Sekumpul Waterfall is often described as one of the most impressive waterfalls in Bali, not because it is easy to reach, but because of how untouched and dramatic the landscape feels once you arrive. Located deep in North Bali, this waterfall complex offers a very different experience compared to the more accessible falls in the south, with towering cascades, dense jungle, and a sense of scale that feels genuinely wild.
But visiting Sekumpul is not something you do casually. The distance, terrain, and conditions matter, and understanding them beforehand will shape whether your experience feels rewarding or exhausting. Here’s what you need to know before visiting Sekumpul Waterfall in Bali.
Where Sekumpul Waterfall Is Located
Sekumpul Waterfall is located in Sekumpul Village, Sawan District, Buleleng Regency, in the northern part of Bali. This area sits far from the island’s main tourist hubs, which is a big reason why the waterfall still feels raw and less commercialized compared to southern Bali attractions.
What makes Sekumpul different is not just its location, but the landscape surrounding it. The waterfall is part of a lush river valley surrounded by steep hills, clove plantations, and dense tropical forest. Instead of a single cascade, Sekumpul is actually a cluster of tall waterfalls flowing side by side, creating a wide and powerful scene once you reach the bottom.
Several factors contribute to why Sekumpul feels more immersive than many other waterfalls in Bali:
- Distance from major tourist centers like Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu, which naturally reduces crowds
- Elevation and terrain, with cooler air and thicker vegetation typical of North Bali
- Minimal development around the falls, keeping the environment closer to its natural state
- A longer access route, which filters out visitors looking for quick, easy stops
Because of this setting, Sekumpul is often considered less about ticking off a sightseeing spot and more about committing to a full nature experience. You do not just “stop by” Sekumpul. You plan for it, travel to it, and walk into it, which is exactly why it leaves such a strong impression once you are there.
How to Get to Sekumpul Waterfall (Routes & Travel Time)
Getting to Sekumpul Waterfall is part of the experience, but it is also where many visitors underestimate the effort involved. The waterfall is located in North Bali, and travel time depends heavily on where you are staying and how early you leave.
There is no public transport that goes directly to Sekumpul. The most practical options are private car with driver, motorbike, or organized day tour. Each comes with different trade offs in comfort, safety, and flexibility.
From Ubud
From central Ubud, the drive to Sekumpul Waterfall takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route usually goes through Tegallalang, Kintamani, and mountain roads before descending into Buleleng.
What to expect on this route:
- Winding uphill and downhill roads after Kintamani
- Cooler temperatures as you reach higher elevation
- Limited facilities once you leave the main towns
This route is scenic but tiring, which is why many travelers choose to leave Ubud early in the morning or combine Sekumpul with an overnight stay in North Bali.
From Canggu or Seminyak
If you are staying in Canggu or Seminyak, travel time increases to around 3.5 to 4 hours one way. Morning traffic in the south can significantly affect departure times, especially if you leave after 8 am.
Important considerations:
- Early departure is essential to avoid congestion
- Long return drive on the same day can feel exhausting
- Best done with a driver rather than riding a motorbike
For families or travelers not used to Bali roads, a private car with driver is strongly recommended for this route.
From Lovina or North Bali
If you are already staying in Lovina, Singaraja, or nearby North Bali areas, Sekumpul becomes much more accessible. Travel time is usually 45 minutes to 1 hour, making it one of the easiest waterfall trips in the region.
This is why many travelers plan Sekumpul as part of a North Bali itinerary, rather than a rushed day trip from the south.
Best Transportation Options
To make the journey smoother, here is how each option realistically compares:
- Private car with driver
Best for comfort, navigation, and long distances. Ideal if you want to focus on the experience rather than directions. - Motorbike
Possible for confident riders only. Roads can be steep, narrow, and slippery after rain. - Guided tour
Convenient if you want everything arranged, but less flexible with timing and pace.
Reaching Sekumpul requires commitment, but that effort is exactly what keeps the area quieter and more rewarding once you arrive. Next, what really matters is what happens after you park the car, because the walk to the waterfall is where the experience truly begins.
The Experience of Visiting Sekumpul
Visiting Sekumpul is not a single moment standing in front of a waterfall. The experience unfolds gradually, starting from the descent, continuing along the river, and ending in how you choose to spend time near the falls. This is a place where pace matters, and understanding what actually happens on the ground helps you enjoy it fully.
Below is what you will realistically experience once you begin the walk toward Sekumpul.
1. The Hike Down to the Falls
The hike to Sekumpul Waterfall is moderately challenging and should not be underestimated. From the main parking area, the walk down takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace and weather conditions.
The path includes:
- A long descent with concrete steps, uneven stone paths, and dirt sections
- Stepping stones and shallow river crossings near the final stretch
- A noticeable elevation drop that makes the return hike more demanding than the way down
After rain, parts of the trail can be slippery, especially near the river. Proper footwear makes a significant difference here. Closed shoes or trail sandals with grip are far more suitable than flip flops, especially if you plan to walk slowly and stop along the way.
The hike is not technical, but it requires steady footing and patience. Taking breaks is normal, and there are a few shaded areas where you can pause before continuing.
2. Pools and River Access
At the base of Sekumpul, the river opens into several natural pools formed by the flow of multiple waterfalls. These pools vary in depth and current strength depending on the season.
What you can expect:
- Shallow areas near the edges where you can safely sit and cool off
- Deeper sections closer to the waterfall impact zones, where currents are stronger
- Flat rocks along the riverbanks that are commonly used for resting or eating snacks
Swimming is possible, but it should be done cautiously. During the rainy season, water levels rise quickly and currents become stronger. It is best to stay closer to the edges and avoid swimming directly under the main waterfall streams.
If you want to sit quietly, move slightly away from the main viewing area. A short walk upstream or downstream often leads to calmer spots with fewer people and more space to relax.
3. Photography Points
Sekumpul offers strong visual contrast, but timing and position matter more than equipment. The best photography conditions usually occur in the early morning, when light is softer and crowds are lighter.
Key points to consider:
- Morning light creates balanced exposure without harsh highlights
- Sunlight begins to hit the falls more directly toward late morning, increasing contrast
- Mist from the waterfalls can affect lens clarity near the main viewing area
Most visitors cluster near the central viewpoint where multiple waterfalls are visible at once. For quieter angles, step slightly away from the main path and look for side perspectives along the river. These spots often provide cleaner compositions and a calmer atmosphere.
Photography here rewards patience. Standing still, observing how light and water interact, and choosing your angle carefully will give better results than rushing between viewpoints.
Best Time to Visit Sekumpul Waterfall
Timing plays a big role in how Sekumpul feels once you arrive. Because the experience involves a long descent, river access, and light dependent scenery, choosing the right moment can make the visit calmer and more rewarding.
Time of day
- Early morning is the best window, ideally arriving at the trail entrance between 8.00 and 9.00 am
- The hike feels cooler, light is softer, and the pools are usually quieter
- Late morning to early afternoon brings stronger sun and more visitors, especially during peak season
Weekday vs weekend
- Weekdays are noticeably calmer, with fewer groups on the trail and more space near the river
- Weekends often attract domestic visitors, which increases crowd density at the main viewpoints
Dry season vs rainy season
- Dry season (May to September) offers safer trails, clearer pools, and more predictable conditions
- Rainy season (October to April) brings stronger water flow and dramatic visuals, but trails can be slippery and river currents stronger
Light conditions for photos
- Early morning light creates balanced exposure and softer contrast
- Midday sun increases glare and shadow contrast, especially near the main falls
If photography and a slower pace matter to you, planning your visit around early hours and dry season conditions aligns best with the experience described earlier.
Entrance Fee, Opening Hours and What to Prepare
Understanding the practical side before you arrive helps keep the experience smooth and unhurried, especially given the physical nature of the walk.
Entrance fee
- Entrance fees typically range between IDR 20,000 to 30,000 per person
- In some cases, an additional local guide fee or village contribution may apply, especially if access routes change
- Fees are usually collected at village checkpoints rather than a formal ticket counter
Local donation etiquette
- Contributions support trail maintenance and village access
- Payment is expected and considered part of responsible visiting rather than optional tipping
Opening hours
- Sekumpul is generally accessible from around 8.00 am to 5.00 pm
- Arriving earlier gives you more flexibility for a slower hike and time near the river
What to prepare before you go
- Comfortable walking shoes or trail sandals with grip
- Lightweight clothing that can get wet
- Small backpack with drinking water and snacks
- Towel or change of clothes if you plan to enter the pools
- Phone or camera protection from mist and splashes
Minimum safety considerations
- Avoid swimming directly under heavy waterfall flow
- Take extra care after rain due to slippery paths
- Pace yourself on the return hike, which is more demanding than the descent
Preparing well allows you to focus on the experience itself, rather than managing avoidable discomfort once you are already on the trail.
How Sekumpul Compares to Other Waterfalls in Bali
Compared to many well known waterfalls in Bali, Sekumpul sits in a different category. The difference is not only in height or visual scale, but in how much effort and time you need to invest to experience it fully.
Most popular waterfalls in central Bali, such as Tegenungan or Tibumana, are designed for quick visits. Access is short, facilities are close, and the experience is often limited to one main viewpoint. Sekumpul, on the other hand, requires commitment. The longer hike, river crossings, and multiple waterfall streams make it feel more immersive and less transactional.
Here is how Sekumpul realistically compares:
- Effort required: Higher than most waterfalls, especially due to elevation and return hike
- Crowd density: Lower at the base compared to easily accessible waterfalls
- Visual scale: Larger and more dramatic, with multiple falls visible at once
- Time investment: Half day experience rather than a short stop
If you are looking for convenience and quick access, other waterfalls may suit you better. But if you value depth, scale, and a sense of progression in the experience, Sekumpul stands out clearly.
If you want to explore how Sekumpul fits within Bali’s wider waterfall landscape, you can explore our full guide to best waterfalls in Bali to compare locations, access levels, and travel styles more easily.
So, Is Sekumpul Worth the Effort for Your Itinerary?
Sekumpul is worth visiting if your itinerary allows space for slower travel and physical activity. This is not a waterfall you squeeze in between other stops. It works best when treated as a primary destination for the day, especially if you are staying in North or Central Bali.
It may be a strong fit for you if:
- You enjoy nature experiences that require walking and time investment
- You are comfortable with uneven paths and moderate physical effort
- You prefer fewer crowds over easy access
It may not be ideal if:
- Your schedule is tightly packed
- You are traveling with very young children or limited mobility
- You are seeking a short, low effort stop
When planned intentionally, Sekumpul rewards you with one of the most complete waterfall experiences in Bali. The effort becomes part of the memory, not a drawback.
Visiting Sekumpul Waterfall with the Right Expectations
Sekumpul is not a waterfall you stumble upon casually. It requires time, physical effort, and a slower pace to fully appreciate. When you arrive with realistic expectations, the hike and distance feel like part of the experience rather than an obstacle.
If your Bali trip values depth over quick stops, Sekumpul fits naturally into that rhythm. At Bali Island Vacation, we help you place experiences like this into your journey thoughtfully, so each destination feels intentional and connected, not rushed or disconnected.
If you are planning to explore more destinations across the island, you can continue with our curated Bali travel guides to understand how different regions, landscapes, and experiences fit together.
- Tirta Empul Temple: Bali’s Sacred Holy Spring and What to Know Before You Visit
- Campuhan Ridge Walk: A Scenic Nature Walk in the Heart of Ubud
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces: What to Expect, When to Visit, and How to Experience It Right
- Penglipuran Village Bali: A Complete Guide to Visiting Bali’s Most Authentic Traditional Village
