The Best Bali Day Tours from Ubud - So, you’re in Ubud, soaking in those jungle vibes, sipping on fresh coconut water, and now you're wondering—what’s next? Let me tell you, Ubud is the perfect launch pad for some of the best Bali day tours. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring ancient temples, or just trying to get that Instagram-worthy rice terrace shot (don’t lie, we all do it), there’s a tour for you.
The thing is, with so many options, it's easy to fall into the trap of overpaying for a rushed, touristy experience. And nobody wants that. You want the good stuff—the spots that feel special, not overcrowded, and absolutely worth your time and money. That’s where this guide comes in.
Best Bali Day Tours from Ubud (That Are Actually Worth It)
You can DIY your own tour if you’re feeling adventurous, but honestly? Hiring a private driver or booking a small-group tour is usually the way to go. Traffic in Bali can be chaotic, and the roads to some of these places aren’t the easiest to navigate.
Check also: Bali Tour Cost from India
Here’s a breakdown of the best Bali day trips from Ubud, with real talk on what to expect:
1. Ubud Waterfall Tour – Chase the Best Falls in One Day
Waterfalls in Bali hit different. They’re lush, dramatic, and honestly, the perfect way to cool off from that humid heat. The best part? Some of the most stunning ones are just a short drive from Ubud.
- Tegenungan Waterfall – The most famous and, therefore, the busiest. Get here early (like, before 8 AM) if you want that peaceful vibe. There’s a small entrance fee, and you’ll need to walk down a set of stairs—wear comfy shoes.
- Tibumana Waterfall – A lesser-known gem that’s much more chill. Shallow waters make it great for wading, and it’s surrounded by thick jungle. Super photogenic and not as crowded.
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall – If you’re after an epic Instagram shot, this is the spot. The water cascades over rocks in a way that makes for insane photos. Heads up, though—there’s usually a queue for that perfect shot.
Pro tip: Hire a driver for the day (costs around IDR 500,000–700,000, which is like $35–$50 USD). It’s way easier than trying to rent a scooter and get lost in the jungle roads.
2. The Iconic Ubud Rice Terraces & Swing Tour
If you’ve seen photos of Bali, chances are you’ve seen those dreamy rice terraces. They look surreal in real life, but timing is everything.
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace – The most famous one, hands down. It’s touristy, but still absolutely worth it. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Entry fee is cheap (around IDR 15,000), but some photo spots charge extra.
- Bali Swings – Yep, those dramatic swings over the jungle. They look thrilling, but honestly, some are more of a photo-op than a real adrenaline rush. There are several spots offering swings, with prices starting from IDR 150,000.
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – If you want a less crowded alternative, this is where you go. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the landscape is insane.
Quick tip: If you don’t want to deal with the crowds at Tegalalang, hire a guide and walk through the hidden paths behind the main area. It’s peaceful, and you’ll get a more authentic experience.
3. Mount Batur Sunrise Hike – Worth the 2 AM Wake-Up?
This one’s for the adventurous souls. The Mount Batur sunrise hike is not easy, but the views? Absolutely unreal.
- The hike itself – It’s about a 2-hour climb, mostly uphill. You don’t need to be super fit, but be prepared to sweat. Wear layers—it’s cold at the top but warms up quickly.
- The sunrise – 100% worth the early start. Seeing the sun come up over Bali, with the clouds below you, feels surreal.
- Tour costs – Most guided tours cost around IDR 300,000–600,000 ($20–$40 USD) and include transport, a guide, and sometimes breakfast. You can do it without a guide, but it’s risky. The path isn’t always clear, and it’s easy to get lost in the dark.
4. Uluwatu & Southern Bali Tour – Clifftop Temples & Dreamy Beaches
Ubud is all about jungles and rice fields, but if you want a change of scenery, head south for the best coastal views.
- Uluwatu Temple – A dramatic clifftop temple with wild monkeys (watch your sunglasses!). Sunset here is unreal, and the traditional Kecak fire dance performance is a must.
- Padang Padang Beach – A small but famous beach, great for relaxing or light surfing. Entry fee is IDR 15,000, and it does get busy.
- Melasti Beach & Green Bowl Beach – Less crowded alternatives to the more touristy spots. Perfect for a chill beach day.
Hot tip: If you book a day tour from Ubud, make sure it includes sunset at Uluwatu. That golden hour light is unbeatable.
5. East Bali Temple Tour – The ‘Gates of Heaven’ & More
If you’ve seen the famous Bali “Gates of Heaven” photo, that’s at Lempuyang Temple in East Bali. It’s beautiful but be warned—those dreamy reflection photos? They’re taken with a mirror trick by a local photographer.
- Lempuyang Temple – Expect long lines (sometimes hours). If you don’t want to wait, just enjoy the temple itself—it’s one of Bali’s oldest and most sacred.
- Tirta Gangga Water Palace – A stunning royal water garden with koi fish, stone bridges, and fountains. It’s peaceful and very photogenic.
- Besakih Temple – Known as Bali’s “Mother Temple,” this is the island’s largest and most important temple complex. The spiritual energy here is powerful.
Pro tip: Start your tour super early (like, leave Ubud by 5 AM) to beat the crowds at Lempuyang.
How to Book the Best Bali Day Tours from Ubud
Okay, so you’ve got your dream tour in mind—now, how do you book without getting scammed or overcharged?
- Local Tour Operators: Small tour agencies around Ubud offer private or group tours. Prices are usually negotiable.
- Online Booking Platforms: Websites like GetYourGuide, Klook, and Viator have reputable options with reviews.
- Private Drivers: If you want flexibility, hire a driver for the day. Costs around $35–$50 USD, and they’ll take you wherever you want.
- Hotel/Hostel Recommendations: Many accommodations have trusted drivers and tours they can arrange.
Avoid: Booking with random street vendors or WhatsApp spammers. Some are legit, but many overcharge or provide subpar service.
How to Make the Most of Your Bali Day Tour
1. Should You Do a Private Tour or Group Tour?
This depends on your travel style, budget, and patience level.
- Private Tour: Best if you want flexibility. You get a driver and car for the whole day, so you can move at your own pace. Perfect for couples, families, or anyone who hates being rushed. Prices range from IDR 500,000–800,000 ($35–$55 USD) for a full-day driver, depending on where you go.
- Group Tour: Cheaper but less flexible. Great if you’re solo and want to meet people, but expect a fixed itinerary and time limits. Prices usually range from IDR 250,000–600,000 ($18–$40 USD) per person, depending on the tour.
- DIY with a Scooter: Possible, but only if you’re comfortable riding in Bali traffic. Roads can be chaotic, and some areas (like East Bali or Mount Batur) have steep, winding roads.
2. The Best Time to Visit Each Spot
- Waterfalls: Early morning (7–9 AM) is best before the crowds arrive.
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace: 8–9 AM or late afternoon for the best light.
- Mount Batur: The sunrise hike starts at 2 AM, but you’ll want to book at least a day in advance.
- Temples: Early morning or just before sunset for fewer tourists.
3. What to Pack for Your Bali Day Tour
A little prep goes a long way when you’re out exploring all day. Here’s what you’ll want to bring:
- Reusable water bottle – Bali’s heat is no joke. Many cafes and tour guides offer free refills to reduce plastic waste.
- Comfortable walking shoes – Some waterfalls and temples require a bit of hiking or stairs.
- Swimwear & towel – If you're visiting waterfalls or beaches, you’ll definitely want a dip.
- Cash (small bills) – Many places don’t take cards, and you’ll need cash for entrance fees (usually IDR 15,000–50,000 per site).
- Sarong – Required for temples (sometimes provided, but good to have your own).
- Power bank – Your phone will die fast with all the photos and Google Maps usage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid on Bali Day Tours
Even the best-planned trips can go sideways if you don’t know what to expect. Here are some classic mistakes travelers make:
1. Underestimating Bali’s Traffic
Bali’s roads can be a nightmare, especially in the afternoon. A drive that looks like 30 minutes on Google Maps can easily take 1.5 hours if you’re heading south. If your tour involves multiple stops, make sure you allow extra travel time between locations.
Tip: Leave early (before 7 AM) to beat the worst of it.
2. Booking a Tour Without Checking Reviews
Not all tours are created equal. Some are well-organized, while others overpromise and underdeliver. Always check Google reviews, TripAdvisor, or Klook before booking. If a tour is suspiciously cheap, there’s usually a catch (like hidden fees or a rushed schedule).
3. Falling for Tourist Traps
Some popular spots (cough Lempuyang Temple cough) have insane wait times just for one photo. If you hate waiting, skip the ultra-touristy shots and explore lesser-known spots nearby.
Other traps to avoid:
- “Free” tours that push you into overpriced shops.
- Taxi drivers who refuse to use meters.
- Restaurants with beautiful views but awful, overpriced food (always check Google Maps ratings first).
Alternative Bali Day Trips (If You Want Something Different)
Maybe you’ve already hit the classic spots, or you’re just looking for something less touristy. Here are a few underrated day trips from Ubud that are still 100% worth it:
1. Sidemen Valley – The Quieter, More Authentic Ubud
If you love Ubud but want fewer crowds and better views, go to Sidemen. This area has stunning rice terraces, waterfalls, and small villages that feel way more authentic than Tegalalang.
Drive Time from Ubud: 1.5 hours
Highlights:
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall (inside a cave, very cool)
- Bukit Cinta Viewpoint (best sunrise spot with Mount Agung in the background)
- Traditional Balinese villages and weaving workshops
Best for: People who want a more laid-back, cultural experience.
2. West Bali National Park – Wildlife & Snorkeling
Most tourists stick to Ubud and South Bali, but West Bali National Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers. You can snorkel, hike, and even see deer and wild birds.
Drive Time from Ubud: 3–4 hours (best as a long day trip or overnight stay)
Highlights:
- Snorkeling at Menjangan Island (some of Bali’s best coral reefs)
- Jungle trekking & birdwatching
- Mangrove forests and hidden beaches
Best for: Outdoor lovers, snorkelers, and anyone wanting to escape the crowds.
3. The Secret Waterfalls of North Bali
Bali’s famous waterfalls get packed, but the northern waterfalls are way quieter and more magical.
Drive Time from Ubud: 2.5–3 hours
Hidden Waterfalls to Visit:
- Banyumala Twin Waterfalls (huge, beautiful, and not too touristy)
- Sekumpul Waterfall (arguably Bali’s best waterfall—absolutely massive)
- Aling-Aling Waterfall (has natural slides and a cliff jump for the brave ones)
Best for: People who love adventure and don’t mind a longer drive.
Final Advice for Booking the Best Bali Day Tour
- Book in advance, but not too far in advance. You’ll get better prices if you book a day or two before instead of months ahead.
- Negotiate if booking with a local driver. Prices are usually flexible—just be polite.
- Ask about hidden fees. Some tours charge extra for things like entrance tickets or lunch.
- Be clear on pickup/drop-off times. Some tours say "8-hour trip" but count driving time in that (so you end up with only 4 hours at actual spots).
So, Which Bali Day Tour from Ubud Should You Pick?
If you’re still undecided, here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- For epic nature: Mount Batur sunrise hike or North Bali waterfalls
- For culture & temples: East Bali tour (Lempuyang, Tirta Gangga, Besakih)
- For beach lovers: Uluwatu & South Bali tour
- For iconic Bali photos: Ubud rice terraces & swing tour
- For a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path trip: Sidemen Valley or West Bali National Park
Whatever you choose, Bali never disappoints. Just plan ahead, be flexible, and soak in every moment. Happy exploring!