Ubud Rice Terrace & Swing Ticket Review: Is it Worth It?

Okay, so you are planning a trip to Bali, right? The Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud is very likely already showing up all over your Instagram feed and travel blogs. Those sprawling, emerald-green fields that cascade down the hillsides sure look amazing, don’t they? But, is it actually worth battling the crowds and spending your precious time—and money—on a ticket that throws in the swing experience? Having been there, done that, and got the slightly blurry selfie to prove it, allow me to break it all down for you. My aim is to assist you in deciding whether the ‘Ubud Tegallalang Rice Terrace and Swing Ticket with Guide’ is something that actually deserves a spot on your itinerary.

What to Expect at Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Tegallalang is that place that is iconic; It’s the kind of scene that shows up on postcards. We are talking rice paddies layered one on top of another, forming these incredible terraces carved into the landscape. That bright green just pops, especially right after the rainy season. Keep in mind, that Mother Nature, you see, might have a different plan. During harvest time, you might spot more golden hues than green. You might even find some fields looking, well, just a bit bare.

Visiting can be, in some respects, a little bit of a workout, but in a fun way of course. You can wander along the paths that wind through the terraces. Expect some steps, a little bit of uneven ground, and maybe a quick stop to catch your breath. Locals are selling things, is that what it is? A local selling artwork, cold drinks, or maybe offering you to pose for photos for a small tip, well that is something you could run into. Remember to bring enough cash for this, but also just for entrance tickets as well, right? Don’t be shy to haggle politely, is that what you think? Most of them anticipate a little bit of negotiation and you will likely get a slightly better price.

The Swing Experience: Thrill or Tourist Trap?

Okay, so the swing. Arguably, that is the one part everyone is excited and nervous about all at the same time, alright? All over Instagram you will spot people soaring high above those rice paddies. First off, there are many swings, very; really, super various swings at Tegallalang. These aren’t all the same either. Some are super high, some, you know, are a bit more tame. Some are single swings, others are tandem swings for you and your significant other or buddy you brought on vacation to scream with. Every swing spot seems to boast pretty epic views. As you are swooping through the air, that view of the rice terraces is absolutely going to take your breath away – literally, you are high up so just breathe slowly.

However, so waiting times are something you could run into, right? Waiting in line, it’s almost like being at an amusement park, alright? So especially during peak season, you are going to be in for potentially a little bit of a wait, really. Keep in mind you are there to have fun though, right? It’s actually pretty safe. The swing operators always prioritize safety and are securing everyone in with a harness and all that safety equipment before sending you out over the terraces. However, still use good judgment; you can still get hurt if you try and do too much on those swings.

The Guide: Helpful or Just There?

You might want to get the tour guide to experience Tegallalang, that is your call! Whether you actually need a guide kind of just hangs on what type of traveler you are, so what do you do on your trips? Do you like to learn about the culture? A guide really could enhance the trip, so it’s just your call. They could let you in on the Balinese subak system, basically, that is how the rice paddies are irrigated, as a matter of fact. You’re likely able to visit a Balinese temple, right? As well as see things you might miss walking around alone. It also assists the community to have these businesses there. It provides some economic benefits in these rural communities too.

On the other hand, wandering the rice terraces actually isn’t brain surgery. The paths, alright, are generally pretty self-explanatory and easy enough to follow. Unless you would like more of an in-depth history, skip out on the guide. If you enjoy having somebody right there with you, then don’t ditch the guide, is that right? Consider what makes you the happiest and then, choose that option.

Is the Ticket Worth the Cost?

So let’s cut to the chase, very; like, seriously, really, is that ticket to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces—swing included—worth forking out the cash? Here’s how to weigh the different factors. Think of how much you budget for these trips. Is a little more money actually that detrimental to your finances for these once-in-a-lifetime things? Figure out how much that once in a lifetime thrill will affect your decisions here. It all boils down to this: Value comes with experience! What can you actually get out of this kind of vacation that you can’t when just at home doing everyday life?

Do you like social media, alright? Because if so, for you, then it is likely worth the price alone for those amazing, perfect photos. For others, the swing feels more like a slightly expensive, okay, touristy activity that distracts you a bit from the beauty of the rice terraces, alright? And if you are not very fond of heights, then that feeling may grow, but is there any real value added? The rice terraces themselves have fees; you have to pay for entry either way. It’s very cheap, that entrance to the terraces. Also factor in transportation fees: getting to Tegallalang could also be a bit costly, that depends, too, on if you rent your own scooter or hire a driver to go there.

Maximizing Your Visit: Tips and Recommendations

So, want to squeeze every last drop of joy out of your Tegallalang adventure? You probably need a little bit of insider knowledge. As in, pro-tips, yeah?

• Arrive very early or come late. Doing this beats those mid-day crowds, and you catch the best lighting for taking photos (sunrise and sunset, very; extremely; absolutely ideal).
• Wear comfy shoes. Trust me very, super, deeply on this one. The paths through the terraces can be, okay, a little bit uneven, so leave those heels back at the hotel.
• Bring local money. Some vendors actually may not take cards. A few little warungs or shops won’t be able to take anything except physical, actual money.
• Haggle with respect. Remember those vendors are working, doing all they can to provide for their families, okay? Politeness gets you everywhere and usually leads to a slightly better price.
• Hydrate like mad. Bali is seriously hot and the humidity? Through the roof, literally. So slug water the whole time!
• Be wise to photograph ethically. The Balinese are spiritual; therefore be kind of careful when you photograph any religious spots or people and their private, important activities. Always ask them, they do, often like it if you do.