Ubud: Monkey Forest, Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul & Waterfall Day Trip

Ubud’s monkeys, rice terraces and holy springs on a private day trip

You’ll meet cheeky monkeys in Ubud’s forest, watch woodcarvers at work in Mas Village, walk among Tegalalang’s lush rice terraces and witness spiritual rituals at Tirta Empul temple. Cool off at a hidden waterfall before heading back—expect moments that stick with you long after you’ve left Bali.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's nature and culture

• Meet driver at hotel lobby
• Visit monkey forest with macaques
• Explore art village galleries
• See Tegalalang rice terrace views
• Visit Tirta Empul temple
• Witness Ulu Petanu waterfall
• Return to accommodation

The Experience

We were already dodging macaques by the time the sun broke through in Ubud’s Monkey Forest. Our guide Wayan handed me a peanut — “Hold tight,” he grinned, and sure enough, a little monkey snatched it from my palm so fast I nearly jumped. The whole place felt alive: mossy temple stones underfoot, shrieks echoing from somewhere above, that earthy smell after rain. I kept glancing up at the banyan trees — I don’t know why but they made me feel small in a good way.

Mas Village was next. It’s quieter there; you can actually hear the sound of chisels tapping wood. We ducked into a tiny workshop where an old man carved a dragon out of something that looked like driftwood. He barely looked up when we came in but smiled when I tried to say thank you in Bahasa (I probably butchered it). There was silver jewelry too — delicate stuff, not what I expected. We didn’t stay long but I still remember the smell of sawdust mixed with incense.

The drive to Tegalalang rice terrace took longer than I thought — traffic in Bali is its own adventure — but when we finally got out, everything was just green on green. Farmers were out working, some barefoot in muddy water, and Wayan explained how they share water through this old system called subak. I tried walking down one of those narrow paths between terraces and almost slipped (don’t wear flip-flops). The view is something you sort of feel more than see.

Tirta Empul temple was busy with locals doing purification rituals. You could hear prayers mixing with the splash of spring water. Wayan told us about the legend behind the holy spring — honestly, I only caught half because I was distracted by the scent of flowers everywhere and people quietly lining up for their turn under the spouts. Last stop was Ulu Petanu waterfall; cold spray on my face and nobody around except us for a few minutes. On the way back to our hotel, my feet were muddy and my head full — not sure what else you could want from an Ubud day trip.

Top questions

How long does this Ubud tour take?

The total duration includes transportation time; expect a full-day trip from morning until late afternoon.

Is hotel pickup included for this Ubud day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup is included as part of your private tour experience.

Are entry fees or parking covered?

Parking fees are included; entry fees may vary based on selected attractions but are generally covered.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with health issues?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What language does the driver or guide speak?

The private driver/guide speaks English during the tour.

Do we get to swim at the waterfall?

You can get into the crystal-clear water at Ulu Petanu waterfall if you wish.

Will we see local farmers working at Tegalalang rice terrace?

Yes, you’ll likely see local farmers tending their fields during your visit to Tegalalang rice terrace.

What’s included

Your day includes private transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver, all parking fees taken care of, and hotel pickup so you don’t have to worry about logistics—just bring yourself (and maybe dry socks).