If you’re considering a full-day adventure on Lombok, the Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls with Selong Hill Viewpoint Tour offers a solid combination of natural awe and cultural charm. Designed to showcase some of Lombok’s most iconic sights, this private trip balances breathtaking scenery with an intimate group setting, giving you the chance to appreciate the island’s lush landscapes without feeling like just another face in the crowd.
What we love about this tour is how it captures the essence of Lombok’s natural beauty—from the rushing waterfalls to the panoramic views of Mount Rinjani from Selong Hill. Plus, the included guide makes navigating the sometimes tricky terrain both informative and enjoyable. On the flip side, a minor consideration is that the tour focuses mainly on waterfalls, with some reviews mentioning missing out on other cultural sites like Sasak villages. Still, if your goal is to see Lombok’s stunning waterfalls and mountain vistas, this tour hits the mark.
This experience suits travelers who value stunning scenery, are comfortable with a bit of walking, and want a well-organized day managed by knowledgeable guides. If your priority is a full culture, you might prefer a different experience, but for those wanting a picture-perfect, nature-focused adventure, this tour fits perfectly.
Key Points
- Stunning Waterfalls: Visit Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep, two of Lombok’s most famous cascades.
- Spectacular Views: Capture breathtaking panoramas from Selong Hill overlooking Rinjani.
- All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour includes hotel pickup, local guides, tickets, and mineral water.
- Private Tour: Enjoy a personalized experience tailored to your schedule.
- Timing & Flexibility: Starts at different locations, with a typical day lasting around 7-8 hours.
- Limited Cultural Stops: Primarily waterfall visits, with some reviews noting a lack of Sasak village visits.
An In-Depth Look at What This Tour Offers
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Pemenang.
The Itinerary Breakdown
This tour is structured to maximize your time at Lombok’s natural highlights. It begins with a pickup from your hotel or a designated location, usually in North Lombok or Mangsit. The transportation is private, which means your group moves comfortably through the island’s scenic roads without the hassle of crowded buses or shared rides.
Stop 1: Sendang Gile Waterfall
We loved the way this falls at the foot of Mount Rinjani appears like a pristine curtain of water crashing into the rocks below. The short, 15-minute walk from the entrance leads you through a lush rainforest, giving a tangible sense of the island’s tropical richness. The water here is clear and cool enough to dip into—an ideal spot for a quick refresh. As one reviewer put it, “the sight of the water crushing the rocks is marvelous,” and you can easily spend about two hours soaking in the scenery and snapping photos.
Stop 2: Tiu Kelep Waterfall
Just a brief walk from Sendang Gile, this waterfall is often considered the more dramatic of the two, with a higher volume of water and a more adventurous approach to reach it. The path involves crossing streams and climbing over some rocks, so wear your best water-friendly shoes. The reward? An impressive cascade that feels almost like nature’s own water park. As one visitor said, “the guide was very friendly,” making the hike easier and more enjoyable.
Stop 3: Bukit Selong (Selong Hill)
Next, you’ll get a panoramic view of Lombok’s landscape from Selong Hill. This spot provides stunning vistas of Rinjani and the surrounding valleys. It’s a perfect place to take a breather and appreciate the lush green scenery. One reviewer called it “the iconic hill with beautiful landscape views,” which is a fair description. Expect about an hour here, where the scenery makes your camera work worthwhile.
Stop 4: Sembalun and nearby viewpoints
The trip often includes a quick stop at Sembalun, a charming village and vantage point that offers additional scenic vistas of the Rinjani region. While sightseeing here is brief—around an hour—it’s an excellent photo stop, especially if you’re into capturing expansive natural landscapes.
Return: Drop-off at your hotel
The journey concludes with your private driver returning you to your accommodation, leaving you with a day full of vivid memories and photos.
What You’ll Experience During the Tour
Waterfalls: Both Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep are accessible and safe for most travelers, but be prepared for some light hiking and water splashing. Many guests appreciate the chance to swim and cool off in the waterfalls’ pools, especially during hot days. The lush rainforest setting enhances the feeling of being in a true tropical paradise.
Scenic Views: From Selong Hill, you’ll get sweeping views of Lombok’s rolling landscapes and Mount Rinjani’s towering presence. The combination of land, mountain, and sky will give you a sense of Lombok’s natural grandeur—a perfect contrast to the beaches and coastal towns.
Cultural Context: While the tour emphasizes natural beauty, it also touches on Lombok’s cultural roots through the visit to Senaru village, home to traditional Sasak houses made of clay, Rumbia thatch, and narrow streets. The Sasak people are seen as the custodians of the Rinjani region’s spiritual and cultural significance.
Local Guides and Logistics: The included English-speaking guide enriches your experience, explaining the history, geology, and local customs of the areas visited. The guide also manages the logistics, helping you navigate the sometimes challenging paths to the waterfalls.
Value for the Price
At $50 per person, this tour offers a competitively priced way to see some of Lombok’s most iconic natural sights. The inclusion of hotel pickup, private transportation, tickets, and mineral water simplifies planning and ensures comfort. Considering that similar tours often charge more for fewer stops or less personalized service, this tour strikes a reasonable balance between cost and experience.
However, based on one review, some might find the itinerary somewhat limited. The focus is mainly on waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, with fewer cultural or village visits. If your main goal is to see Lombok’s waterfalls and enjoy mountain vistas, the value is evident. If you seek a more diverse cultural experience, you might want to supplement this tour with other activities.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This adventure is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those wanting a relaxing day with plenty of natural beauty. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with some walking—wear good shoes and bring a towel and water. The private nature of the tour means it caters well to couples, families, or small groups who prefer a flexible schedule.
People over 70, pregnant women, or anyone with high blood pressure might want to consult with their doctor first, as some of the walks and climbs could be challenging. The tour isn’t designed to be physically demanding but does involve some light hiking and outdoor exposure.
The Sum Up
The Sendang Gile, Tiu Kelep Waterfalls & Selong Hill Tour is a solid choice for travelers eager to witness Lombok’s lush landscapes without fuss. It combines spectacular waterfalls, mountain views, and cultural insights into a well-organized, private experience that offers great value for money. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation make it easy to relax and enjoy the day, especially if you’re focused on capturing stunning scenery and enjoying nature.
If your ideal day involves cooling off in waterfalls, soaking in mountain vistas, and exploring scenic hilltops, this tour will meet—and possibly exceed—your expectations. It’s a fantastic way to see the island’s natural side, especially if you want a manageable, hassle-free experience.
For those seeking a more comprehensive cultural tour, or additional village visits, you might want to look for options that include those elements. But if waterfalls, mountain views, and lush forests top your list, this tour will leave you with plenty of memorable moments.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour. It’s a private trip, so your group travels comfortably in a dedicated vehicle.
How long does the tour last?
The entire tour typically lasts around 7-8 hours, depending on the pickup location and pace.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sports shoes, water, and possibly a camera. You’ll want to stay comfortable and prepared for some walking and water exposure.
Is it suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and water crossings; children comfortable with outdoor activities will enjoy it, but very young kids or babies may find it too challenging.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide—perhaps adding extra time at certain stops or skipping less interesting parts.
Are the waterfalls safe for swimming?
Yes, many visitors swim in the pools at Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep, but always heed the guide’s advice and exercise caution around slippery rocks.
What if I want to visit Sasak villages?
This specific tour focuses mainly on waterfalls and viewpoints. For village visits, you might need to look for a different or customized experience.
Is there a bathroom at the waterfalls?
Facilities are limited; it’s best to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, and be prepared for a short walk to nearby facilities if available.
What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
Morning pickups tend to avoid crowds and the intense midday heat, making the waterfalls and viewpoints even more enjoyable.
Is this tour suitable for seniors or pregnant women?
It depends on individual health and mobility; some parts involve light hiking. Consult your doctor if unsure, and discuss your conditions with the guide beforehand.
This tour offers an authentic taste of Lombok’s stunning natural landscape, wrapped in the comfort of a private, guided experience. Whether you’re after dramatic waterfalls, sweeping mountain vistas, or a peaceful escape into lush rainforest, it’s a solid choice for making your Lombok visit truly memorable.
You can check availability for your dates here: