10 best Bali waterfalls: Top spots for adventure and serenity

Bali has so much to offer, tasty cuisine, sunrise hikes overlooking volcanoes, crystal clear waters filled with vibrant coral gardens, jungle hikes for the adventurous, and we can’t forget the serenity of the best waterfalls in Bali. There’s no doubt that Bali is one of best places to visit in Indonesia. Unlocking the hidden treasures across the island has never been easier than with my guide on the 10 best Bali waterfalls for serenity and adventure.

It’s hard to choose my favourite waterfall, a lot on my list are found in North Bali and in Central Bali. Ubud being a hotspot with easy accessibility to many of the surrounding falls, perfect to fill in some of your free time when on the Bali Island Hopping trip.

1. Tegenungan Waterfall

One of the easiest ways to get to Tegenungan Waterfall is through the nearby village Ubud. Access to Tegenungan is easy, and therefore one of the most popular to visit. It has very picturesque surroundings making it a photographer’s hotspot. The falls stand at around 30m high. The best time to visit is early mornings to beat the crowds when still peaceful, the water is clear and safe for swimming.

2. Tukad Cepung Waterfall

This is one of Bali’s best kept secrets, a hidden gem, a serene paradise. This waterfall is near the village of Bengali. Towering limestone walls create a dreamy backdrop. The cascading water makes you feel like you’re in wonderland, or even better Peter Pan’s Neverland. This is a quiet and relaxing spot to visit.

3. Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Kanto Lampo is easily one of the most Instagrammable waterfalls in Bali. The downfall of this beautiful place is due to its popularity it can get very crowded, with families, backpackers and travellers on influencer shoots and tourist campaigns. Best time to visit this stunning waterfall is the early morning.

4. Tibmana Waterfall

Looking for a jungle dream? Tibumana is the waterfall for you. Nestled in a tranquil setting the serenity of this area is definitely going to help soothe your soul, or blow away the cobwebs from the night before. The trek to get here is easy and it’s not too far from Ubud. The falls drop down the jungled covered limestone like white curtains. There’s a pool at the bottom which is safe for swimming. The trek is just a short 10min walk from the parking lot. The falls stand at 20m high and 3m wide. This waterfall is not accessible for wheelchairs and prams.

5. Leke Leke Waterfall

Not too far from Canggu, Leke Leke Waterfalls are located in Tabanan, a beautiful area to explore. The emerald pool is accessible by a 15-minute hike downhill to the secret paradise. The lush surrounding jungles, hot springs and famous rice terraces make this an easy stop for a day trip. If I haven’t sold you on the waterfalls alone, here are 10 reasons you should visit Bali.

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6. Gitgit Waterfall

On the northern side of Bali, in a hidden wonderland hides Gitgit Waterfalls. It’s a series of stunning cascades which plummets down 35m into a rocky pool that is surrounded by lush forest. This is a cooler spot to hang out, literally as it’s situated in the mountains, a refreshing dip is necessary after a breathtaking walk through nature. Access is descending wooden steps, then across the rocky path to the summit. No entrance fees.

7. Suwat Waterfall

A 30-minute drive from the peaceful village of Ubud, Suwat Waterfalls is located in Gianyar Regency. This waterfall has started to gain more traction, and become more popular which is why it has made it to my top 10 list. This waterfall attraction offers a more unique experience, you’re able to catch a bamboo raft out on the water, and in the right conditions it’s safe to jump from one of the small cliffs. It’s a quick 5-minute walk down a paved path. Parking here is free, and entrance fees are approximately 40,000 IDR per person. Kanto Lampo Waterfalls are not too far away if you wanted to spend a day waterfall hopping.

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8. Aling Aling Waterfall

Feeling adventurous? Aling Aling Waterfalls are famous for the natural waterslides. I strongly suggest taking a local guide to explore these waterfalls, they’ll be able to check the safety of the slides for you, depending on what season you’re travelling it might be unsafe. Close to Sambangan village in Northern Bali, there are smaller waterfalls in the area tucked away in the valleys of tropical foliage. It’s a very scenic trail to get here, and around 50 mins of walking, will get you to the beautiful blue lagoon. There is no swimming at Aling Aling waterfall. It is strictly a sacred site. Be mindful of local rituals that may be taking place at Aling Aling. Waterfalls as the local Balinese considered this a sacred place.

9. Nungnung Waterfall

Ubud, the centre of serenity; yoga studios, health food cafes, cooking classes and cultural activities, and the village closest to Bali’s best waterfalls. This waterfall takes effort to reach, the trek can be quite exhausting for some. However, if you make it, you’ll be rewarded with a plunge into the misty pool that is surrounded by dense jungle. It is one of the tallest and strongest waterfalls in Bali. Tourists and photographers adore this awe-inspiring spot.

10. Munduk Waterfall

Munduk Waterfall is in the heart of the quiet village Munduk. It’s a real escape from the hustle and bustle of other popular tourist destinations in Bali. Munduk is high up in the mountains, giving gorgeous views from everywhere you look. From the highest point you can actually see the beach town Lovina – a popular destination for dolphin sight-seeing. Approximately a 1.5-2hr drive from either Ubud or Canggu (depending on your driving ability if you’re an experienced scooter or moped driver).

Alternatively renting a guide with a car will make a much more comfortable experience. The best time to visit this waterfall is between November and March when the water flow is at its strongest. During the dry season of April-October, Munduk Waterfall is still a beautiful sight, in the cool misty air, as the cascades come down you can catch glimpses of rainbows. This waterfall deserves a full day trip alone.

How many waterfalls are in Bali?

It’s hard to put an exact number on it, as the number of waterfalls can change seasonally during the rainy season and dry season. Most of the guides and locals will say there are more than 100 waterfalls across the island.

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

The best time to explore the many waterfalls of Bali is during the dry season. Dry season typically falls between April to October. This is the safest time for you to enjoy the weather, and easily navigate the trails. Sometimes the roads, pathways and trails can have flash floods during the rainy/monsoon season. April to June is right before peak season, and would be my suggested time to visit Bali to avoid the heavy crowds, and higher prices.  For other Bali activity suggestions, check out my guide for the best time to visit Bali.

Can you swim in Bali waterfalls?

Yes, you can swim at most waterfalls in Bali. Some of the waterfalls do not have pools, or lagoons at the base for you to enjoy a dip, they’re more of a photographer’s dream to capture the cascades through the lush green rainforests and dropping down the cliffs and mountains. If swimming at the falls, always check with your guide for their recommendations, check the local indicators and safety warnings, make sure you’re dressed in swimwear (not swimming naked), be aware of the undertow and flow of the current beneath the falls, and do not drink the water from the falls.

What is the tallest waterfall in Bali?

The tallest waterfall in Bali is Sekumpul Waterfall. The waterfall is approximately 100m (330ft) cluster of tall cascades. The accessibility to this waterfall is a challenging trek, and you can get access from Sekumpul Village.

What is the most beautiful waterfall in Bali?

Sekumpul Waterfall is not only the tallest waterfall in Bali, but also one of the most beautiful. The cascades spill in multiple tiers down a gorge creating one of the most mesmerizing waterfalls on the island – you have to time the season right. Second to Sekumpul, I would vote the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls as being one of the most beautiful. It’s one of Bali’s hidden gems in the north. A double waterfall with a majestic view, and crystal-clear pools to swim and enjoy the serenity.

Is it easy to find waterfalls in Bali?

Yes, it’s relatively easy to find waterfalls in Bali. Some of them are quick and easy to reach via cars and scooters with short treks or hikes to reach the pools. Others across the island are more challenging to get to and can take a few hours to hike. Hiring a local guide can always be a huge benefit, for knowledge, safety and their hidden gems. It’s best to always do your research on which waterfalls to go to suit your needs, make sure you have signal on your phone, and tell your accommodation where you’re headed for the day. Popular areas for waterfalls include Ubud, Bedugul and Tabanan. Some require the steep treks to reach, so make sure you’re in comfortable and supportive footwear.

Adding South East Asia to your travel bucket list is a must do. It’s such an affordable vacation you don’t want to miss this year. There are so many places to visit, things to do, whether you’re after culture shocks, comfort, affordability, a life changing experience, throwing yourself into the deep end and really enjoying life, and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of home, I have made the choice easy for you, with the 12 best places to visit in South East Asia.

If you’re looking for the best trip to book for your first time in Asia, I would strongly suggest Indonesia Island Hopping. Not only will you visit Bali, the surrounding Gili Islands known for some of the best snorkelling destinations in the world. A true adventure on the Komodo & Flores Sail where you can switch off for 6 days and enjoying the beauties of nature; hiking, snorkelling, and special stays on a houseboat. Grab some of your friends and book this trip or take the plunge and get ready to make some new travel friends who are chasing adventure just like you.