So I had read a few blogs before planning my trip to the #1 rated waterfall in Bali yet apparently none of which were completely up-to-date. Here is a 2020 guide to visiting Sekumpul waterfall Bali, with updated regulations and prices.
How to get to Sekumpul waterfall
Sekumpul waterfall lies in the north of Bali, making it less crowded that many other waterfalls on the island. It is around a 2.5 hours drive from the main tourist spots of Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta and Ubud. Although it is out of the way, it is still rated the best waterfall in Bali, and for good reason.
Entrance fees at Sekumpul Waterfall
I had read previous blogs saying that it was necessary to get a guide as the trek down to the waterfalls could be quite slippy and dangerous. Other blogs stated that it wasn’t at all needed and you could get down there on your own accord.
I rocked up to the entrance of the waterfall thinking I would have the choice and I was mentally and physically prepared to tackle the adventure alone. However, new Government regulations have been put into place which state that you must be accompanied by a guide.
The fee to hire a guide depends on how many waterfalls you want to visit. There are 3 waterfalls adjacent to one another; Sekumpul waterfall, hidden waterfall, and Fiji waterfall.
Unfortunately, the one you have seen all over Instagram that has 3 cascading falls in one place (Fiji), is only included in the larger package.
2020 Guide to Visiting Sekumpul Waterfall Bali
The larger package consists of a visit to all 3 waterfalls, all within a short walking distance, a guide and a small bottle of water. It costs 200,000 ($23AUD) per person and the smaller package (excluding Fiji waterfall) costs 125,000 ($14AUD).
The only way to see the waterfall in 2020 is by hiring a guide – there is no way around it.
In my opinion, it is very expensive in comparison to many other tourist attractions on the island. I have visited the majority of the waterfalls in Bali and the maximum I have paid is 40,000. The claim is that you are donating money to the nearby villages in the north that don’t benefit as much from the tourist industry. If this is the case, then it makes the sting slightly less painful.
The Trek Down
Trekking down is very easy. I think this is what makes the whole hiring a guide for more than $20 per person sting, as it really isn’t necessary in the slightest. There are stairs leading down to the waterfall, and a perfectly located rope to help you across the small river.
2020 Guide to Visiting Sekumpul Waterfall Bali
All 3 waterfalls are incredibly stunning. Our first stop was Fiji waterfall and as we arrived to the bottom, we stood in complete awe. Within minutes I was soaking wet from the spray of the falls, coming from all 3 directions. I have never witnessed so many waterfalls in one place and it truly was spectacular.
Next we ventured to Sekumpul, the ‘twin’ waterfall where two powerful cascading falls meet at the bottom in a giant swimming hole. I visited in raining season (October-April) so I was unable to swim as the current was too strong. In the dry season, this swimming hole is usually full of tourists enjoying a quick dip. Nonetheless, this waterfall was stunning.
Lastly, we went to the hidden waterfall. It was around 10.30am by the time we got to this last spot and the beams of sunlight hitting the fall were something else. This is the place that made me stop and say ‘wow’ out loud. The waterfall itself was beautiful, but the lighting made the view I had in front of me special.
2020 Guide to Visiting Sekumpul Waterfall Bali
Although the entrance fee to the waterfalls is overpriced, I would still recommend a visit. The 3 waterfalls that lie here in the north of Bali are honestly some of the most beautiful ones I have seen around the world. And trust me, I’ve seen plenty!
Where to Stay
I would recommend staying in the North of Bali for 1 night. Other than the waterfalls, there are rice terraces, mountain drives, temples and beaches to explore. Staying the night means you aren’t driving home in the dark, on the same day.
Lovina is a beach town, around 1 hour away from Sekumpul waterfall. There isn’t much to do but it is a good base for one night. If you would like to be closer, take a look at the Munduk area.
If you are in Bali, check out my other blog posts:
What to Expect When Climbing Mount Batur