Ubud: Downhill Volcano Bike Tour, Rice Fields & Balinese Meal

Summary

Cycle from Bali’s volcano to green paddies with village stops

You’ll start above Ubud with misty volcano views before coasting downhill by bike through villages and rice terraces. Meet locals inside a Balinese family compound, visit a school, and end with an Indonesian lunch outdoors. Expect laughter, muddy shoes, and glimpses of everyday Bali you might miss otherwise.

What’s the experience like?

I was honestly a little nervous when our driver pulled up near Kintamani — the air felt cooler than I expected, almost sharp with that faint smoky smell you get in the mountains. Mt. Batur was just sitting there across the lake, way bigger than it looks in photos. Our guide Wayan handed us bikes and grinned like he knew something we didn’t. I guess he did — the whole route is basically downhill (my thighs thanked him later), so it’s more about coasting and watching Bali wake up than racing.

The first stretch was quiet except for our brakes squeaking and some roosters yelling in the distance. We rolled through villages where kids waved and a woman in a gold sash smiled at us from her doorway. At one stop, Wayan took us into a family compound — chickens everywhere, incense curling up from a little shrine. He introduced us to his aunt who laughed at my attempt to say “terima kasih” (I probably butchered it). The rice fields after that were so green it almost hurt my eyes, and walking along those muddy paths made me realize how much work goes into every grain of rice on my plate. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for frogs croaking — I still think about that silence.

We also visited a local school — the kids were shy at first but one girl asked me if I liked durian (I lied and said yes). Lunch came last: simple but really good nasi campur, eaten outside while we traded stories about falling off bikes as kids. It wasn’t fancy but tasted better than most restaurant meals back home. The whole day felt like being let in on someone else’s daily life for a bit, not just ticking off sights. If you’re after a day trip from Ubud that feels real and not rushed, this cycling tour is worth it — even if your legs are out of shape like mine.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Downhill cycling and cultural tour

• Drive to Kintamani volcano area
• View volcano, lake, and caldera
• Begin downhill cycling adventure
• Visit local school
• Explore Balinese family compound
• Visit village temple
• Walk through rice fields
• Enjoy Indonesian meal

Top questions

How long is the downhill cycling tour from Ubud?

The tour lasts around half a day including stops at Mt. Batur, villages, rice fields, and lunch.

Is hotel pickup included in the Ubud bike tour?

Yes, air-conditioned vehicle pickup is included for your convenience.

What should I wear or bring for the cycling trip?

Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes; bottled water and cycling equipment are provided.

Do I need to be very fit for this Bali cycling tour?

No—most of the ride is downhill and suitable for all fitness levels.

Is lunch included in the Ubud volcano bike tour?

Yes, an Indonesian meal is included at the end of your ride.

Are children allowed on this tour?

The tour covers ages 5–65; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

Will we visit any local homes or schools during the trip?

Yes—you’ll stop at both a Balinese family compound and a local school along the route.

Is insurance provided during the activity?

Your booking includes personal insurance coverage up to IDR 2,500,000 per person.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from Ubud or nearby areas, all cycling equipment (with infant seats if needed), bottled water throughout the ride, guidance from an English-speaking local guide who knows every shortcut and story along the way, personal accident insurance for peace of mind—and finally an Indonesian lunch served outdoors before heading back home muddy but happy.