One of the most magical experiences in Ubud is leaving the main roads and getting lost in the serene beauty of its rice paddy trails. From the iconic Campuhan Ridge to hidden local paths, this guide will show you the best walks. We’ll also share essential safety tips to ensure your trek is as peaceful as the scenery.
The Top 3 Rice Paddy Walks in Ubud
Each of these walks offers a unique perspective on Ubud’s stunning landscapes.
The Campuhan Ridge Walk (The Classic)
This is the most famous Ubud rice paddy walk, and for good reason. It’s an easy, mostly paved path along a scenic ridge with sweeping views of lush valleys. The best times to go are early morning (around 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM) to catch the soft sunrise light and cool air, or late afternoon (around 5:00 PM onwards) for sunset. Avoid midday as there is very little shade. Expect to take around 1-1.5 hours for a leisurely round trip.
The Sari Organik / Kajeng Rice Fields Walk (The Foodie Trail)
This delightful walk takes you through the tranquil rice fields located just behind the bustling main street of Ubud. The path is famous for the charming organic cafes dotted along the way, like Sari Organik, making it the perfect trail for those who want to combine gentle exercise with a healthy, farm-to-table meal.
The Tegallalang Terraces Walk (The Epic View)
While many people view the famous Tegallalang terraces from the roadside cafes, the real magic is in walking down into the valley. You can follow the well-trodden paths that wind through the rice paddies, crossing small streams and climbing up the other side. Be prepared for some steep steps and potentially muddy paths, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking, up-close views of one of Bali’s most iconic landscapes.
Essential Gear for Your Walk
You don’t need much, but a few essentials will make your walk much more comfortable:
- Comfortable walking shoes (trainers are fine)
- A sealed bottle of water
- High-SPF sunscreen
- A hat and sunglasses
- Your camera!
Health & Safety on the Ubud Trails
Being prepared is the key to a worry-free walk.
Staying Hydrated in the Heat
The Balinese sun is strong. Always carry more water than you think you’ll need, and sip it regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. The best times to walk are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
Navigating Encounters with Local Dogs
As you walk through these beautiful areas, you will share the path with local community dogs. Most are completely indifferent to passersby, but it’s important to be prepared and act respectfully. To learn more about them, read our guide to Bali’s street dogs.
- Give Them Space: Always walk around resting dogs, not through them.
- Do Not Try to Pet Them: Admire them from a distance.
- Walk Calmly and Confidently: Do not run or shout, as this can startle them.
The Medical Protocol for a Bite or Scratch
In the unlikely event of an incident where a dog bites or scratches you, there is a clear safety protocol to follow due to the risk of rabies in Bali.
- Wash the wound immediately with soap and water for 15 minutes.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
For incidents occurring in the Ubud area, seeking immediate help is easy. Our Unicare Clinic in Ubud is your closest and most reliable option for an urgent evaluation. A doctor will assess the wound and begin treatment, which is a critical process you can learn more about in our complete guide to Rabies in Bali.
With a little preparation and awareness, the rice paddy walks of Ubud will be a highlight of your Bali journey. Enjoy the incredible views!
Your Trusted Medical Partner in Ubud
Enjoy your adventures knowing our professional, English-speaking team at Unicare Clinic Ubud is here for all your medical needs, from minor scrapes to urgent care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ubud Walks
Which rice paddy walk is best for families with kids?
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is generally the best choice as it is mostly paved, relatively flat, and shorter than other options.
How long does the Campuhan Ridge Walk take?
The main ridge itself takes about 20-30 minutes to walk one way at a leisurely pace. Most people spend about 1-1.5 hours for a round trip, including stops for photos.
Do I need to pay to enter these rice fields?
Campuhan and Kajeng Rice Fields walks are free. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces require an entrance fee and you may encounter small “donation” requests from farmers along the path.
What is the best time of day to do these walks?
Early morning (6:30-8:30 AM) or late afternoon (4:30-6:00 PM) are the best times to avoid the intense midday heat and enjoy the beautiful “golden hour” light.
Are there cafes or places to rest along the way?
The Sari Organik/Kajeng walk is famous for the many small, charming cafes along its path. The Campuhan Ridge walk has the Karsa Kafe at its far end.
Are the paths safe? Should I worry about snakes?
The paths are generally safe, but can be uneven. Snakes are very shy and avoid humans; encounters are extremely rare on these popular trails. Just be aware of where you are stepping.
What should I do if a dog starts barking at me on the trail?
Stop walking, turn your body sideways (which is less confrontational), avoid direct eye contact, and back away slowly. Do not run.
Is it easy to get a taxi back from the end of the walk?
From Campuhan and Kajeng, yes, you can easily walk back to the main roads. From Tegallalang, there will be many local transport options available at the main road.
Do I need a guide for these walks?
No, these popular walks are well-trodden and easy to navigate on your own using apps like Google Maps.
Besides dogs, what other animals might I see on the paths?
You will see plenty of ducks in the rice paddies, as well as various birds and lizards. In some areas, you might also see cows grazing. All should be admired from a distance.
