Summary
Sekumpul Waterfall is a stunning twin waterfall located in Singaraja, Bali. With two impressive streams of 80 meters (260 feet) cascading from the jungle treetops, it is often regarded as one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Bali. Moreover, the hike to the falls offers breathtaking views of lush jungles and vibrant rice terraces, making it an unforgettable experience.
Although Sekumpul Waterfall is no longer a hidden gem, its location in the far north of the island helps keep the crowds manageable. This guide will explain the best ways to access the waterfall, how to hike without a guide, expected entrance fees, and all essential tips for your visit!
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Sekumpul Waterfall Bali: What To Expect
The hike to Sekumpul Waterfall is relatively simple but is considered moderate due to the steep terrain. Expect to spend approximately 30 to 60 minutes reaching the falls, depending on your parking location.
As you begin your hike, be prepared to capture countless photographs. The views of the steep, green mountains and rice terraces surrounding you are nothing short of breathtaking!
You will descend into a beautiful ravine, with mind-blowing views throughout your journey.
There are two viewpoints at Sekumpul: one above the waterfall and another at the base. It’s advisable to visit both for diverse perspectives. Remember to wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be muddy and the rocks at the waterfall’s base can be slippery.
Fiji Waterfall
Approaching the end of the hike, you’ll find a sign leading to two waterfalls. Take a right turn for a 5-minute walk to Grombong Waterfall, the main Sekumpul waterfall. Afterward, return to the sign and take a 5 to 10-minute walk in the opposite direction to experience Fiji Waterfall, a beautiful triple waterfall hidden in the same canyon.
Sekumpul Waterfall Without Guide
Travelers should be cautious of a registration scam at Sekumpul Waterfall, where locals have set up convincing checkpoints. They may pressure you into hiring a guide for approximately 250,000 IDR (~$16 USD) per person, claiming it is a requirement and presenting a fake entrance ticket.
To avoid this, simply tell them you do not need a guide, or drive through without stopping. This tactic is much simpler if you’re in a vehicle.
Head to Lemukih village and access the south entrance for the hike, as opposed to the north entrance at Sekumpul village, where you will inevitably encounter locals at a metal gate.
While it may seem chaotic initially, the following images and map provide valuable help.
These scammers went viral in November 2023. Although the fake ticket counters were initially shut down by the local authorities, they have reportedly resumed operations in 2024.
As a reminder, this area is economically depressed, and locals often seek alternate means of earning a livelihood. Consequently, reflect on their circumstances when deciding whether to utilize the widely deemed ‘mandatory’ local guides.
While guides can be helpful, most individuals can safely navigate the path without assistance, making it unnecessary for the majority.
The fee being imposed may not seem fair, especially for what is essentially a short hike.
Sekumpul Waterfall Entrance Fee
The official entrance fee for Sekumpul Waterfall remains at just 20,000 Rupiah (~$1 USD) as of 2024. This can be seen in the provided image above.
How To Get To Sekumpul Waterfall
You can find Sekumpul Waterfall in North Bali, roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Ubud and about 1 hour from Singaraja. The best mode of transport is to rent a scooter or hire a private car and driver, options available for booking online.
To navigate directly to Sekumpul Waterfall, you can set your GPS to Warung Fiji. This local eatery serves as a convenient southern entry point for the hike.
Scooters can access Warung Fiji, while cars will need to park slightly earlier. Ensure you choose the last available parking area to minimize hiking distance.
The trek from the parking to the waterfall takes only about 30-45 minutes, following a narrow downhill path.
Lemukih Water Slide
If you’re interested in experiencing another waterfall near Sekumpul, consider the natural water slide located by Lemukih village. Stretching approximately 50 meters, it resembles a natural slip n’ slide, accessible via a short and easy hike from Lemukih village.
The trek from Sekumpul Waterfall to the slide is also brief and manageable, making it a fun addition to your visit.
Best Time To Visit
Any time of day or season is ideal for visiting Sekumpul Waterfall and capturing exceptional photos. This waterfall tends to maintain its flow better than others, making it a worthwhile destination even during the dry season months from May to November; however, it may reduce slightly by the end of the year.
Images in our guide were taken in July, showcasing plenty of flow and even a delightful rainbow in the late afternoon. We frequently encountered the rainbow in July. The freshly planted rice terraces during this time appear watery but provide excellent photo opportunities.
The vibrant green rice fields depicted in this guide were photographed in March, during Indonesia’s rainy season. Fortunately, we experienced no rainfall issues, and the waterfall remained as picturesque as ever.
Where To Stay
