North Bali: Sekumpul Waterfalls and Ulun Danu Temple Tour

North Bali: Sekumpul Waterfalls and Ulun Danu Temple Tour

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural highlights, this North Bali tour is a solid choice. For around $25 per person, you get to visit seven waterfalls at Sekumpul, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and Taman Ayun Temple—three of Bali’s most photogenic and beloved spots. The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting early with hotel pickup, including air-conditioned transport, and concluding with drop-offs back in your accommodation.

What we love about this experience is the chance to walk through Bali’s northern wilderness, which offers a mixture of lush greenery and awe-inspiring waterfalls—without the hassle of self-driving on narrow, winding roads. Plus, the inclusion of two iconic temples gives a taste of Bali’s spiritual side, often overlooked in general sightseeing. On the downside, the drive to Sekumpul can be a lengthy and bumpy ride—something to keep in mind if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer smoother journeys.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate nature, balance scenic hikes with cultural visits, and value guided experiences that handle logistics. It’s particularly good if you’re staying in or around Ubud or South Bali and want an efficient way to see some of the island’s most revered sites in one day.

Key Points

• Convenient door-to-door service saves you the stress of local transport.
• Guided experience with an English-speaking guide enhances understanding and safety.
• Multiple options available, including ticketed or private tours, for tailored experiences.
• Includes entrance fees if you upgrade, ensuring smooth access to all sites.
• Stunning photo opportunities at waterfalls and temples.
• Moderate group size (up to 9 travelers) for a more intimate experience.

A Deep Dive into the Tour: What to Expect and Why It Matters

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Sekumpul Waterfall
This is the main attraction and the highlight for many travelers. We loved the way the tour offers a trek to seven different waterfalls, each one more stunning than the last. The hike promises some moderate effort, but the reward is a series of breathtaking cascades surrounded by lush greenery. As one reviewer noted, “it was worth paying for a guide to support”—especially if you’re new to Bali’s terrain.

The tour includes admission tickets (if you choose the appropriate option), and the guide’s support is often praised for making the trek safer and more enjoyable. The experience at Sekumpul is somewhat of a balancing act: the scenic beauty is undeniable, but get ready for a bumpy, winding drive to reach the trailhead, which some might find less comfortable. The driver, Poetra, in reviews, was appreciated for his kindness and humor, which made the journey more pleasant.

Stop 2: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
After the waterfalls, the tour shifts gears to Bali’s picture-perfect temple sitting on the edge of Lake Beratan. We loved the way this site looks almost like a fairy-tale castle floating on water, especially during early morning or late afternoon light. The temple is an iconic postcard image of Bali, and it’s easy to see why—it’s both tranquil and photogenic.

Visitors can expect guided explanations about the cultural significance of the temple, and the included admission tickets (if opted for) mean no hassle. The setting with mountain views and reflections on the lake makes for excellent photos, a favorite among travelers.

Stop 3: Taman Ayun Temple
Our final stop is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its beautiful gardens, expansive courtyards, and intricate architecture. We appreciated the chance to explore a more serene and less crowded temple environment. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a different vibe from the more tourist-heavy sites elsewhere on the island.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour provides air-conditioned transport, which is a real plus given the long drives, especially the trip to Sekumpul. The group size is capped at 9 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience and easier interaction with your guide. As one reviewer said, “stopped along the way as we drove to our destination whenever I wanted to take pictures,” highlighting the flexibility and attentiveness of the service.

The Guides and Service

Multiple reviews emphasize knowledgeable, friendly guides and drivers. One reviewer even described their French-speaking driver-guide as “excellence” with “remarkable knowledge and kindness.” This local insight can turn a standard sightseeing day into something more meaningful, especially if you’re curious about local customs or hidden tips.

Practical Considerations

While the price of $25 is attractive, it’s important to consider that additional fees may apply if you opt for tours with tickets or private arrangements. Also, trekking guides at Sekumpul are an extra expense (IDR 150K for medium treks, IDR 250K for longer), so if you’re planning to hike, budget accordingly.

The early start at 6:30 am means a long day, but it also allows you to beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler weather for the trek. On the flip side, the drive to Sekumpul can be strenuous or bumpy, which could be a drawback for some.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Value

What sets this tour apart is its focus on real experiences—not just ticking off sights but engaging with Bali’s natural and spiritual environments. We loved how the tour balances adventure (waterfalls) with culture (temples), giving a well-rounded glimpse of the north.

The admission tickets included (if selected) eliminate the hassle of purchasing tickets locally, saving time and reducing stress—particularly valuable in busy periods. Also, the small-group format makes the experience more intimate and flexible, with opportunities to ask questions and take photos without feeling rushed.

The Real Challenges

While the tour is packed with highlights, the drive to Sekumpul remains a challenge—expect a rough, winding road that can be tiring after several hours. The long day might be too much for travelers with limited stamina or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

On top of that, some reviewers mention poor experiences—like long hours without comfort breaks or stops at less appealing places—so it’s worth noting that quality can vary depending on your guide and day’s circumstances.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a bit of a drive and enjoy natural landscapes combined with cultural sites. It’s especially suitable for those who want a guided, all-in-one day trip that handles logistics and provides insightful commentary.

If you’re keen on photography, the tour’s stops offer plenty of scenic vistas and Instagram-worthy moments. On the other hand, if you prefer luxurious comfort or a slow pace, you might find the bumpy ride and early start less appealing.

The Sum Up

For around $25, this tour offers a well-balanced glimpse of Bali’s north’s natural beauty and spiritual richness. The combination of seven waterfalls at Sekumpul, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and Taman Ayun Temple makes for a diverse and memorable day. The small-group format, friendly guides, and included tickets add value and ease to the experience.

We think this trip is perfect for adventure lovers, culture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors eager to see Bali’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The stunning scenery, authentic insights, and convenient logistics make it a worthwhile choice if you’re staying in or near Ubud or South Bali.

Final advice: Bring comfortable shoes, prepare for a long day, and enjoy the chance to see Bali’s lush landscapes and sacred sites in one memorable outing.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at approximately 6:30 am, giving you a head start to beat some crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Sanur, Kerobokan, Canggu, Nusa Dua, and Ubud. Extra charges may apply from other locations.

What’s included in the price?
The standard price of $25 covers air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and insurance. If you upgrade, entrance fees are included too.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, you can choose between a small-group tour without tickets, with tickets and a guide, or a private tour with tickets and a guide. Note that trekking guides at Sekumpul are an additional expense.

How long is the drive to Sekumpul?
It’s a lengthy drive—expect about an hour of travel, plus a bumpy ride on narrow roads, which might be tiring for some.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially for the waterfall trek.

Is there time for photos at each site?
Absolutely. The stops are designed to give plenty of opportunities for pictures and exploration.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat afterward.

What if I want a more relaxed experience?
You might prefer a private tour or a shorter half-day visit to some of these sites, especially if you have mobility concerns or prefer a slower pace.

In sum, this Bali tour offers a fantastic value for those eager to combine natural wonders with cultural sites, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. It’s a day packed with photo-worthy sights and authentic experiences, perfect for travelers ready for a bit of adventure.