Exploring Bali’s Waterfalls: Which Ones Are Really Worth Visiting?
A common question from guests is, “Which waterfall should we visit?” At first it sounds like an easy one to answer, but it really isn’t. Bali has dozens of beautiful waterfalls scattered across the island, and unless you’re here for several weeks, you’re probably only going to have time for one or two.
That’s why I don’t usually recommend chasing a long checklist. Some waterfalls are spectacular but involve hundreds of steps. Others are much easier to reach, making them a better choice for families or anyone who simply wants a relaxing day out. The “best” waterfall depends far more on the kind of day you’re hoping to have than on how many Instagram photos you’ve seen.
In this guide, I’ll help you choose the waterfalls that suit your holiday, whether you’re looking for dramatic scenery, somewhere to swim, or a quieter spot away from the busiest tourist routes.
Key Takeaways
- Bali has waterfalls to suit every type of traveller, from easy-access swimming spots to adventurous jungle hikes.
- You don’t need to visit lots of waterfalls to have a memorable experience.
- Choosing waterfalls in the same region saves hours of unnecessary driving.
- Good footwear and an early start make most waterfall visits far more enjoyable.
- Several of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls can be combined with other nearby attractions for a rewarding day trip.
- The best time to visit Bali can influence both water levels and crowd sizes.
How to Choose the Right Waterfall
The mistake I see most often is people trying to visit whichever waterfall happens to be trending on social media. The photos look amazing, but they rarely show the steep walk down, the queues waiting for pictures or the three-hour drive it took to get there.
Instead, I think it’s worth asking yourself one simple question:
What sort of day do you actually want?
If you’d like a gentle day with a swim and lunch overlooking the jungle, your choice will probably be very different from someone looking for a challenging hike through North Bali.
Families with younger children often prefer waterfalls that are easy to reach, while keen photographers might happily tackle hundreds of steps for a spectacular viewpoint. Couples usually tell me they’re looking for somewhere peaceful rather than somewhere famous.
Matching the waterfall to your holiday is far more important than picking the one with the biggest reputation.
Bali Waterfall Comparison
| Waterfall | Best For | Swimming | Easy Walk? | From Seminyak |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sekumpul | Bali’s most spectacular scenery | Limited | ✗ No | Around 3 hours |
| Banyumala Twin Waterfall | Swimming and photography | ✓ Yes | Moderate | Around 2.5 hours |
| Tegenungan | Easy first waterfall near Ubud | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Around 1.5 hours |
| Banyu Wana Amertha | Quiet jungle setting | ✓ Yes | Moderate | Around 2.5 hours |
| Aling-Aling | Adventure and cliff jumping | ✓ Yes | Moderate | Around 3 hours |
Rather than trying to tick every waterfall off your list, I’d recommend choosing one that fits naturally into the rest of your itinerary.
If you’re already heading north towards Munduk, it makes sense to include Banyumala or Sekumpul. If you’re spending the day around Ubud, Tegenungan is a much more practical choice. Spending less time in the car almost always leads to a better day.
If you’re planning a longer trip around the island, my guide to the Top 5 Bali Hidden Gems includes several quieter areas where beautiful waterfalls can easily be combined with mountain scenery, traditional villages and some of my favourite day trips.
Best Overall: Sekumpul Waterfall
If someone asked me to recommend just one waterfall based purely on scenery, Sekumpul would probably be my answer. Hidden in the hills of North Bali, it’s often considered the island’s most impressive waterfall, with several streams tumbling down a lush jungle valley.
The catch is that you have to earn it. Reaching the bottom involves quite a few steps and a moderate hike, so it’s not the best choice if you’re travelling with very young children or anyone who struggles with uneven ground. If you’re reasonably fit, though, the effort is well worth it.
I’d also suggest allowing plenty of time rather than treating it as a quick stop. The drive from Seminyak is one of the longest on this list, and rushing through the experience would be missing the point.
Best for: Dramatic scenery, photographers and adventurous travellers.
Best for Swimming: Banyumala Twin Waterfall
If your ideal waterfall day includes cooling off in fresh water rather than simply taking photographs, Banyumala Twin Waterfall is one of my favourite recommendations.
The walk down is manageable for most visitors, and at the bottom you’ll find a wide natural pool surrounded by dense tropical forest. Unlike some waterfalls where the water is too shallow or fast-moving, Banyumala is one of the better places for a relaxing swim.
Because it’s located in the mountains near Munduk, it’s also easy to combine with viewpoints overlooking the Twin Lakes or a visit to a local coffee plantation. That makes it an excellent full-day trip rather than simply driving for hours to see one waterfall before turning around.
Best for: Swimming, couples and anyone looking for a relaxed day in North Bali.
Best Near Ubud: Tegenungan Waterfall
Not everyone wants to spend half the day driving, and that’s where Tegenungan comes into its own.
Located much closer to Ubud than the northern waterfalls, it’s one of the easiest waterfalls to include in a sightseeing day. It’s also one of the most accessible, making it a good choice for first-time visitors who want to experience a Balinese waterfall without committing to a long hike.
The downside is that it’s popular. If you arrive during the middle of the day, particularly in peak season, expect plenty of other visitors. An early morning visit makes a huge difference and gives you a much better chance of enjoying the scenery before the crowds build.
If you’re already planning a day around Ubud, Tegenungan combines well with the rice terraces, cafés and artisan villages nearby, making for a varied and enjoyable itinerary.
Best for: First-time visitors, families and shorter day trips.
Best Quiet Escape: Banyu Wana Amertha
Some waterfalls become famous almost overnight thanks to social media. Banyu Wana Amertha has certainly grown in popularity, but it still feels quieter than many of Bali’s better-known waterfalls.
One thing I particularly like about this area is that you’re not visiting just a single waterfall. Several different falls are scattered throughout the forest, connected by walking paths that take you through lush tropical scenery. Rather than arriving, taking a photo and leaving ten minutes later, it feels more like exploring.
The walk isn’t especially difficult, although you’ll want comfortable shoes as some sections can become slippery after rain.
If you’re hoping to escape some of Bali’s busiest tourist spots without travelling to the far north of the island, this is an excellent option.
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers and visitors looking for a quieter experience.
Best for Adventure: Aling-Aling Waterfall
If you’re looking for more than just a scenic viewpoint, Aling-Aling offers something a little different.
The area is famous for its natural pools, waterslides and cliff jumps, with local guides leading visitors through a series of waterfalls and swimming spots. It’s one of the few places where the journey itself becomes just as memorable as the destination.
This isn’t the best choice if you’re after a peaceful afternoon with a book and a picnic, but for active travellers it can easily become one of the highlights of a Bali holiday.
As always, follow the guidance of local instructors and only attempt jumps where it’s officially permitted. Conditions change throughout the year, and safety should always come first.
Best for: Adventure seekers, groups of friends and confident swimmers.
Which Waterfalls Can You Combine?
One thing I’d avoid is trying to squeeze several waterfalls from opposite sides of the island into a single day. It might look possible on Google Maps, but Bali’s roads are slower than many first-time visitors expect.
Instead, group your sightseeing by region.
North Bali Route
If you’re heading towards Munduk, you could comfortably combine:
- Banyumala Twin Waterfall
- Twin Lakes viewpoints
- A local coffee plantation
- Munduk village
If you don’t mind a longer day, Sekumpul can also be included, although I’d only recommend this if you start early.
Ubud Route
Around central Bali, a much easier day could include:
- Tegenungan Waterfall
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces
- A coffee plantation
- Lunch in Ubud
- Ubud Market or Monkey Forest
Grouping attractions this way means less time driving and more time actually enjoying your day.
Don’t Chase Every Waterfall
I’ve seen quite a few itineraries that try to fit four or five waterfalls into a single day.
Personally, I wouldn’t do it.
Each waterfall takes time to reach, many involve a decent walk, and the drives between them are often longer than visitors expect. Before long, you’re spending more time in the car than enjoying the places you’ve travelled all that way to see.
I’d much rather visit one spectacular waterfall, have lunch with a view, stop at a local café on the way back and return to the villa feeling relaxed than spend the whole day racing from one location to the next.
Sometimes seeing less actually gives you a much better experience of Bali.
Before You Go
A little preparation makes a big difference when visiting Bali’s waterfalls.
- Wear shoes with good grip rather than flip-flops.
- Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to enter the water.
- Pack a waterproof bag for your phone and camera.
- Carry some cash, as smaller entrance fees and cafés don’t always accept cards. My guide to Money in Bali: ATMs, Cash and Cards explains what you’ll need.
- Leave early to avoid both traffic and the busiest crowds.
- Check the weather before setting off, especially during the wetter months.
If you’re visiting Bali for the first time, it’s also worth reading my guide on Is Bali Safe to Visit? for practical advice before exploring more remote parts of the island.
FAQ
Which waterfall is the most beautiful in Bali?
Many people consider Sekumpul Waterfall to be Bali’s most spectacular thanks to its multiple cascades and lush jungle setting, although the “best” waterfall really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Which waterfall is closest to Seminyak?
Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the closest major waterfalls to Seminyak and can easily be visited as part of a day trip to Ubud.
Can you swim in Bali’s waterfalls?
Yes, several waterfalls have natural pools where swimming is allowed. Banyumala Twin Waterfall is one of the best options, although conditions can change after heavy rain.
Do I need a guide to visit Bali’s waterfalls?
Most waterfalls can be visited independently, although local guides are sometimes required or recommended for adventure activities such as cliff jumping at Aling-Aling.
Are Bali’s waterfalls safe to visit?
Generally, yes. Stick to marked paths, wear suitable footwear and always follow any local safety advice, particularly after heavy rainfall when rocks and trails can become slippery.
What’s the best time of year to visit Bali’s waterfalls?
Waterfalls can be visited throughout the year, but many people prefer the dry season for easier walking conditions. Shortly after the rainy season, waterfalls are often at their most powerful, although trails may be muddier.
What should I bring to a Bali waterfall?
Comfortable walking shoes, drinking water, insect repellent, swimwear, a towel, sun protection and a waterproof bag for valuables are all worth bringing.
- Welcome Back To My Villas in Bali - November 17, 2021
