amazing waterfall tour with half day

This half-day waterfall tour in Ubud promises a quick yet memorable escape into Bali’s lush natural scenery. Featuring visits to Tibumana, Suwat, and Taman Sari Waterfalls, it’s perfect for travelers short on time who still want to see some of Bali’s most beautiful, lesser-known cascades. What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to enjoy unspoiled views, swim-friendly pools, and insightful guides — all at an accessible price point.

One of the best things about this tour is its focus on hidden waterfalls that aren’t overwhelmed by crowds, making for more peaceful, authentic moments. But, considering its half-day structure, you’ll want to be prepared for a packed itinerary that covers quite a bit of ground in just a few hours. This tour is best suited for those who love nature, want a flexible outdoor experience, and are okay with some light walking and short drives between stops.

Key Points

• Short but Sweet: The tour offers a condensed but rewarding glimpse of Bali’s waterfalls in just 5 hours.
• Family-Friendly: Waterfalls are shallow and gentle enough for swimming and relaxing with children.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Wayan and Kadek, add cultural insights and local tips.
• Affordable Value: At $36 per group, the tour provides good value for multiple waterfall visits.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect lush greenery, rice fields, bamboo groves, and peaceful natural pools.
• Private Experience: Only your group participates, offering a tailored and intimate outing.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Tibumana Waterfall: A Green Oasis with a Hidden Cave

The tour begins here, typically around 8:00 am. Tibumana Waterfall is a lush spot where greenery dominates the scene. The trees grow densely on the cliff walls, and behind the cascade, you’ll find a small, dark cave. The water’s blue hue hints at a hole beneath the waterfall, which adds a touch of mystery. It’s a great place for photos and wading into the cool water—though note that admission tickets aren’t included, so you’ll need to pay on arrival. Expect about an hour here.

Reviewer insight: “We loved the way Wayan explained the significance of the cave and the local flora,” one traveler shared, highlighting how guides make these stops more meaningful.

Suwat Waterfall: Scenic Drive & Serene Turtles

Next, you’ll pass through some of Ubud’s most charming scenery—rice terraces, bamboo-lined roads, and green fields—before reaching Suwat Waterfall. This spot offers a gentle waterfall with plenty of surrounding greenery, perfect for a relaxing stop. Turtles often curl up nearby, making it a fun spot for families or those wanting a peaceful moment. Again, admission isn’t included, and you’ll want to allow about an hour here.

Reviewer insight: “Passing through rice paddies and bamboo on the way was beautiful. The small waterfall was peaceful, and the turtles added a fun touch,” described one guest, emphasizing the scenery’s tranquility.

Taman Sari Waterfall & Natural Pool: Double the Fun

The final stop showcases a two-tiered waterfall, with two pools at different levels. The upper pool offers a cozy spot to relax with the waterfall draping over your shoulders, while the larger bottom pool invites a swim. The large pool is shallow enough for safe swimming, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting to cool off. This stop tends to be the most picturesque, with the flowing water creating a soothing backdrop.

Reviewer insight: “The bottom pool was perfect for swimming, and I loved sitting under the waterfall at the top,” one traveler noted, pointing out how this spot combines relaxation with scenic beauty.

Why This Tour Delivers on Value

While $36 per group might seem modest, the real value lies in the variety of waterfalls visited and the personalized touch from guides. You’ll experience diverse landscapes—from lush greenery and rice terraces to peaceful swimming pools—without the crowds typical of more popular waterfalls. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easy, especially if you’re based in Ubud.

It’s worth noting that admission tickets aren’t included, which means you’ll need to budget a few extra rupiahs for each site. This practice helps keep the tour flexible and allows you to choose whether to spend more time at a particular waterfall or move on quickly.

Authentic Experiences & Visitor Reviews

Guided by experienced locals like Wayan and Kadek, the tour feels personal and informative. Wayan, in particular, received praise for sharing cultural insights and making the visit more meaningful. One reviewer mentioned, “He showed us around and gave some amazing insight into the culture and background of the places we visited,” emphasizing the added value of expert guidance.

Travelers also loved how the tour managed to pack so much into just a few hours. “We saw a lot in little time,” said a guest who enjoyed visiting rice terraces, waterfalls, and a coffee plantation—all with a friendly guide.

Practical Details & Tips

• Timing: The tour starts at 8:00 am, so arriving early helps avoid midday crowds.
• Group Size: It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, making the experience more tailored.
• Duration: About 5 hours, which is a good length for busy schedules but still allows for a comprehensive visit.
• Cost: $36, including driver and guide, offers great value considering the number of stops.
• What to Bring: Wear comfortable clothes, swimwear, and bring cash for admission fees and snacks. Sun protection and water are advised.
• Suitability: Suitable for families, nature lovers, and those wanting a relaxing outdoor experience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This waterfall tour is ideal if you’re looking for a short, scenic adventure with a focus on natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. It suits travelers who enjoy light physical activity—like walking and wading—and appreciate guided insights into Balinese nature and culture. Because it’s private, it’s also a good choice for families or small groups wanting a flexible, intimate outing.

If you’re after a full-day adventure with multiple stops or highly energetic activities, you might find this tour a bit limited. But for a relaxing half-day escape, it delivers a lot of authentic charm and stunning views—without the crowds or hefty price tags.

FAQs

Are the waterfalls suitable for swimming? Yes, all three waterfalls have pools that are shallow enough for swimming and relaxing, making them family-friendly spots.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics and allowing you to enjoy the scenery stress-free.

How much extra should I budget for admission tickets? Since admission isn’t included, you’ll need to pay on arrival at each waterfall—it’s a small additional expense.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since this is a private tour, the guides are flexible enough to tailor the experience slightly, within the limits of the schedule.

What should I wear? Comfortable, lightweight clothes suitable for walking and swimming, plus water shoes or sandals, are recommended.

Is this tour suitable year-round? Yes, Bali’s climate makes these waterfalls accessible most of the year, though drier months tend to be more enjoyable.

How physically demanding is the tour? It involves walking and wading, but it’s generally suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What makes this tour different from other waterfall tours? Its focus on hidden, less-crowded waterfalls and the personalized guide experience make it stand out.

Can I book this tour last-minute? On average, it’s booked about 12 days in advance, so last-minute availability might be limited but is sometimes possible.

This half-day waterfall tour in East Ubud offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed pace. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family seeking safe swimming spots, or someone craving a peaceful escape from busy Ubud streets, this experience fits nicely into your itinerary. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value, it’s a memorable way to see Bali’s quieter side.