North Bali: Sekumpul Waterfalls and Ulun Danu Temple Tour

This tour offers a balanced glimpse into Bali’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, highlighting some of the island’s most iconic sights. From discovering the cascading beauty of Sekumpul Waterfalls to marveling at the mystique of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, this experience combines adventure with cultural insight. We’ve gathered plenty of details and honest insights to help you decide if it’s the right Bali day trip for you.

What we love about this tour:

• The chance to hike past seven waterfalls, which promises plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of accomplishment.
• Visiting two of Bali’s most famous temples—Ulun Danu Beratan and Taman Ayun—both offering postcard-worthy vistas and spiritual ambiance.
• The door-to-door service, including hotel pickup and return, simplifies logistics and keeps the focus on sightseeing.

A possible drawback:

• The drive to Sekumpul can be long and bumpy, which might challenge travelers prone to motion sickness or seeking a more relaxed pace.

Who this tour suits best:

• Those eager for a full day of scenic nature and cultural sights, without the hassle of planning transportation.
• Travelers who appreciate guided experiences and small-group settings that foster a more personal atmosphere.
• Visitors with a sense of adventure—and stamina—who are prepared for some moderate trekking.

Key Points

• Value for money is high, with a competitive price point of just $25, especially considering the inclusion of several entrance fees and private or group options.
• Small-group tours ensure a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized attention.
• Transportation is comfortable and air-conditioned, easing the long drives typical of Bali’s north.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to support travelers on treks.
• Flexibility in booking options: choose guided tours with or without tickets, or opt for private arrangements.
• Authentic experiences with scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and temples that are truly photogenic and culturally meaningful.

Discovering the Experience

This tour typically begins early at 6:30 am, with pick-up from key Bali locations like Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and others. The journey to North Bali is quite the adventure itself: expect a scenic drive through lush landscapes, with stops along the way for photos and rest. Many reviewers specifically mention their drivers, like Poetra, who is remembered for being kind, funny, and attentive—especially when stopping for pictures or ensuring comfort.

Sekumpul Waterfalls: The Main Attraction

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the hike to Sekumpul Waterfalls. Described as a “dreamy hike” by many, it involves trekking through lush greenery, crossing small streams, and navigating uneven paths. Expect to visit up to seven waterfalls, each more breathtaking than the last. Visitors often mention how the waterfalls’ streams cascade down rugged cliffs, creating a series of pools perfect for photo ops or a cooling dip.

A significant point from reviews is that paying for a trekking guide enhances the experience. For medium treks, guides charge around IDR 150K per person, while long treks cost about IDR 250K. These guides help navigate the terrain safely, point out hidden viewpoints, and enrich your understanding of the area.

While the trek is rewarding for outdoor lovers, some reviews caution about the physical challenge. One guest noted that they “stopped at least 15 times” due to fatigue but found the stunning views made the effort worthwhile.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: Iconic and Photogenic

After the waterfalls, the tour heads to Ulun Danu Beratan, often described as the most picturesque temple in Bali. Sitting serenely on the lake and looking as if it’s floating, this temple is a photographer’s paradise. The temple’s traditional Balinese architecture contrasts beautifully against the mountain backdrop, especially at sunrise or late afternoon.

Visitors rave about the gorgeous vistas and the peaceful atmosphere. The photo opportunities here are plentiful, with reflections on the water providing perfect mirror images. Many appreciate that entrance fees are included if you opt for the ticketed tour.

Taman Ayun Temple: A UNESCO Heritage Site

The last stop is Taman Ayun, an expansive water temple recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its elaborate gardens, ornate shrines, and large pools make it a tranquil spot for reflection. The temple grounds are often quiet, allowing visitors to soak in the traditional Balinese architecture and spiritual ambiance. A visit here offers insight into Bali’s religious traditions and cultural heritage.

The Logistics and Practicalities

The tour is designed to maximize what you see in a day, with hotel pickup and drop-off included from many popular Bali locations. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a relief after a long drive. The tour lasts around 10 hours, providing ample time for each stop without feeling rushed.

The options for guided tours vary: you can select without tickets, with tickets and a guide, or opt for a private tour with all inclusions. If you choose the guided option, the guides are known for their friendliness and knowledge, often making the experience more engaging. The small-group format—limited to about nine travelers—ensures that you won’t be lost in a crowd and can ask plenty of questions.

Cost and Value

At $25 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the inclusions: transport, guide, entrance fees (if selected), bottled water, and insurance. The reviews suggest that many feel the price is justified, especially given the stunning scenery and well-organized logistics. Additional costs like trekking guides are optional but enhance safety and experience—think of them as a worthwhile investment.

Challenges and Considerations

One review highlighted a less-than-ideal experience involving a long wait over 2.5 hours without a break, and a stop at a “very dirty place,” which underscores that not all parts of the journey will be perfect. The drive to Sekumpul is notably “a nightmare drive,” but this is a common challenge when exploring Bali’s more remote areas.

If you have limited time or mobility issues, the trek might be more strenuous. Also, be prepared for the possibility of a busy day with other travelers, although the small-group setting helps mitigate this.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling blend of Bali’s natural wonders and cultural gems—perfect for those wanting a full day of scenic beauty and spiritual sites. The value is high, especially with guided options and included tickets, making it a practical choice for travelers keen to see North Bali without the hassle of planning transportation or entry.

The experience is enriched by guides praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, and the scenery—waterfalls, lakes, and temples—is genuinely breathtaking. While the drive can be lengthy and some treks challenging, the overall reward is seeing some of Bali’s most photogenic and meaningful sights.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized day trip that balances adventure with cultural insight, this tour is a strong contender. Just prepare for a full day and some bumpy roads, and you’ll come away with unforgettable memories.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up and drop-off from many locations including Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Sanur, Kerobokan, Canggu, Nusa Dua, and Ubud. Extra charges apply for some remote areas.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 10 hours, starting at 6:30 am, including travel time and sightseeing.

What is included in the tour price?
The price generally covers transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees if selected, bottled water, and insurance.

Can I choose a private tour?
Yes, there is an option for a private tour that includes tickets and a guide for a more personalized experience.

Are entrance fees included?
You can upgrade to include entrance fees for the temples and waterfalls, which many reviewers recommend for convenience.

Is trekking required?
Yes, reaching Sekumpul Waterfalls involves moderate trekking. Guides are available to support and ensure safety.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for trekking, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Water is provided, but snacks are not included.

Are there any restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but expect some physical activity. The driver and guide are there to support you.

How do I cancel?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This tour delivers a well-rounded Bali experience, blending natural beauty with cultural landmarks, all in a comfortable, small-group setting. If you’re eager to explore Bali’s northern highlights with ease and insight, this one’s worth considering.