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

Summary

Ubud’s temples, rice fields, monkeys & waterfall in one private day

You’ll feel Bali’s rhythm on this private Ubud day trip: wander through art villages with local craftspeople, stand in cool spray at Tegenungan Waterfall, walk rice terraces so green they barely look real, and watch cheeky monkeys in the forest sanctuary—all with easy hotel pickup and a friendly guide who knows every shortcut.

What’s the experience like?

“If you want to see real Bali, you have to look slowly,” Wayan said as he nudged us out of the car near Celuk Village. I was still half-awake from the early pickup (they were right on time), but the air already smelled faintly sweet—like frangipani and something smoky from breakfast fires. We wandered through silver shops where a woman showed me how she twists wire into delicate earrings. I tried not to drop anything. Li laughed when I tried to say ‘terima kasih’—probably butchered it.

Batuan Temple came next, all mossy stone and those intricate gates that look like they’re split in two. Our guide explained how families come here for ceremonies; he pointed out the black-and-white checkered cloths tied around statues—protection, he said. There was incense everywhere, and the air felt heavy but peaceful. Then Tegenungan Waterfall—louder than I expected, spray cooling my face while locals waded below. I watched a kid chase a chicken near the edge (his mom didn’t seem worried).

The drive up to Tegalalang Rice Terrace wound past scooters and roadside warungs. The green here is unreal—layer after layer of rice paddies with ducks picking through mud. We stopped for coconut water at a shack overlooking the terraces; honestly, I could’ve sat there all afternoon just listening to birds and distant laughter. But we had monkeys to meet: at Ubud Monkey Forest, one bold macaque eyed my sunglasses like he’d seen this trick before. Our guide kept us moving (“Don’t make eye contact!”), but I kind of loved the chaos.

Last stop: free time in Ubud center. The market was busy—vendors calling out prices, batik dresses fluttering in humid air. I got lost in an alley behind Ubud Palace and ended up watching an old man carve masks by hand. My feet were tired by then but my head felt full—in a good way. Even now, sometimes when things are too quiet at home, I remember that waterfall noise or the smell of incense clinging to my shirt.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's cultural and natural sights

• Visit Art Villages for local crafts
• Tour Batuan Temple
• Admire Tegenungan Waterfall
• See Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Explore Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest
• Free time at Ubud Art Market
• Free time at Ubud Palace

Top questions

How long does the Ubud private day tour last?

The tour lasts about 9 hours including all stops and transfers.

Is hotel pickup included for this Ubud day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from major areas like Sanur, Ubud, Kuta/Legian, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Benoa & Denpasar.

What sights are visited during this Ubud tour?

You’ll visit Celuk Art Village, Batuan Temple, Tegenungan Waterfall, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Ubud Art Market and Ubud Palace.

Are entry fees included in the price?

Yes—all entry and admission fees are included in your booking.

Is lunch included on this private Ubud tour?

No lunch is provided but you’ll have free time in Ubud center where you can buy food.

Can infants or small children join this day trip?

Yes—the tour is suitable for all ages and infants can ride in a stroller or pram.

Do I need to bring anything special for the Monkey Forest?

No special gear needed—just keep your belongings secure as monkeys may grab loose items.

Will there be an English-speaking guide?

Yes—the driver also serves as your English-speaking guide throughout the day.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from most Bali areas, all entry fees for sights like Tegenungan Waterfall and Monkey Forest Sanctuary, bottled water along the way plus a private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide who also drives—and parking fees are covered so you don’t have to worry about any extras.