Ubud: Gorilla Face ATV & Batur Natural Hotspring with Lunch

Four wheels and volcanic heat in one day. This Ubud tour strings together muddy jungle riding and a natural hot spring stop at Mount Batur, so you get adventure plus real downtime. You’ll pass rice fields, rivers, and dramatic terrain before ending at steaming water with views over the lake and mountains.

What I like most is the mix of scenery and challenge. The ride isn’t just a loop; it’s a varied route with jungle tracks, river crossings, rice paddies, and the famous Gorilla Face Cave stretch with slopes and a bumpy feel. I also love that the hot spring isn’t a quick dip; you get 1–2 hours to soak, then use the shower/changing setup afterward.

One drawback to plan for: the ATV part and the hot spring part aren’t right next to each other. If you don’t choose hotel pickup, you may need to handle the transfer yourself, which can catch people off guard. Also, lunch is straightforward (fried rice or noodles), so don’t expect a fancy food stop.

Key highlights you’ll actually feel

• Gorilla Face Cave section with real off-road terrain and tight, adventurous moments
• Rice fields, river scenery, and jungle tracks that keep the morning from feeling repetitive
• Batur Natural Hot Spring time (1–2 hours) for a slow soak, not a rushed stop
• Tandem or solo ATV options depending on what you book
• Shower, changing rooms, lockers, towel so you can reset after getting muddy
• Batur views during the soak over the lake and volcano area

The Gorilla Face ATV route: the ride you remember

This is one of those Bali days that feels like two trips stitched together: first, you’re on a quad ATV grinding through mud, hills, and jungle-side tracks; then you shift into relaxation at Batur’s hot springs. The total day runs about 5–8 hours, depending on your start time and the rhythm of transfers.

On the ATV side, you’re not just riding for a photo line. You’ll get a safety briefing first, plus safety equipment and an experienced guide. Then you’re out on a route that includes slopes, steep inclines, and bumpy terrain, which is exactly what makes this feel like an adventure day rather than a casual activity.

A nice detail for many people: it’s set up for both first-timers and experienced riders. If you’re new, you’ll want to pay attention during the safety briefing and drive smoothly through the more uneven sections. If you’ve ridden before, you’ll likely enjoy the mix of traction changes as the trail goes from muddy to more open areas.

Gorilla Face Cave, rivers, and rice paddies on the same morning

The core of the morning is the variety. Expect a route that takes you past rice terraces, through jungle and river scenery, and along tracks that can get muddy. You’ll also go through the Gorilla Face Cave section, which adds that special Bali-factor: it’s not just “off-road,” it’s off-road with an actual landmark moment.

This is where the tour’s pace matters. The ATV portion is long enough to feel like you’re truly riding, not just taking turns on a short track. And because the route includes uneven ground—plus tight bits and cave driving—the guide’s role becomes more than “pointing out views.” They help you stay confident on the technical parts.

You’ll also get to enjoy views of the volcano/hills and Batur Lake area during the day before you reach the hot spring. It’s a good reminder that Bali’s interior has more going on than just the coast.

If you’re coming as a couple or with a friend, the option to ride tandem (or drive your own ATV) can change the whole feel of the day. Tandem is often easier for nerves and coordination. A solo ATV usually feels more freeing because you control your line through the bumpy stretches.

How the transfer to Batur works (and why it matters)

Here’s the thing people should plan for: the hot spring visit is not immediately attached to the ATV track. There’s typically around 45 minutes to 1 hour of driving distance between the ATV activity area and Batur Natural Hot Spring.

If you book with pickup from your hotel, that’s handled for you in an air-conditioned car with a professional driver guide. This is the smoother option, especially if you don’t want to figure out directions after a muddy morning.

If you come on your own, build in time and don’t assume it’s a quick hop between the two. After ATV riding, you’ll likely be ready to change, snack, and settle in. Having the timing clear ahead of time makes the whole day feel calmer.

Soaking at Batur Natural Hot Spring: views plus real reset time

The hot spring part is the payoff. Instead of a quick wash-and-go, you’ll have 1–2 hours to soak in the natural hot spring from the Mount Batur volcano area. Water heat is the obvious benefit, but the real value is how the timing lets your body cool down slowly afterward.

During the soak, you get views over Lake Batur and the mountain area. That combination—warm water and a wide open view—is exactly what makes this segment worth the ride. It’s a change of pace in a day that’s otherwise full of moving, climbing, and bouncing.

You’ll also find practical comfort items here. The tour includes a shower room, changing room, and locker, plus a towel and bottled water. That’s a big deal because once you’re muddy, you want to transition fast from “ATV mode” to “relaxed human again.”

One more practical note: this tour runs rain or shine. Rain can make the trails slick (and muddy days are already part of the plan), but the hot spring stays a great option because it doesn’t require perfect weather.

Lunch and post-ride comfort: what’s included and what to expect

Lunch is included, and it’s intentionally simple: fried rice or fried noodles. This isn’t a gourmet cultural meal, but it does the job. You’ll want something filling after ATV riding, and fried rice/noodles are usually easy for most stomachs after a bumpy morning.

The most underrated part of the included extras is the “reset kit.” Because you’re getting into muddy terrain and then soaking, the included shower/changing/locker setup reduces stress. You won’t have to guess where to rinse off, and you can pack up your wet gear more efficiently.

Also, the tour includes towel and bottled water, which helps if you arrive at the hot spring feeling sweaty. If you’re trying to travel light, these inclusions matter.

Price and value: why $36 can make sense in Bali

At around $36 per person, this tour is priced like a value-focused day in Bali: one paid package that combines the ATV activity and the hot spring entry time, plus lunch and key facilities.

Here’s how that value tends to work out in real terms:

• You’re not paying separately for a guided ATV day and a separate hot spring visit.
• You get safety equipment and a professional guide for the ride segment.
• You receive shower/changing access, towel, water, and lunch—small items that add up if you did them independently.

Could it be “cheap”? Not really. But it’s a reasonable bundle given you’re buying both experiences and the logistics help (especially if you choose pickup). If you have your own transportation and don’t need pickup, you may be able to replicate pieces cheaper—but the package still tends to save you time and stress.

What keeps it fair is also what keeps expectations realistic: lunch is basic, and photography/videography isn’t included as a formal add-on. That said, guides may help with photos on the spot—just don’t expect a guaranteed professional photo package.

Who this tour suits best (and who should skip it)

This is best for people who like active travel. You’ll be dealing with muddy tracks, steep inclines, and bumpy terrain, so you should feel comfortable with a physically active morning. The good news: it’s designed to be workable for beginners as well, thanks to the safety briefing and guiding.

It also fits well if you want a “two mood day.” ATV gives you the adrenaline and movement. Batur gives you the slow soak and views. If you’re the type who gets restless with only temples or only beaches, this is a nice balance.

Not for everyone:

• Pregnant women should skip this one.
• If you have mobility impairments, it may not be suitable.

If you’re traveling as a couple, the tandem option can be a comfort choice. If you’re traveling with friends, driving separate ATVs can feel more fun, since each rider can focus on their own route line.

Practical tips: how to get ready for mud and hot water

To enjoy this day, pack like you expect to get wet and dirty. The tour specifically recommends:

• Change of clothes
• Swimwear
• Cash (handy for anything extra you might want)
• Camera

I’d also treat it as a “bring your comfort gear” day. Wear clothes that can handle mud and a bit of grime. If you’re sensitive to cold, remember the ride can be bumpy and damp, but the hot spring should quickly fix that once you arrive.

If you’re using hotel pickup, double-check your pickup area because it’s not universal across all Bali neighborhoods. The coverage list includes Ubud, Sanur, Kuta, Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, and Kintamani. Outside coverage usually means an extra charge paid directly to the driver.

On timing, consider this: after ATV riding, you’ll likely want a smooth switch into soaking. That’s one reason pickup can feel worth it.

Also: photography/videography isn’t included. If you want photos, bring your own camera/phone. Many guides are friendly about helping take pictures, but build your plan around using your own device rather than expecting a produced photo set.

Guides and the small things that make the day smoother

The guide experience can seriously shape your ride. This tour uses an English-speaking live guide (also Indonesian), and the guide can help with explanations and practical moments like taking photos or carrying bags in the transition periods.

You might meet guides with names such as Yoga, Arya, Atia, Bari, Kitut, or Jokj. The common theme is that they tend to be upbeat, talkative, and willing to help you get good shots during the ATV portion. If you care about photos, it’s worth telling your guide what you want—wide shots, close-ups, or video-style clips—using your own phone.

Should you book this Gorilla Face ATV and Batur Hot Spring tour?

Book it if you want a Bali day that mixes off-road fun with a real recovery session. The combination of Gorilla Face Cave, rice-field scenery, and Batur Natural Hot Spring time is a strong match for travelers who like variety and don’t mind getting a little muddy.

Skip it if you need low-impact activities, have mobility limitations, or are pregnant. Also, if you’re easily thrown by logistics, choose hotel pickup rather than handling the transfer on your own, since the hot spring is roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour away from the ATV area.

If you book, go in with simple expectations: lunch is basic, photography packages aren’t included, and the real reward is the ride plus the long soak with lake and mountain views.

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FAQ

How long is the Ubud Gorilla Face ATV and Batur Hot Spring tour?

The total duration is listed as 5 to 8 hours, depending on the starting time and how the day runs.

Is pickup from my hotel available?

Pickup is optional. Areas covered include Ubud, Sanur, Kuta, Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, and Kintamani. Outside areas may have an additional charge paid directly to the driver.

Do I ride a solo ATV or tandem?

You can choose to ride tandem with a companion or drive your own ATV, depending on the option you book.

What’s included in the ATV portion?

You get a professional guide, 1.5 hours ATV quad ride, safety equipment, and the guided route experience that includes the Gorilla Face Cave area and off-road tracks.

How long do we spend at Batur Natural Hot Spring?

You’ll spend 1 to 2 hours at Batur Natural Hot Spring.

Is lunch included, and what kind is it?

Yes. Lunch is included and is fried rice or fried noodles.

What facilities are available at the hot spring?

The tour includes a shower room, changing room, and locker, plus a towel and bottled water.

What should I bring?

Bring change of clothes, swimwear, cash, and a camera (phone or camera).

What if it rains?

The tour runs rain or shine.

What about cancellation and payment?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later (pay nothing today).