The Best Northern Bali: Waterfalls & Sacred Temple Adventure

If you’re looking to explore Bali beyond its famous beaches and busy markets, this full-day tour offers a genuine glimpse into the island’s natural and spiritual treasures. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines awe-inspiring waterfalls, iconic temples, and some of the most scenic spots in northern Bali. For travelers craving a taste of adventure mixed with cultural discovery, this tour might just be the perfect fit.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to pack so much into one day without feeling rushed. The highlights — especially the Sekumpul Waterfall and Ulun Danu Temple — are genuinely breathtaking, and the inclusion of a local lunch adds a warm, authentic touch. One thing to consider is the moderate trekking involved, which might not suit all mobility levels. This tour suits active travelers eager to get off the beaten path and see Bali’s natural beauty up close.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Full-Day Experience: Combines waterfalls, temples, viewpoints, and scenic drives.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a simple car and driver or a fully guided tour.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Ulun Danu Temple and Wanagiri Hidden Hills offer iconic views.
• Value for Money: At $43, it includes entrance fees, lunch, and private transportation.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Involves jungle trekking to Sekumpul Waterfall—prepare accordingly.
• Authentic Local Food: Enjoy a delicious Balinese meal during the day.
• Punctual & Reliable: Pickups are on time, with clear instructions for villa and hotel guests.
• Family-Friendly with Limitations: Not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.
• Ideal for Active Explorers: Perfect if you enjoy scenic hikes, cultural sites, and breathtaking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is designed to give you a well-balanced view of Bali’s natural scenery and spiritual sites, all wrapped into one day. Starting early in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel — whether you’re based in Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak, or elsewhere in Bali’s southern parts. The drive north to Sekumpul Waterfall takes approximately two hours, giving you plenty of opportunity to relax or chat with your driver about Bali’s landscape and local life.

The Journey to Sekumpul Waterfall

Once you arrive in Bali’s lush northern region, the adventure begins. Sekumpul Waterfall is often called one of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls, and for good reason. Its seven cascades tumbling down from the jungle canopy create a dramatic and peaceful scene. The trek down involves crossing rivers and climbing steep steps — expect a bit of an energetic hike, especially if you opt for the longer activities. The effort pays off when you reach the base, where you can swim in the cool waters or simply soak in the natural beauty.

One reviewer describes it as “quite an experience to hike the jungle in a swimsuit and experience the power of waterfalls,” highlighting how raw and invigorating this part of the tour can be. The optional activities allow you to tailor your hike from a shorter, easier version to a longer, more adventurous trek that includes natural water slides and cliff jumps. This flexibility helps you match the trip to your fitness level and mood on the day.

The Cultural Stop: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

After the waterfall adventure, the tour heads to a more tranquil scene — the Ulun Danu Temple. Situated on Lake Beratan, this iconic Hindu temple appears to float on the water when the lake’s level is high, making it a favorite photo spot. We loved the way this site combines spiritual meaning with stunning scenery, giving visitors a chance to learn about Bali’s spiritual traditions while enjoying the cool lake breeze.

Exploring the temple grounds offers insight into the religious significance of water temples in Bali’s spiritual landscape. The photo opportunities are plentiful, and the atmosphere is peaceful, providing a nice contrast to the energetic waterfall hike. Many visitors appreciate this moment of reflection and culture.

Scenic Break at Wanagiri Hidden Hills

In the afternoon, the tour moves to Wanagiri Hidden Hills, a tranquil spot famous for its Instagram-worthy viewpoints. Here, you’ll find swings, tree platforms, and panoramic views over Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. It’s a delightful place to pause, take photos, and enjoy the lush landscape. This stop is often highlighted as a favorite for its relaxing vibe and spectacular vistas.

The panoramic views and photo spots give you plenty of opportunities for memorable pictures. It’s a brief stop, but one that adds a light, breezy touch to your day.

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Wrapping up at Ulun Danu Temple and Return

After enjoying Wanagiri, the journey concludes at Ulun Danu Temple for a final cultural experience. Then, it’s time to head back south, with the drive taking approximately 2-3 hours depending on your hotel location. Most travelers arrive back between 6:30 and 7:00 PM, tired but happy after a day filled with natural beauty, cultural insights, and physical activity.

Transportation & Practical Details

The tour offers two main options: a simple car and driver or a fully guided experience with a guide who accompanies you to the waterfalls and temples. The private nature of the tour means more flexibility and comfort, especially when visiting popular spots that can get crowded.

Price-wise, at $43 per person, this experience provides excellent value, considering it includes hotel pickup and dropoff, entrance fees, a local lunch, and bottled water. It’s a straightforward price that covers most expenses, making it easier to budget your Bali trip.

What To Bring

Prepare for the day with comfortable shoes suitable for trekking, swimwear, a change of clothes, a camera, and cash for any personal purchases or tips. Since the tour involves some moderate physical activity, wear clothes that can get dirty and be ready for a bit of sweat.

Considerations

• Physical fitness: Moderate trekking means you should be in decent shape.
• Weather: Bali’s climate can be humid and rainy, so plan accordingly.
• Not suitable for: Pregnant women, people with back problems, or non-swimmers, due to the physical nature of some activities.

Authentic Experiences & Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the tour for its well-organized nature and stunning sights. One describes it as “a well-prepared tour,” appreciating the driver’s friendliness and the care taken by the local guide at Sekumpul Waterfall. The waterfalls are a major highlight — “breathtaking,” “powerful,” and a “quite an experience,” according to travelers.

Many mention the value of including lunch and entrance fees in the tour price, making it hassle-free. The scenic stops like Wanagiri Hidden Hills get high marks for their views and photo opportunities, perfect for those wanting to share their Bali adventure on social media.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. It’s ideal for active explorers comfortable with some trekking, as well as those eager to see Bali’s iconic waterfalls and temples without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. Families with older children, couples, or friends looking for a memorable day out will find it a good fit, provided they’re okay with physical activity.

However, it might not be suitable for pregnant women, those with back issues, or non-swimmers due to the moderate hiking and water-based activities.

The Sum Up

For those eager to see Bali’s northern treasures, this tour offers a compelling combination of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and scenic viewpoints — all at a friendly price point. The inclusion of a local lunch and private transportation ensures comfort and convenience, making for a smooth and enjoyable day. Whether you’re a nature lover, a cultural enthusiast, or an Instagram adventurer, this tour promises a memorable taste of Bali’s diverse charm.

If you seek an active, scenic, and authentic experience that covers Bali’s majestic waterfalls and iconic temples, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their day without feeling rushed and appreciate a dose of adventure mixed with cultural discovery.

FAQ

How long is the drive to Sekumpul Waterfall?
The drive from central areas like Ubud or Canggu takes approximately 2 hours, allowing for a relaxed start and some scenic views along the way.

What is included in the tour price?
The $43 price covers hotel pickup and dropoff, a professional driver, private guide at Sekumpul Waterfall, all entrance fees (if you choose the all-inclusive option), a local lunch, and mineral water.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The physical nature of the waterfall trek and water activities might not be suitable for very young children or non-swimmers. Always assess your group’s comfort level with moderate trekking.

Can I choose a guided tour or just a driver?
Yes, you can opt for a simple car and driver or a fully guided experience. The private group format ensures flexibility during your day.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a change of clothes, a camera, cash, and clothes that can get dirty are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the trek involves crossing rivers and steep steps, it’s not ideal for those with limited mobility.

When is the best time to take this tour?
Check availability for morning starts, as the tour runs approximately 10 hours. The dry season (May to September) offers the best weather but is busier.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious Balinese lunch is part of the all-inclusive package, served at a local restaurant en route.

How do I know if I’m picked up on time?
The tour provider asks guests to wait in the hotel lobby or main entrance at the scheduled pickup time, looking for a vehicle with the company logo and a sign with your name. Be sure your phone is accessible for last-minute updates.

This tour provides a genuine taste of Bali’s natural and spiritual side, blending adventure with cultural moments in a way that’s accessible and memorable. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or soaking in temple views, it’s a day that promises plenty of photo-worthy scenes and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: