Bali is often celebrated for its golden beaches, vibrant culture, and lush rice terraces—but hidden within its verdant inland lies a treasure trove of waterfalls that enchant every nature lover. From towering cascades plunging into emerald pools to secluded falls obscured by jungle vines, Bali’s waterfalls offer an unforgettable adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore eight spectacular waterfalls, offering tips on how to get there, what to expect, and how to make the most of your visit.
1. Tegenungan Waterfall – The Gateway Gem 📍
🏞️ Overview
Tegenungan is often the first stop for waterfall seekers—only a 30-minute drive from Ubud’s center. It plunges from a dramatic height into a wide pool, offering a classic Bali waterfall experience with easy access.
✨ Why Visit
- Great for first-timers and families
- Multiple lookouts and photo points
- Refreshing swims in cool fresh water
📅 Best Time to Visit
Early morning (around 8 AM) when it’s quiet, or late afternoon before sunset for magical light and vibrant hues.
🤳 Photo Ops
The misty spray, rock ledges, and overhead canopy offer endless creative shots.
🍃 Getting There
Take a paved footpath with some stairs. Entrance is ~IDR 20k (~USD 1.30).
2. Tibumana Waterfall – Tranquility Amid Palm Forests 🌴
🏞️ Overview
Tucked into Bali’s eastern foothills near Bangli, Tibumana is a slender cascade falling elegantly into a green pool, framed by graceful palm trees.
✨ Why Visit
- Peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds
- Soft, sculpted plunge ideal for meditating by the pool
- Shallow pool perfect for wading
📅 Best Time to Visit
Late morning to early afternoon—soft shafts of light penetrate the forest canopy beautifully.
🍃 Getting There
Roughly 5 km off the main road. Light trekking (~10 minutes) from the parking area with a small fee (around IDR 15‑20k).
3. Tukad Cepung Waterfall – A Hidden Canyon Gem 🕳️
🏞️ Overview
One of Bali’s most striking—and Instagram-famous—falls, Tukad Cepung plunges through a natural cave, illuminating an ethereal shaft of light.
✨ Why Visit
- Unique blend of cave, chasm, and waterfall
- Dramatic photo opportunities inside the canyon
- Tranquil setting away from usual tourist spots
📅 Best Time to Visit
Between 10 AM and midday for the magical light beam right through the canyon opening.
🍃 Getting There
Near Tembuku. A guided hike through rice terraces and narrow ravines is required. Modest entry fee (roughly IDR 30k).
4. Sekumpul Waterfall – Bali’s Majestic Multi-Tiered Giant 🌿
🏞️ Overview
Often called the most beautiful waterfall in Bali, Sekumpul consists of several falls pouring down a massive cliff, surrounded by rainforest.
✨ Why Visit
- Dramatic scale and multiple tiers for exploring
- Jungle hikes with panoramic views en route
- Ideal for serious river bathing
📅 Best Time to Visit
Morning, ideally before noon—less haze, better light, and cooler hiking conditions.
🍃 Getting There
From Singaraja, take a winding route. Following scenic trails and steep steps, guided help is recommended. Entrance fee around IDR 20‑30k.
5. Nungnung Waterfall – Power and Serenity Hidden Inland 💧
🏞️ Overview
Nungnung is Bali’s thrilling powerhouse waterfall, located inland from the main coastal routes, plunging from 100 meters into an enormous natural pool.
✨ Why Visit
- Impressive size and intensity—ideal for adrenaline lovers
- Refreshingly chilled plunge pool
- Quiet compared to coastal gems
📅 Best Time to Visit
Early morning for fewer people and calmer water; midday light makes the mist sparkle.
🍃 Getting There
Prepare for a steep (~500 steps) descent/ascent. Park at the top; small entry fee applies (~IDR 20k).
6. Aling-Aling Waterfall – Nature’s Adventure Park 🧗
🏞️ Overview
Located near Sambangan, Aling-Aling is actually a series of waterfalls offering canyoning, cliff-jumping, and tubing—an adrenaline-packed playground for thrill-seekers.
✨ Why Visit
- Multiple jumps from 5 to 20+ meters
- Natural water slides and cascades
- Guided tours provide safety and rope-jumping gear
📅 Best Time to Visit
Mid-morning to noon: water levels are ideal for jumping; sunrise tours less crowded.
🍃 Getting There
Sambangan access road followed by forest trails. Local guides highly recommended. Entry plus guide fee ~IDR 50‑70k.
7. Gitgit Waterfall – Classic Charm Near Lovina 🏔️
🏞️ Overview
One of Bali’s most popular and accessible falls, Gitgit cascades through tropical foliage into a lovely pool with clear water and cool shade.
✨ Why Visit
- Easy access via paved trail
- Ideal for swimming and photography
- Nearby stalls selling snacks and refreshments
📅 Best Time to Visit
Early morning—fewer crowds, cooler walk, and dazzling water spray in morning light.
🍃 Getting There
Off the Gitgit–Bedugul road: walk ~15 minutes along a maintained path; small entrance fee applies.
8. Munduk Waterfall Cluster – Three in One Jungle Hideaway 🌾
🏞️ Overview
Munduk is surrounded by a trio of scenic waterfalls (Munduk, Red Coral, Golden Valley). You can hike between all three, exploring hidden cliffs and misty jungle.
✨ Why Visit
- Variety of landscapes and pools in one hike
- Perfect for photography and nature immersion
- Rustic villages and clove farms nearby adding to the experience
📅 Best Time to Visit
Any time after sunrise; climb early for light mist and crisp mountain air.
🍃 Getting There
Munduk village serves as base. Trail meanders through forest, farms; lightly marked but doable solo or with a guide.
🛝 Choosing Your Waterfall Adventure
When deciding which Bali waterfall to chase, here are some helpful considerations:
| Factor |
Ideal For… |
Best Choices |
| Close to Ubud |
No long drive, easy access |
Tegenungan |
| Hidden & serene |
Peaceful, off-the-beaten-path |
Tibumana, Tukad Cepung |
| Grand scale |
Awe-inspiring landscapes |
Sekumpul, Nungnung |
| Adrenaline junkies |
Jumping, sliding, canyoning |
Aling‑Aling |
| Easy family visit |
Child−friendly, mellow terrain |
Gitgit, Tibumana |
| Multi‑waterfall trek |
One hike, multiple cascades |
Munduk cluster |
✨ Tips for an Amazing Waterfall Day
- Start early. Most falls are best between 7–10 AM for light, serenity, and solitude.
- Bring quick-dry clothes. You’ll be wet—embrace it!
- Wear sturdy shoes. The trails can be rocky and slippery.
- Pack snacks & water. Many waterfalls are remote; preparation is key.
- Respect local guides. Their knowledge ensures safe and memorable experiences.
- Leave no trace. Carry back any trash—help preserve Bali’s beauty.
- Tip generously. Entrance and guide fees are modest—tips help support local families.
- Account for rain. After heavy rain, water is stronger—and trails get slick.
- Bring portable waterproof bag/case for your phone or camera.
- Check regional closures. Monsoon rains can prompt temporary access restrictions.
📸 Capture The Moment: Waterfall Photography Guide
- Long exposure (½–2 sec) with ND filter for silky cascades.
- Wide-angle lens to include context—trees, rocks, pools.
- Use foreground elements like vines or leaves to frame the falls.
- Morning mist + backlighting = magic. Try shooting from inside spray clouds.
- Include humans for scale—tiny figures amplify nature’s grandeur.
🧘 Beyond the Falls: Wellness & Surroundings
- Ubud area: Culture, rice terraces, yoga studios—ideal after Tegenungan.
- Sambangan: Post‑jump massage and coconut snacks near Aling-Aling.
- Munduk: Cool climate, coffee/vanilla plantations, waterfall trekking in one.
- East Bali: Combine Tibumana or Tukad Cepung with lava‑rock hot springs in Tirta Gangga.
🌅 Four Itineraries for Waterfall Lovers
1. Half‑Day Serenity: Tibumana + Jalan‑Jalan
Morning dip in Tibumana → lunch near Klungkung riverside.
2. Classic Tour: Tegenungan + Ubud
Start at Tegenungan → stroll Ubud markets → Ayurvedic spa.
3. Adrenaline Blast: Aling‑Aling + Munduk
Cliff jumps and slides → hike across 2‑3 waterfalls in one afternoon.
4. Epic All‑Day: Sekumpul + Nungnung
Trek Sekumpul’s multiple tiers → scenic lunch → late afternoon at Nungnung.
🧳 Practical Info: Fees, Access & Seasons
- Entrance fees: typically IDR 15k–30k (~USD 1–2); adventure sites may charge IDR 50k+.
- Guided trek fees: Vary—usually IDR 50k–100k including tips.
- Best season: June to September for balanced flow and weather.
- Low season (November–March): Water is at its fullest but trails muddy, rain frequent.
- High season (July–August): Busy with tourists; early starts recommended.
🌍 Preserve Bali’s Cascading Majesty
- Avoid touching sacred groves or offerings.
- Use biodegradable soap if doing impromptu cleaning (rarely needed).
- Respect wildlife—observe from a distance.
- Pack in, pack out—leave no footprints.
✨ Final Thoughts
Chasing waterfalls across Bali is so much more than ticking boxes; it’s a sensory journey through hidden canyons, sacred pools, island jungles, and rising mountain air. Each cascade holds a story—of ancient stones, flowing life, and tropical symphony. Whether you dip your toes into the pool of spiritual serenity at Tibumana, conquer cliffs at Aling‑Aling, get humbled by Sekumpul’s grandeur, or ride the thunderous mist of Nungnung, Bali welcomes you with open arms and roaring water. Grab your camera, lace your shoes, honor the land—and let the waterfalls of Bali wash over your spirit.
