Ubud: Private Day Tour Rice Terraces, Waterfall & Monkey Forest

Summary

Rice terraces to monkeys in Ubud with waterfall swim break

You’ll wander Ubud’s lush rice terraces with a local guide, watch playful macaques in the Monkey Forest, browse colorful stalls at Ubud Art Market, and cool off at Tegenungan Waterfall. Private transport with hotel pickup makes it easy to relax into Bali’s rhythms — you might even find yourself grinning at muddy shoes or sharing a laugh with your guide by day’s end.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to smell so green on the Campuhan Ridge Walk — like wet grass and something sweet I couldn’t name. Our guide, Wayan, waved us along the path just as a scooter zipped by below. He pointed out a temple roof peeking through the palms. I kept stopping for photos but honestly none of them look like what it felt like to stand there, mist on my face and all that space around.

The Monkey Forest was next. I’d heard stories about those long-tailed macaques stealing sunglasses (and dignity), but up close they were more curious than menacing. One little guy stared at me while chewing something — maybe hoping for a snack? Wayan laughed when I flinched as two monkeys tumbled right over my shoes. The whole place buzzed with their chatter and the rustle of leaves overhead.

We wandered through the Ubud Art Market after that — colors everywhere, sarongs fluttering in a breeze that smelled faintly of incense and fried snacks from a nearby stall. I tried bargaining for a wooden mask; probably paid too much but the woman selling it smiled so wide it didn’t matter. Lunch was simple but good — rice, chicken, spicy sambal — eaten under a fan that barely cut through the midday heat.

The Tegalalang Rice Terrace was greener than anything I’ve seen before. Wayan explained how the subak irrigation system works — water flowing quietly between each level — while we walked along the narrow mud paths. My shoes got muddy (should’ve worn sandals) but I didn’t care; sunlight flickered through palm fronds and somewhere a rooster crowed even though it was afternoon.

Tegenungan Waterfall was last. The sound hit me before we saw it: low thunder echoing off rocks. The water was cooler than I expected when I dipped my feet in. We just sat for a while watching kids splash around and local families picnicking nearby. On the drive back to our hotel, windows down, hair still damp, I realized how full the day felt — not perfect or polished but real in all the best ways.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's nature and markets

• Walk Campuhan Ridge Trail
• Visit Monkey Forest
• Shop at Ubud Art Market
• See Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Swim at Tegenungan Waterfall

Top questions

How long is this Ubud day tour?

This private tour lasts a full day, typically 8–10 hours including all stops.

Is lunch included on this tour?

Yes, lunch is included as part of your day trip from Ubud.

Are entrance fees covered?

All entry fees are included in your booking price.

Will someone pick me up from my hotel?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are both included in this private tour.

Can you swim at Tegenungan Waterfall?

You can swim if conditions allow; water is nicest when there’s no rain.

Is this tour suitable for families?

This day trip is suitable for most fitness levels and families; infant seats are available if needed.

What’s special about Tegalalang Rice Terrace?

Tegalalang features traditional subak irrigation and sweeping green views unique to Bali’s countryside.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable private transport with hotel pickup and drop-off in Ubud, entry fees to all sites like Monkey Forest and Tegalalang Rice Terrace, bottled water throughout the journey, plus a traditional Balinese lunch before heading back in the afternoon.