A Look at the 2025 Ubud & Volcano Tour: An Honest Review

Planning a trip to Bali can be, you know, a lot to figure out. You basically see all these amazing pictures online and want to squeeze everything into one trip. So, I found myself looking at these all-in-one day tours, and the one that combines Ubud with the Kintamani volcano seemed, honestly, like a great idea. I wanted to see if it was really as good as it sounds, so I went on one to get the real story for you. This is pretty much my full experience, with all the good bits and the things that were just a little bit different than I expected. The idea of covering so much ground in a single day is, in a way, very appealing. It’s obviously a very popular option for people who are short on time. I mean, you get culture and nature all wrapped up in one package.

Kicking Off the Day: Art Villages and Cultural Stops

So, the day started with a pickup from my hotel, which was very convenient. The first part of the day is, typically, all about Bali’s artistic side. We went to a few villages that are, you know, famous for specific crafts. For example, Celuk village is literally the place for silver jewelry. You can actually watch the artists as they work, turning little bits of metal into some really detailed pieces. It’s pretty amazing to see that level of skill up close, to be honest. Then, we moved on to another spot, which was basically centered on woodcarving. The smell of fresh wood and polish is, you know, the first thing that hits you. These creators are seriously talented, making some incredibly detailed statues and furniture just by hand. It’s arguably a lot more interesting than just seeing things in a shop. You get to see the whole process, which I think is a really valuable thing. Of course, they hope you buy something, but the pressure was actually very low, which was a relief. I sort of just enjoyed watching them work.

The Sacred Tirta Empul Temple

Next up was the Tirta Empul Temple, and this spot, frankly, had a completely different feel. It’s basically a holy water temple, and it’s a place that is deeply important to the Balinese people. The main attraction is, in other words, the large stone purification pools filled with fresh spring water. You can see lots of people, both locals and visitors, going through a water ritual, and the atmosphere is just so calm and respectful. I mean, even if you don’t take part in the bathing, just being there is a really moving experience. The water is surprisingly cold and very clear, you know. You just have to wear a sarong, which they provide for you at the entrance, so that’s something you don’t need to worry about. Our guide explained the meaning behind the temple, which was really helpful in understanding what we were seeing. Honestly, it was one of the most memorable parts of the day for me. It’s a little bit of a spiritual pause in an otherwise busy schedule. The whole place just sort of encourages you to slow down and take it all in.

Lunch with a View: Mount Batur and Kintamani

After the temple, we started the drive up into the mountains, which was really scenic. The main event for the middle of the day is, obviously, seeing the Mount Batur volcano. The spot for this is the Kintamani highlands, and the view that you get from up there is absolutely incredible. You’re looking out over this huge volcanic caldera with the active peak of Batur in the center and a beautiful lake next to it; it’s honestly breathtaking. Lunch is usually included, and it’s almost always a buffet in a restaurant with a massive window facing the volcano. Now, to be honest, the food was just okay. It was pretty much what you’d expect from a large buffet catering to tourists, so it wasn’t a culinary highlight. But, as a matter of fact, you are not really there for the food. You’re there for the view, and the view is totally worth it. So, just manage your expectations for the meal and you’ll have a great time. I would definitely recommend trying to get a table right by the window. That view is something I won’t forget anytime soon, really.

A Coffee Break with a Twist

On our way down from the volcano, we stopped at a coffee plantation, which was a kind of nice change of pace. They walk you through a garden with all sorts of different plants, like coffee, vanilla, and cocoa, which is actually pretty interesting. The main thing they talk about is, of course, Luwak coffee, which is famously made from beans that have passed through a civet cat. It’s definitely a strange concept, you know, but it’s a big part of the local tourism scene. They give you a free tray of various coffees and teas to sample, which is very generous. You get to try things like coconut coffee, ginger tea, and all sorts of other flavors. The Luwak coffee itself is an extra charge, so you don’t have to try it if you don’t want to. I thought the regular Balinese coffee was really good on its own. It’s just a relaxing little stop in a really green and peaceful setting. It feels like you’re in the middle of a jungle, which is a really nice vibe.

Walking Through Tegalalang’s Green Terraces

Finally, our last major stop was the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, which is probably a sight you’ve seen in pictures a hundred times. Honestly, it’s even more impressive in person. The layers of bright green rice paddies that are carved into the sides of the valley are just amazing. You can actually walk down into the terraces and explore the little paths, which I highly recommend. It can get very hot and sunny, so it’s a good idea to bring a hat and some water with you, just so you’re comfortable. There are lots of little cafes perched on the side of the valley where you can grab a drink and just enjoy the view. You will also see a bunch of the famous Bali swings and photo spots, which you have to pay for separately. It’s pretty much a perfect spot for photos, and the whole scene is just quintessentially Bali. Just be ready for some walking up and down stairs if you want to explore it properly. At the end of the day, it’s a visually stunning way to end a very packed tour.

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