Summary
Putting together an Indonesia waterfall guide is tough, because there are so many great waterfalls in this country and it’s hard to pick the top ones.
A lot of the best waterfalls in Indonesia are located in Sumatra and Java, but even the smaller islands like Bali and Lombok have some great ones too.
In fact, pretty much every island in this country has at least a few stunning waterfalls if you do a bit of exploring. You can click the links in this guide for more info and directions to some of them.
This is not a complete list of Indonesia’s top falls, but these are just a handful of the biggest and nicest ones we’ve seen so far in our many travels around this country!
Sumatra Waterfalls
1. Ponot Waterfall (North Sumatra)
This might be the biggest Indonesia waterfall of all, with a height of more than 250 meters (820 feet).
Ponot Waterfall is a giant three-step waterfall near the famous Lake Toba in North Sumatra, and you can visit it on a day trip from east Toba with about 2 hours of driving.
You can see it from the parking lot or hike to the base of the falls in about 10-15 minutes.
The magnificent Ponot Waterfall in Sumatra
2. Sipiso Piso Waterfall (North Sumatra)
Sipiso Piso is one of the most enchanting falls in Sumatra, and it’s also one of the tallest waterfalls in Indonesia.
It stands at 120 meters and flows into the famous Lake Toba in North Sumatra, surrounded by picturesque farms and highland scenery. This waterfall is a must-see on any road trip itinerary for Lake Toba or Sumatra, and it can also be accessed via a day trip from Medan.
The hike down to the bottom of the falls is worthwhile if you have time. It takes about 30-40 minutes each way, and you’ll capture even better pictures at the bottom.
This waterfall is often mistaken for being the tallest in Indonesia, but that’s not the case. The Ponot Waterfall, also near Lake Toba, is much taller. Nevertheless, Sipiso remains stunning and is well worth a visit!
3. Mursala Waterfall (North Sumatra)
Mursala Waterfall is unique for flowing directly into the ocean! This is a rarity among waterfalls.
Known as the King Kong waterfall due to its resemblance to a waterfall featured in the movie ‘King Kong’ (2005), it’s a sight to behold.
Mursala Island is a small, remote location off the west coast of Sumatra, and it’s not easy to access. The only way to visit is via a boat trip, and the seas can be rough!
Sulawesi Waterfalls
4. Piala Waterfall (Central Sulawesi)
Piala Waterfall is a beautiful turquoise waterfall featuring multiple cascades, situated in the Banggai region of Central Sulawesi, near the town of Luwuk.
This picturesque location reminded me of the famous Kuang Si Falls in Laos, which also features turquoise-colored water amidst separate cascades and natural swimming pools.
Visiting Piala Waterfall from Luwuk is easy, as it’s located just outside of town with a drive of about 15 minutes.
This waterfall remains largely unknown to international tourists, although it attracts many locals; to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit in the morning, preferably during weekdays!
East Java Waterfalls
5. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (East Java)
This may be the most impressive waterfall on Java island, and it can be visited on a day trip from Malang city, alongside other nearby waterfalls.
Although referred to as a single waterfall, Tumpak Sewu is essentially a collective of numerous falls. The name loosely translates from Javanese to mean “many waterfalls.”
These waterfalls cascade down into a horseshoe-shaped jungle ravine that appears to be lifted straight from a scene in Jurassic Park. The final result is an unmissable natural wonder!
Travelers often combine visits to Tumpak Sewu with other remarkable sights in East Java, such as the Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen volcano craters.
6. Kabut Pelangi Waterfall (East Java)
The hills and mountains in Java boast incredible waterfalls, but Kabut Pelangi stands out as one of the finest.
This huge cascade is nestled within a vibrant jungle amphitheater. The name translates to “rainbow mist waterfall” in Indonesian, and its size is truly awe-inspiring.
Located in the same area as Tumpak Sewu, this waterfall is slightly more challenging to find and involves more hiking. The effort invested is worthwhile for experiencing this magnificent Indonesia waterfall.
7. Kapas Biru Waterfall (East Java)
Another captivating waterfall in Lumajang, near Malang city, Kapas Biru is easily accessible with a straightforward hike that takes about 30 minutes each way.
This sizable waterfall is set against an orange rock wall, surrounded by prehistoric-looking jungles and towering bamboo trees.
The name translates to “blue cotton waterfall,” likely referencing the hazy blue color of the falls during evening hours.
West Java Waterfalls
8. Curug Cikanteh Waterfall (West Java)
Curug Cikanteh is one of the most impressive waterfalls at the Ciletuh Geopark in West Java, and it truly deserves the title of giant.
This waterfall is part of a UNESCO-designated geopark that features an abundance of stunning waterfalls in Indonesia. It’s accessible via a six-hour drive from Jakarta, and several accommodations are available near the waterfalls.
While reaching the geopark requires some effort, the waterfall can be easily visited after a short drive and a 15-minute hike. There’s also a steep mini path to climb to achieve an up-close view of the majestic falls, requiring an extra 5 to 10 minutes of hiking.
Curug Cikanteh may be my new favorite Indonesia waterfall. If you hike to the top in the late afternoon, you can even stand under a big rainbow!
9. Curug Cimarinjung Waterfall (West Java)
This is another popular waterfall at the Ciletuh Geopark in West Java.
If you’re staying in accommodation within the geopark, Curug Cimarinjung can be reached with a 10-minute drive followed by a brief 5-minute hike.
This feature showcases a two-step waterfall with numerous stunning viewpoints.
10. Curug Cikaso Waterfall (West Java)
Curug Cikaso is a unique limestone waterfall adorned with a greenish turquoise pool.
Located in West Java near the Ciletuh Geopark, it’s a 1.5-hour drive from the geopark, followed by a quick 5-minute hike to these extraordinary falls.
This waterfall is visually stunning! For the best experience, visit around April when the rainy season ends, and the water displays brilliant colors.
The unique looking green waterfall at Curug Cikaso
11. Curug Citambur Waterfall (West Java)
Curug Citambur is a large waterfall accessible via a day trip from Bandung city.
The journey takes roughly three hours from town, but once you arrive, the waterfall is just a short walk away, taking less than three minutes to reach. Curug Citambur features a two-step waterfall with several excellent viewpoints for photography.
To enhance your visit, consider combining it with a trip to the remarkable Kawah Putih crater lake, as both attractions are in the same direction from Bandung.
Curug Citambur Waterfall in West Java
Lombok Waterfalls
12. Tiu Kelep Waterfall (Lombok)
Tiu Kelep is renowned as the most famous waterfall in Lombok, and justly so. Its beauty and unique cascade, comprising several waterfalls together, captivate visitors.
The hike to reach this waterfall is quite manageable, taking less than 30 minutes. Along the way, you may encounter troops of wild monkeys and another lovely waterfall called Sendang Gile.
While locals at Tiu Kelep may encourage you to hire an expensive guide for your hike, it’s actually possible to navigate the trail without assistance, as the paths are well-maintained and easy to follow. Tiu Kelep Waterfall is situated in northern Lombok, on the slopes of Mount Rinjani, and it’s a 2-hour drive from the tourist hotspots of Senggigi or Mataram. Undoubtedly, this is among the best waterfalls in Indonesia!
13. Sekeper Waterfall (Lombok)
Another spectacular waterfall on the slopes of Mount Rinjani, Sekeper Waterfall might even surpass the famous Tiu Kelep in glory, although it remains less known.
Accessing Sekeper Waterfall involves a challenging road and hike, particularly during the rainy season. Given its remote location, it’s wise to hire a local guide from nearby villages to assist your journey.
The reward is an incredible waterfall enveloped by jungle—potentially the largest waterfall in Lombok!
Flores Waterfalls
14. Cunca Rami Waterfall (Flores)
This triple waterfall, situated in west Flores near Labuan Bajo, is truly remarkable.
If you plan to visit the Komodo National Park, seeing this waterfall from Labuan Bajo is an easy detour, requiring just a 1.5-hour drive.
The hike down to the falls is moderately challenging and takes about an hour each way. Hiring a local guide might be prudent to navigate the trail.
Cunca Rami Waterfall in Flores
Bali Waterfalls
15. Sekumpul Waterfall (Bali)
This enormous twin waterfall in northern Bali showcases two 80-meter streams cascading from the jungle treetops.
If you seek the most impressive and largest waterfall in Bali, this is likely it! The view also includes scenic jungles and rice terraces, adding to the experience.
While Sekumpul is no longer a secret, its remote northern location helps in keeping the crowds manageable.
16. Nungnung Waterfall (Bali)
Nungnung is among the largest and most powerful waterfalls situated in central Bali.
Accessing it involves descending a tropical gorge, but the stunning views on the journey justify the effort. The hike to Nungnung comprises approximately 500 steps, and you’ll find it worthwhile!
It takes about 15 minutes to descend and around 30 minutes to hike back up, although the humidity and incline can make it feel longer.
17. GitGit Waterfall (Bali)
This site involves a short hike to discover a breathtaking twin waterfall set amidst the jungles in northern Bali.
It’s easiest to reach GitGit from Lovina, although it’s also feasible to visit it as part of a day trip from Ubud and other southern tourist areas.
The waterfall is about a 30-minute drive from Singaraja or a 2-hour journey from Ubud.
18. Banyumala Waterfall (Bali)
Banyumala is a beautiful hidden waterfall backdrop surrounded by lush jungle in northern Bali.
The hike is short yet steep, leading to a cascade of small waterfalls merging into one another. It’s a stunning sight, and there’s even a natural pool perfect for swimming.
Banyumala is referred to as a twin waterfall, but it’s actually more akin to a collection of tiny waterfalls converging into a natural pool.
Best Time To See Indonesia Waterfalls
Many of the best waterfalls in Indonesia remain active throughout the year; however, water flow diminishes slightly during the dry season, which spans from May to November.
For photographers, the optimal time for waterfall hikes in Indonesia is during (or shortly after) the rainy season, from December to April, when landscapes flourish with bright greenery.
I particularly enjoy visiting waterfalls in March and April, as the rain is minimal, and water flows are still abundant.
Some waterfalls on this list feature natural pools ideal for swimming. However, exercising caution is essential when swimming near waterfalls, as dangerous undercurrents may exist. Always check conditions and consult local residents beforehand.
Happy travels! No matter when you decide to visit Wonderful Indonesia, you’re sure to witness some extraordinary sights!
