Rice Field Cycling Ubud: Explore Bali’s Countryside by Bike

Rice field cycling in Ubud is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover Bali beyond its busy tourist areas. Instead of only seeing the countryside through a car window, cycling allows you to travel slowly through green rice fields, traditional villages, small temples, and peaceful local roads.

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Our cycling route takes place around the villages of Tegallalang and Begawan, north of central Ubud. The experience is designed as a private tour, allowing couples and families to ride comfortably without being rushed by a large group.

If you are looking for an authentic cycling in Ubud experience, this journey offers a closer look at the landscapes, traditions, and everyday life of rural Bali.

What Makes Rice Field Cycling in Ubud Special?

Ubud is surrounded by some of Bali’s most beautiful agricultural landscapes. However, a rice field cycling tour is about more than taking photographs of green scenery.

While cycling through the countryside, you can observe how local farmers work, how water flows between the fields, and how small farming communities continue traditions passed down through generations.

Travelling by bicycle also gives you time to hear the sounds of the village, greet local residents, and stop whenever something interesting happens along the route.

Unlike a sightseeing trip with several quick stops, cycling creates a slower and more personal connection with the destination.

Cycling Through Bali’s Traditional Subak Landscape

Many rice fields around Ubud are connected through Subak, Bali’s traditional irrigation system. Subak is not simply a method of distributing water. It represents cooperation between farmers and reflects the Balinese philosophy of maintaining balance between people, nature, and spirituality.

During the ride, you may see small irrigation channels carrying water from one rice field to another. Local farmers coordinate the use of this water so every section receives what it needs.

The appearance of the rice fields changes throughout the farming cycle. Depending on when you visit, you might see:

Farmers preparing muddy fields
Young rice plants with bright green colours
Tall rice plants moving gently in the wind
Golden rice ready for harvesting
Farmers planting or collecting rice by hand

Because rice cultivation follows a natural cycle, every cycling tour can offer a slightly different view.

A Quiet Route Away from Ubud’s Main Roads

Traffic can be busy around the centre of Ubud. For this reason, our route focuses on village roads, rice field paths, and quieter countryside areas.

The route consists of approximately:

50% flat roads
25% gentle downhill sections
25% uphill sections

There is also one short and manageable off-road section. Guests who do not feel confident can walk their bicycle through this part while the guide assists them.

Our purpose is not to make the ride feel like a race. We want everyone to have enough time to enjoy the scenery, take photographs, speak with local people, and rest whenever necessary.

More Than Just Rice Fields

The rice terraces are an important part of the experience, but the route also introduces you to other parts of traditional Balinese life.

Depending on local activities and the selected route, your journey may include:

Visiting a traditional Balinese family compound
Learning about the layout of a Balinese home
Seeing small village temples
Meeting local farmers
Learning about tropical plants and crops
Visiting a traditional honeybee farm
Watching seasonal farming activities
Enjoying views across the countryside

These are not staged attractions. They are part of the community where our guides live and grew up.

Private Cycling at Your Own Pace

Our Ubud cycling tour is private, meaning the guide, transportation, and riding experience are arranged only for your group.

A private tour provides several advantages:

Flexible riding speed
More personal attention from the guide
Easier stops for photographs and rest
Better support for children
No pressure to keep up with strangers
Flexible starting times when available
Private lunch for your group

If your family needs extra time, the guide can adjust the pace. If everyone is comfortable, you can continue without unnecessary waiting.

What Is Included?

You do not need specialised cycling clothing. Comfortable clothes suitable for Bali’s tropical weather are usually enough.

We recommend bringing:

Comfortable sportswear
Closed shoes or secure sandals
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
A small personal bag
Camera or phone
Insect repellent
A change of clothes during the rainy season

We provide raincoats when necessary. If there is light rain, the tour can usually continue. During heavy rain, we stop in a safe place and resume after the weather improves.

When Is the Best Time for Rice Field Cycling?

Morning is generally the most comfortable time because the temperature is cooler and village activity is beginning. Our usual morning departure is between 8:00 and 8:30, depending on your hotel location.

An afternoon tour is also possible and offers softer light and a peaceful countryside atmosphere between 03:30 and 4:00. However, afternoon weather can be less predictable during Bali’s rainy season.

Rice fields remain interesting throughout the year. Their colour and appearance depend more on the planting and harvesting cycle than on the tourism season.

Finish With Lunch Beside the Rice Fields

After approximately two to three hours of cycling, the experience finishes with an Indonesian lunch in a relaxed countryside setting.

Menu options may include:

Nasi goreng
Mie goreng
Grilled or fried chicken
Grilled fish
Vegetarian dishes

This is a comfortable moment to rest, enjoy the scenery, and talk with your guide about the places you visited.

Experience the Real Countryside of Ubud

Rice field cycling in Ubud combines nature, culture, gentle activity, and meaningful interaction with the local community. It allows you to experience Bali at a slower pace and discover places that are often missed during a regular sightseeing tour.

Whether you are travelling as a couple, with friends, or with children, the experience can be adjusted to suit your group.

Explore our private cycling in Ubud tour to see the complete itinerary, prices, bicycle options, and booking information.

OUR PACKAGE

Ready to ride through real Bali with Cycling in Ubud

I grew up around the villages and rice fields included in this experience. For me, cycling here is not only about enjoying the landscape—it is also a respectful way to introduce visitors to our community, farming traditions, and everyday Balinese life. Every family has a different level of cycling experience, so we always adjust the pace and provide assistance whenever it is needed.

FAQ

Quick Answers Before Your Adventure

How long is the rice field cycling tour?

The cycling activity usually takes approximately two to three hours. The complete experience takes longer when hotel transportation, village visits, rest stops, and lunch are included.

Is rice field cycling difficult?

The route includes flat roads, downhill sections, gentle climbs, and one short off-road section. Guests can walk their bicycles if they are uncomfortable with a particular part of the route.

Can young children join the tour?

es. Child seats and different bicycle sizes are available according to the child’s age, height, and cycling ability. Please provide the ages of all children when making a reservation.

Is the tour private?

Yes. The guide, transportation, cycling experience, and lunch are arranged privately for your group.

Do we cycle on busy roads?

Our route prioritises quiet village roads and rice field paths. Short connecting sections may occasionally be necessary, but the route is designed to avoid Ubud’s busiest main roads.

What happens if it rains?

Light rain usually does not interrupt the tour, and raincoats are provided. If heavy rain occurs, the group will stop in a safe place and continue when conditions improve.

Is lunch included?

Yes. An Indonesian lunch is included in the standard tour. Vegetarian options are available with advance notice.

Can beginners join?

Yes. The guide adjusts the pace to the group. A short bicycle trial is available before departure, and a support vehicle follows the group on accessible sections.