Bali has dozens of waterfalls, many of them a short stroll from a car park and crowded with photographers, but Sekumpul in the Buleleng highlands of north Bali is in a different league. The name refers to a collection of at least seven falls, spread across a deep green valley and fed by streams from the central mountains, and the main pair drop around eighty metres in silver ribbons into a rocky pool, surrounded by cliffs hung with ferns and creepers. Seen from the viewpoint at the top, the scale is startling; seen from the bottom, with spray soaking you from fifty metres away, it is one of the most memorable sights in Indonesia. Getting there is part of the experience. Sekumpul village sits in clove, coffee and durian country, and the trek starts with a walk through gardens and bamboo before descending a long series of steep steps into the valley, with a final stretch across the river. Most visitors reach the base of the main falls in about thirty minutes from the trailhead. Upstream, a smaller hidden waterfall that you can swim right up to is roughly ten minutes further, and the trio known as Fiji Waterfall lies about fifteen minutes beyond that. Local ticketing is managed by the village, with tiered options: a view-only ticket for the lookout, a medium trek with a guide to the main falls and the hidden fall, and a long trek that adds Fiji and the river walk between them. The guided trek is recommended, as the paths are steep and slippery and the guides know the safest crossings. Sekumpul is a full-day commitment from the south or from Ubud, but it rewards the effort like few other places in Bali.
Planning the day: allow around two to two and a half hours each way by car from Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak or Kuta, longer in traffic, so leave early or stay overnight in the north. Mid-morning to early afternoon gives the best light in the valley. The trek is demanding mainly because of the steps, which are uneven and wet; wear shoes with grip or sturdy sandals, bring water and a dry bag for your phone, and expect to get wet from spray at the base. Swimming is possible in the pools, but do not stand directly under the main falls, where the force of the water can injure you. The hidden waterfall upstream is gentler and safer for a dip.
Weather and safety: Sekumpul is at its most powerful in the wet season, from November to March, but heavy rain upstream turns the water brown and can cause sudden rises in the river, and the village sometimes closes the lower trail for safety. If it has rained hard overnight, check with your guide before descending. In the dry season the flow is lower but the water clearer and the paths easier.
Combining it with the north: Sekumpul pairs naturally with the Munduk and Bedugul highlands, including Ulun Danu Beratan on the lake, or with a night in Lovina and an early dolphin trip. Many drivers combine it with the Gitgit waterfall on the main road north. Ticket prices are posted at the village counters; take cash in small notes and keep your tourist levy voucher handy, as it may be checked.
What to expect
The experience
A village-managed site with a lookout and guided treks down steep steps into a valley of seven waterfalls, with river crossings and natural pools.
Best time
Mid-morning to early afternoon for light in the valley; the dry season for easier paths, the wet season for power, with caution after heavy rain.
How long
About thirty minutes down to the main falls; three to four hours on site for the longer trek.
Tips
Take the guided trek, wear shoes with grip, carry cash, water and a dry bag, and never stand directly under the main falls.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fit travellers who want Bali's most dramatic natural sight and do not mind a long day.
- Families
- Suitable for active older children; the steps make it hard work for young ones.
- Couples
- A memorable adventure; stay overnight in Munduk or Lovina to break up the drive.
- Pair with
- Ulun Danu Beratan and the Munduk highlands, or Jatiluwih on the way back.
- Time needed
- A full day from the south or Ubud.
Good questions
How hard is the Sekumpul trek?+
Moderate. It takes about thirty minutes to reach the main falls, mostly down steep, uneven steps, and the climb back up is the hardest part. The longer trek adds river walking.
Do I need a guide at Sekumpul?+
The medium and long trekking tickets include a local guide, and they are recommended. The view-only ticket covers just the lookout at the top.
How far is Sekumpul from Ubud?+
Around two to two and a half hours each way by car, similar to the drive from Canggu or Seminyak.
Can you swim at Sekumpul?+
Yes, in the pools, but avoid standing under the main falls. The hidden waterfall upstream is gentler and better for swimming.
Is Sekumpul good in the rainy season?+
The falls are at their most powerful, but the water turns brown and the trail can close after heavy rain. Check conditions with your guide on the day.
