Aling Aling Waterfall in Bali, otherwise known as Sambangan falls, is one for the adventure seekers. We explored Aling Aling on our recent trip to Bali, and have put together this blog post to share everything you’ll need to know ahead of your visit.
Set in the North of Bali, Aling Aling Waterfall is one of the most impressive waterfalls on the island. Many know it for its daring cliff jumps and adventurous nature; however, no swimming or jumping is allowed in Aling Aling itself. There are several other waterfalls and pools within walking distance of Aling Aling, which is where all the action happens.
You still need to visit Aling Aling Waterfall during your visit, which is a 90-foot force to reckoned with. Aling Aling is considered sacred among locals, and you can often see a rainbow striking through the valley where it sits. A special place, indeed.
In this guide, we advise everything you need to know ahead of visiting Aling Aling Waterfall. Including entrance fees, how to get there, what to expect & more.
Aling Aling Waterfall Bali
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Getting to Aling Aling Waterfall in Bali
To visit Aling Aling Waterfall, we suggest staying locally to avoid a long journey. Lovina is a short 25-30 minute drive away and is a lovely base for exploring the North of Bali. To travel from Ubud or Canggu could take anywhere from 2-3 hours.
*We found a lot of cool things to do in the North of Bali. Our recommendation would be to spend 2-3 days there and explore the surrounding area. We found the North far less developed than other tourists hubs in Bali. So it’s an ideal location for those who like to venture off the beaten path.
Wherever you decide to travel from, the most convenient way to get around Bali is by scooter. Scooters are available to rent for as little as 50,000 IDR per day. So if you are confident to drive, it’s going to be your cheapest option. The roads in Bali are mostly in good condition, but the traffic can be a nightmare. It’s required to wear a helmet and carry an international driver’s license if you want to drive a scooter in Bali.
If you aren’t confident on a scooter, there is the option to hire a car & driver for the day. It’s quite expensive, with prices ranging from 40-100 US $. However, it means you’ll have a local driver who knows the area like the back of their hand, and they can handle most of the planning for you.
**This offer for a Private Car or Minibus Charter on Get Your Guide is highly competitive relative to local transport companies. Click the link to read thousands of positive reviews, check the latest prices, and to make a booking.
Aling Aling Map Location
Aling Aling Waterfall Entrance Fee
When searching online for the entrance fees to Aling Aling, we were confused about whether or not we needed a guide to explore the area. With a lot of conflicting information out there, we hope to clarify it once and for all.
In short, there are a couple of ticket options when visiting Aling Aling and its nearby waterfalls. The first means you can visit the waterfalls, plus take on all the cliff jumping and adventurous stuff. This option requires a guide, so it is relatively expensive, starting at 125,000 IDR per person. If you wanted to include some extras such as lunch and trekking, the prices go up to 500,000 IDR/pax.
It might seem like a lot of money; however, unlike some waterfalls in Bali, we’d agree that a guide is necessary here. When it comes to cliff jumping in Bali, safety is paramount, and your guide will know the safest ways to jump. Sadly, there have been a few death incidents of drowning at these falls so we can’t express enough to consider your safety.
The second option means you can visit the waterfalls, but NOT take part in any cliff jumps or swimming. This option is 20,000 IDR per person and does not require a guide. However, this doesn’t mean you can sneak in on a cheaper ticket and attempt to cliff jump anyway. If you get caught without a wrist band, there is a fine of 250,000 IDR. Not to mention, you’d be putting yourself in danger.
Aling Aling Waterfall Tour
If you want to take the stress out of planning your trip to Aling Aling Waterfall, you may wish to book yourself on an organised tour instead.
This tour with Get Your Guide is the best rated I could find. For a very reasonable price the includes comfortable transportation to and from the falls, an English speaking driver, entrance to the falls including unlimited cliff jumps, and a bonus visit to the famous Wanagiri Swing.
Check the latest prices for the Aling Aling Waterfall Tour here. Notice how it’s called Sabangan Waterfall Tour? Sabangan is how locals refer to Aling Aling, but rest assured, it’s the same place.
Things to Know Before Visiting
Here are some other things worth knowing before you visit Aling Aling Waterfall:
Opening Times
Aling Aling Waterfall is open between 8 am and 5 pm.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit any of the Bali waterfalls is shortly after the monsoon season has ended, between April and June. Due to the influx of rain, the rivers overflow, resulting in raging waterfalls all over the island.
During the drier season, many waterfalls in Bali dry out completely. While this isn’t the case at Aling Aling, the water flow dramatically reduces. To see it as its most impressive, visit during the months I’ve suggested.
With all the adrenaline-pumping activities going on around Aling Aling, naturally, it’s a favourite spot among tourists. To avoid the crowds and lengthy queues, it’s always best to arrive as early as possible.
What to Wear
Here are some items that we recommend taking to make your visit to the waterfall more comfortable:
- Comfortable shoes for the hike down
- Water shoes to wear in the water – We Recommend: 2 in 1 Water/Hiking Shoes.
- Waterproof Bag to protect valuables – We Recommend: Waterproof Dry Bag-10L/20L/30L
- Lens cloth for your camera
- Bathing suit & towel for the obvious – We Recommend: Microfiber Travel Towel
Our Experience at Aling Aling Waterfall
After seeing several photos and videos from Aling Aling waterfall, we knew it was a place we wanted to check out. While cliff jumping isn’t really our thing, we were curious to visit and see why the area had earned such a thrill-seeking reputation.
We followed the map to the pinned location I noted above and had no trouble locating the parking area to the falls. With several road signs paving the way, it would be fairly difficult to get lost. But it’s worth having an offline map handy all the same.
Our day had started at the famous Gitgit Waterfall, so by the time we arrived at Aling Aling, it was already quite busy. Nonetheless, we parked up and made our way over to the ticket office. Admittedly, we’d done little research in advance, so were quite taken aback by the steep prices. However, we’d later find out they were warranted, after seeing the precarious nature of the cliff jumps.
While we’ve done some cliff jumping in the past, it’s not something that interests us enough to pay for. So on this occasion, we opted to view the waterfalls only. Sadly, it also meant that we couldn’t swim; however, it’s an all or nothing deal, so we bit the bullet and got on with the day.
The trail leading to the series of waterfalls is incredibly picturesque. Nature surrounds you from all angles, resembling a real jungle vibe. I say trail, but it’s actually a well-conditioned pathway. There are a few stairs but nothing too crazy, and I can confidently say it’s suitable for all ages or capabilities.
Fun and Rainbows at Aling Aling Waterfall
Along the trail, you’ll see several signposts that point in the direction of each waterfall. You can start where you like; however, it makes sense to begin at Aling Aling and then hike your way down through the others.
We heard Aling Aling way before we laid our eyes on it. The water plummets with tremendous force over a 90-foot cliff edge, finding its way to the valley below. Even though swimming is forbidden for religious reasons, I couldn’t help but think you wouldn’t want to. Being up against this beast is not a fight I’d count on winning.
A staircase leads down to the rocks below, although they are super slippery and you’ll want to take extra care. I’d also advise leaving any electricals at the top, as the kickback at this point is pretty wild. I do recommend it though, just to experience the full force of the falls.
The spot at the bottom of the stairs also makes for a pretty epic photo. Especially if you’re lucky to get a rainbow as we did. The natural phenomenon usually happens as sunlight hits the spray back from the fall just right. I’m not sure how regular it occurs, but it was around midday when we were there if that helps at all.
Cliff Jumping at Aling Aling Waterfall
After marvelling the beauty of Aling Aling, we set off in search of the other waterfalls. First up was Kroya Waterfall, and there were several people gathered here preparing for the first jump of the day.
You see, Kroya is the entry-level jump. At a mere 5 metres high, it’s really just a warm-up for what lay ahead. You can also slide down the waterfall, which looked like a lot of fun.
After Kroya, it all gets a bit more interesting. The next jump at Kembar waterfall is 10 metres high, and the one after that at Pucuk waterfall is a whopping 15 metre high.
We watched on as others sunk the jumps, and wondered if we’d of had the guts to do it. It’s impossible to be sure until you’re up there looking down; however, one thing was for sure. No cliff jumping should be attempted without a guide present. Too many things can go wrong, and it’s just not worth it. We recommend this guide by Journey Era to learn more about cliff jumping at the Aling Aling waterfalls.
Whichever package you choose, we hope you enjoy your day at Aling Aling. If you find yourself adventuring in the North of Bali, tie your visit in with a trip to Sekumpul & Fiji Waterfalls, Gitgit Waterfall, and Brahma Vihara Arama Monastery.
Where to Stay in Lovina
If you are yet to book any accommodation for Lovina, here are some recommendations suitable for all budgets.
Budget – Hotel Shri Ganesh – For those on a tight budget, Hotel Shri Ganesh provides incredible value for money in the tranquil area of Lovina. Within walking distance of the beach, it’s the perfect base to explore the surrounding area. Facilities of the hotel include an outdoor pool, cosy accommodation, and wifi throughout the property. Not to mention, a delicious breakfast included in the price.
Mid-Range – Mayo Resort – When we visited North Bali, we were fortunate to stay at the luxurious Mayo Resort. Situated a little further west than Lovina, it’s the ideal location if you want to escape the hustle & bustle. Boasting a beachfront location and excellent facilities, we loved that we could spend all day at the hotel and not get bored. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, on-sight restaurant, and wifi throughout the property.
Luxury – Lovina Beach Club & Resort – For those with the dollar, Lovina Beach Club & Resort is one of few 5* options in this area of Bali. You can expect nothing less than world-class service at the beachfront property, which boasts an outdoor swimming pool, whirlpool, fitness centre, and onsite spa.
For more places to stay in Lovina, you can check the latest rates here.
Travel Responsibly
It should go without saying; however, when enjoying your time here, it’s important to be mindful of yourself and the environment.
There are many small steps you can take to becoming a responsible traveller. In the meantime, here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the waterfalls in Bali.
- Be careful with any rubbish that it doesn’t fly away. Keep it secure until you can dispose of it properly.
- Do not leave anything at the waterfall, or take anything away – unless you’ve purchased it from a local supplier.
- Pay attention to warning signs and take care along the trail. There are no staff minding the area.
More on North Bali
Are you planning a trip to Bali? Don’t forget to check out these other articles to help with your trip planning!
- 10 Day Bali Itinerary
- Instagrammable Bali – The Best 43 Instagram Spots in Bali
- Gay in Bali – LGBT+ Travel Guide
- Top Things to do in North Bali
- Sekumpul and Fiji Waterfalls in Bali
- Gitgit Waterfall in Bali
- Brahma Vihara Arama Monastery in Bali
- Extending your Visa in North Bali
Alternatively, select one of the activities below to view more things to do in North Bali:
Well, that concludes Our guide to Aling Aling Waterfall Bali. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram here!
Stay adventurous and Happy travels.
Charlotte & Natalie x
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