Welcome to BALI!
In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the unique Tukad Cepung Waterfall.
We’ll cover what to expect, activities, how to get there, and many INSIDER tips and tricks!
And the best thing is, this is still a hidden gem in Bali (unlike many other waterfalls).
Let’s get started.
Location
Tukad Cepung Waterfall is situated in the village of Tembuku, around 45 kilometers from popular tourist places like Ubud and Kuta.
Despite its remote location, Tukad Cepung Waterfall has become more accessible over the years, with facilities such as restrooms and small shops selling snacks and refreshments available near the entrance. The roads leading to the waterfall is well-maintained and easy to drive on!
INSIDER TIP: We advise you to visit during the MORNING HOURS when the sun shines directly into the cave, creating beautiful Instagrammable pictures!Â
Tukad Cepung Waterfall What to expect
One of the most BEST THINGS about Tukad Cepung Waterfall is that it’s LOCATED IN A CAVE, which sets it apart from other waterfalls in Bali.
Even though the waterfall is in a cave, you can see the sky through the open ceiling. This creates a magical experience.
As sunlight filters through the GREENERY and the rocks and cracks in the cave, it creates a beautiful play of light and shadows on the clear waters of the waterfall!
REVIEW: I felt as if I were in a fairy tale, far away from the normal world. You can literally feel you are entering a magical world as the entrance to the cave is filled with damp walls filled with moss.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall Activities
The main attraction at the waterfall is that you CAN SWIM in it!
We recommend you combine the trip to the waterfall with other amazing locations close by.
You could start by visiting the waterfall early in the morning for the beautiful lights as well as fewer tourists. Then you could make your way to the Tirta Empul temple (1 hour by scooter), followed by a hike or bike ride in the amazing green rice fields of Tegalalang Rice Terrace (10 minutes by scooter from the temple).
All these amazing activities are included in the trip from Get Your Guide below!
Tukad Cepung Waterfall Entrance Fee
To reach the waterfall, you have to hike through the cave and through a river (see below). At the entrance of the cave, you have to pay an ENTRANCE FEE of 1 dollar (in 2023)! Parking is FREE!
Tukad Cepung Waterfall: How To Get There
Reaching Tukad Cepung Waterfall from popular tourist hubs like Ubud or Denpasar is easy.
There are several transportation options available to suit different preferences and budgets.
Option 1: Renting a scooter/motorbike Renting a scooter or motorbike is a POPULAR and COST-EFFECTIVE way to explore Bali at your own pace. From Ubud or Denpasar, it would take around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Tukad Cepung Waterfall. Scooter rental prices typically range from IDR 50,000 to IDR 75,000 (approximately $3.50 to $5.25) per day, excluding fuel costs. Make sure you have a valid international driver’s license and are comfortable navigating Bali’s roads before choosing this option.
Option 2: Hiring a private car with a driver For a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, you can hire a private car with a driver. This option allows you to sit back and enjoy the SCENIC DRIVE to Tukad Cepung Waterfall while your driver takes care of navigation. Prices for a private car with a driver usually start from IDR 500,000 to IDR 750,000 (approximately $35 to $52) per day, depending on the type of vehicle and your negotiation skills.
Option 3: Joining a guided tour Another option is to join a guided tour that includes Tukad Cepung Waterfall as part of its itinerary. These tours often combine several attractions in the area, providing a convenient way of exploring multiple destinations in one day. Prices for guided tours vary widely, starting from IDR 400,000 to IDR 1,000,000 (approximately $28 to $70) per person, depending on the tour package and inclusions such as transportation, entrance fees, and meals.
Practically
To reach the waterfall, visitors need to embark on a short HIKE that takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on individual fitness levels.
The journey begins at the FREE PARKING AREA near the entrance, where you’ll descend a series of concrete stairs surrounded by lush vegetation.
As you make your way down, be prepared for a few STEEP sections that may require extra caution. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll follow a SHALLOW RIVER through a breathtaking canyon, with the sound of flowing water as your guide.
It’s essential to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes suitable for trekking on uneven terrain and wading through water.
Visitors should also be prepared to get wet, as reaching the waterfall involves walking through the river and occasionally deeper sections.
The HIKE is considered EASY, but it may not be suitable for young children.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall Best Time To Visit
Season
The best time to visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall, considering both weather conditions and crowd levels is during Bali’s dry season, which typically lasts from April to September. During these months, you can expect less rain, making the trek to the waterfall more enjoyable and reducing the risk of slippery paths.
In terms of crowd levels, it’s advisable to visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall on weekdays, as weekends tend to be more crowded with both tourists and locals.
In the morning
Try to arrive early in the morning, preferably before 10 a.m. Not only will this allow you to avoid the crowds, but you’ll also have a better chance of witnessing the mesmerizing play of light inside the cave, as the sun shines directly through the opening.
Brief History
Tukad Cepung Waterfall, although relatively new to the tourism scene, has A RICH HISTORY. The waterfall was once a SECRET known only to the local villagers.
It wasn’t until around 2015 when off-the-beaten-path travelers began to share their experiences of Tukad Cepung on social media that it started to gain popularity among tourists.
As word spread, more and more visitors were drawn to the area, eager to witness the ethereal beauty of this hidden treasure for themselves.
DID YOU KNOW: The name “Tukad Cepung” is derived from the Balinese language, with “Tukad” meaning river and “Cepung” referring to a gorge or a ravine.
Safety Tips
To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to Tukad Cepung Waterfall, it’s essential to take certain follow a few practical tips:
Appropriate footwear: Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes suitable for trekking on uneven terrain and wading through water. The path to the waterfall includes steep sections, and the riverbed can be slippery. Good-quality footwear will help prevent slips and falls.
Carrying water: Stay hydrated by bringing a bottle of water with you, especially if you’re visiting during the hotter months. The trek to the waterfall can be tiring, and having water on hand will help maintain your energy levels. We don’t recommend drinking from the water from the waterfall itself as it has not been filtered.
Sun protection: Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun, even if your visit is during the morning hours. The sun can still be strong, and it’s essential to take precautions against sunburn and heatstroke.
Waterproof bag: Bring a waterproof bag for your belongings, such as your phone, camera, and wallet. As you’ll be walking through the river and near the waterfall, there’s a chance your items could get wet. A waterproof bag will help keep them safe and dry.
Be cautious: Take your time and be cautious when navigating the steep sections of the path and walking through the river. The rocks can be slippery, so it’s important to move slowly and maintain your balance.
Respect nature: Help preserve the beauty of Tukad Cepung Waterfall by not littering, damaging vegetation, or disturbing wildlife. Leave the area as pristine as you found it, so future visitors can enjoy its natural splendor.
Entrance Fee and Hiking Experience
Tukad Cepung Waterfall has an entrance fee, which is generally around IDR 15,000 to IDR 20,000 (approximately $1 to $1.40) per person. This fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the area, ensuring that future visitors can continue to enjoy its natural beauty.
The hiking experience to reach the waterfall is relatively short and easy, taking approximately 15-20 minutes depending on individual fitness levels.
Starting at the parking area near the entrance, you’ll descend a series of concrete stairs surrounded by lush vegetation. Some sections of the path can be steep, so it’s essential to proceed with caution and wear comfortable, non-slip shoes suitable for trekking.
Once you reach the bottom of the stairs, you’ll follow a shallow river through a stunning canyon, with the sound of flowing water guiding you toward the hidden cave. The riverbed can be slippery, and there may be occasional deeper sections where you’ll need to wade through the water. While the hike is generally manageable for most visitors, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children.
Overall, the hiking experience of Tukad Cepung Waterfall is both enjoyable and rewarding, offering a unique opportunity to explore the captivating landscape and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of this enchanting destination.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall Wildlife
While visiting Tukad Cepung Waterfall, you may encounter various wildlife and bird species native to the area. The lush vegetation surrounding the waterfall provides a thriving habitat for several small animals and a diverse range of birdlife.
Some common bird species that can be spotted in the area include:
Bali Myna: This striking white bird, also known as the Bali Starling, is known for its vivid blue eye patch and is endemic to the island of Bali.
Javan Kingfisher: A brightly colored bird with a blue head, orange body, and red bill, the Javan Kingfisher can be found near water sources, making the waterfall’s surroundings a suitable habitat.
Olive-backed Sunbird: A small nectar-feeding bird, the Olive-backed Sunbird has a distinctive yellow belly and olive-green back, often seen flitting among the flowers and trees in search of food.
Black-naped Oriole: With its bright yellow body and black markings on the head and nape, the Black-naped Oriole is easily recognizable and can be spotted perched on branches or soaring through the skies.
In addition to bird species, you might also come across small mammals, reptiles, and insects in the area. These could include squirrels, lizards, butterflies, and dragonflies, all contributing to the rich biodiversity of the Tukad Cepung Waterfall ecosystem.
While exploring the area, it’s essential to respect the wildlife and their natural habitat by maintaining a safe distance, not feeding the animals, and avoiding any actions that might disturb or harm them. By doing so, you’ll ensure the preservation of this beautiful environment for future generations to enjoy.
Tips For A Memorable Experience
To ensure a memorable experience at Tukad Cepung Waterfall, consider these tips:
- Arrive early: Visit the waterfall early in the morning, preferably before 10 AM, to avoid crowds and enjoy the mesmerizing play of light inside the cave as the sun shines directly through the opening.
- Choose the right time: Plan your visit during Bali’s dry season (April to September) for better weather conditions, making the trek to the waterfall more enjoyable and reducing the risk of slippery paths.
- Hire a local guide: Consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights into the history, flora, and fauna of the area and help you navigate the path safely.
- Capture the moment: Bring a camera or smartphone to take stunning photos of the waterfall, the cave, and the surrounding landscape. Consider experimenting with different angles and lighting conditions to create unique shots.
- Pack essentials: Carry a waterproof bag, swimwear, quick-dry towel, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, water, and snacks to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
- Take your time: Don’t rush through your visit. Allow yourself time to fully immerse in the serene ambiance, swim in the pool, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the waterfall and its surroundings.
- Respect the environment: Be mindful of your impact on the environment by not littering, damaging vegetation, or disturbing wildlife. Leave the area as pristine as you found it for future visitors to enjoy.
- Connect with fellow travelers: If you’re traveling solo or in a small group, strike up conversations with fellow visitors, share your experiences, and make new friends along the way.
- Stay safe: Follow safety precautions, such as wearing appropriate footwear, being cautious on slippery surfaces, and maintaining a safe distance from the waterfall’s edge.
- Create a keepsake: Collect small mementos from your visit, such as a unique stone or a pressed flower, to create a lasting reminder of your memorable experience at Tukad Cepung Waterfall.
Restaurants Nearby
While Tukad Cepung Waterfall is located in a more remote area, there are still some restaurant options available nearby:
Budget-Friendly (Under $5):
Warung D’Bucu: Located about 9 km (20 minutes) from Tukad Cepung Waterfall, this local warung offers delicious traditional Indonesian and Balinese dishes at reasonable prices.
Warung Makan Nikmat: Situated approximately 12 km (25 minutes) from the waterfall, Warung Makan Nikmat serves a variety of Indonesian dishes in a casual setting.
Warung Wayan: About 10 km (20 minutes) away from Tukad Cepung Waterfall, this simple warung is popular among locals and tourists alike for its tasty, affordable meals.
Mid-Range ($5-$15):
D’Legon Restaurant: Located in Sidemen, about 24 km (45 minutes) from the waterfall, this restaurant offers a blend of Indonesian and international cuisine, with beautiful rice terrace views.
Lihat Sawah Restaurant: Also situated in Sidemen, around 23 km (40 minutes) from Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Lihat Sawah Restaurant provides a picturesque setting overlooking rice fields and a diverse menu.
Warung Nasi Ayam Bu Oki: In Klungkung, about 14 km (30 minutes) away from the waterfall, this restaurant is known for its nasi ayam (chicken rice) and offers a variety of other Indonesian dishes.
Upscale ($15 and up):
Kubu at Mandapa: Located within the Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud, Kubu is about 35 km (1 hour) away from Tukad Cepung Waterfall. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience with an exquisite menu of Mediterranean-European cuisine.
CasCades Restaurant: Part of the Viceroy Bali resort in Ubud, approximately 34 km (1 hour) away from the waterfall, CasCades provides a unique fusion of Indonesian and international flavors in a sophisticated setting.
Mozaic Restaurant: Also in Ubud, around 32 km (1 hour) away from Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Mozaic is renowned for its innovative gastronomy and elegant garden setting.
Please note that travel times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s a good idea to check opening hours and availability before planning your visit to these dining establishments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a visit to Tukad Cepung Waterfall offers an unforgettable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Bali’s natural landscape.
With its enchanting cave and refreshing pool, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.
By following our practical tips and suggestions for nearby dining options catering to different budgets, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your time at this remarkable attraction. Have fun!
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