Chasing Paradise: A Guide to the 5 Best Waterfalls in Bali
When you picture Bali, you likely imagine sun-drenched beaches and serene rice terraces. But hidden within the island's lush, jungle-clad heart lies a different kind of magic: a world of powerful, cascading Bali waterfalls that feel like a secret paradise waiting to be discovered.
Chasing waterfalls is one of the most rewarding adventures you can have on the Island of the Gods. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the island's incredible natural wonders, cool off in a refreshing natural pool, and capture some truly breathtaking photos.
But with so many stunning waterfalls scattered across the island, where do you start? We’ve narrowed it down to the 5 most spectacular and best Bali waterfalls that should be on every itinerary.
1. Tegenungan Waterfall
Best For: Epic power, easy access, and proximity to Ubud.
What Makes It Special: Tegenungan Waterfall is one of Bali’s most famous waterfall spots for a reason. It's not a gentle cascade but a thundering, huge waterfall that plunges into a deep pool, creating a dramatic and impressive sight.
Getting There: It’s one of the most accessible waterfalls in Bali. After paying the entrance fee, a well-maintained set of concrete stairs leads you down to the falls. It’s a bit steep on the way back up, but well worth the effort.
Pro-Tip: Visit early in the morning (before 10 AM) to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy the soft morning light.
2. Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Best For: A unique, mystical experience and incredible light rays.
What Makes It Special: Tukad Cepung Waterfall is unlike any other waterfall in Bali. It’s a hidden waterfall inside a stunning cave. To reach it, you make the short walk through a shallow river surrounded by towering, moss-covered rock walls. If you time your visit right, you'll witness magical sunbeams piercing through the opening above, illuminating the cascade like a spotlight.
Getting There: The journey involves a walk down stairs and a short, easy trek through a river canyon. Be prepared for slippery rocks and to get your feet wet!
Pro-Tip: The famous light rays are most prominent between 9 AM and 11 AM. Check the weather beforehand, as the rays need direct sunlight to appear.
3. Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Best For: A serene, natural setting and one of the most picturesque waterfalls.
What Makes It Special: Located in the cooler, mountainous region of North Bali, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls feels like a true hidden gem. Two parallel cascades, the twin waterfalls, flow down a wall of lush greenery into a large, crystal-clear natural pool at the bottom. It’s an incredibly tranquil spot, perfect for a relaxing swim.
Getting There: The trek down is a bit rustic and can be slippery, involving a walk through a jungle path. Sturdy shoes are recommended, but the reward is a much less crowded experience.
Pro-Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Wanagiri Hidden Hills for stunning views over the twin lakes, Buyan and Tamblingan.
4. Leke Leke Waterfall
Best For: A picture-perfect, secluded secret waterfall that feels like a private paradise.
What Makes It Special: Leke Leke is the definition of an "Instagrammable" spot. A single, narrow ribbon of water drops into a small, shallow pool, perfectly framed by a lush, green rock alcove. The beauty is in its elegant simplicity.
Getting There: The walk to the falls is a highlight in itself—a beautiful and relatively easy 15-minute trek through a lush jungle, crossing charming bamboo bridges along the way.
Pro-Tip: The lighting is softest and the colors are most vibrant in the mid-afternoon, making it the perfect waterfall stop after a morning of exploring.
5. Sekumpul Waterfall
Best For: The ultimate waterfall adventure for serious hikers and nature lovers.
What Makes It Special: Often hailed as the most beautiful waterfall in Bali, Sekumpul Waterfall is actually a collection of at least seven tall, majestic falls plunging deep into a jungle valley. The sheer scale and power of the area are awe-inspiring, making it one of the most impressive waterfalls on the island.
Getting There: This is the most challenging trek on this list. It involves a long walk, hundreds of steep steps, and river crossings. It is mandatory to hire a local guide for your waterfall tour, which is well worth it for safety.
Pro-Tip: Dedicate at least half a day for this adventure. Wear proper hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and prepare to be utterly amazed by the raw beauty of Northern Bali.
Ready to Chase More Than Just Waterfalls?
Discovering Bali's hidden gems and amazing waterfalls is just one part of the incredible adventure that awaits on the Island of the Gods. These natural wonders are best woven into a journey that also includes serene temple visits, relaxing beach days, and unforgettable culinary experiences.
Feeling inspired but not sure how to link it all together? Let our travel experts design a seamless and personalized Bali itinerary that takes you from the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali to the most stunning sunsets, all at a pace that’s perfect for you.
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