Bali Waterfalls Tour: Tegenungan, Tukad Cepung & Tibumana — Ubud Day-Trip Guide
A one-day loop from Ubud that stitches together three of Bali’s most compelling waterfalls — Tibumana’s quiet pool, Tukad Cepung’s shafted light, and Tegenungan’s roaring curtain. Practical route notes, local context, and timing tips to make the most of your visit.
The Experience
Before You Go
Get there early
Arrive at Tukad Cepung and Tegenungan before mid-morning to beat the crowds and catch the best light for photos.
Wear water-friendly footwear
Trails include wet rocks and stairs; water shoes or grippy sandals prevent slips and make swims comfortable.
Carry local cash
Small entrance fees, parking, and warung snacks are cash-based — bring IDR in small bills.
Respect wildlife and shrines
Do not feed macaques and avoid entering altar areas; local customs and animals are protected by community rules.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small warung behind Tegenungan serving kopi (Bali coffee) with a river view
- •A quiet rice-terrace walk near Tibumana that few tourists take—ask locals for the path
Wildlife
- •Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
- •Kingfisher and other river birds
Conservation Note
Visitor pressure can erode trails and impact local wells—stick to marked paths, avoid single-use plastics, and support local vendors to benefit the communities maintaining these sites.
These waterfalls occupy rivers that have long been part of Bali’s subak irrigation networks and local ritual use; water sources are tied to village temples and seasonal ceremonies.
Photographer's Notes
- • The upper viewing terrace at Tegenungan for the full curtain
- • Inside the Tukad Cepung gorge looking up at the light shaft
- • The pool edge at Tibumana for reflections and close-up cascades
What to Bring
Water shoes or grippy sandalsEssential
Provide traction on wet rocks and make entering pools safer.
Quick-dry swimwear and towelEssential
For swimming at Tibumana and Tegenungan and drying off between stops.
Small dry bag or waterproof phone caseEssential
Keeps electronics and documents dry during boat-free river crossings and near spray.
Light rain jacket
Useful in the wet season (Oct–Apr) when sudden showers are common.
Common Questions
Will the tour pick me up from my hotel in Ubud?
Yes — pickup from hotels in Ubud (and many surrounding areas) is included; confirm your pickup point at booking.
Can I swim at all three waterfalls?
Swimming is allowed at Tibumana and Tegenungan in calm areas; currents can be strong at the base of the main falls so use caution and follow local guidance.
How much walking is involved?
Each waterfall requires short walks from parking to viewpoints (typically under 1 km each) with stairs and uneven surfaces — plan for several short descents and climbs throughout the day.
Are the sites family-friendly?
Yes, families with children can visit, but supervise kids near edges and fast water; some sites have many steps that may be challenging for strollers.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
The dry season (May–September) offers clearer paths and better light, while the wet season (Oct–Apr) makes falls fuller but trails muddier and more slippery.
Do I need a guide or is transport enough?
This tour provides private transport and an English-speaking driver; on-site guides are not required but local guides can offer cultural context and safer route choices at each fall.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–10 hours
Location
Ubud, Bali
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate: able to walk short uneven trails, descend/ascend stairs several times, and swim if desired.
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