Ubud: Private Waterfalls, Rice Terrace Swing & Tirta Empul Day Trip

Summary

Ubud’s sacred waters, rice terraces swing and hidden waterfalls

You’ll wander emerald rice terraces, try out Bali’s iconic swing (if your nerves let you), dip into cool waterfalls near Ubud, join locals at Tirta Empul Temple with a guide who knows every story, and taste fresh coffee at a plantation—all with pickup included and lunch overlooking green fields. This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s feeling Bali in small moments.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget the way our driver Wayan grinned when I asked if people really swim at Kanto Lampo Waterfall. “Of course,” he said, “but you have to feel the water first.” He was right—it was cold enough to wake me up after lunch, but honestly, it felt good. We started early from Ubud, and by the time we reached Tegalalang Rice Terrace, the sun was already warming up the green steps. There’s something about seeing those terraces in real life—photos just don’t show how the light moves across them. I tried the famous swing (my palms were sweaty), and Wayan took photos that made me look braver than I felt.

After that, we drove through narrow village roads to Ulu Petanu Waterfall. It’s quieter than other spots—just a couple of locals chatting on rocks and birds making weird noises overhead. The path down is easy enough; still, I managed to get my shoes muddy (should’ve worn sandals). The water was clear and cold, and for a few minutes it was just us and the sound of falling water. I didn’t expect to feel so calm there. Lunch came next—a local place overlooking rice fields where I ordered nasi campur but ended up stealing bites from everyone else’s plates too.

The Tirta Empul Temple part of this day trip from Ubud really surprised me. Wayan handed us sarongs and explained how people come here for purification rituals—he even showed us how to do a respectful gesture before entering. The smell of incense mixed with wet stone and flowers stuck with me all afternoon. Later at the coffee plantation, we tried maybe ten different teas and coffees (I lost count). The ginger tea burned my throat in a good way. Our guide joked about kopi luwak being “cat-poo coffee”—I’m still not sure if he was serious or just messing with us.

Kanto Lampo Waterfall was our last stop before heading back to Ubud. It’s louder than you’d think—water hitting rocks in layers—and there were families taking turns under the spray, laughing like they’d done it a hundred times before. My shirt got soaked but I didn’t care much by then; everything felt lighter after that swim. Even now I keep thinking about that cool water on my skin and how Wayan laughed when he saw my face afterward—like he knew exactly what kind of day we’d had together.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's nature and culture

• Pickup from accommodation
• Visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces
• Try zipline or swings
• Visit Ulu Petanu Waterfall
• Visit Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Tour Bali Coffee Plantation
• Visit Kanto Lampo Waterfall
• Return to hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Ubud private tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included for your convenience.

Are entrance fees covered in the all-inclusive option?

Yes, if you select the all-inclusive option, all entrance fees are covered.

What should I bring for swimming at Kanto Lampo or Ulu Petanu waterfalls?

A swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, comfortable shoes or sandals are recommended.

Is lunch provided during this day trip from Ubud?

Yes, lunch at a local restaurant is included if you book the all-inclusive package.

How difficult is the walk to Ulu Petanu Waterfall?

The path has fewer stairs than most waterfalls around Ubud—it's considered easy for most visitors.

Can I try swings or zipline at Tegalalang Rice Terrace?

Yes, swings and zipline activities are available at Tegalalang Rice Terrace during your visit.

Is this private tour suitable for families or older travelers?

The tour suits most fitness levels; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

Are guides available in languages other than English?

Yes, guides can be arranged in Italian, Spanish, French, Chinese or Japanese if requested in advance.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned car with WiFi onboard so you can share photos right away; entry fees (if you choose all-inclusive); use of traditional Balinese sarong for temple visits; bottled water; local lunch overlooking rice fields; expert driver-guide who helps with mobile photography; plus complimentary tastings at a Bali coffee plantation before returning to your hotel by evening.