Bali Great Escape
This fantastic tour is ideal for those wanting to transfer from South Bali to Ubud while enjoying a full day of sightseeing (there’s also an option to return to South Bali). It covers some of Bali’s best temples, with optional stops at Tegenungan or Tukad Cepung Waterfalls, Virgin Beach, or an extended itinerary that includes Lempuyang Temple at the northernmost point of the tour.
I created this tour because many people ask for a transfer from South Bali to Ubud but also want to visit attractions along the way. If you’re transferring to Ubud, this tour is perfect because it sets you up for a North Bali tour the following day.
Most people make the mistake of trying to fit too much into their day without realizing how long it takes to travel the distances covered by this tour. That’s why you can’t fit everything in. It’s pointless to plan visits to attractions in the afternoon (like Gunung Kawi or Tirta Empul) only to arrive too late when they are closed.
The day is flexible, so if you want to make changes to your itinerary, just talk with your driver. They will help make the tour the best it can be for you based on your preferences and how long you want to spend at each attraction.
I have personally vetted all the drivers I work with. They text me when they pick you up and again when you have been dropped off at the end of the day. I also email you the driver’s name, profile photo, vehicle photo, and phone number beforehand to ensure your safety and provide confidence.
Itinerary 1: Waterfall + Temples + Ubud
If you want to see one waterfall in Bali, Tegenungan is a great choice because it is relatively close. It is also one of the more accessible waterfalls with paved concrete steps most of the way to the riverbed. You can still get great views of the waterfall without going all the way to the bottom. It requires some walking from the car park to the waterfall, but it’s one of the easiest waterfalls to reach in Bali.
For a different experience, you can start at Bali Bird Park, which opens at 9:00 AM and is on the way to Tegenungan Waterfall.
- Bali Bird Park
- Tegenungan Waterfall
- Tirta Gangga
- Gunung Kawi
- Tirta Empul
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces
- Drop-off in Ubud
- Optional return to South Bali
Itinerary 2: Virgin Beach + Temples + Ubud
This is my favorite option, as you get to see Mt. Agung in the distance over the beautiful rice fields of the Sideman District and visit my favorite temples: Tirta Gangga (also known as the Water Palace) and Gunung Kawi. For a more adventurous waterfall, this tour includes Tukad Cepung Waterfall, famous for the sunlight pouring over the edge. This effect is most photogenic in the morning, and although you won’t arrive until the afternoon, it’s still worth a visit. Requires mid-level fitness.
- Virgin Beach
- Tirta Gangga
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall (optional)
- Gunung Kawi
- Tirta Empul
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces
- Drop-off in Ubud
- Optional return to South Bali
Itinerary 3: Lempuyang + Temples + Ubud
To visit Lempuyang Temple, you’ll need to go directly there without stopping at the beach. For a sunrise view over Lempuyang, choose a 4:30 AM pickup time. I also offer a specialty Lempuyang Sunrise tour that does not go to Ubud.
- Lempuyang Temple
- Tirta Gangga
- Gunung Kawi
- Tirta Empul
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces
- Drop-off in Ubud
- Optional return to South Bali
What is and isn’t included?
Included:
- Toyota Avanza/Xenia or similar 6-seater SUV with air conditioning
- Fuel and taxes
- English-speaking driver
- Up to 10 hours of driving time (12 hours for the Lempuyang option)
- The driver waits at all attractions for you
- Flexible itinerary – make changes during the day
- Shuttle bus tickets from Lempuyang Temple car park and temple entrance fees
If you exceed the allocated hours, you can pay your driver an extra IDR 100k per hour or part thereof directly, so you don’t have to worry about cutting your day short if you’re still enjoying the trip.
Not Included:
- Entrance fees or event tickets
- Meals and refreshments
