North Bali: Sekumpul Waterfalls and Ulun Danu Temple Tour

Traveling through Bali’s north offers a taste of the island’s wild beauty and spiritual richness. This Sekumpul Waterfalls and Ulun Danu Temple tour promises a day packed with natural wonders, cultural highlights, and plenty of photo opportunities—all without the hassle of self-driving or navigating Bali’s sometimes tricky roads. Given its popularity and high recommendation rate, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and culture.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive itinerary—covering not just the stunning waterfalls but also iconic temples like Ulun Danu Beratan and Taman Ayun. The door-to-door service makes the journey easier, especially considering the drive to Sekumpul can be long and bumpy. Plus, options for small-group or private tours add a level of flexibility that suits different travel styles. However, keep in mind that the trekking guides at Sekumpul are an additional cost, so budget accordingly if you’re keen on exploring the falls thoroughly.

This kind of trip is perfect for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone looking to see Bali’s less touristy, more rugged side. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy a full-day adventure with a mix of physical activity and sightseeing, but it’s not ideal if you’re seeking a relaxed, low-energy experience or have mobility concerns.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Experience: Combines waterfalls, temples, and scenic drives in one day.
• Comfort & Convenience: Door-to-door pickup and return, plus air-conditioned transport.
• Flexibility: Options for guided or private tours, with or without entrance fees.
• Authentic Views: Picturesque temples and waterfalls, perfect for photography.
• Physical Activity: Trekking options at Sekumpul, with additional guide fees.
• Affordable Price: At around $22.50 per person, it offers good value for a full-day tour.

Introduction to the Tour

This North Bali tour is designed to give travelers a full taste of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual sites in just one day. It’s an excellent way to see some of the island’s most famous landmarks without the stress of arranging transportation or navigating busy roads. While the drive to Sekumpul Waterfalls is noted to be challenging—a bit of a bumpy ride—most find the scenic reward worth it.

What draws many to this trip are the stunning waterfalls, especially the chance to hike to seven different falls at Sekumpul. Add to that the chance to capture postcard-worthy photos of the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple hovering over its lake and the UNESCO-listed Taman Ayun Temple with its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. The tour ensures you make the most of these highlights with hotel pickup, group discounts, and options to customize your experience.

One thing to consider is the additional cost for trekking guides at Sekumpul, which some reviewers found worth it for safety and support. The guided hike adds a layer of security and expertise, especially for those unfamiliar with rough terrain. The tour’s cost-effectiveness is clear—covering transportation, entry fees (if upgraded), and expert guidance—making it a good deal for travelers who want to maximize their Bali experience in a day.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Sekumpul Waterfalls

This is the star of the tour for many visitors. The hike to seven waterfalls offers an immersive experience in Bali’s lush northern wilderness. The trails can be tricky, depending on rainfall, but the views of cascading waterfalls are breathtaking. We love the way some reviewers have highlighted the value of paying for a trekking guide, which provides support and safety during the trek. As one traveler mentioned, “Poetra, our driver, was incredible—kind and funny, and he made sure we were comfortable with the local guide at the waterfall.”

Expect to spend about an hour here exploring and taking photos. The experience of standing amidst powerful waterfalls and listening to the rush of water is unforgettable. Keep in mind, the terrain can be slippery, so proper footwear is recommended.

Stop 2: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

This iconic water temple is a must-see for anyone visiting Bali. Sitting on the edge of Lake Beratan, the temple appears to float on the water during certain times of the day, creating a surreal scene perfect for photos. Visitors often comment on how postcard-like this temple looks, and it’s easy to see why. The calm, reflective lake surrounding the temple is a peaceful contrast to the thrill of waterfall trekking.

Travelers generally spend about an hour here, soaking in the scenery and learning about its significance. The upgraded tour option includes admission, which streamlines the experience, while guides can enrich your understanding of the temple’s spiritual importance.

Stop 3: Taman Ayun Temple

Your final stop is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional Balinese architecture. The royal water temple of Taman Ayun is a lovely place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The temple complex offers excellent photo opportunities, especially of the meru pagodas and the surrounding moat.

Most travelers spend about an hour here. Reviewers have appreciated the friendly, knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the temple’s history and symbolism, making the visit more meaningful.

Transportation and Practicalities

The tour provides air-conditioned vehicles, which make the long drive comfortable—an important detail considering the 10-hour duration. Most pickups are from key Bali locations such as Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Sanur, and Ubud, with extra charges for farther locations like Lovina or Amed.

The group size is limited to 9 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. The timing starts early, with pickup around 6:30 am, giving you a full day of exploration. This early start is crucial because many attractions are best visited in the morning, avoiding the crowds and the heat.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are pick-up and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and bottled water. If you choose the option with entrance fees, that simplifies your planning, but be prepared for extra costs for Sekumpul’s trekking guide—around IDR 150K per person for medium treks, and more for longer treks.

Not included is lunch, which gives you flexibility to choose local eateries or bring snacks. Personal expenses, tips, or additional guides are also on you. The reviews highlight that some found paying for guides at Sekumpul worthwhile for safety, so factor that into your budget.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The diverse itinerary combines natural beauty with cultural sites, giving a well-rounded Bali experience.
• The professional, friendly guides and drivers make the day smoother, with many reviewers noting the guides’ local knowledge and personable approach.
• The scenery at each stop—from waterfalls to temples—is stunning and photo-worthy.
• The value for money is good, especially with options that include entrance fees and guides.
• The door-to-door service removes transportation stress, which is invaluable given the length and ruggedness of the drive.

Cons:

• The drive to Sekumpul can be challenging—a bumpy, winding ride that some might find uncomfortable. One reviewer called it “a nightmare drive,” but the visual rewards often outweigh this discomfort.
• The additional cost for trekking guides might surprise some travelers, and not everyone may find it necessary, depending on their hiking experience.
• The long duration (about 10 hours) may be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions.
• The tour’s flexibility is somewhat limited if you want a more relaxed pace or personalized itinerary.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Multiple reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides and drivers. One shared that their driver, Poetra, was not only professional but also humorous and attentive—making a potentially long day more enjoyable. Another reviewer appreciated the friendly and accommodating service, noting that stops were made along the way for photos, which added to the experience.

However, there were some criticisms. One guest mentioned a poor experience due to a lack of comfort breaks and a stop at a “very dirty place,” highlighting that expectations about the quality of stops can vary. Still, overall, the reviews tend to skew positive, especially regarding the stunning scenery and the value of the guided support.

The Sum Up

This North Bali tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore some of Bali’s most breathtaking natural and cultural sites in one well-organized package. Its combination of scenic waterfalls, iconic temples, and cultural insights makes it ideal for travelers wanting a full-day adventure that balances nature, history, and convenience.

The door-to-door pickup and small group size enhance the comfort and intimacy of the experience, while the flexible options for guides and entrance fees allow you to tailor the trip to your preferences and budget. Although the drive can be rough, especially to Sekumpul, the promise of stunning waterfalls and serene temples makes it worthwhile for most visitors.

If you love active sightseeing with cultural highlights, enjoy photography, and want to maximize your Bali day trip without logistical hassles, this tour is a great pick. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate guided insights, value good service, and are prepared for a physically engaging day.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 6:30 am, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned vehicles, making the long drive more pleasant.

Can I choose guided or private options?
Yes, you can opt for a small-group guided tour or a private tour with tickets and guides, depending on your preference.

Are entrance fees included?
They are included if you upgrade your booking, which streamlines your experience and avoids extra payments on the day.

What about trekking guides at Sekumpul?
Trekking guides are an extra cost (IDR 150K for medium treks), but many find them worthwhile for safety and local insight.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to eat at local spots after the tour.

How long is the overall tour?
Approximately 10 hours, covering multiple stops, transportation, and sightseeing.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Active travelers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a comprehensive Bali day trip with scenic hikes and temples.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture the incredible views.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to discover Bali’s northern treasures without the stress of DIY planning.