North Bali Waterfalls Tour: Sekumpul, Aling-Aling and Lake Beratan

The route through the highlands

From South Bali the road climbs north through Bedugul, around 1,200 metres above sea level, before dropping toward the Buleleng regency on the north coast. Driving time to Sekumpul is often two and a half to three hours each way, which is why an early start matters. We usually head straight to the waterfalls first while you have fresh legs and before the afternoon clouds build.

On the way back south, we stop at the Handara Gate, a classic Balinese split gate framed by forested hills, and at Ulun Danu Beratan, the temple that appears to float on Lake Beratan. The lake area is noticeably cooler, so a light jacket is useful, especially if it is misty.

Sekumpul: Bali's most dramatic waterfall

Sekumpul is a cluster of tall falls dropping into a jungle gorge, and many people consider it the most impressive waterfall in Bali. Reaching the base involves a lot of stairs down and, of course, back up, plus some walking over rocks and shallow streams. Allow two to three hours if you want to go to the bottom. A local guide is commonly required or strongly encouraged at the entrance, and that fee is paid on site.

If you prefer something gentler, there are viewpoints at the top that still give you the full picture. Your driver can help you decide based on your fitness and the conditions that day.

Aling-Aling and the natural slides

Aling-Aling, near Sambangan, is a lovely waterfall with a pool below and a series of smaller cascades nearby where, when water levels allow, you can slide down natural rock chutes or jump into pools with a guide. It is great fun but only do it with the local guides, who know where it is safe, and skip it after heavy rain when the water is fast and murky.

Weather, season and honest trade-offs

This is a long day with a lot of driving on winding mountain roads, so if anyone gets carsick, take something before setting off and sit up front. In the dry season, roughly April to October, paths are firmer and the water clearer. In the wet season the falls are at their most powerful, but trails get muddy and slippery, and on some days access to certain pools may be closed for safety.

The Handara Gate is popular for photos, and there can be a queue and a small fee. Ulun Danu Beratan is busiest around midday on weekends and holidays. Going in a private car means you can shuffle the order on the day to dodge the worst of the crowds.

What to bring and booking details

Bring shoes with good grip that can get wet, swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, a light jacket, insect repellent, water and cash for entrance tickets and guides. A dry bag for your phone is worth it near the falls. The fixed per-car price shown on this page includes car, driver, fuel and parking. Entrance tickets, guide fees, meals, the driver's meal and personal expenses are not included. Book on WhatsApp with no deposit, pay by bank transfer or cash, and cancel or reschedule free up to 24 hours before pickup anywhere in South Bali.