Ubud: Private Monkey Forest, Rice Terrace, Temple & Waterfall Tour

Summary

Monkeys in ubud forest, rice terraces, temples and a waterfall day trip

You’ll wander among monkeys in Ubud’s forest sanctuary, walk through Tegalalang’s layered rice terraces with your guide explaining every detail, swim or dip your toes at a hidden waterfall, and end by watching prayers at Tirta Empul temple before heading back to your hotel with new stories—and probably muddy shoes.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound—somewhere between chattering and laughter—echoing through the trees as we stepped into Ubud’s Monkey Forest. Our guide, Dewa, grinned and handed me a tiny piece of banana (“just hold it flat,” he said). I’d seen photos before but didn’t expect to feel so watched by all those bright eyes. The air smelled green, if that makes sense—damp leaves and incense from one of the little shrines tucked between roots. I tried not to flinch when a macaque brushed past my leg. Dewa told us about the three temples inside; he pointed out carvings I’d never have noticed on my own.

Afterwards we drove up to Tegalalang Rice Terrace. It’s only maybe 20 minutes from Ubud center but feels further—suddenly you’re looking down at these wild green steps cut into the hillside. We wandered along the edge (I slipped once on the mud, which got a laugh from some local kids walking past). The whole place was quiet except for birds and someone singing far off. Dewa explained how the Subak irrigation system works—he called it “water democracy,” which made me smile. I still think about that view when I close my eyes.

Lunch was in this bamboo restaurant overlooking more jungle than I thought possible. The mie goreng came with chili so spicy it made my nose run (I pretended not to notice). There was a breeze that rattled everything gently. Then we headed for Ulu Petanu Waterfall—a bit hidden, you have to walk down some uneven steps. The water was cold but clean; I dipped my feet while others swam properly. No crowds, just us and the sound of water hitting rocks.

Tirta Empul Temple was last—people were queuing for the holy springs, locals and visitors both. You can join them or just watch like I did; there’s something calming about seeing everyone move slowly through the pools, hands pressed together in prayer. Dewa showed us how people bring little offerings wrapped in banana leaves. By then it was late afternoon and light slanted through the trees in that soft Bali way—you know? We drove back quietly, tired but kind of full inside.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ubud highlights: forest, rice, waterfall, temple

• Pickup from hotel in South Bali
• Drive 90 minutes to Ubud Monkey Forest
• Explore Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces
• Lunch at bamboo restaurant with jungle views
• Visit Ulu Petanu hidden waterfall
• Visit Tirta Empul water temple
• Drive 90 minutes back to hotel

Top questions

How long is the private Ubud day tour?

The tour lasts most of a day including pickup and drop-off; travel time from South Bali to Ubud is around 90 minutes each way.

Is lunch included on this Ubud tour?

Lunch is included at a bamboo restaurant with Indonesian, Balinese and Western options available.

Are entry fees covered in this tour?

Entry fees are included if you select the option with entry fee during booking.

Can you swim at the waterfall on this day trip?

Yes, you can swim or dip your feet at Ulu Petanu Waterfall during the tour.

Is hotel pickup available for Seminyak or Canggu?

Yes, free hotel pickup is included from Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Sanur and Ubud areas.

What language does the guide speak?

The driver/guide speaks English throughout your private tour.

Do you have to participate in temple bathing at Tirta Empul?

No—it’s optional; you can simply observe or explore other parts of Tirta Empul Temple if you prefer.

Are there any physical requirements for this Bali day trip?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but there are some steps at the waterfall.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup anywhere around South Bali or Ubud itself, all entry fees if selected during booking, bottled water throughout the journey, lunch at a bamboo restaurant overlooking jungle views (with both local and Western menu), an English-speaking driver-guide who knows every shortcut—and finally drop-off back to your villa or hotel after sunset.