The 5 best waterfalls you must visit in Bali

Bali is home to some of Indonesia’s most incredible attractions, including some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls. Many of the region’s most awe-inspiring waterfalls are accessible by trekking through forests and jungles, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the natural world and see amazing wildlife along the way.

Want to swim in a warm, natural pool underneath a waterfall? Wade in waist-high water and enjoy a waterfall shower? Admire from afar and get the perfect snapshot? This guide to must-see waterfalls in Bali will give you all the options.

1. Sekumpul Waterfalls, northern Bali

A hidden wonder in the wilderness of Bali’s rainforests, the Sekumpul Waterfalls are often cited as some of the best waterfalls Bali has to offer. A hiking tour will take you off the beaten path on a trek to the falls. Whilst you’re there, don’t miss a visit to the Ulun Danu Temple, where you can learn about unique local coffee beans at a coffee plantation. If hiking isn’t for you, simply enjoy the water of the rock pools at the bottom of the falls and enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Opening hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Getting there: The best way to visit is on a guided tour, as the roads are tricky.
Distance from Ubud: 67 km, around 2 hours by car.
Can you swim? Yes.

2. Tukad Cepung Waterfall, southern Bali

Located just within the southern region and easily accessible from all directions, the Tukad Cepung Waterfall is a spectacular sight, with water cascading through a cave opening. Take a walk through the jungle, using nearby stairs to get the best possible view. Although the water around the waterfall is not deep enough for true swimming, you are free to go in and even enjoy a natural shower from the waterfall.

Opening hours: 7:00 AM–6:00 PM
Getting there: Good roads make it easy to get there on a scooter or in a taxi.
Distance from Ubud: 28 km, around an hour by car.
Can you swim? No.

3. Leke-Leke Waterfall, central Bali

The Leke-Leke Waterfall is found within a lush forest, making it an amazing location to stop, take in your surroundings, and feel at one with nature. The tall waterfall has a small freshwater swimming hole below, perfect for cooling off after the short, but steep hike to reach it. Make the most of being in Central Bali and visit Monkey Forest, before performing an epic jungle swing over the Tegalalang Rice Terrace — these are just a few of the unmissable things to do in Bali.

Opening hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM
Getting there: Renting a scooter or getting a taxi is quickest.
Distance from Ubud: 30 km, around an hour by car.
Can you swim? No.

4. Banyumala Waterfall Trek, northern Bali

Witness the beauty of the Banyumala Twin Waterfall by trekking through the rainforest and central mountains to get a view of the impressive split cascade. Banyumala is also one of the best waterfalls for swimming in Bali, with comfortably warm water. However, the water may be more suitable for swimming during the wet season than during the drier months when it is shallow.

Opening hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Getting there: You can get there easily by scooter or driving.
Distance from Ubud: 56 km, 1 hour 20 minutes by car, or around an hour from Singjara.
Can you swim? Yes.

5. Sambangan Waterfalls, northern Bali

The area surrounding the Sambangan village in the north is home to some of the very best waterfalls in Bali, including the incredible Aling-Aling Waterfall. Visit the Sambangan Waterfalls to see this waterfall and several others. Embark on a memorable trek, swim in the pools, and test your bravery with spectacular jumps into the water from 10 meters at the Twin Waterfalls or 15 meters at the Pucuk Waterfall.

Opening hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Getting there: All falls are accessible via a walking trail from Sambangan Village.
Distance from Ubud: 69 km, about 2 hours 10 minutes by car.
Can you swim? Yes

FAQs

What are the best waterfalls in North Bali?

The northern region of Bali houses some of the most popular waterfalls in the province. In terms of natural beauty, it is difficult to look past the Sekumpul Waterfalls and the Aling-Aling Waterfall. However, if you want to be able to enjoy a swim at the location, check out the Banyumala Twin Waterfall, too.

What are the best waterfalls in South Bali?

The Tukad Cepung Waterfall is located slightly to the south of Bali and provides clear visual appeal, making it perfect for photography. Although not included in this guide to the 5 waterfalls in Bali you must visit this summer, and you may also want to check out the Tegenungan Waterfall, near Tegenungan Kemenuh, which offers a pleasant shallow bathing area.

Are there any hidden or lesser-known waterfalls in Bali worth exploring?

The Bandung Waterfall is one of the best examples of a hidden gem and is safer than many other obscure or secret waterfalls in the region. Another great option is the Jembong Waterfall, which has a peaceful, almost spiritual quality.

What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Bali?

For visitors, the Bali waterfalls best time of year is typically during the dry season, which runs from May to September. June can be an ideal month to visit because it is just before the absolute peak of Bali’s tourist season in July and August. June is also a dry month, so the trails to the waterfalls shouldn’t be too muddy. You can visit Bali’s waterfalls in the wet season, which runs from October to April, but while temperatures at this time are typically higher, heavy downpours are frequent, thunderstorms are common, and trails are likely to be muddy and harder to traverse.