Private Ubud Day Tour with Jungle Swing & Local Guide

Summary

Ubud culture tour with waterfall, rice fields & artisan stops

You’ll get to see Ubud through local eyes—temples where rituals unfold daily, lush rice terraces (with that must-try jungle swing), hidden waterfalls to cool off in, and real workshops where artists shape silver by hand. It’s all private and flexible, so you can linger where you like or ask questions along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Ubud always feels a little cooler than I expect—soft and earthy, with a hint of incense drifting from the family shrines along the road. Our driver, Wayan, greeted us right at our hotel lobby just after breakfast. He had that easy smile you see everywhere in Bali. First stop: the Monkey Forest. The monkeys were already wide awake and busy—one tried to sneak into my bag when I paused for a photo near the mossy temple walls. There’s this constant chatter in the trees above, and the smell of damp leaves mixed with sweet fruit offerings left by locals.

We wound through narrow roads past rice paddies until we reached Batuan Temple. The stone carvings here are so intricate up close—tiny faces peeking out from every corner. Our guide explained how the black palm fiber roofs are replaced every few years by villagers. It’s right off the main road but feels worlds away once you step inside. Next up was Tirta Empul Temple. Watching families gather for ritual bathing in the holy spring was moving; some wore bright sarongs while others quietly waited their turn. The sound of water trickling over ancient stones is oddly calming.

By midday, we headed to Tegenungan Waterfall. You can hear it before you see it—a deep rumble behind thick jungle leaves. The path down is steep but worth it; mist cools your face as you get closer. Locals were selling fresh coconuts at the top—I grabbed one and sipped while watching kids splash below. After climbing back up (my legs definitely felt it), we drove north to Tegalalang Rice Terrace. The view from the ridge is unreal—layers of green stretching out under shifting clouds. We tried the famous jungle swing here; my heart raced as I swung out over the terraces, but honestly, it was pure fun and made for some wild photos.

Later in Celuk Village, we watched silversmiths at work—hands steady as they shaped tiny patterns into rings and bracelets. The smell of metal and polish filled the workshop. Our last stop was Ubud Art Market: rows of stalls packed with woven bags, silk scarves, wooden masks… bargaining is expected here, but everyone does it with a smile. I picked up a hand-carved kite for my nephew back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's Nature and Culture

• Visit Ubud Monkey Forest
• Explore Batuan Temple
• Tour Tirta Empul Temple
• See Tegenungan Waterfall
• Walk Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Take Instagram photos at Jungle Swing
• Visit Celuk Village (jewelry making)
• Shop at Ubud Art Market

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes! Kids love the monkeys and waterfall stops—just note infants need to sit on an adult’s lap or use a special seat (provided if you ask ahead).

Can I customize which attractions we visit?

Absolutely—the guide is happy to adjust timing or swap stops based on your interests or pace.

What should I wear for temple visits?

Wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees; sarongs are usually available at temples if needed.

How much walking is involved?

You’ll walk at each site (especially at Tegenungan Waterfall), but there are plenty of breaks and your driver handles all transfers between spots.

What’s included

Your own friendly English-speaking driver-guide takes care of everything—including parking fees, fuel, local taxes, insurance, plus hotel pickup and drop-off in a comfy car. Infant seats are available if you let us know in advance.