Review · UBUD DAY TRIPS FROM KUTA
Ubud Combine Mount Batur Kintamani Tour
Good culture, good views, no sunrise alarm. This private day pairs Barong and Kris storytelling with Mt. Batur and Lake Batur viewpoint time, so you get the volcano drama without the pre-dawn climb hassle. You also get Ubud’s famous art and animal stop in the middle of all that nature time.
I especially like the private 2-way transfers from your Kuta hotel. It saves you from ride-hunting, and the air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day feel manageable. If you get a driver like Kadek Suta or Surya, you’ll also benefit from the calm, patient pace and helpful photo support they’re known for.
One catch to plan for: lunch and coffee or tea are not included, so you’ll want to budget for food and take water along.
Key highlights worth your attention

- Private door-to-door pickup from Kuta keeps the day efficient
- Mt. Batur views without an early sunrise climb gives you big scenery with less stress
- Barong and Kris dance brings Balinese mythology to life in a real performance setting
- Ubud craft villages plus Monkey Forest add culture and variety before the nature stops
- Driver timing that does not feel rushed helps you actually enjoy each location and get photos
Other ways to do the Ubud run from Kuta
- Ubud Day Tour: Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegenungan Waterfall, Rice Terrace★ 5.0 · 190 reviews
- Bali Ubud Driver★ 5.0 · 184 reviews
- Full Day Kintamani Volcano View and Ubud Village Tour★ 5.0 · 183 reviews
- Ubud Adventure All Inclusive Private Day Tour★ 5.0 · 112 reviews
Why this Ubud to Kintamani route fits a 1-day plan

This is the kind of Bali day that works when you want a lot of variety, but you still want comfort. You’re moving from Ubud culture into classic “Bali postcard” nature stops, then finishing with volcano views in Kintamani.
The best part is that it is not built around one exhausting early-morning mission. Mt. Batur is the big payoff, and you can enjoy the viewpoint without booking into the sunrise climb routine.
Because it is private, you get a smoother rhythm. You are not stuck waiting for a large group to shuffle between stops, and your driver can usually manage pacing based on your preferences.
From your Kuta hotel to Ubud: how the private transfers change your day

You start with pickup offered from your Kuta hotel, with private 2-way transfers. That matters more than you might think in Bali, because travel time adds up fast when you are doing multiple stops across different areas.
In practice, a private vehicle also means fewer interruptions. You can ask to make a quick photo stop when the light hits, and you do not feel like you are slowing down a schedule shared with strangers.
The ride is air-conditioned, and you also get a sarong included. That is a small thing, but it can save you from scrambling for the right clothing when you reach places with temple or ceremonial expectations.
One more practical note: there is no restroom on board listed as included. So I suggest you treat bathroom breaks as part of the plan, not something to hope happens between stops.
Barong and Kris dance: mythology, costume, and a clear storytelling arc
Your first cultural anchor is the Barong and Kris dance, with admission included. This is not just dancing for dancing’s sake. Barong is a famous Balinese story performance, and it depicts the classic fight between good and evil.
What I like about starting here is that it sets the tone for the day. After this, it feels easier to connect what you see in crafts, temples, and daily Balinese life back to the bigger theme of myth and meaning.
The dance is about 1 hour, which is a good length for a long day. It gives you a real performance moment, not a quick stop that disappears before you can settle in.
If you care about photos, this is one place where a patient host helps. Drivers like Kadek Suta and Surya are noted for helping with photos, and that kind of support can be especially useful in performance settings where you want the right angle without blocking anyone.
Ubud craft villages, plus Monkey Forest time

After the dance, you continue into Ubud art village territory. Expect a craft-focused stop that centers on Sukawati, with related visits that often include Batuan and Celuk. Admission here is free in the details provided.
This part is your “watch it made” segment. You are looking at handwork traditions like painting and batik, plus gold and silver items made by artisans. Even if you do not buy anything, it is a chance to slow down and see the craft process and the materials up close.
Ubud Monkey Forest is also part of the overall experience. This is a famous stop for a reason, but it is also a real wildlife environment, so you’ll want to stay alert. Keep your valuables secure, and keep a close eye on how close you get to the monkeys. It is fun, but it is not a theme-park zoo.
What makes this section feel like good value is the pairing. You get performance culture first, then hands-on craft culture, then the wildlife element. It keeps the day from turning into only waterfalls and viewpoints.
Other operators making the same 2am start
Tegenungan Waterfall: a classic stop with a calmer feel than you expect

Tegenungan Waterfall is next, with admission included. The location is described as about 10 kilometers outside Ubud, which is why it works in a day that also reaches Kintamani later.
The nice thing here is the contrast. This is a popular waterfall, but it is described as still somewhat tucked away from the worst crowd crush. So you’re not dealing with the heaviest traffic feel at every moment.
You’ll have around 2 hours here, which is enough to take photos, walk a bit, and enjoy the sound and mist without rushing straight through. Waterfalls are one of those places where timing matters, and a couple hours gives you the option to wait for better light.
Practical tip: bring something to protect your phone or camera if you like to shoot close. A waterfall day can turn into a mist day quickly.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace: plan your walk and your camera height
Next up is Tegalalang Rice Terrace, with admission included. You’re allotted about 1 hour, so treat this as a focused photo and stroll stop.
Rice terraces are often photographed from several angles, and this one is no exception. If you want the iconic layered look, you’ll likely move to different viewpoints rather than staying in one spot.
The time limit is the tradeoff. One hour is enough to see the terraces and grab a few good shots, but it is not a full “slow hike” situation. If you’re the type who likes long wandering breaks, you’ll want to pick where you start your best viewing point and then walk from there.
This stop is also where the driver’s pacing matters. A patient host helps you get your photos and avoid feeling dragged forward before you’re ready.
Mount Batur and Kintamani: big views without the sunrise grind
Now comes the main reason many people pick this day trip: Mt. Batur and Kintamani viewpoints. You get around 2 hours, with admission included, and the payoff is Lake Batur views.
What I like about this version is the timing approach. You’re getting volcano views without the early sunrise climb. That means you can still be present for the scenery while keeping your energy for the rest of the day.
Mt. Batur is described as an active volcano, with eruptions about 24 times dating back to the year 1800. That gives the viewpoint a stronger sense of place than just “pretty mountains.”
In Kintamani, weather matters. Cloud cover can flatten the view, and that is why the tour is described as requiring good weather. If conditions are poor, your day may be adjusted or canceled, with an option for a different date or a full refund.
Because Mt. Batur is the final or near-final big outdoor segment, I suggest you save your phone battery, bring a light layer if you get cooler air at higher elevation, and keep water handy.
What’s included for the price, and how to avoid the lunch trap

This tour is listed at about $27, and that price makes the structure feel like a bargain if you want many different stops in one go. The value comes from how much is included.
Included items and services:
- Sarong
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Private transportation
- Entry fees as per the stops
That means you are not paying separately for every major attraction, at least for what is listed in the plan. You still want to expect small add-ons like drinks and snacks.
Not included items that can affect your comfort:
- Coffee and/or tea
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- A restroom on board
So the real planning question is food. If you hate making decisions while you are tired, bring a plan. Either set aside budget for lunch during the day or pack simple snacks you can manage easily. Water is also a must for a long outdoor day.
Service quality: what the best hosts actually do
The most praised part of this experience is the host style. Drivers such as Kadek Suta and Surya are highlighted for excellent communication, friendliness, punctuality, patience, and even photo help.
That kind of service changes the experience in small but important ways:
- You spend less time wondering what to do next
- You can linger a little longer when you find a good angle
- You feel more confident in the flow, especially if you do not know the area
It also helps when the tour includes multiple types of stops, like performance, craft villages, wildlife time, waterfalls, and a volcano viewpoint. A driver who does not rush you makes it possible to enjoy the day instead of just collecting checkmarks.
When to book, and how weather can affect the schedule
This experience requires good weather. If it gets canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
That is worth taking seriously, especially for the Mt. Batur viewpoint segment. If you’re booking during a season where rain is common, keep flexibility in your travel schedule.
On the bright side, the cancellation terms are described as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. So you can watch the forecast and make the call closer to departure if your plans allow it.
Should you book this Ubud Combine Mount Batur Kintamani tour?
If you want a private day that mixes Balinese performance culture, craft village time, and classic nature stops, this fits well. The Mt. Batur portion is a big draw, and the no-sunrise approach keeps it friendly for travelers who prefer comfort over chaos.
Book it if:
- You like variety in one day
- You care about getting good photos and a patient guide
- You want private pickup and door-to-door transfers from Kuta
- You’re okay handling your own meals since lunch is not included
Skip it if:
- You refuse to plan for food and small breaks (lunch and coffee/tea are not included)
- You are traveling at a time when you cannot change dates if weather cancels the plan
If you match those, this is a strong value-packed day.
FAQ
Do I need to climb Mt. Batur at sunrise?
No. The tour is designed to give you Mount Batur views without getting up early for a sunrise climb.
Is pickup from Kuta included?
Yes. Pickup is offered, and the tour includes private 2-way transfers direct from your Kuta hotel.
Is this a private tour or shared group?
It is a private tour or activity. Only your group participates.
What’s included in the ticket price?
The details list sarong, an air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, and entry fees as mentioned for the stops.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the provided list of what’s not included. Coffee or tea and breakfast are also not included.
Will I have a restroom on board?
A restroom on board is not listed as included.
What happens if weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
More Tour Reviews in Kuta
- Nusa Penida day trip: boat, 4 snorkeling, Manta rays & Land tour
★ 5.0 · 2,033 reviews - Bali Nusa Penida West Private All-Inclusive Tour
★ 5.0 · 1,277 reviews - Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking Private Tour with Breakfast and Hotel Transfer
★ 5.0 · 885 reviews - Individual Bali Day Trip with Private Driver and Free WiFi
★ 5.0 · 755 reviews
Still Up for the Volcano?
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking Private Tour with Breakfast and Hotel Transfer
★ 5.0 · 885 reviews - Private Tour Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking and Natural Hot Spring
★ 5.0 · 431 reviews - Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking Open Trip All-Inclusive
★ 4.5 · 63 reviews - Mount Batur Volcano – Sunrise Trekking with White Water Rafting
★ 5.0 · 52 reviews
Ubud, Three More Ways
- Ubud Day Tour: Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegenungan Waterfall, Rice Terrace
★ 5.0 · 190 reviews - Bali Ubud Driver
★ 5.0 · 184 reviews - Full Day Kintamani Volcano View and Ubud Village Tour
★ 5.0 · 183 reviews - Ubud Adventure All Inclusive Private Day Tour
★ 5.0 · 112 reviews
Fresh on the Kuta pages
Ubud Day Trips from Kuta, compared.
★ 5.0All-Inclusive Ubud Private TourFrom $10014,344 reviews
★ 5.0Best of Ubud Full-Day Tour with Jungle SwingFrom $568,571 reviews
★ 5.0Ubud: Monkey Forest, Jungle Swing, Rice Terrace, and Water TempleFrom $317,160 reviews
★ 5.0Best of Ubud 1-Day Private TourFrom $544,451 reviews
★ 4.4Ubud Palace Legong Dance Show TicketFrom $63,979 reviews
★ 5.0Body Massage Experience in Ubud Traditional SpaFrom $213,506 reviews
★ 4.4Ubud Kecak and Fire Dance Show TicketsFrom $62,631 reviews
★ 5.0Ubud Cooking Class Bali with Balinese ChefFrom $351,609 reviews
More Kuta tours like this one








