Swing first, then sacred sites. This private Ubud tour strings together wild Monkey Forest and the Tegalalang terraces, then adds temple rituals and a giant swing with jungle views. I like that it’s built for a small group (up to 4) with hotel pickup and a dedicated driver, and the day ends with Tegenungan’s fresh-water feel. One thing to plan for: most entrance fees and lunch aren’t included, so your total cost will be higher than the $77.

You start at 8:00am and work through several very photogenic stops, so timing matters. The good news is you’ll have bottled water, a sarong for Tirta Empul, and transport handled end-to-end. Just keep in mind there’s moderate walking and stairs—especially at the waterfall—and it can be hot in the middle of the day.

In the feedback I read, the standout was the guide: Sindu (also written Sindhu) Bali Driver is described as friendly, English-strong, and very good at keeping schedules tight. If you have a cruise departure or a hard cutoff, that kind of practical attention can make the whole day feel less stressful.

Key things worth knowing before you go

• Private transport for up to 4 so you’re not stuck with a big group pace.
• Monkey Forest in a protected 12.5-hectare sanctuary with around 700 long-tailed macaques.
• Tegalalang rice terraces with time to walk levels and grab photos at real working fields.
• Sarong for Tirta Empul is included, so you don’t have to hunt one down last minute.
• Satria swing admission is free, with herbal drinks available on site (lockers may cost extra).

A private Ubud day that moves from macaques to rice to temples

This tour has a smart rhythm: nature first, then agriculture, then spiritual Bali, then a big, fun photo stop, and finally a waterfall break. It’s the kind of day plan that works well if you want variety without juggling buses, ticket lines, or complicated transfers.

You’re not just checking boxes. The order matters. Starting with Monkey Forest puts you early while the area is lively and before your energy drains from later heat and stairs. Then you head to Tegalalang for a look at working rice terraces, before Tirta Empul shifts the mood to holy-water purification rituals. The swing stop (Satria Agrowisata) is a playful reset between temples and the final waterfall.

Starting at 8:00am: how the 9.5-hour flow really feels

The tour runs about 9 hours 30 minutes, beginning at 8:00am. Meeting point is at the Monkey Forest Sanctuary area (Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud), and pickup is offered from your hotel lobby.

That morning start is practical in Bali. It helps with:

• fewer delays getting out of town
• more comfortable walking earlier in the day
• better photo timing at places like the terraced rice fields

Between stops, you’ll be in a private vehicle. Bottled water is included, which is a small detail that adds real comfort when you’re moving through multiple outdoor locations.

Fitness note: the tour asks for moderate physical fitness. That usually means you should be comfortable with uneven paths and stairs. Tegenungan includes a stair descent and climbing back up, so plan your energy accordingly.

Monkey Forest sanctuary: 700 macaques in a protected 12.5-hectare patch

Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of the big draws for a reason. You’ll spend about 1 hour 30 minutes here, walking through a protected forest area in the middle of Ubud city.

What makes it special is the scale and setting:

• around 700 long-tailed macaques living in the wild (organized in multiple groups)
• about 12.5 hectares of forest
• lots of plant variety (over 125 kinds of trees and plants)
• temple buildings mixed into the forest environment

A practical way to enjoy this stop is to move slowly and keep your eyes up. The macaques are active, and some are used to human presence. Keep small items secure (bags, hats, sunglasses) and be mindful when groups of monkeys get close.

Also, don’t treat it like a zoo. It’s a living sanctuary, so your best experience comes from watching behavior rather than chasing photos. Give yourself time to step away from the busiest spots and look at the temples tucked among the trees.

Tegalalang rice terraces: real daily farmer work, not just views

Next comes the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, one of Ubud’s top things to do. You’ll have about 1 hour here, and it’s a short drive north from Ubud.

This stop is famous for stunning views, but the value here is that you’re seeing the terraced rice system up close—levels of fields built for daily work. The area is known for:

• lots of spots to walk between terrace levels
• areas where you can also do swinging/photo-style moments nearby
• an active agricultural valley where you can sense how people live with the land

You should expect crowds at peak times. The upside is that you’re guaranteed a lot of photo angles and shaded spots to pause. Admission isn’t included, so budget for the ticket when you’re there.

Tirta Empul temple: holy spring purification and why the sarong matters

After rice terraces, the mood shifts. Tirta Empul Temple (near Tampaksiring) is about 1 hour 30 minutes, and it’s built around water.

The key feature is the holy spring bathing area. Balinese Hindus come here for purification rituals, using the sacred spring water that flows regularly within the temple complex. It’s not just scenic. It’s functional and meaningful—people come to pray and to cleanse as part of their spiritual routine.

Here’s where the tour scores a practical win: a sarong is included. Many temples require it, and having one handled ahead of time saves hassle. You’ll also want to dress respectfully for temple areas (the sarong solves one piece of that).

The best approach at Tirta Empul is to watch the flow and follow local cues. Let the ritual pace guide you. If you’re curious, take your time reading the movement of people around the bathing buildings and main temple area.

Satria Agrowisata swing: the fun stop with jungle views and herbal drinks

Then you hit the swing section—Satria Agrowisata (often called Satria Swing). You’ll have about 1 hour 30 minutes here, and the admission for the swing itself is listed as free.

What you’re getting is a classic Bali “giant swing” experience, set in an unspoiled rainforest valley. The viewpoint is the point: you get broad green views over the valley, and you can spend time taking photos from different angles.

One more detail that’s easy to miss: the site is also described as offering a variety of herbal drinks in a cool atmosphere. That means you’re not only paying for photos—you can also slow down and refresh while you’re there.

Practical note: lockers for the swing area are listed as not included. If you bring valuables, plan to store them properly while you’re changing or getting ready. And if you have a fear of heights, be honest with yourself before you step onto the platform.

Tegenungan waterfall: green surroundings, swimming, and stairwork

The final stop is Tegenungan Waterfall, with about 1 hour 30 minutes on site.

This waterfall has a different feel than the highland-style waterfalls you might see elsewhere. It’s described as not being in mountainous highlands, and that often means it can feel more approachable and easier to access.

What you’ll notice:

• the clarity and amount of water can depend on rainfall
• the surroundings are green, with fresh water
• you can swim in the area (when conditions allow)
• there are varying heights you can reach after going down the stairs and climbing back up
• there’s a viewing point by the main entrance so you can still enjoy the waterfall without going far

The main consideration here is physical effort. The stair descent and return climb are part of the experience, and the path can be slippery depending on water. Wear shoes with decent grip and take your time.

Also, entrance fees aren’t included, so expect to pay on arrival.

Price and value: what $77 covers, and what you should budget

The price is $77.00 per group (up to 4) for a private day. For Ubud, that’s often a good structure because you’re paying for:

• private transportation
• bottled water
• sarong for Tirta Empul

What’s not included is where your final total shifts. Entrance fees apply at multiple stops: Monkey Forest, Tegalalang, Tirta Empul, and Tegenungan. Lunch is also not included.

So the value is best if:

• you want a private pace (not a bus schedule)
• you want hotel pickup
• you’re okay adding a few entry tickets and buying lunch separately
• you want a driver who can keep the day moving

If you’re traveling as a couple or a small family, the per-group pricing helps a lot. And because the itinerary is dense—multiple major sites—a private setup can reduce wasted time and make the day feel smoother.

The kind of traveler who will love this day

This is a strong pick if you want Ubud highlights in one long, well-paced outing:

• couples and small families who want a private vehicle
• first-timers who want sacred sites plus signature Ubud scenery
• anyone who likes photo-friendly stops but still wants cultural content (Monkey Forest and Tirta Empul are real focus points)

It’s also a solid choice if you care about timing. In the feedback I saw, Sindu/Sindhu was praised for being on time and adapting to strict departure needs—helpful if you’re on a cruise or have another fixed plan later.

If you dislike crowds, plan early starts and keep your expectations flexible at Tegalalang and Monkey Forest. Those spots are popular for a reason.

Should you book the Private Ubud Tour with Swing?

If you want one day that hits the biggest Ubud themes—animals, rice terraces, temple water rituals, a giant swing, and a classic waterfall—this tour makes a lot of sense. The private setup, bottled water, and sarong included are practical touches. Plus, the swing admission being free reduces the “hidden cost” feeling that some Bali days can have.

I would book it if you:

• can handle moderate walking and stairs
• don’t mind paying entrance fees separately
• prefer a driver-led plan with pickup and drop-off

I’d hesitate if you’re trying to keep costs ultra-low or you hate scheduling multiple stops in a single day. With entrance fees and lunch not included, your final budget will be higher than $77 by the time you reach the last waterfall.

FAQ

FAQ

What time does the tour start?

The tour starts at 8:00am.

How long is the tour?

It runs about 9 hours 30 minutes.

Is pickup included?

Pickup is offered, and the tour begins with meeting your driver or guide at your hotel lobby.

What’s the group size?

It’s a private tour for your group, up to 4 people.

What’s included in the price?

Private transportation, bottled water, and a sarong for the Tirta Empul Temple are included.

What costs are not included?

Lunch, entrance fees for Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul Temple, and Tegenungan Waterfall are not included, along with any other personal expenses.

Is the swing ticket included?

The swing at Satria Agrowisata is listed as free, but lockers for the swing area are not included.

Do I need a certain fitness level?

You should have a moderate physical fitness level because you’ll do walking and stairs, including at Tegenungan Waterfall.

Is this tour cancellable?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.