pm.

What areas does hotel pickup cover?

Pickup covers Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Pecatu, Canggu, Ubud, Denpasar, Sanur, Tegalalang, Kintamani, Tanah Lot & Uluwatu.

What’s included

Your private tour includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned car with an English-speaking driver who knows Bali well. Bottled water is provided for everyone in your group. All parking fees are covered too—just bring cash if you want to buy snacks or souvenirs along the way!