Ubud Day Trip: Monkey Forest, Rice Terraces & Waterfall

Summary

Ubud’s monkeys, waterfalls and rice fields in one easy day

You’ll wander ancient forests with cheeky monkeys overhead, feel cool spray from Tegenungan Waterfall on your skin, walk muddy paths through Tegalalang’s rice terraces, and browse crafts at Ubud Art Market—all with a local guide who shares stories as you go. Expect honest moments and real flavors along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the monkeys to be so bold at the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud. The second we stepped inside, one of them eyed my water bottle like it was treasure. Our driver Wayan grinned and said, “Don’t look them in the eye too long.” He grew up nearby and seemed to know every shortcut through the trees. The forest smelled damp and green—sort of like earth after rain but mixed with incense from a shrine tucked behind mossy stones. There’s something about hearing monkeys chattering above your head while you try not to drop your phone that makes you feel very much alive.

Tegenungan Waterfall was louder than I’d pictured—like a constant roar that drowns out your thoughts for a second. We got there before noon, so the light hit the water just right (I’m not usually a morning person but this was worth it). I dipped my feet in; cold enough to wake you up. There were families splashing around, and a couple taking about fifty selfies on the rocks. It felt relaxed somehow, nobody rushing anyone else along. After that we stopped at Elephant Cave—the entrance really does look like some kind of monster’s mouth. Wayan explained how locals come here to pray; he showed us how to tie on a sarong before going inside. I probably tied mine wrong but nobody seemed to mind.

The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is even greener than any photo online—almost neon under the sun. We walked along one of those narrow muddy paths between paddies and tried not to slip (I failed once). There was this quiet hum of insects and distant laughter from farmers working below. Lunch was simple—nasi campur from a roadside stall—but honestly, it tasted better than most things back home. We wandered through the Ubud Art Market after that; I bought a carved wooden frog I didn’t need but couldn’t resist.

It’s funny—I came for the scenery but keep thinking about little moments: Wayan laughing when I tried to say “terima kasih” properly, or the smell of wet earth at the waterfall. If you’re looking for an Ubud day tour that feels less like ticking boxes and more like wandering with someone who knows their home inside out… well, this is what I’d do again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's nature and culture

• Visit Sacred Monkey Forest
• See Tegenungan Waterfall
• Explore Elephant Cave
• Walk Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Buy souvenirs at Ubud Art Market
• Visit House of King Ubud

Top questions

How long does an Ubud day tour take?

The tour typically lasts a full day, starting in the morning and returning by evening.

Is pickup included for this Ubud day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup is included with your private air-conditioned car.

Are entrance tickets covered?

Entrance tickets are included unless you select otherwise during booking.

Can I swim at Tegenungan Waterfall?

You can dip your feet or swim near Tegenungan Waterfall if conditions are safe.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No set lunch is included; however, there are food stops available during the tour.

What should I wear for visiting temples like Elephant Cave?

A sarong is required for temple visits; your guide can help provide or arrange one.

Is this Ubud tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Will there be time to shop at Ubud Art Market?

Yes, there’s time allocated to browse or buy souvenirs at Ubud Art Market.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in a private air-conditioned car with free Wi-Fi, entrance tickets (unless you opt out), bottled mineral water throughout, guidance from an English-speaking local driver who shares stories along each stop—and insurance coverage while you explore temples, waterfalls, rice terraces and markets around Ubud.