Swings, temples, and waterfalls in one long day. This private Ubud route mixes a swing over green valleys with visits to Tirta Empul and the famous terraced rice fields.

I love that you’re not stuck in a cattle-car schedule. You get a dedicated English-speaking driver and photo-friendly pacing, and guides like Victor and Hendra have been praised for being patient and helpful with pictures.

One drawback to consider: it’s an all-day outing (about 8 to 10 hours) with a moderate fitness level, and the swing admission is not included in the base price.

Key things that make this Ubud day work

• Private and customizable: You stay with only your group, and the driver can adjust timing if you want more time at a stop.
• Start with the Aloha Ubud Swing: That first stop is built for big views and photos, and it sets the tone fast.
• Tirta Empul Temple includes the core admission: You’ll see the sacred water temple and the cleansing ritual in a calm setting.
• Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a UNESCO-style must: You get time to walk the terraced paddies and breathe in the air around them.
• Manuaba Waterfall is a cooler, calmer change of pace: Expect a more rural feel and the chance to cool off.
• Optional lunch plus a route pass by Ubud Art Market: You can add food at D’Alas Warung and pick up small handmade finds if you want.

A full Ubud day that actually has variety

This isn’t just another sequence of scenic spots. It’s a day that bounces between three different kinds of Bali: adrenaline views (the swing), spiritual water culture (Tirta Empul), and countryside agriculture (Tegalalang). Then you get a physical reset at the waterfall, where the day slows down and the air changes.

That mix is exactly why this works for a lot of people. If you only want temples, you’ll still see one of Bali’s most atmospheric rice landscapes. If you only want photos, you still get more than a postcard checklist.

Pickup, transport, and pacing (the part that makes or breaks the day)

Your tour starts around 10:00 am from Living World Denpasar (Jl. Gatot Subroto Tim., Tonja). You’re picked up, driven in an air-conditioned vehicle, and you return to the same meeting point at the end.

Timing is important here because the day is long: about 8 to 10 hours. The upside of that length is you don’t have to sprint. The downside is you’ll feel it—especially in the middle of the day when you’re out walking.

You should also plan for a moderate physical fitness level. Nothing is described as extreme, but the waterfall stop involves rugged rural trails, so wear shoes you’re happy to get a little dusty or wet.

Stop 1: Aloha Ubud Swing for big valley views

The day kicks off with Aloha Ubud Swing, and it’s purpose-built for the classic Ubud photo moment. You soar above valleys and jungle-like greenery, which means you’re not just looking at scenery—you’re framing it from above.

One key detail: the swing admission ticket is not included in the tour price. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s the kind of extra cost you should mentally file under: activities at the attraction site.

Practical tip: bring a small, secure way to carry essentials (phone, money, etc.). You’ll want your hands free for photos, but you also want your stuff safe. Also, if you’re wearing flip-flops, think twice. You want traction when you’re moving around the swing area.

Why this stop matters: it gives you a high-energy start, so even if later spots feel more reflective or spiritual, you’ve already gotten the adrenaline and the wow-factor.

Stop 2: Tirta Empul Temple and the cleansing ritual

Next up is Tirta Empul Temple in Tampaksiring. This is a Hindu water temple tied to spiritual practice, and the visit focuses on the sacred springs and the cleansing ritual devotees perform.

The standout here isn’t spectacle—it’s the setting and the meaning. You’ll spend about 1 hour 30 minutes there, and the admission is included, which keeps the cost predictable.

A few respectful-travel notes that matter at places like this:

• Dress with temple etiquette in mind (covering shoulders/legs is usually the safe move).
• Expect people doing rituals calmly and steadily—move thoughtfully.
• Bring your patience. You’ll be sharing space with the moment.

Why this stop belongs on your itinerary: Bali isn’t only about views. Tirta Empul is where you see how water and devotion intersect in everyday religious life.

Stop 3: Tegalalang Rice Terrace for UNESCO-level paddies

After Tirta Empul, you head to Tegalalang Rice Terrace, described as an iconic, terraced rice farming area (and noted as UNESCO World Heritage). This is where the countryside side of Ubud takes over.

You get about 1 hour 30 minutes to walk among the terraces. The experience is simple in structure—walk, look, breathe, take photos—but that’s the point. This is one of those places where being slow is the secret.

A practical consideration: rice terrace areas can be slippery in places, depending on recent rain. If you’re hoping to take photos from multiple spots, you’ll be moving on foot a bit more than you expect—so choose footwear accordingly.

Why this stop is worth your time: even if you’ve seen rice terraces in photos before, seeing them from different angles while you walk gives the scene depth you can’t get from one viewpoint.

Stop 4: Manuaba Waterfall for a cooling reset

Then the day pivots to Manuaba Waterfall. The tour frames it as a less-visited Bali option tucked into a jungle setting, reached via rugged rural trails.

You’ll have around 1 hour 30 minutes here, with admission included. The overview also mentions the possibility of cooling off in crystal-clear waters, so bring swim-ready gear if you’re planning to get in—just remember the path to the waterfall can be the trickier part.

What you can expect, realistically:

• A more natural feel than the temple and terraces.
• More walking on uneven ground.
• The kind of quiet you want after photo-heavy stops.

If you’re not into getting wet, you can still have a great time. The key is to treat this like a nature stop, not a race.

Passing Jalan Raya Andong and Ubud Art Market vibes

On the route, the tour notes a pass through Jalan Raya Andong, a street linked with artistic energy and the Ubud Art Market. This isn’t described as a long hangout stop, but it can be your low-pressure chance to browse handcrafts and pick up small souvenirs.

This is where I suggest you manage expectations. If you’re chasing big buying bargains, your time might be better spent at your main stops. If you want a quick cultural browse, it’s a nice add-on.

Optional lunch at D’Alas Warung (and how to use that break well)

Lunch is optional. The tour specifically mentions D’Alas Warung as a culinary stop, and it’s described as a place to enjoy authentic Balinese flavors.

Because lunch is listed as not included, you’ll be paying on your own. That actually helps you customize the meal: if you’re vegetarian, sensitive to spice, or you just want a light bite, you’re in control.

How I’d handle the lunch break: use it to reset energy and hydrate. After swing, temple, and rice terraces, your body will appreciate a proper pause.

Money and value: what you get for $36.23 per person

The price is $36.23 per person, and you’ll also be getting:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Private (customized) tour
• English-speaking driver
• Insurance
• Mobile ticket
• Group discounts (if applicable to your booking)

Here’s the value logic: you’re paying for transportation plus a guide who can handle timing and navigation, while several admissions are included (Tirta Empul, Tegalalang, and the waterfall). The swing is the main activity that’s not included.

So the biggest cost variable is your swing admission and whatever you choose to eat or buy. If you’re already planning to do the swing, the rest of the day feels like strong value for a private format.

The biggest win here is the guide and the time you get

Across the praise you’ll see a recurring theme: the guide is the difference-maker. People specifically called out Victor and Hendra as welcoming, helpful, and accommodating, with a strong focus on getting you good photos and enough time where you want it.

That matters because private tours live or die on micro-decisions:

• Do you feel rushed?
• Does your driver understand where to stop for the best angles?
• Can you ask for small adjustments without hassle?

In this itinerary, you’re doing several stops that are visually specific, and photo moments are a big part of the day. A patient driver and a guide who understands pacing can turn a good plan into a great day.

Practical tips so the day feels good, not chaotic

• Wear grippy shoes. Temples and terraces can be slippery; waterfall trails can be uneven.
• Bring sun protection. Your start is around 10:00 am, and you’ll likely be outside for long stretches.
• Plan for water. Even if you don’t swim at the waterfall, you’ll want it for the walk and the heat.
• Budget for the swing admission. It’s not included, so it should be part of your mental total.
• Ask for photo stops. If your guide is good at framing and timing (as Victor and Hendra have been praised for), use that strength.

Should you book this private Ubud swing-temple-rice-waterfall day?

Book it if you want a single-day Ubud hit list that doesn’t feel one-note. The swing plus Tirta Empul plus Tegalalang gives you adrenaline, spirituality, and agriculture in one rhythm, and the waterfall adds a reset.

Skip it (or at least reconsider) if you’re easily tired by long days. Eight to ten hours is a lot, and the itinerary includes walking, plus rural trails for the waterfall. Also, if you don’t want to pay for the swing activity on top of the base tour price, you’ll want to factor that in.

If you’re traveling with a friend or partner and want private attention, this tour’s format fits that well. You’ll spend your time where you want it, and that’s the real luxury.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

It runs about 8 to 10 hours, depending on travel time and how long you spend at each attraction.

What time does the tour start and where is the meeting point?

The start time is 10:00 am. Pickup starts at Living World Denpasar, Jl. Gatot Subroto Tim., Tonja, Denpasar Utara, Bali.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, customized for your group, and only your group participates.

Are attraction tickets included?

Tirta Empul Temple and Tegalalang Rice Terrace admissions are included, and Manuaba Waterfall admission is listed as included too. The Aloha Ubud Swing admission ticket is not included.

Is pickup included?

Pickup is offered. The tour also lists the meeting point at Living World Denpasar and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is not included. There is an optional lunch stop at D’Alas Warung.

What happens if the weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.