Best of Waterfalls: Tibumana waterfall, Tukad Cepung, & Tegenungan

Bali isn’t just about beaches and temples — its waterfalls are arguably some of the island’s most breathtaking natural sights. We recently looked into a popular tour that promises to take you to three of Bali’s most stunning waterfalls—Tibumana, Tukad Cepung, and Tegenungan—without the hassle of driving yourself. This full-day private experience is designed for those who love nature, photography, and authentic Bali moments.

What immediately caught our attention? The personalized touch with a dedicated guide, the combination of diverse waterfalls—from forested pools to cave-hidden cascades—and the value for money at just $60 per person. A possible consideration? The tour involves some walking and climbing, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level. If you crave a flexible, scenic, and well-organized adventure, this trip might just be perfect.

Key Points

• Private tour offer with personalized service and group discounts
• Three distinct waterfalls each with their own unique charm
• Expert guides who share insights into Balinese culture and nature
• Full-day itinerary with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off
• Includes entrance tickets and mineral water—no hidden costs
• Moderate physical activity required, with some walking and climbing

How the Day Unfolds: The Itinerary

The day begins with a hotel pickup around 8:30 AM, setting a comfortable tone for the adventure. Unlike large group tours, this one is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more relaxed pace and personalized attention.

Tegenungan Waterfall: The First Stop

Arriving around 9:30 AM, you’ll visit Tegenungan Waterfall, located just outside Ubud. This is Bali’s only waterfall that’s easily accessible from the mainland, making it a favorite among visitors. The waterfall offers a powerful cascade that plunges into a lagoon, perfect for photos or a quick swim. Reviewers mention the beauty of the falls and a lovely swim, highlighting that this stop is both scenic and refreshing. It’s a great way to start the day, with the early visit avoiding bigger crowds.

Tukad Cepung: The Hidden Gem

Next, around 11:00 AM, your guide takes you to Tukad Cepung Waterfall—a true hidden treasure. This waterfall is famous for being hidden behind a cave, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. You’ll walk down a staircase through lush foliage, with some climbing involved, leading to a waterfall that appears as if it’s emerging from the depths of a cave. Reviewers note that this waterfall is less known but more photogenic, perfect if you love capturing unique scenery. One reviewer mentioned, “It was a hard way to get to the last waterfall but it was worth it.” The adventure to reach it adds to its allure.

Lunch Break: Balinese Flavors

Around 1:00 PM, you’ll stop for a traditional Balinese lunch at a warung—a local eatery offering authentic dishes. Many reviews highlight the value of this meal as a chance to relax and sample Balinese cuisine, which often includes rice, vegetables, and local spices. It’s a good break to recharge before heading to the next waterfall.

Tibumana Waterfall: Forest Serenity

Post-lunch, at approximately 3:00 PM, your next destination is Tibumana Waterfall. Located in a lush forest setting, Tibumana offers a tranquil spot with a gentle cascade flowing into a clear pool—ideal for a cooling dip. Reviewers appreciate the peaceful environment and mention how it’s perfect for photography, thanks to its vibrant greenery and secluded feeling.

Coffee Plantation Visit: A Cultural Touch

At around 4:00 PM, the tour includes a visit to a coffee plantation, where you can learn about Bali’s famous coffee-making process. Several reviews mention that the guides are very knowledgeable and take the time to explain local customs and farming practices. Some guests enjoyed taking photos of the lush plantations, adding a cultural dimension to the waterfalls adventure.

Return to Hotel: Ending the Day

By approximately 5:00 PM, your driver will bring you back to your hotel, with plenty of photo memories and stories to share.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package is quite straightforward:

• Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets to all waterfalls, mineral water during the day.
• Not included: Lunch, though the tour stops for a traditional Balinese meal, which many find to be excellent value for the authentic experience.

This setup ensures you’re not caught off guard by extra costs, and with transfers, you avoid taxi hassles or navigating Bali’s sometimes unpredictable roads.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a consistent picture of a well-organized, value-packed tour. Guests praised their guides—like Bendy and Endrik—for being knowledgeable, helpful, and accommodating. One reviewer shared, “He tells a lot about the waterfalls we visit, but also explains us how people live in Bali.” Others appreciated the photos taken by guides, which helped capture moments without the need for carrying a camera all day.

The waterfalls themselves receive high praise for their stunning views and diversity. Several mentioned that Tukad Cepung’s cave-like setting was especially memorable, while Tibumana’s peaceful forest ambiance provided a perfect escape from crowds.

A common theme was the physical aspect: climbs and walks vary in difficulty, with some reviewers noting that it can get quite sweaty and challenging, but they found it worth the effort. If you’re not comfortable with some climbing or uneven terrain, consider this when booking.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour offers a lot of value. The personalized private setting means you set the pace, and the inclusion of cultural stops like the coffee plantation enriches the experience beyond just waterfalls. The full-day schedule ensures you cover diverse landscapes and get a true taste of Bali’s natural beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience suits nature lovers, photographers, and those who want to explore Bali beyond its beaches and temples. It’s especially well-suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level who don’t mind a bit of walking and climbing. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a personalized, authentic day out will find this trip both enjoyable and worthwhile.

This waterfall tour offers considerable value for the price, especially given the personalized attention, expert guides, and diverse locations. The scenic beauty of Bali’s waterfalls is undeniable, and visiting three spots in one day maximizes your experience without feeling rushed.

The adventure elements—hidden caves, forest pools, and cascading waterfalls—make it both fun and photogenic. Plus, the cultural aspect with the coffee plantation adds a nice touch, giving you a glimpse into local life.

While some walking and climbing are involved, the tour remains accessible for most travelers with moderate fitness. The inclusion of all entrance tickets and water eliminates surprise costs, making it a straightforward, hassle-free option.

If you’re eager to explore Bali’s natural wonders and enjoy a well-organized, authentic experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those who want to beat the crowds and get some truly memorable photos of Bali’s lush waterfalls.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and return to your hotel, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, from morning pickup to late afternoon return.

What’s the best way to prepare physically?
Having a moderate level of physical fitness helps, as there’s walking and some climbing involved, especially at Tukad Cepung.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance tickets are included in the $60 price, so there’s no need to buy additional tickets.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit if you want to swim, sunscreen, hat, and a camera for photos.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour, so guides are flexible and can adjust parts of the schedule to suit your needs.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a traditional Balinese meal is offered at a local warung, which many find to be excellent value.

Are there any physical challenges?
Some waterfalls involve walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs. Reviewers mention that it can get sweaty, but it’s generally manageable for those with moderate fitness.

What makes this tour stand out?
Guides’ local knowledge, the variety of waterfalls, and the inclusion of cultural elements like the coffee plantation make this experience authentic and memorable.

This waterfall tour around Ubud provides a fantastic opportunity to see Bali’s natural beauty through a well-structured, personalized lens. With knowledgeable guides, diverse scenery, and cultural stops, it appeals to nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. The value for money, given the full-day itinerary and inclusive tickets, makes it an attractive option for travelers wanting an authentic, hassle-free Bali adventure. While it requires some physical effort, the rewards—stunning views, peaceful environments, and memorable moments—are well worth it.

Whether you’re visiting Bali for a short stay or looking to deepen your connection with its lush landscapes, this tour offers a balanced, enriching experience tailored for those who appreciate genuine natural wonders and local culture.