Bali, often celebrated for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture, is also home to some of the most beautiful hidden waterfalls. Tucked away in lush jungles, these waterfalls offer a refreshing escape from the island’s more touristy spots. For those looking to combine the thrill of a fast boat journey with an adventurous hike, here’s your guide to exploring Bali’s hidden waterfalls.
1. Nungnung Waterfall
Nungnung Waterfall is one of Bali’s most stunning yet relatively less crowded waterfalls, located deep in the heart of the island.
How to Get There:
- Starting Point: Sanur or Padang Bai, popular fast boat terminals in Bali.
- Fast Boat Route: While Nungnung is not directly accessible by fast boat, you can take a boat ride to nearby islands like Nusa Lembongan for a day trip, then return to Bali to explore the waterfall.
- Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car from Sanur or 2 hours from Padang Bai.
The Hike:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trail Length: 509 steps down to the waterfall.
- What to Expect: The hike down to Nungnung Waterfall is steep but rewarding. Surrounded by dense jungle, the sound of cascading water grows louder as you descend. The waterfall plunges into a large pool, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Tips:
- Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and swimwear if you plan to take a dip.
2. Tibumana Waterfall
Tibumana Waterfall is a picturesque and relatively easy-to-access waterfall, making it perfect for families or those looking for a less strenuous hike.
How to Get There:
- Starting Point: Sanur Beach
- Fast Boat Route: Take a fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida for an island adventure, then return to Bali for a day trip to Tibumana.
- Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car from Sanur.
The Hike:
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Trail Length: A short 15-minute walk through a lush forest.
- What to Expect: The trail to Tibumana is relatively flat and well-maintained, leading you through a serene jungle before revealing the twin cascades of the waterfall. The pool at the base is shallow and ideal for a relaxing swim.
Tips:
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds. The waterfall is most beautiful after a rain shower when the water flow is stronger.
3. Sekumpul Waterfall
Sekumpul Waterfall is often regarded as Bali’s most beautiful waterfall, offering a more challenging hike for adventure seekers.
How to Get There:
- Starting Point: Padang Bai
- Fast Boat Route: Use Padang Bai as a base for fast boat trips to the Gili Islands, then return to Bali to explore Sekumpul.
- Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car from Padang Bai.
The Hike:
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Trail Length: Approximately 2 hours round trip.
- What to Expect: The hike to Sekumpul Waterfall involves steep descents, river crossings, and a trek through dense jungle. The reward is a view of seven cascading waterfalls, each more breathtaking than the last. The powerful flow of the water and the surrounding greenery create a truly magical experience.
Tips:
- Hire a local guide for the hike, as the trail can be tricky to navigate. Wear proper hiking shoes and be prepared for a wet and muddy adventure.
4. Aling-Aling Waterfall
Aling-Aling Waterfall is known for its adventurous activities, including natural slides and cliff jumping.
How to Get There:
- Starting Point: Serangan or Sanur
- Fast Boat Route: Consider a fast boat trip to Nusa Lembongan for a day of snorkeling, followed by a return to Bali to visit Aling-Aling.
- Travel Time: About 2 hours by car from Serangan or Sanur.
The Hike:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trail Length: A 30-minute hike from the parking area.
- What to Expect: The trail to Aling-Aling takes you through a beautiful forest before arriving at the waterfall. The main waterfall drops into a deep pool where you can swim. For the adventurous, there are natural water slides and several spots for cliff jumping.
Tips:
- A guide is required to access the waterfall and participate in the activities. Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera to capture the action.
5. Gitgit Waterfall
Gitgit Waterfall is one of Bali’s most accessible and popular waterfalls, known for its easy hike and beautiful surroundings.
How to Get There:
- Starting Point: Lovina Beach, reachable from the fast boat terminals of Padang Bai or Serangan.
- Fast Boat Route: Combine your visit to Gitgit with a fast boat trip from Bali to the Gili Islands for a mix of beach and waterfall experiences.
- Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car from Lovina Beach.
The Hike:
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trail Length: A 10 to 15-minute walk from the parking area.
- What to Expect: The trail to Gitgit Waterfall is well-paved and lined with small shops selling local crafts. The waterfall itself is tall and powerful, surrounded by lush greenery, making it a favorite among photographers.
Tips:
- Visit early in the day to enjoy the waterfall with fewer people. The area around Gitgit can get crowded later in the day.
6. Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Banyumala Twin Waterfalls is a hidden gem, less frequented by tourists, offering a tranquil escape.
How to Get There:
- Starting Point: Sanur or Serangan
- Fast Boat Route: Enjoy a fast boat trip to nearby islands like Nusa Penida, then return to Bali to explore Banyumala.
- Travel Time: About 2 hours by car from Sanur.
The Hike:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trail Length: A 20 to 30-minute hike from the parking area.
- What to Expect: The trail to Banyumala is a mix of paved paths and dirt trails, taking you through lush jungle. The twin waterfalls cascade down a steep rock face into a large pool, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Tips:
- Bring water and snacks, as there are few facilities near the waterfall. The trail can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
Bali’s hidden waterfalls offer an escape from the island’s more crowded tourist areas. By combining these waterfall adventures with fast boat trips to nearby islands like the Gili Islands, Nusa Lembongan, or Nusa Penida, you can experience the best of Bali’s natural beauty both on land and at sea. Whether you’re seeking a challenging hike to Sekumpul Waterfall or a relaxing swim at Tibumana, these hidden gems are well worth the journey.
