Spend a day with a local driver-guide through Ubud’s Monkey Forest, quiet rice terraces, a swim-ready jungle waterfall, and the sacred pools of Tirta Empul. This structured, vehicle-supported route gives a clear, compact introduction to the area’s culture and landscape.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of an air-conditioned car into a humid canopy of banyan and palm — the Monkey Forest’s shaded paths hum with distant chittering as sunlight filters through mossy trunks. The day moves deliberately: a jungle sanctuary where macaques hop over temple stones, a quiet village rimmed by emerald rice terraces, a forest path that opens on a cool waterfall pool, and finally the tiled courtyards and cleansing springs of Tirta Empul.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness required: short walks, some stairs and uneven ground; suitable for most travelers.
Wildlife
History
Tirta Empul dates back to the 10th century and remains a central ritual site; the island’s subak irrigation is a community-managed system with roots in centuries-old agrarian practice.
Conservation
Respect wildlife by not feeding monkeys and follow marked paths to avoid damaging terraces; choose local guides and small-group tours to support low-impact tourism.
Reserve your spot on the Ubud Essentials: Temples, Rice Terraces & Jungle Waterfalls today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for temples
Bring a sarong or modest clothing for Tirta Empul; some sites require covered shoulders and knees.
Secure belongings near monkeys
The long-tailed macaques are curious — keep cameras, bottles and sunglasses stowed and follow guide instructions.
Footwear for slippery steps
Choose shoes with good grip for waterfall approaches and wet stone paths.
Hydrate and pace
Bring water and plan restroom/food breaks; Ubud’s humidity can make an 8–10 hour day tiring.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction on wet steps and dirt trails around the waterfall and rice terraces.
Sarong or modest cover-up
Required or recommended for temple entry and shows cultural respect.
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
For a refreshing swim at Ulu Petanu Waterfall and to dry off quickly afterwards.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated in Bali’s heat; bottled water is often supplied but a refillable bottle reduces plastic.