One of the best things to do when you visit Bali is to spend some time at a beautiful waterfall and enjoy the sight and sheer power of water falling over a cliff edge into a crystal blue pool below.
Sekumpul Waterfall, or Air Terjun Sekumpul in Balinese, located deep within the deep green valleys of the Buleleng Regency, is widely hailed as the most beautiful waterfall on the island.
While many Bali waterfalls are singular streams, Sekumpul is a majestic collection of at least seven separate cascades, all plummeting into a mist-filled ravine.
The sheer scale and raw power of the site often make visitors feel as though they have stepped out of reality and into a scene from a prehistoric film.
If you’re planning a trip to Northern Bali in 2025, Sekumpul Waterfall should be at the very top of your list.
This exhaustive guide covers everything from the lengthy waterfall hike to the complex entrance fees, ensuring you have the best possible experience at the biggest and best waterfall in the region.
Where is Sekumpul Waterfall?
Sekumpul Waterfall is located in the highlands of North Bali, roughly 18 to 20 kilometres south of the historic city of Singaraja. The waterfall takes its name from Sekumpul Village, although the trails often crisscross into the lands of Lemukih Village.
This is not a destination you can simply pop into for an hour if you are based in the south. It’s a remote location, nestled among clove plantations, durian orchards, and ancient rice terraces.
Because it’s far from the sprawling tourist hubs of Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak, it retains a sense of rugged, untouched beauty that many more accessible waterfalls in Bali have lost.
The surrounding landscape is a patchwork of palm trees and tropical jungle that feels significantly cooler and more refreshing than the humid coastal plains.
Its exact location is: Jalan Air Terjun Desa Sekumpul Kecamatan Sawan Kabupaten Buleleng, Kota Singaraja, Bali 81171.
How Do I Get To Sekumpul Waterfall?
Getting to the Sekumpul Waterfall in Bali is part of the adventure. There are three primary ways to make the journey, each offering a different view of the Balinese countryside.
Hiring a Private Driver
For most travellers, hiring a private driver for the day is the most sensible choice. The drive from Ubud takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, while the journey from the southern coast can take up to 3 or 4 hours, depending on the notorious Bali traffic.
A driver allows you to head north in comfort, navigating the steep, narrow path and winding mountain roads while you take in the views of the Bedugul mountain pass and Bedugal Lake.
Having a driver also means you have a safe place to leave your dry clothes and valuables while you are down on the valley floor.
Scooter Rental for the Adventurous
If you are an experienced rider, renting a scooter is an excellent way to see the island. The route takes you over the central mountain range, passing through the Bedugal-Singaraja Road.
Be warned: the road to Sekumpul Waterfall is extremely steep in parts, and the frequent tropical rain can make the surface very slippery.
This is not a journey if you’re new to scooters or two-wheeled transportation. Always wear a helmet and make sure you have an international driving permit, because the local police often conduct checks on the way to Northern Bali.
Scooters are an advantage because they can drive further down the narrow path toward the parking area, whereas cars need to park further back.
Organised Guided Tour
Many visitors choose a guided tour that bundles Sekumpul Waterfall with other northern Bali highlights. These tours often include transportation, entrance fees, and stops at the Handara Gate or the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.
A guided tour is a stress-free way to visit Sekumpul Waterfall and ensures you don’t get lost trying to find the ticket booth or fall victim to the various scams along the way.
When Is Sekumpul Waterfall Open?
The Sekumpul Waterfall is generally open to the public from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
We strongly recommend visiting as early as possible. Arriving at the car park by 8:00 AM allows you to start your waterfall trek before the tropical humidity becomes stifling.
Furthermore, the early morning light creates a magical atmosphere as the sun hits the valley mist, often producing rainbows near the base.
If you visit during the rainy season (November to March), try to arrive early, as heavy downpours are more common in the afternoon. In the dry season (April to October), the water flow is slightly less intense, but the path is much safer and easier to navigate.
Is There An Entrance Fee? How Much Is It?
One of the most debated topics amongst travellers is the Sekumpul Waterfall entrance fee. In recent years, local regulations have changed to ensure that the revenue supports the local economy and helps maintain the local village infrastructure.
As of 2025, you have several options when you arrive at the main entrance:
The Three Entrance Fees
Viewpoint Only (20,000 IDR): This entrance ticket allows you to walk to the designated viewpoints to see the waterfall from above. This is a great idea if you have limited mobility or just want to fly a drone to capture the valley from the air.
Medium Trekking (125,000 – 150,000 IDR): This package includes a local guide and a hike down to the valley floor to see both Sekumpul and the Hidden Waterfall. This is generally considered the standard experience for most tourists.
Long Trekking (200,000 – 250,000 IDR): This is the ultimate experience. It includes a guide who will take you to Sekumpul, the Hidden Waterfall, and the stunning triple-stream Fiji Waterfall. Some packages also include a visit to the Lemukih water slide.
Avoiding the “Registration” Scam
As you drive toward the car park, you will see many signs for “Sekumpul Waterfall registration” and locals waving you down. Many of these are scam checkpoints where unaware tourists are pressured into paying higher fees for unnecessary services.
These scammers may claim the road ahead is closed or that a guide is required from that specific point. Ignore these and continue driving until you reach the official parking area and the primary ticket booth.
What To Pack For Sekumpul Waterfall?
The walk down to the falls is a legitimate hike, so you need to pack accordingly. Preparation is the difference between an easy day and a miserable one.
Footwear: Although some visitors have managed in sandals, we don’t recommend it. The steep stairs and slippery rocks near the water require shoes with good grip. Water shoes or old sneakers are your best bet. If you wear sandals, you’ll probably struggle.
Swimwear and Towel: You can swim at the base of the falls, and you will definitely want to!
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is vital. Bring your own reusable water bottle and avoid using single-use plastic. Refuse any bottled water offered in plastic containers to help keep Bali beautiful and support the local village in their environmental efforts.
Waterproof Bag: The spray from the 80-metre drop is intense. A dry bag will protect your phone and camera gear.
Mosquito Spray: The jungle environment means plenty of bugs, especially in the shaded areas near the river crossing.
Extra Clothes: Even if you don’t swim, you will get soaked to the bone from the mist alone. Walking back up in wet clothes is unpleasant, so have some dry ones waiting in the car.
What Is The Experience At Sekumpul Waterfall?
The experience of visiting Sekumpul Waterfall in Bali is a physical and sensory journey. After paying your waterfall entrance fee, you begin the hike through a small village.
Along the way, you will pass local gardens filled with coffee, cacao, and durian trees. The air is filled with the scent of cloves and damp earth.
The Descent
The hike takes you down a series of roughly 400 steep stairs. The stairs are well-maintained but can be incredibly tiring on the way back up.
As you descend deeper into the ravine, the temperature drops and the dim sound of the waterfall becomes an unmistakable roar.
You will see several epic viewpoints on the way down; don’t be afraid to stop and catch your breath while taking a few photos.
The Valley Floor
Once you reach the valley floor, you need to cross a shallow river. The water is cool and refreshing, typically reaching your knees. Your local guide will help you navigate the slippery rocks. From here, you’re only minutes away from the base of the falls.
Standing at the bottom of an 80-metre wall of water is an amazing sensory experience. The power of Sekumpul Waterfall creates a constant wind and rain-like mist that saturates everything in seconds.
It’s cliched, but it really does feel like something out of a movie.
Hidden Waterfall and Fiji Waterfall
If you’ve opted for the medium or long trek, your guide will lead you to the Hidden Waterfall.
This site is tucked into a narrow canyon where green vines hug the walls and small streams of water fall from every angle. It legit feels otherworldly; other bloggers have referred to it as an “Avatar-type” environment.
The Fiji Waterfall is another highlight. Located a short hike away from the main Sekumpul falls, Fiji consists of three separate cascades side-by-side.
Many travellers find Fiji Waterfall to be even more photogenic than Sekumpul because it’s less crowded and offers a broader, more balanced composition.
To get here, you simply follow the path to the left at the bottom of the main stairs.
The Lemukih Water Slide
For those seeking a bit more adrenaline, a short hike further leads to the Lemukih water slide. This is a natural rock slide about 50 metres long where you can plunge into a refreshing pool.
It’s a favourite for children and adults alike and adds a playful element to the otherwise grand and epic feeling of the big falls.
Photography At Sekumpul Waterfall
For anyone who loves landscape photography, Sekumpul is a dream destination. However, the conditions are challenging and require some planning.
The Mist Factor: The 80-metre drop creates a massive amount of spray. Keep a lens cloth handy and wipe your lens immediately before every shot.
Using a lens hood is also a great idea to keep the glass dry for a few extra seconds.
Angles: Don’t just stay at the base. The viewpoints from the top offer a sense of scale that shows the waterfall emerging from the dense jungle.
These shots are perfect for Instagram and show the height of the falls better than the ground-level shots.
Lighting: Early morning light is best to avoid harsh shadows in the ravine. If the sun is at the right angle, usually before 11:00 AM, you’ll see rainbows emerging from the mist.
In the late afternoon, the valley can become quite dark, making handheld photography difficult.
Slow Shutter: Use a tripod at the base of Fiji Waterfall to capture the “silk” effect of the triple streams. Just be careful with your equipment on the slippery, uneven ground.
Make sure your camera is weather-sealed or kept in a waterproof housing.
Things To Do Near Sekumpul Waterfall
Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
Located just 45 minutes south, this is one of the most iconic temples in Bali. In the wet season, the water level of Lake Beratan rises and it appears that the temple is literally floating on the water.
It’s so iconic that it’s on the 50,000 banknote. We highly recommend checking it out.
Hanadara Gate
Another iconic piece of Balinese architecture. While it’s actually the entrance to a golf resort, this is still a great place to check out if you’re a photographer and you want that quintessential shot.
The combination of the dramatic gates with the misty mountains in the back makes for a dramatic and beautiful photo.
Munduk Rice Terraces
If you’re interested in an escape even more tranquil than the falls, the Munduk Rice Terraces, make for a relaxing place to de-stress.
These terraces are also much quieter and more authentic than the famous Tegalalang rice terraces in Ubud.
Where To Eat At Sekumpul Waterfall
Warung Nyoman Sekumpul Buleleng
This spot offers both Balinese food, like chicken curry, and Western food like pizza, all with a stunning view of the emerald rice paddies. It’s a great place to rest before the climb back up.
Spice Warung & Restaurant
Located near the entrance, it serves fresh Indonesian cuisine like shrimp noodles and chicken satay, as well as excellent coffee and tea.
Sekumpul Restaurant & Coffee Shop
A good place to enjoy both local and Western food within 300 metres of the official ticket office. It’s owned by a local family and has great views of the hills.
Where To Stay At Sekumpul Waterfall
Giriwood Hotel & Villa
A 4-star boutique hotel located in the mountains southwest of Sekumpul, this resort offers gorgeous dark-wood bungalows with private balconies, comfortable beds with immaculately clean linen.
The restaurant serves excellent Indonesian food with many Western options, as well.
Simultaneously a rustic and a luxury experience.
Sekumpul Accomodation
This appropriately named hotel is the closest major hotel to the falls, literally just steps away.
The rooms are very big, clean and comfortable, and have gorgeous mountain views. They also have a very popular restaurant that serves authentic Indonesian cuisine.
Be warned, they only have three rooms, so book early.
Shanti Natural Panorama View Hotel
This hotel features an immaculately landscaped garden with stunning views, very big and clean rooms, and a very large swimming pool.
Ironically, this property is located just a few hundred metres from the Aling Aling Waterfall, so this is an excellent choice if you want to see both waterfalls on one trip.
FAQs
Is Swimming Allowed At Sekumpul Waterfall?
Yes, swimming is one of the best parts of the visit! The pool at the base of Sekumpul is deep enough for a dip, and the water is incredibly fresh.
However, avoid swimming directly under the main waterfall, as the force of the water is strong enough to be dangerous. The Hidden Waterfall also offers a shallower, calmer place to swim.
Do You Need A Guide For Sekumpul Waterfall?
As of 2025, the official policy at the main entrance is that you must hire a local guide for the trekking options. This is a measure to support the local economy and provide safety for visitors on the treacherous paths.
Hiring a guide is a great way to learn about the local flora, the history of the Sekumpul Village, and the “Trash Heroes” movement led by local legends like Kadek.
How Long Does It Take To Walk The Sekumpul Waterfalls?
Allow at least 3 to 4 hours for the full experience. The walk down takes about 30 to 45 minutes, but you will want plenty of time at the base of the falls for photos and swimming.
The hike back up is the hardest part and can take up to an hour if you’re taking breaks. If you’re including the Lemukih water slide and Fiji Waterfall, the whole trip can easily take 5 or 6 hours.
What Is The Most Beautiful Waterfall In Bali?
While beauty is subjective and Bali is home to dozens of mesmerising waterfalls, Sekumpul Waterfall is almost universally cited by travellers, photographers, and locals as the most beautiful waterfall on the island.
What sets it apart from other popular spots like Tegenungan or Gitgit is the sheer scale and the pristine, “lost world” atmosphere of the surrounding jungle.
While most Bali waterfalls consist of a single stream, Sekumpul is a collection of seven cascades. The main twin-falls, which drop roughly 80 metres against a backdrop of ancient, neon-green ferns and moss-covered cliffs, create a visual spectacle that feels almost prehistoric.
The addition of the nearby Fiji Waterfall, a stunning triple-threat cascade, and the “Hidden Waterfall” tucked into a misty cavern, makes the Sekumpul valley the most concentrated area of natural beauty on the island.
If you only have time to visit one waterfall during your Indonesian holiday, Sekumpul is the one that offers the most dramatic and rewarding experience.
Is Sekumpul Waterfall Worth It?
Is Sekumpul Waterfall worth visiting? The answer is a resounding yes, but with a few caveats. It is worth it because it represents the absolute pinnacle of Bali waterfalls; no other site on the island matches its scale or its epic feeling.
It is worth it for the adventure of the river crossing and the cool mist that provides a much-needed break from the tropical heat.
However, you must be prepared for some physical effort. If you aren’t reasonably fit, the 400 steep stairs on the return journey can be very tough. It is also one of the more expensive waterfalls due to the mandatory guide fees.
If you go into the experience knowing that you’re supporting the local economy and that you’re about to see the biggest and best waterfall in Bali, the cost and the effort come into perspective.
Many travellers agree that even with the sore legs and the long drive, it’s the highlight of their entire Indonesian holiday.
Final Thoughts On Sekumpul Waterfall
Visiting Sekumpul Waterfall is more than just a checkbox on a Bali itinerary; it’s an immersion into the wild, rugged heart of Northern Bali.
The journey represents the dual nature of Bali: the struggle of the winding roads and steep stairs, followed by the sheer bliss of standing under a thundering cascade.
From the first glimpse of the cascades from the viewpoint, to the exhausted but happy feeling of eating a snack back at the car park, every moment is memorable.
You’ll probably leave with sore legs, but your camera will be full of epic viewpoints and your spirit will be refreshed by the mountain air.
Whether you are navigating the steep stairs, crossing the river to reach Sekumpul Waterfall, or simply standing in awe of the most beautiful waterfall on the island, Sekumpul will leave you with a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of Bali.
Remember to respect the local customs, support the local guide program, and leave the area better than you found it. By bringing your own reusable water bottle and refusing bottled water, you help ensure that these mesmerising waterfalls remain pristine for generations to come.
It truly is one of the most epic waterfalls you will ever see in real life.
