7 gorgeous waterfalls in Indonesia that are worth the trek

At 120 metres, Sipiso Piso is one of Indonesia’s tallest waterfalls. Located in north Sumatra near Lake Toba, it’s a fantastic addition to any visit to the largest volcanic lake in the world. As soon as you arrive at the entrance and parking area, you’re treated to spectacular views of the waterfall from above. You can also take a 40-minute walk down to get a closer look from the various viewpoints, but be prepared to get wet. Although it’s possible to do a day trip from Medan, the capital city of Sumatra, it’s much better to take it slow and spend some time in Lake Toba. There are plenty of things to do around the lake, including watersports, visiting traditional villages, and relaxing on beaches.

Loosely translating to ‘many waterfalls’, Tumpak Sewu is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Indonesia. Tucked away in the jungle in a U-shaped ravine, the waterfall boasts countless ‘threads’ of water cascading down into the canyon. The main viewpoint offers views of the entire waterfall and its lush jungle surroundings, with the mighty Mount Semeru looming in the background. Next to the viewpoint is a trail where a 30-minute walk will take you down into the canyon and to the foot of the falls. You can also continue your walk to Goa Tetes, another waterfall with caves and unique rock formations. Tumpak Sewu is about a two-hour drive from the city of Malang – if you’re doing more activities in East Java, such as climbing Mount Bromo, it’s a good idea to base yourself here.

Once you lay eyes on the magnificent twin waterfalls of Sekumpul, you’ll understand why this is one of Bali’s top sights. Towering above the jungle at 80 metres, the waterfall is surrounded by terraced rice paddies and jungle-clad hills. There’s a viewpoint at the top of the falls where you’re treated to extensive views of the water cascading out from the trees. You can also hike down to the waterfall, although bear in mind this involves river crossings and is muddy and slippery in parts. It’s worth the hike though, as the view from the foot of the falls is mind-boggling. The water rappels down at such a force, covering the dipping pool in a thick spray – swimming here is certainly a unique experience.

Another waterfall in Bali that you should add to your itinerary is Banyumala. Enclosed by ferns and brightly coloured flowers, the water flows rapidly down a vegetation-covered rock wall. Although it only takes about 15 minutes to walk down from the parking area, the climb involves stairs cut into the edge of the cliff, so a good level of mobility is required. Unlike other waterfalls on the island, this one doesn’t see as many tourists, and if you visit early or late during the day, you may even get it all to yourself. Banyumala is just a 15-minute drive to Lake Buyan, which offers a tranquil atmosphere and scenic walks along the shores.

Tiu Kelep is Lombok’s most famous waterfall, nestled in an enclave in the rainforest of north Lombok. There used to be a pool you could swim in, but unfortunately, a large earthquake in 2018 changed the structure of the waterfall. However, the spray from the waterfall is still pretty powerful, so you’ll definitely get drenched. To get here, start from the village of Senaru which lies at the foot of Mount Rinjani. There are signs along the main road pointing to the waterfall, and from here it’s a 30-minute trek through thick jungle and past the smaller waterfall of Sendang Gile. The trek is relatively easy, but there are some parts where you have to cross a river – this can be quite slippery so wear supportive shoes.

Located on the island of Moyo off the coast of Sumbawa, Mata Jitu is a charming waterfall bound to leave you breathless. Hidden amongst pristine jungle, the waters flow into terraced limestone pools, its milky-blue waters doubling as the perfect spot to cool down. Even Princess Diana was bowled over by its beauty when she visited in 1993. From the village of Labuan Aji, it’s about an hour’s walk through farmland and forest before you get to the falls. Although it’s possible to make a day trip to Moyo from Sumbawa (depending on where you’re staying), that’ll be a really long day – it’s much better to spend a few days on the island and check out its amazing snorkelling and scuba diving.

Sumba is home to dozens of wonderful waterfalls, but Tanggedu takes the crown. Located inside a picturesque gorge nicknamed ‘The Grand Canyon of East Sumba’, the waters flow down a winding river flanked by tall canyon walls. Although it’s only 8 metres tall, the waterfall flows pretty rapidly into the turquoise pool below. To get here, it’s just over an hour’s drive from Waingapu city before a short walk down to the falls. Nearby is Bukit Wairinding, another one of Sumba’s top attractions. These rolling hills offer stunning panoramas of the surrounding countryside, especially at sunset when everything is drenched in a golden light.