Ubud: Private Hot Springs, Waterfall & Volcano Day Tour

Summary

Rice fields shimmered after rain, monkeys everywhere, volcano steam in the air

You’ll wander through Ubud’s wild monkey forest, taste local food overlooking Mt. Batur’s volcanic lake, soak in natural hot springs with mountain views, and end your private day trip at Tegenungan Waterfall—all with a local guide and easy hotel pickup. Expect small surprises: laughter with your driver, cool mist on your skin, maybe even a monkey eyeing your snack.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I heard was the monkeys—honestly louder than I expected. We’d barely stepped into Ubud Monkey Forest and they were already darting around us, tails flicking, snatching fruit from each other. Our guide Wayan grinned and handed me a peanut (“just one,” he warned). The smell of damp leaves mixed with incense from some little offering on a mossy stone. I kept thinking: this is their home, not ours. One monkey sat right on the path and stared at me like he was sizing me up for snacks.

After that we wandered through Ubud Market (I tried to bargain for a sarong and failed spectacularly—Wayan laughed but helped out), then stopped at Tegalalang Rice Terrace. The fields looked almost neon after the rain; you could see water pooling between each step. There’s this swing over the valley—looked terrifying but I did it anyway, legs kicking over palm trees. My hands were still shaking when we drove up towards Kintamani and Mt. Batur. Lunch was simple—nasi goreng and chicken sate—but sitting there with steam rising from the volcano lake below felt… I don’t know, kind of unreal.

The hot springs by Lake Batur were warmer than bathwater and smelled faintly of minerals (not unpleasant). Locals floated quietly or chatted in Balinese while kids played on the slides. I let my shoulders sink under until all I could hear was water lapping against the side. Later at Tirta Empul Temple, people lined up to bathe under spouts—some praying softly, others just splashing water on their faces. It felt respectful to watch from a distance; Wayan explained how each fountain has its own meaning but honestly I just liked seeing families together, laughing.

We ended at Tegenungan Waterfall where mist hung in the air and everything felt cool again. My shoes got soaked (should’ve brought sandals) but it didn’t matter. On the drive back through Ubud’s narrow roads, windows down, I realized how much of Bali you only notice when you slow down—a farmer waving from his field or someone balancing fruit on a scooter seat. Still think about that swing sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ubud Nature and Cultural Highlights

• Visit Ubud Monkey Forest
• Explore Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Optional Bali Swing activity
• Trek deeper into rice terrace
• Visit authentic Bali village
• Lunch with Batur Volcano view
• Enjoy volcanic hot spring
• Visit Tirta Empul Temple
• Pass by Elephant Cave temple
• Visit Tegenungan Waterfall
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does this private Ubud hot springs & waterfall tour take?

The full day trip typically lasts around 10 hours including pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

Is lunch included during the tour?

Lunch is not included but there are options to stop for Balinese or Indonesian food overlooking Mt. Batur.

Are entrance fees to attractions covered?

If you book the premium all-inclusive option, all entrance tickets are included in your tour price.

Is pickup available outside central Ubud?

Yes, door-to-door pickup is offered across South Bali, Middle Bali, East Bali areas.

Can children join this private day trip?

Yes, infants can ride in strollers or sit on an adult’s lap; suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

What should I bring for the hot spring visit?

Packing swimming clothes, sunblock, sandals or spare shoes is recommended for comfort at the hot springs and waterfall.

Are guides fluent in English?

Your driver-guide speaks English fluently; multi-lingual guides are also available if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in South or Central Bali by air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi onboard; an English-speaking local guide-driver; bottled mineral water throughout; all entrance tickets if you choose premium; insurance coverage; plus towels provided at the hot spring so you can just relax between stops before heading back to your hotel.