Three days, five waterfalls, zero planning stress. This private Bali tour stitches together Ubud temples, Tegalalang rice terraces, and Tanah Lot sunset with hotel pickup and lunch included.

Two things I really like are the private driver (you’re not stuck in a huge crowd) and the waterfall-and-temple mix that would be tough to coordinate in three days on your own. It’s built for people who want a solid “best of Bali” hit without turning the trip into logistics homework.

My only heads-up: the days are packed, and waterfalls mean stairs plus wet footing—so bring water shoes and expect crowds at the most photogenic spots like Kanto Lampo.

Key highlights you’ll feel fast

• Private, on-your-time driving across three intense sightseeing days
• Ubud culture in one run: Monkey Forest, Tirta Empul, and Tegenungan Waterfall
• Tukad Cepung cave waterfall plus easier swims at Tibumana and Taman Sari
• Rice terraces with UNESCO energy at Jatiluwih, plus classic Tegalalang
• Tanah Lot sunset timed to tides, with an 11th-century coastal temple setting
• Lunch + bottled water included, so you spend less time hunting food between stops

A tight 3-day plan across Ubud, waterfalls, and the coast

If you’re short on time in Bali, this kind of tour is exactly what you want: clear sequencing, minimal waiting, and a driver who handles the transfers. You start and end with hotel pickup and drop-off, and bottled water is included in the car—small thing, but you’ll feel it after the first long day of stops.

The “private tour” part matters more than it sounds. You’re not sharing your schedule with strangers, so your driver can help you time photo stops and viewpoint moments. In the reviews, names like Komang Pi, Yande, Ekok, June, Dudy, Manik Agung, Roby, Surya, and Dewa come up again and again—mostly for staying on time, explaining what you’re seeing, and being flexible with how long you want at each place.

One more practical plus: it’s built around fees and taxes, with admission tickets included for the listed stops. That means you spend less time budgeting at the counter and more time walking (or taking photos) where it counts.

Day 1 in Ubud: Monkey Forest, Tegalalang, and the swing moment

Day 1 is the Ubud starter course—wildlife, rice terraces, a temple with actual ritual, and a waterfall—plus the jungle swing to make your camera roll happy.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

This is the classic Ubud stop for a reason: you walk shaded paths in a dense sanctuary and spot monkeys up close in a natural-feeling setting. Expect birds, lizards, and the general chaos that comes with having wild animals in your vicinity.

Practical advice: keep your grip on bags and anything dangling (sunglasses, small accessories). Even if your driver tells you what to expect, you still need to move slowly and watch what’s happening near the ground-level path.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Then you drive north for the iconic Tegalalang rice terraces. It’s a short walk through green steps of farmland where you can see daily agriculture life from a visitor-friendly angle.

This is one of those stops where timing matters. Midday can be hot and harsh for photos, so if your driver can adjust, earlier tends to feel better on the body. Either way, you get the “real Bali” feel fast: working landscapes, not just staged views.

D Alas Warung Restaurant (lunch in nature)

Lunch here is simple: food and a natural setting, so you’re not stuck eating indoors after a morning of walking. It’s included, which is a big deal in Bali where you can waste time deciding what to eat between attractions.

Tip: use lunch as your reset. Don’t rush. You’ll want energy for the next stop.

d’Alas Swing (jungle swing over the forest)

Next comes the swing. This is built for photos: the view goes out over jungle greenery, and you’ll likely see plenty of people lining up for their turn. The “best experience” is how it’s framed for a reason—this is one of the most dramatic viewpoint swings in the Ubud area.

Consideration: you might feel the crowd pressure here if you arrive at a peak time. If photos aren’t your priority, you can still enjoy the scenery from nearby angles.

Tirta Empul Temple (holy spring ritual)

After the swing, you shift from photo fun to cultural context at Tirta Empul. This is a holy spring temple where you can observe Balinese people doing blessing rituals before prayer at the main temple.

What I like about this stop is that it isn’t just a pretty temple. It’s a living place where faith is part of daily practice. Dress respectfully and follow any guidance from staff on site—temple rules are real.

Tegenungan Waterfall (green surroundings and easy-to-reach views)

You finish the day at Tegenungan Waterfall. The surrounding area is green, and there’s a short walk to get closer or you can stay up top for the broad view.

If you want a calmer experience, pick your moment. Waterfalls can get busy, especially when tour groups overlap. Still, the fresh-air break from temple time is a welcome payoff.

Day 2 waterfall route: cave magic, then swimming pools

Day 2 is all about waterfalls, and the variety is the point. You go from a hidden cave drop to multiple pools where water play is part of the experience.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall (the cave-hidden cascade)

Tukad Cepung is the star for many first-timers. It sits in a hidden valley and you walk down stairs and pathways, then continue along a river between rocks until you find the waterfall tucked under a cave-like opening.

This stop is photogenic, but it’s also physically active. Expect stairs, uneven ground, and wet surfaces. Wear shoes you trust, and move with care—this is not a place for flip-flops.

Tibumana Waterfall (stairs to a mountain-fed swim)

Next is Tibumana Waterfall, found in the north east of Ubud. You’ll walk down stairs and a pathway to reach it, and here you can swim in the fresh water from the mountain.

This is a key difference from the “look only” waterfalls. If you enjoy water time, this gives you a more active experience. Bring swimwear and plan for wet clothes after.

Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool (newer, less touristic feel)

Not far from Tibumana, you visit Taman Sari. It’s described as newly developed and less touristic, and it’s another great option for swimming in a natural pool.

If you’re feeling waterfall fatigue after the walk to Tukad Cepung, this stop can feel like a breather—same wet joy, but fewer people pressing for photos.

Kanto Lampo Waterfall (sunlight splash and crowd energy)

Last is Kanto Lampo, one of the waterfall stops people really chase for photos. Sunlight and splash create dramatic images, but yes, you should expect more visitors here.

My advice: go in with a flexible plan. If you’re there for the shot, you’ll get it. If you want space, you’ll need patience or you’ll need to choose where you stand while the crowd shifts.

Day 3: temples around lakes, UNESCO rice terraces, and Tanah Lot at low tide

Day 3 is where the tour broadens out beyond Ubud—water temples, lake views, rice terraces with UNESCO recognition, and finally the coastal sunset at Tanah Lot.

Taman Ayun Temple (fish ponds and royal-era roots)

You start at Taman Ayun Temple, tied to the Mengwi Empire and built in 1634 as a family temple. It’s set within land surrounded by big fish ponds, which gives the whole place a calm, watery feel.

This is a good contrast day: after waterfalls and walking, you get gardens and ceremonial space.

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple (a water temple on Beratan Lake)

Then it’s Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, a temple associated with water worship on the lake of Beratan. It’s framed as a place for worship of the Balinese water, lake, and river goddess Dewi Danu.

This stop pairs naturally with lake views. You’ll understand quickly why it’s such a repeat photo location: the temple is meant to be seen in relation to the water.

Wanagiri Hidden Hills (lake views and photo spots)

Next: Wanagiri Hidden Hills, overlooking panoramic Buyan Lake. This one is very photo-forward, with spots like swings, bird nest areas, and even a Titanic-style board photo point.

Because it’s designed for pictures, you’ll want to keep your eyes open for the best angles. If crowds form, you can usually wait ten minutes and get a cleaner frame.

Jatiluwih Green Land (UNESCO Subak rice terraces)

After the photo points, you shift to Jatiluwih—the widest rice terraces in Bali. It’s recognized by UNESCO for maintaining the local irrigation system called Subak.

This stop feels different from Tegalalang. Tegalalang is classic and close-up; Jatiluwih is wider, with a sense of scale. If you care about how farming systems shape life, this is the moment where the tour earns its value.

Tanah Lot Temple (sunset, sea temple, low-tide access)

You end with Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali’s most important temples. It sits on the ocean and you can access the temple area only when it’s at low tide, and the plan includes a sunset experience.

This last stop is why the tour is “best of Bali.” It’s iconic for a reason, and the timing is key. Wear something light but pack a layer if you get chilly near the sea. Also, move carefully on the rocks if you’re going to access the area—tides and footing can surprise you.

Price and logistics: what $179 really buys you

At $179 per person for about three days, the value comes from three areas:

First, you’re paying for a private driver over multiple long drives. Bali distances add up fast, and building this route yourself takes time and stress.

Second, lunch and bottled water are included, plus tickets and taxes for the listed stops. That’s a big difference from tours that only cover transport and leave you to pay entry fees one by one.

Third, the itinerary is designed to hit a lot of “Bali signature” categories in one pass: Ubud culture, temple ritual observation, multiple waterfalls, rice terraces (including UNESCO), and coastal sunset.

One more note: alcohol isn’t included, so if you like a drink with meals, you’ll want to plan for that.

How to pack for stairs, swim stops, and photo lines

This itinerary isn’t just sitting in a car and point-and-click. The waterfalls involve walking down stairs and pathways, and at some stops you can swim.

Bring:

• Water shoes (you’ll thank yourself at wet, uneven spots)
• Swimwear and a change of clothes for after the water stops
• A small bag that can handle splash and damp conditions
• A towel you don’t mind getting wet
• A phone camera plan (a driver who helps with photos is a common win, based on reviews)

Also, expect a mix of crowd levels. Some sites like Kanto Lampo are busy. Others, like Taman Sari, are described as less touristic. Your driver can’t control crowds, but good timing helps you avoid the worst overlaps.

Who this tour is best for (and who should rethink)

This works great if:

• You’re doing Bali for the first time and want the core sights without a headache
• You want a private experience instead of a bus group shuffle
• Waterfalls and viewpoints are high on your priority list
• You’re the type who likes a photo moment but also wants meaningful stops like Tirta Empul and UNESCO Jatiluwih

You might want to skip it or look for something slower if:

• You hate walking on uneven surfaces or climbing stairs
• You want long, unhurried time in one area instead of hitting multiple regions
• You’re hoping for a totally off-the-grid itinerary every day (this tour is designed to cover the well-known highlights)

Should you book Best of Bali for 3 days?

If you have limited time in Bali and you want to see Ubud’s main cultural hits plus a serious waterfall day and then finish with Tanah Lot sunset, I’d say this is a strong pick. The reason is simple: you get a well-connected route with private transport, admission tickets, and three included lunches, which keeps the trip from turning into constant decision-making.

If you book, do yourself a favor and plan for wet shoes, swim opportunities, and photo crowds. With that in mind, this tour hits the right balance of culture and nature—fast, organized, and built for people who want their Bali highlights without the planning burden.

FAQ

Where is this tour based?

The tour is based in Ubud, Indonesia.

How much does the tour cost?

The price is $179.00 per person.

How long is the tour?

It runs for 3 days (approx.).

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates.

Are meals included?

Yes. Lunch (3) is included.

Is bottled water provided?

Yes. Bottled water in the car is included.

Are entrance fees included?

Yes. All fees and taxes are included, and tickets are listed as included for the stops.

Can you swim at the waterfalls?

Some stops are specifically set up for swimming. Tibumana Waterfall notes you can swim, and Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool notes it’s a great place to swim.

Is alcohol included?

No. Alcoholic drink is not included.

Is accommodation included?

No. This package is not include the accommodation.

How does Tanah Lot work for access?

Tanah Lot Temple can be accessed only when it is low tide, and the tour includes sunset there.