The hype
Reviewers are obsessed with the design and the 'Culturist' (butler) service, often calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Capella Ubud, Bali - Chse Certified
$1,000-1,600+/ night
Book this if You want to live out a Wes Anderson-meets-Indiana Jones fantasy in the jungle, where 'camping' means copper bathtubs and personal butlers.
Why People Love It
- The Bill Bensley design is theatrical and immersive—every corner tells a fictional 1800s spice trader story.
- Incredible inclusions: daily laundry (4 pieces/person), minibar with local alcohol, and evening cocktails are standard.
- The 'Cistern' pool—a 30-meter heated saltwater rainforest pool that feels like a movie set.
Quick Take: It is visually spectacular, but you are sleeping in a tent—meaning you will hear the jungle, the rain, and possibly your neighbors.
Reviewed by @Recommendotel_: I felt like a 19th-century explorer here, but with insane luxury. My tent was hidden in the trees, and soaking in that copper tub while listening to the jungle was pure magic. If you want total privacy and style, this is it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Many mention the steep physical exertion required to get around and the noise levels at night (earplugs are provided for a reason).
- You appreciate maximalist, storytelling-driven design over generic luxury.
- You want a honeymoon spot that feels adventurous but comes with a private saltwater pool.
- You love the idea of 'all-inclusive' perks like laundry and cocktails without the buffet-line vibe.
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Impeccable twice-daily service; staff are ninjas at keeping a canvas tent feeling like a 5-star suite.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling copper tubs and clean grout, though the open-air nature means a stray leaf or ant is possible.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition, though the humid jungle environment requires constant upkeep which they seem to manage well.
- Linens & towels: Plush, high-thread-count linens that feel surprisingly crisp given the humidity.
- Odors & scents: Smells of fresh rain, damp earth, and the hotel's signature ginger/lemongrass amenities.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Roosters crowing at 4 AM
- Geckos and cicadas
- Heavy tropical rain hammering the canvas roof
- Neighbors talking or zipping tents
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'minibar' is actually a refreshment trunk, and local alcoholic beverages + beers are typically replenished daily for free.
- Breakfast is usually included and is à la carte at Mads Lange—order as much as you want.
- You get a complimentary 30-minute photoshoot with one free e-portrait included.
What to pack
- Slip-on shoes for easy tent access (and navigating the stairs).
- Breathable, loose clothing—the humidity in the valley is intense.
- High-quality earplugs if you are sensitive to nature sounds (though the hotel provides basic ones).
Room Genie
Best picks
- Keliki Valley Tents: Highest elevation, largest pools, and best unobstructed views of the valley.
- River Tents: Located near the Wos River for soothing water sounds (if you prefer that over jungle noise).
Rooms to avoid
- Terrace Tents: Located lower down near the rice paddies; they have smaller pools and less privacy from passing paths.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a high-elevation tent, ideally in the Keliki Valley category if available, to maximize privacy and valley views. Please avoid tents directly adjacent to the main pathways to minimize foot traffic noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it really a tent?
Yes and no. It has canvas walls and a roof, but also a solid floor, copper bathtub, AC, and a private pool. It's a permanent structure with tent aesthetics.
Are there bugs in the room?
Likely yes. Housekeeping is rigorous, but it's an open ecosystem. You might see ants, geckos, or moths.
Is the pool private?
Yes, every tent has its own saltwater plunge pool. Size varies by category (Keliki Valley pools are largest).
How far is it from Ubud center?
About 20-25 minutes by car. The hotel offers a shuttle service.
Is it suitable for kids?
They allow children, but the steep terrain, open pools, and quiet atmosphere make it better suited for older kids or adults.
Is food expensive?
Yes, restaurant prices are high for Bali ($$$), but the quality at Mads Lange and Api Jiwa is excellent.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Visit 'The Officer's Tent' (living room) for complimentary afternoon tea and evening cocktails/canapés—it's a social highlight.
- ✨
Ask for the 'Soap Menu' upon arrival to choose your preferred organic soaps for the bathroom.
- ✨
The gym 'The Armory' is also a tent—working out with the jungle breeze is unique, but it can get warm.
5 things to know before you go
💡The toilet is literally a wooden throne—it's a quirky design choice that some find hilarious and others find uncomfortable.
💡The 'suspension bridges' bounce when you walk; it adds to the adventure but can be unnerving at night.
💡You might get a 'survival kit' on arrival with poncho, insect repellent, and map—lean into the explorer vibe.
💡The outdoor showers are fantastic but check for monkeys in the trees above before you strip down.
💡Rainstorms here are deafening inside the tent; it's romantic for some, terrifying for others.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Capella Ubud, Bali - Chse Certified is located and what's nearby.