Found all over the island, many of Bali’s best waterfalls like Tegenungan and Sekumpul are highly popular tourist attractions. In fact, with Bali’s vast array of waterfalls of all shapes and sizes, “chasing waterfalls” is considered one of the best things to do in Bali.
The geographical and climatic conditions in Bali are ideal for waterfalls,. Bali has a tropical climate with plenty of rain, and a diverse topography full of lush vegetation, which creates a perfect environment for waterfalls to thrive. There are more than 75 waterfalls found on the island.
Many of these, like Tegenungan Waterfall, are found just outside of the major tourist areas like Ubud or Canggu. Others, like Jembong Waterfall, are hidden gem waterfalls found off the beaten track or deep within the jungle.
The criteria for what makes a waterfall “one of Bali’s best” is highly individual - which is why our list includes a range of waterfalls including the tallest waterfalls, the most beautiful or aesthetic, hidden gem waterfalls. We have also considered needs and preferences around accessibility, safety, crowds, whether swimming is possible, and any other features which add value to your visit - such as river clubs, swings and nearby cafes or restaurants.
Remember to put safety first when visiting waterfalls in Bali. Some are difficult to access, or require a decent level of physical fitness and mobility. Additionally, wet weather often causes trails to become muddy and rocks to become slippery. which is why It’s important to exercise caution at all times, especially if choosing to swim.
Waterfalls hold deep cultural significance in Bali, largely due to the influence of Balinese Hinduism. For the Balinese, waterfalls are a place of spiritual purification and a sacred dwelling place of gods and spirits. The Indonesian word for waterfall is ‘air terjun’, meaning water (air) + terjun (to dive from a height).
Oftentimes at some of Bali’s most popular waterfalls, like Kanto Lampo, locals are on hand to help you take the perfect picture for a small fee – and they usually know how to take a great snap for Instagram.
For those who want to skip the details, here is a summary of the best waterfalls in Bali:
- Tallest Waterfall in Bali: Sekumpul
- Easiest to Access Waterfall in Bali: Tegenungan
- Best Hidden Gem Waterfall: Tukad Cepung
- Best Waterfall for Photos: Kanto Lampo
- Best Waterfall for Swimming: Tibumana
- Best Waterfall for Fewer Crowds: Yeh Mampeh
Without further ado, we present our list of the best waterfalls in Bali.
Location: Bebetin, Sawan, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm
Standing at a height of 80-100 metres, Sekumpul Waterfall is often considered Bali’s tallest waterfall, alongside NungNung. Located in Bali’s northern mountains, Sekumpul features seven cascades in the midst of jungle, with a misty ambience that gives the area an otherworldly feel.There are a few hundred steps to descend to reach the waterfall, so it does require moderate fitness (and good knees!). We recommend wearing shoes with a good grip and taking your time on the slippery path. Whether you’re visiting to simply take some photos of the beautiful views or to swim at the base, come prepared with a raincoat and waterproof bag to protect your belongings. Sekumpul Waterfall is roughly 2.5 hours from Ubud, Seminyak and Kuta and entry is 20,000 IDR to 200,000 (~ $AUD 2.00 to 20.00) depending on the hike you choose. We recommend buying your ticket from the designated ticket counter for a hassle-free experience.
BEST FOR: Size, natural beauty
DRAWBACKS: Difficult to access
Location: Kemenuh, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Hours: 6:30am – 6:30pm
Tegenungan Waterfall, known alternatively as Blangsinga Waterfall, is one of the easiest waterfalls to access in Bali, found just 25 minutes from Ubud Central. Nestled in lush Balinese rainforest, this powerful 25-metre-tall waterfall is an excellent social and family-friendly spot. Keep in mind that getting to the waterfall requires you to descend around 150 steps, so this activity isn’t best during wet weather or for those with lower mobility. Once you arrive at the base of the waterfall, cool off in the plunge pool and take a photo on the love swing with Tegenungan in the backdrop – the view is hard to beat! Remember to bring shoes, swimwear, a towel, and around IDR 20,000 (~AUD$2) for the entrance fee. Adjacent to the waterfall is the Dtukad River Club, a bamboo club similar to a beach club but for rivers! The Dtukad River Club venue offers pools, DJ music, and food and drinks service – an excellent place to come as a group, family or couple and enjoy half a day.
BEST FOR: Close to Ubud, family-friendly
DRAWBACKS: Lots of tourists
Location: Wanagiri, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Hours: 8:00am – 6:00pm
Banyumala Waterfall (aka “Banyumala Twin Waterfalls”) is found high in the northern mountains of Wanagiri, around two hours from Canggu and 1.5 hours from Ubud. One of Bali’s less crowded waterfalls, Banyumala is a calm and peaceful spot with a split waterfall that plunges over rocks to an inviting jungle pool. The trek down to the waterfall from the car park takes 15 minutes, with some visitors remarking that the trip down and back up is challenging due to the steep steps. Sturdy shoes with grip are recommended, especially for those with low mobility. Once at the base, you’ll be rewarded with views of crystal clear waters cascading 40 metres through lush greenery – great for photography. The plunge pool at the base is a refreshing place to take a dip, so pack your bathers and a towel (there are change rooms nearby). The entrance fee is 30,000 – 50,000 IDR (~$AUD 3 –5.00) depending on where you enter from and includes a bottle of water. We recommend you give yourself ample time to relax in this tranquil, natural space.
BEST FOR: Tranquillity, photography
DRAWBACKS: The trek down and up is medium difficulty
Location: Central parkir waterfall tukad cepung, Jl. Tembuku, Tembuku, Kec. Tembuku, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80671, Indonesia
Hours: 7am-6pm
Tukad Cepung Waterfall ( Air Terjun Tukad Cepung) is a must-visit for those looking to discover Bali’s hidden gem waterfalls. Located in a canyon, the water tumbles 15 metres through a cave opening, only to be lit up by shafts of sunlight - creating one of the most photogenic waterfall views in Bali. Located in the eastern part of Bali, in Jalan Tembuku, Tukad Cepung can be reached by car in around 50 minutes from Ubud. The forest trail requires a 15-minute trek down some steep steps but is well worth the effort. Swimwear and either thick sandals or aqua shoes are recommended for walking on the stony streams, where the water often comes up to your knees. It’s best to come early (8am – 10am) on a sunny day to see the sun’s rays create a stunning rainbow effect and take pictures without too many crowds. An entrance fee of 15,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.50) is required and grants access to two smaller waterfalls nearby as well. For some delicious food and milkshakes, consider a stop at the café in the parking lot.
BEST FOR: Aesthetic value, magical views
DRAWBACKS: Becomes crowded at times, most visitors get very wet
Location: Jl. Kaliasem lingk.kelod kangin, Beng, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80513, Indonesia
Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm
Located in north Bali’s Tabanan Regency, Leke Leke Waterfall consists of a 30-metre tall, narrow stream of water surrounded by lush forest, which plummets into a shallow pool of blue water. Reachable in about 1.5 hours from Canggu, Seminyak and Kuta, Leke Leke is less demanding to access than many of Bali’s other waterfalls. The trail is a moderate hike of around 15 minutes and is well maintained, with steps cut into the land and cleared paths that wind their way through a natural gully. There is a bamboo bridge over the river where you can stop and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the flowing river. We recommend you explore behind the falls as well, where you’ll find a naturally carved-out cave. The entrance fee is around 50,000 IDR (~ $AUD 5.00). It’s best to visit Leke Leke only when it’s dry, as the descent is very challenging and muddy when it rains. Some visitors have complained of a pushy fruit/coconut salesman on the way to the waterfall – best to avoid buying fruit here!
BEST FOR: Visual beauty
DRAWBACKS: High entrance fee, reports of insistent local merchants
Location: Antapan, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia
Hours: 6:30am – 5:30pm
Set in a canyon just 25 minutes from Ubud, Kanto Lampo Waterfall consists of powerful cascades which flow over tiered rock formations. The natural beauty of this waterfall is immense, making it extremely popular for tourists to get their photos taken here. You will usually have to wait your turn, but then you get the waterfall all to yourself as locals help you take the best photo possible for a small fee. Sitting under the waterfall is delightful, as you will feel the full pelt of the water envelop you. To reach the main part of the waterfall, it’s only a steady five-minute walk by stairs but on a steep incline, making it suitable for families with children only when it’s dry. Kanto Lampo gets crowded, so the best time to visit is on a weekday and around sunrise to take advantage of the best Insta-ready spots. Bring enough money for the 15,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.50) entrance fee and for help from the local photographers.
BEST FOR: Insta-worthy photographs, sitting under the waterfall itself
DRAWBACKS: Touristy and crowded, most visitors get very wet
Location: Jl. Raya Bedugul - Singaraja, Gitgit, Buleleng Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm
At 35 metres high, Gitgit Waterfall is one of Bali’s largest and the power of this twin waterfall is a mesmerising experience. Located in the north, in Singaraja, Gitgit Waterfall is roughly 40 minutes from Lovina Beach and can take almost two hours to reach from Canggu or Ubud. Currently, there are three Gitgit Waterfalls marked on Google Maps, so make certain you are headed to the right spot (check the location address provided above). The waterfall cascades over a cliff through a gap in the dense foliage and crashes against the boulders below, creating some intense spray. Be prepared to get a good soaking! The pathway down to this popular waterfall is paved, well-maintained and only takes about 10 minutes (unless you linger in the many shops along the way). The entrance fee is 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00), so beware of demands from “guides” (scammers) who try to sell you a ticket for ten times that price. No guide is required for this location.
BEST FOR: Inexpensive, easy to access
DRAWBACKS: Some reports of scammers charging invented entrance fees
Location: Belok/Sidan, Petang, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Nungnung Waterfall (or Air Tejun Nungnung) is categorised as a “horsetail” waterfall, meaning the water largely remains in contact with the rock as it makes its descent. Nungnung is also one of the most powerful waterfalls in Bali. Less crowded than many other waterfalls on the island, you’ll need to travel over an hour from Ubud to reach this hidden gem. Once you’ve arrived, you need to traverse over 250 steps to the base, where you will find a swimmable pool. We recommend you walk right up to the water and experience the full force of the powerful water. The descent through the lush jungle takes around 15 minutes and the climb back up requires a moderate level of fitness, so this waterfall is not recommended if you’re travelling with kids, elders, or anyone with mobility issues. Pack some water and snacks, a waterproof bag and a rain poncho due to the drenching mist from the waterfall. The entrance fee for this less touristy destination is an affordable 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00).
BEST FOR: The sheer power of the water
DRAWBACKS: Lots of steps
Address: Jl. Setra Agung, Apuan, Kec. Susut, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80661, Indonesia
Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm
Tibumana Waterfall is a tall, steady waterfall found about 35-40 minutes from Ubud Central. Tibumana is a great all-rounder waterfall because it is beautiful, not too crowded, easy to access and close to the city. Standing five metres tall, Tibumana is categorised as a plunge waterfall, meaning the water loses contact with the rock as it tumbles down. Positioned amongst exotic vegetation, the area feels like a hidden sanctuary, and the path to the waterfall is particularly scenic. This calming location is still relatively unknown and is easy to access, with just a ten-minute walk down 100 steps and across bridges made by the locals. There are some restaurants along the way if you’re after some refreshment as well as ample space to sit and take in the surroundings. Once you’ve bought your ticket for 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00), you will pass through a small temple into what feels like a secret world. This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a place to take refuge from Bali’s heat.
BEST FOR: Ease of access, seclusion, bathing in the pool below
DRAWBACKS: The water is often brown after it has rained, swimming directly under the waterfall is not allowed
Location: Batukandik, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Hours: 6:00am – 7:00pm
Guyangan Waterfall, also known as Peguyangan Waterfall, is a small waterfall located on Nusa Penida, an island close to the coast of Bali. The highlight of this location is actually the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, with many visitors viewing this location as the main highlight of their trip to Nusa Penida. The waterfall itself is understated, consisting of water fed by a pipe system that tumbles down the cliff face into the ocean below. The real attraction is the views from the cliff and the clear blue swimming pools which you will find at the bottom of the cliff.
Speed boats from Sanur Beach run hourly from 7am to 4pm and will ferry you to Nusa Penida in under an hour. To reach Peguyangan Waterfall, there’s an iconic blue cliffside stairway made up of 750 steps, and it’s extremely steep and potentially dangerous. We recommend you assess the risk and exercise extreme caution if making your way down. This location is best avoided altogether if it’s raining. There is also a temple you can see on your way to the small infinity pools built into the cliff at the bottom. Please note that Peguyangan is an active place of worship, so you will need to be respectful and bring a sarong or hire one at the entrance for a small fee of 15,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.50). Admission is otherwise complimentary with no entrance charges.
BEST FOR: Immaculate views of the ocean, beautiful infinity pools
DRAWBACKS: Extremely steep stairs to reach the bottom, some consider the waterfall itself underwhelming, must wear a sarong
Location: Wanagiri, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall is a set of four adjacent waterfalls located in the mountainous Wanagiri region of northern Bali, around 60 minutes by car from Ubud. Known as a cascade waterfall, the water gushes down the rocks in levels, with four separate streams of water.. This area is virtually free of crowds, so you can take time to immerse yourself in the quiet and peaceful tropical setting without being disturbed. The trail to get to Banyu Wana Amertha is well-kept and undemanding, taking around 20 – 30 minutes to walk from the entrance, and there’s a motorbike taxi to take you back up for a small fee if you don’t feel like walking. The water cascades over a leafy backdrop into a shallow pool at the base, which is great for swimming or cooling down. The entry fee is 40,000 IDR (~ $AUD 4.00) and gives you access to all four waterfalls.
BEST FOR: Seclusion from crowds
DRAWBACKS: It takes a while to reach the waterfall
Location: Jl. Raya Desa Sambangan, Sambangan, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Aling Aling Waterfall is located in north Bali’s Sambangan Village, about two hours from Canggu, Legian and Kuta. Surrounded by lush greenery, this 35-metre waterfall consists of a series of four water streams. What makes this waterfall unique is that, with the help of a guide, visitors are allowed to jump off the side from different heights (2-metre, 5-metre, 10-metre and 15-metre) and into the natural pools below. You can also slide into the pool directly. Access to Aling-Aling waterfall is via a short walk through a jungle pathway. The waterfall is a sacred place and has special significance for the local Balinese. The entrance fee is 10,000 IDR (~$AUD 1.00), or entrance with a guide, including cliff jumping, costs 125,000 IDR (~$AUD 12.50), which many visitors report is well worth the money! Just remember to be safe and assess the risk properly in advance - we recommend wearing the life jacket that is included with the ticket price.
BEST FOR: Natural beauty, cliff jumping
DRAWBACKS: The waterfall is far from the main tourist areas of Bali
Location: Jl Raya No.Desa, Munduk, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia
Hours: 6:00am – 6:00pm
Munduk Waterfall (also known as Red Coral Waterfall or Air Terjun Munduk) is a beautiful waterfall located amongst rainforest in the village of Munduk in Bali’s north. Categorised as a plunge waterfall (meaning the water loses contact with the rock), Munduk Waterfall stands about 50 metres tall and is only a short walk from the parking area. Once on the trail, you will actually find three additional waterfalls on the same trek – Labuhan Kebo, Melanting and Golden Valley waterfalls. We recommend taking about four hours to see all four waterfalls on the Munduk Waterfall Trek, which gives you time to explore this hidden paradise in peace. To arrive at Munduk, it’s best to hire a driver or go on a guided tour, many of which stop here on their way through the island. The steps can be slippery when wet, so it’s recommended to wear good shoes – a jacket is also advisable as it can get quite cold given the altitude. To enter Munduk, there is a cash-only entry fee of about 20,000 to 30,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2 – 3.00) per person – the other waterfalls are free of charge.
BEST FOR: Variety of nearby waterfalls, seclusion,
DRAWBACKS: Not usually suitable for swimming
Location: PX2X+6H3, Pujungan, Pupuan, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82163, Indonesia
Hours: Open 24 hours
Blahmantung Waterfall, known by some as Pupuan Waterfall, is a remote waterfall located in north-west Bali, around two and a half hours from Kuta. Set between high cliffs and surrounded by coffee and clove plantations, Blahmantung is around 50-80 metres tall (though some claim it goes as high as 100 metres), making it one of Bali’s highest waterfalls. The waterfall is located in the middle of pristine rainforest, with fewer tourists, so you can take time to enjoy this quiet, picturesque place. Blahmantung Waterfall is located in the middle of a garden owned by local residents and there is no sign or car park, so it’s best to ask the locals for the correct way to get there. You’ll need to walk about one kilometre and shoes with a good grip are recommended, especially in wet weather. Local guides will offer their services for a fee of around 30,000 IDR (~ $AUD 3.00) for a tour to the falls.
Best For: Size, seclusion
Drawbacks: Located in a remote location
Location: Ambengan, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Hours: 6:00am – 5:00pm
Jembong Waterfall is a little off the beaten track but is well worth a visit, especially if you are taking a day trip to the north of Bali. Located in the village of Ambengan, in the district of Sukasada, Jembong Waterfall is around two and a half hours from Ubud, and an hour from Lovina Beach. This 15-metre waterfall is found in the middle of a cocoa plantation and is only 200 metres uphill from the car park, so it’s not a strenuous walk. Set amongst jungle greenery, the waterfall drops down two levels and has some man-made pools at the base, including one shaped like a heart. As it's not well known by tourists, you can have a more private experience enjoying the unspoiled natural setting. Entry is 25,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.50) and includes access to pools.
Best For: Lack of tourists, hidden gem, natural beauty
Drawbacks: Located in a remote location, the road to access the waterfall is very narrow
Location: Buleleng, Les, Kec. Tejakula, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81173, Indonesia
Hours: 6:30am – 7:00pm
Yeh Mampeh Waterfall, which means splashing or ‘flying’ water in the local language, is one of Bali’s taller waterfalls with a 40-metre drop. Also known as “Les Waterfall”, Yeh Mampeh is one of Bali’s least touristy waterfalls due to its remote location – around three hours’ drive from Kuta. The 1.5-kilometre hike to the waterfall is flat and easy along a small stream, giving you time to take in the sounds of nature and the tranquil environment. This peaceful and relaxing spot is family-friendly and there are some small food and beverage stalls to visit on the walk. Don’t forget to bring your swimwear so that you can jump into the pool at the base of the waterfall and enjoy some splashing. However, be aware that this waterfall is used by locals for bathing, so you may encounter unexpected nudity. The entrance fee is a very reasonable 10,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.00) per person.
Best For: One of Bali’s tallest waterfalls, peaceful environment
Drawbacks: Difficulty to access, warungs found along the way, some locals bathe and use soap or shampoo in the water
Location: Tamblang Village, Kubutambahan District, Singaraja, Bali
Carat Waterfall (or Air Terjun Carat) takes its name from the Balinese word ‘carat’, which means water jug. When seen from a distance, the waterfall has the distinctive shape of a jug. Located in the unspoiled village of Tamblang, just 45 minutes east of Singaraja and over two hours from Ubud, Carat actually consists of two waterfalls. The tallest cascade is around 80-120 metres, making it a candidate for Bali’s tallest waterfall, and the shorter one is just four metres. The path to the falls makes its way through clove and coffee plants and the 800-metre descent crosses a bamboo bridge. Casual clothing and trekking shoes are recommended, and you should bring your own drinks and snacks as there are no tourist facilities. Locals believe this waterfall is cursed, so it’s bad luck to say negative things. Best to enjoy the natural surroundings quietly and help to keep the area pristine by taking any rubbish with you. The entrance fee is 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00) per person.
Best For: Size, peaceful environment, warungs found along the way
Drawbacks: Difficulty to access
Location: Dinas Banjar Anyar, Jl. Raya Desa Sambangan, Banjar, Sambangan, Kec. Sukasada, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Hours: Open 24 hours
Located in Northern Bali and slightly over two hours from Ubud, Air Terjun Sambangan has seven waterfalls in one valley and is well-known by tourists as a cliff jumping spot. Aside from the main waterfall, you can also visit Pucuk, Kroya, Canglin, Cemara, Dedari and Kembar Waterfalls. There’s a lot to experience here, so it’s worth spending a night or two in Singaraja or Lovina. Hiring a guide to take you to each location and help with any safety concerns is also recommended. A guide will cost around 50,000 IDR (~ $AUD 5.00) per person. If you are the adventurous type, you can slide or jump from 5, 10 or even 15 metres into the cool, fresh water. However, gentler pursuits such as exploring the jungle and river or visiting the cool local bars and restaurants are also available. Make sure to wear shoes with good grip, and bring your swimwear, sunblock and enough water to drink.
Best For: Swimming, cliff jumping, many other waterfalls found in the same area, nearby nars
Drawbacks: Payment is required for cliff jumping
Location: Dinas Buah Banjah, Lemukih banjar, Kec. Sawan, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 81171, Indonesia
Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm
Lemukih Waterfall belongs to a complex of five waterfalls located in Northern Bali, about 2 hours from Ubud and 2.5 hours from Canggu. This waterfall tumbles from a height of 50 metres through a stunning tropical forest into three pools at the base before flowing into the river. From the car park, it takes around 20 minutes down the paved pathway through a lush jungle where you can see Balinese birdlife and dragonflies. Shoes with good grip are recommended, as walking on the rocks can be slippery and uncomfortable. For adventure seekers, there is a 45-metre section of the waterfall that is a natural water slide. Once used as a local children’s playground, it is now open for people looking to experience something special. Take care though, some visitors find it best to visit with one of the local guides, who are said to be friendly and improve the overall experience. The entrance price is 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00) per person or 150-250k (~ $AUD 15-25) for a guide.
Best For: Water slide, activities, friendly tour guides
Worst For: Slippery rocks, only visitable with local guide
Location: Jl. Ngenjung Sari, Bakbakan, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80515, Indonesia
Hours: 8:00am – 5:30pm
Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool is located 40 minutes from Ubud. The waterfall itself begins as a single column descending through lush greenery from about 30 metres and then divides into multiple cascades. At the base of Taman Sari is a spectacular emerald pool that is ideal for swimming. The pathway down to the falls is an easy 100-metre walk and is well built with gravel which stops it from becoming slippery and handrails to keep you steady. The amenities are very well thought out, with changing rooms and toilets available and places for your bag and belongings. A lot of work has gone into making this a user-friendly experience. There is an entry fee of 15,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.50) per person as a donation to their annual ceremony and public use of the site. Bring shoes with a good grip and swimwear so you can enjoy one of Bali’s most beautiful natural pools.
Best For: Swimming, amenities, lack of crowds
Worst For: Water isn’t always clear
Location: East Duda, Selat, Karangasem Regency, Bali 80862, Indonesia
Hours: 8:00am – 6:00pm
Jagasatru Waterfall is in East Duda, in the Karangasem Regency of Bali. This 40-metre waterfall is in the middle of the jungle and is far less frequented by tourists, so you may feel as though it’s your own paradise. Finding the waterfall can be a challenge and it’s best to go to Pateh village first and ask the locals for directions. The access road is unpaved and there is a steep and narrow hill to negotiate to reach the falls, which some say makes the drive a bit challenging. Solid footwear and a sense of adventure are required. Unlike other places, this isn’t a well-managed tourist destination, but it is an authentic Balinese experience with a crystal-clear cascade, a peaceful aspect and privacy and glimpses of the distant ocean. There is no entrance fee, but you can help local families with a small donation or by purchasing tea or coffee for around 10,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.00).
Best For: Seclusion, quiet, no entrance fee
Worst For: Bumpy road to reach the waterfall
Location: 2PPM+HMV, Tonjong, Pasaleman, Cirebon, West Java 45187, Indonesia
Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm
Pucak Manik Waterfall is three waterfalls in one place and is located in the village of Wanagiri in northern Bali. At around 40 metres, it’s not as tall as some of the other waterfalls, yet it’s a secluded and scenic experience. The jungle path to the falls is around a kilometre each way, so it’s moderately challenging, especially going up. Not recommended for families or anyone with mobility issues. Wear shoes for trekking and bring your own water and snacks. Swimming in the pool at the base of the falls is not an option, but you can enjoy and photograph the cascading water and the large bamboo treehouse. The entrance fee of 10,000 IDR (~ $AUD 1.00) helps out the local community and assists with maintenance. Situated just north of Bali’s twin lakes, it should take under two hours from Ubud to get to Pucak Manik Waterfall.
Best For: Multiple waterfalls in one location, jungle surrounds
Worst For: Accessibility is difficult, swimming not possible
Location: Sambangan, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Cemara Waterfall is one of Bali’s hidden gems and at around 20-25 metres high and 6 metres wide, it has an impressive volume of water. However, it has a wild, natural setting and is difficult to access - so this waterfall is for true adventurers. Located in the beautiful Northern Bali village of Sambangan, Cemara is one of seven different waterfalls in close proximity. The name Cemara is linked to the many pine trees that were originally found growing near the waterfall and legend has it that couples who come to visit Cemara Waterfall will be blessed forever. The trail to the falls is moderately challenging and the 3.7-kilometre out-and-back trek takes about an hour and a half, crossing rice paddy fields, coffee plantations and village houses. The entrance fee is 20,000 IDR (~ $AUD 2.00) and if you take a guide to ensure you’re on the right track, it will be around 250,000 IDR (~ $AUD 25.00).
Best For: Hidden gem, located close to other waterfalls
Worst For: Long hike required to access this waterfall
Address: Sambangan, Sukasada, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81161, Indonesia
Kembar Waterfall is one of the seven waterfalls of Sambangan’s ‘Secret Garden’, a collection of villages as yet relatively secluded and undisturbed by modern developments. Kembar Waterfall is located in Northern Bali in the Sukasada District, about two and a half hours’ drive from Kuta. The name Kembar means ‘twin’ and this is indeed a twin waterfall type, with two waterfalls side by side that fall ten metres into a natural jungle pool. The junction of two waterways has spiritual significance in Bali and this enchanting place is believed to be able to cleanse the body, mind and spirit of sins. For tourists, it has become a place to enjoy a waterfall jumping experience. Those feeling adventurous can slide or take the leap into a pool that is four metres deep with a sandy bottom. You need to be a strong swimmer and a bit of an adrenaline junkie to do these jumps!
Best For: Cultural significance, swimming, jumping
Worst For: Far from a lot of Bali’s main towns
Ubud is the area of Bali most associated with waterfalls. Unlike beachy areas like Canggu or Seminyak, Ubud is a rainforest area located in Bali's uplands. Ubud's elevated location means increased rainfall, which combined with the lush vegation in the area and volcanic geography, is ideal for waterfall formation.
All of the waterfalls in Ubud are located outside of the city centre, but some are closer than others. The most popular waterfall in Ubud is Tegenungan Waterfall, which is one of the best attractions in Ubud and found only 22 mins drive from the city centre. At Tegenungan there are swings, photo ops and even a river club (a recreational venue adjacent overlooking the waterfall which offers food and drink service, lounge chairs and pools).
Three of the best waterfalls near Ubud are Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Kanto Lampo Waterfall and Nungnung Waterfall. More information on each is below.
- Tukad Cepung: Reached by a walk through the forest, Tukad Cepung consists of a waterfall situated inside a cave. Sunlight streams through the cave opening, illumunating the waterfall splendidly. Just be mindful that there are lots of stairs, and visitors are likely to get quite wet!
- Kanto Lampo: Kanto Lampo is a cascade waterfall, where water flows powerfully over two layers of black rocks into a natural river. This waterfall is very popular, especially for photo taking - so be prepared to wait your turn for an amazing shot.
- Nungnung: Nungnung waterfall is one of the most impressive in Bali, and found about an hour's drive north of Ubud. Whilst harder to reach and requiring a descent down 500 steps, you won't be left disappointed by this magnificent "ponytail waterfall" (so named for its shape). Remember to bring your swimmers!
There is an extraordinary array of waterfalls in Bali, and they are found all over the island. Visiting these waterfalls is a fantastic activity, but there are some important things to consider before you go to ensure a successful visit.
Below are general guidelines when visiting waterfalls in Bali:
- Thoroughly research the waterfall you want to visit before you go. Each waterfall in Bali is unique in terms of the location, layout and geography, the physical enviornment, the on-site facilities, safety levels, accessibility, proximity to cafes or restaurants, and physical fitness requirements. To plan your visit to Bali's waterfalls well, make sure to take these factors into account so that you know what to expect.
- Take snacks and water. Whilst some of the waterfalls in Bali are located close to cafes and restaurants, others are found much more off the beaten track which means food and drink is harder to find. In some cases, a hike, descent or other form of physical exertion is required, so it makes sense to have snacks and water on hand for your waterfall visit.
- Put safety first. When travelling in Bali, the safety standards aren't always as high as in your home country - and this is true of the waterfalls as well. Sometimes reaching a waterfall requires a difficult hike up and down uneven steps, and many of the steps used to access waterfalls become very slippery or muddy when it's raining. Make sure to visit these waterfalls with someone else, and observe safety at all times when travelling in Bali.
- Check the weather forecast. It isn't safety to visit many of Bali's waterfalls when the weather is bad. Wet weather causes increased flow through local water systems, which sometimes washes away trails, floods the areas near the waterfalls, or makes steps and rocks very muddy and slippery. Whilst some rain is usually good for waterfalls, check the weather and adjust your itinerary accordingly.
- Visit multiple waterfalls in one day. Many of Bali's waterfalls are located in close proximity to one another, making it ideal to hire a private driver and visit more than one in a single visit. For example, Leke Leke waterfall and Nungnung waterfall are located only 30 minutes drive from one another. Similarly, Gitgit waterfall and Aling-Aling waterfall are 30 minutes drive from each other as well.
- Ask local guides to take photographs for you. At some of the most popular and visually-impressive waterfalls, like Kanto Lampo, you will often find locals helping to take photographs of tourists. For a small fee, these photographers use your camera to get the best possible shot - and they know all the hacks to get great photos for your Insta!
- Consider the location of your accommodation. Remember to consider where you are staying in Bali when choosing the best time to visit waterfalls. From southern and coastal areas of Bali, like Uluwatu or Canggu, it is a long drive to reach most waterfalls. Whereas basing yourself somewhere like Ubud or in northern Bali is your best bet for finding many waterfalls less than an hour drive from your accommodation.
It depends. Whether or not visitors are able to swim at the various waterfalls in Bali largely depends on the specific waterfalls as well as local regulations.
Some of the best waterfalls in Bali for swimming are Nungung, Banyu Wana Amertha, Air Terjun Sambangan, Taman Sari and Kembar.
Waterfalls in Bali where it's definitely not possible to swim include Tibumana, Pucak Manik and Munduk.
The conditions for swimming at various waterfalls around Bali depend heavily on weather conditions as well. At times when there are large amounts of rainfall, or storms, swimming becomes dangerous and it's crucial not to risk it. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you come, and observe any local signage or safety ropes.
By the same token, it's not easy to swim at some of the waterfalls in Bali when it's too dry. At these times, some of the waterfalls dry up and there just isn't enough water to form a natural pool. Our recommendation for swimming at these times is to head to the Dtukad River Club near Tegenungan, which has swimming pools overlooking the river.