Ubud: Private Day Tour with Monkey Forest & Rice Terraces

Summary

Ubud’s temples, markets, waterfalls and a monkey encounter

You’ll wander Ubud’s lush rice terraces, watch playful monkeys up close, meet wood carvers in Mas Village, feel cool mist at Tegenungan Waterfall, and taste lunch overlooking jungle views—all with an easy hotel pickup and a local guide who knows every shortcut.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to smell like wet leaves when we stepped out in Ubud—sort of earthy and sweet at the same time. Our driver Wayan grinned as he handed us cold water (I was already sweating) and asked what we wanted to see most. I blurted “monkeys!” without thinking, but honestly, it was the rice terraces that stuck with me. Tegalalang looked almost fake—so green it hurt my eyes a little, with old women selling fruit by the edge and kids waving as we passed. The walk down was slippery from last night’s rain; I nearly lost a sandal but laughed it off because everyone else did too.

The Ubud Monkey Forest was louder than I expected—squeaks, rustling leaves, one monkey actually tried to unzip my backpack (Wayan just shook his head and said “they’re clever”). It felt like being let in on a local joke. After that, Mas Village surprised me. The wood carvers barely glanced up at first but then one guy named Made showed us how he shapes tiny flowers into a mask—his hands moved so fast I couldn’t follow. There was sawdust everywhere and the smell reminded me of my granddad’s shed back home.

Lunch was in this open-air place overlooking the jungle—honestly, I can’t remember what I ate because I kept staring at the valley below. We stopped at Tegenungan Waterfall after; you hear it before you see it, this deep rush that drowns out your thoughts for a second. By the time we got to Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), I’d already lost track of time. The carvings are worn smooth from centuries of hands. We wandered through Ubud Palace and the art market too—so many colors and patterns it made my head spin a bit. It’s all sort of jumbled together in my mind now but in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's cultural and natural sites

• Visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• See Tegenungan Waterfall
• Explore Mas Village wood carvings
• Tour Elephant Cave temple
• Walk through Ubud Monkey Forest
• Shop at Ubud Art Market
• Visit Ubud Palace
• Dine at jungle restaurant

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Ubud tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your private day trip.

Does this day trip to Ubud include entry fees?

All entrance fees for attractions are covered in the tour price.

Can I customize stops on this private Ubud tour?

Your guide will work with you to include preferred stops along the route.

Is lunch provided during the Ubud attractions tour?

Lunch is included if you select that option when booking.

What attractions are visited on this Ubud private tour?

The itinerary covers Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Monkey Forest, Mas Village, Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah), Tegenungan Waterfall, Ubud Palace and Art Market.

Are there any physical requirements for this day trip?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

How long does the private day trip to Ubud last?

This is a full-day tour covering several key attractions around Ubud.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off so you don’t have to worry about transport; all entrance fees are taken care of; bottled water is provided throughout; enjoy lunch overlooking the jungle if selected; plus there’s even an optional jungle swing experience if you want something extra before heading back.