Bali is such a small island that you can stay in one part and easily get to all points of the island really easily. Those who choose the amazing area of Sanur as their base for their Bali holiday will have no problems making day trips to all the best Bali attractions.
You can easily go from Sanur to the Monkey Forest in Ubud. There are a few different options available, which we will get into further down in this article.
What is the Monkey Forest
The Ubud Monkey Forest is high on most people’s bucket lists during their trip to Bali. This popular attraction is a fascinating nature reserve and temple complex located in the heart of Ubud, Bali.
It is home to a large population of playful and mischievous long-tailed macaques, making it a unique and memorable destination for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.
The lush greenery, ancient temples, and curious monkeys create an enchanting experience that you won’t want to miss.
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- Have you searched and booked flights to Bali yet?
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- Have you booked accommodation with Agoda or Luxury Escapes?
- Have you booked an airport transfer to your accommodation?
- Have you booked day tours through Klook?
- Have you got your Visa on Arrival? Book through the official website here.
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Highlights and must-see areas within the Monkey Forest:
As you explore the Monkey Forest, keep an eye out for these highlights and let’s be honest, there are many as you walk around in nature:
- Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal: This ancient temple is a significant spiritual site within the forest and features intricate carvings and statues.
- Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Walk along well-maintained paths through the lush forest, where you’ll have the chance to encounter the playful monkeys up close.
- Dragon Bridge: Cross the iconic Dragon Bridge, an impressive stone structure that adds to the mystical atmosphere of the forest.
Safety tips and guidelines for visiting the Monkey Forest
While visiting the Monkey Forest is an exciting experience, it’s essential to keep a few safety tips in mind. After all, the monkeys are wild animals:
- Do not bring food or drinks inside the forest, as the monkeys can become aggressive when they see food and may snatch it from you.
- Avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys, as it may be perceived as a threat.
- Refrain from touching or petting the monkeys, even though they might seem friendly. Respect their space and observe them from a safe distance.
- If you get scratched or bitten, seek medical advice at once. Head to a local hospital or call your travel insurance for advice.
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Interaction with the monkeys and how to handle them
While the monkeys may appear friendly, it’s essential to approach them with caution and always be alert. A lot of the time, there will be staff in the area who know how to attract the monkeys so you can get a good picture.
- If you wish to take photos with the monkeys, it’s better to let them come to you rather than pursue them.
- If a monkey climbs on you, stay calm and avoid sudden movements. They will likely move on quickly.
- Never attempt to feed the monkeys or hold any food in your hand while near them.
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Taxi, Ride-share, and driver options from Sanur to the Monkey Forest in Ubud
The Monkey Forest is situated in Ubud, around 25 kilometres northeast of Sanur. You have a few transportation options to reach the Monkey Forest from Sanur. There are several transportation options available for getting from Sanur to the Ubud Monkey Forest.
You can easily take a taxi (make sure it’s metered or agree on a price before starting your journey) or catch a ride-sharing service such as Grab or Gojek, which are convenient and safe transportation options.
Hire a private driver for the journey; you will find plenty offering their services on the street in Sanur or book one through popular sites such as Klook, Viator, or Get Your Guide.
If you’re going to book a local private driver, ask your hotel. They may be able to recommend one, or ask in the Things to Do in Sanur Facebook group for driver recommendations.
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Affordable transport choices, Sanur to Monkey Forest bus
Kura-Kura is a new public shuttle bus service operating daily in popular tourist areas of Bali. The transport network currently has 7 bus lines: Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Pecatu Indah Resort (DREAMLAND), Sanur and Ubud.
All of their new buses are equipped with air conditioning and free onboard WiFi for your comfort on your journey to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary from Sanur.
The Kura Kura Bus picks you up at the Grand Lucky Supermarket in Sanur and drops you off at the Coco Supermarket in Ubud. The Coco Supermarket is a short 750 metres away from the Ubud Monkey Forest Nature Reserve. It is a safe and reliable transport from Sanur to the Monkey Forest.
How long does it take to get from Sanur to Ubud Monkey Forest
The typical travel time from Sanur to Monkey Forest Ubud can vary wildly depending on traffic conditions, but it usually takes 60 to 90 minutes to reach Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud, Bali. Bali traffic is notorious for its traffic jams, and travel times can vary immensely depending on the time of day you travel across the island of Bali.
How long do people spend at Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest?
As for Exploring the Monkey Forest in Ubud, visitors typically spend around 1–2 hours enjoying the monkeys and various sites available at the park.
Do you want to hire a scooter in Sanur? We have a guide full of information
The cost of transportation to Ubud from Sanur
How much will it cost me to travel from Sanur to the monkey forest in Ubud? It will depend on the mode of transport you choose. Taxis and Grab may charge around 150,000 to 200,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), while public transportation options like the Kura Kura Bus are more budget-friendly, costing around 10,000 to 20,000 IDR.
It really does not get any cheaper than this option to travel from Sanur to the Monkey Forest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Monkey Forest worth visiting?
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or seeking an extraordinary experience, the Ubud Monkey Forest is an exceptional destination that will leave a lasting impression. Embrace this captivating sanctuary and discover the wonders it holds. Your visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest will undoubtedly be an enriching and unforgettable adventure.
What are the operating hours?
The Ubud Monkey Forest is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It is essential to plan your visit within these hours to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is it safe to bring children to the Ubud Monkey Forest?
Yes, children can visit the Monkey Forest; however, they must be supervised at all times. Explain the importance of not touching or feeding the monkeys to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
What is the best time to visit the Monkey Forest?
Early in the morning is the best time before all the tour buses arrive.
How much is the entrance fee?
You can buy a ticket on Klook or alternatively from Viator
Other attractions in Ubud
You should make the most of your day trip to Monkey Forest in Ubud. Many attractions in Ubud are within walking distance of each other. Stroll through the charming streets to explore the town at your own pace, maybe taking a cooking class.
While in Ubud, you can explore traditional dance performances and Ubud Art markets, head a little further out of town and do an ATV tour, or visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the Goa Gajah Temple (Elephant Cave).
If you’re looking for something to eat in Ubud, you should head to Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka. One of the specialities of the Ubud area is the Suckling Pig dishes. Try authentic Balinese dishes such as Nasi Campur (mixed rice) and Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck).
I hope this guide helps you plan a wonderful day trip to the sacred Ubud Monkey Forest from Sanur and explore the cultural richness and natural beauty that Ubud has to offer. Have an amazing time exploring Bali’s cultural heart!
Hungry and don’t know where to eat? Read our guide for the 9 best restaurants in Sanur
Best time to go to Bali
The best time to visit Sanur and other spots in Bali, Indonesia, is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally sunny with low humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as walking, swimming, snorkelling, and lying by the pool.
April and October shoulder seasons can also be good times to visit Sanur, as the weather is still pleasant but with fewer crowds. Pack your suitcase and book your flights for one of the best periods to visit attractions such as Bali Zoo, Waterbom and the Monkey Forest.
However, if you don’t mind the occasional rain shower, visiting Sanur during the wet season from October to March can also have advantages. The lush greenery and cooler temperatures can be refreshing, but ensure you have a waterproof bag and umbrella for your outings in case of a downpour.
It’s worth noting that Bali is a popular tourist destination, and the peak season for tourism is from June to August. Planning your visit outside these months is best if you prefer to avoid crowds and higher prices.
For more accommodation options in Sanur Bali, click through to our places to stay page or search Booking.com Agoda or Luxury Escapes.
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post about Sanur Bali! We hope you found it informative and helpful when planning your trip to this beautiful region. If you’re looking for more information about things to do in Sanur, recommendations for places to eat, or where to go from Sanur, be sure to check out our website.
Our team is dedicated to providing you with the most up-to-date and accurate information to make your holiday planning, from choosing hotels on and off the beach to scooter rental, as smooth as possible. Once again, thank you for reading, and we hope our articles continue to be a valuable resource for your travel plans.
Things to do in Sanur
Things to do in Sanur and its content is created by two Australians who have been to Sanur many times. We have enjoyed food and drink on the beach, we have sipped coffee on Jalan Danau Tamblingan. We have stayed in homestays and hotels in Sanur and made day trips to see the best of Bali. Not only that, but we aim to keep the information fresh by continuing to visit Sanur and getting first-hand information off our Balinese friends.
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