Nungnung Waterfall is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Bali. Located at the heart of the island, it makes for an adventurous day trip from the North of Bali or Ubud. It involves a bit of a hike to reach the falls, where you can swim, relax, and enjoy nature.
The highlight of Nungnung has to be the tremendous power behind the falls. You could feel a kickback from what must have been 30m away, so you’ll really need to take care of your camera equipment here. Nevertheless, you’ll want to include a trip to these falls on your Bali Itinerary.
In this guide, we advise everything you need to know ahead of visiting Nungnung in Bali. Including entrance fees, how to get there, what to expect & more.
Nungnung Waterfall Bali – A Reliable Guide
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How to get to Nungnung Waterfall in Bali
Nungnung is one of the best waterfalls near Ubud, and easily accessible from the major tourist hubs in Bali via scooter or car. We combined our visit with a trip to Leke Leke Waterfall, and it was around an hours drive from Ubud centre.
To rent a scooter in Bali is around 60,000 IDR per day. The roads in Bali are, for the most part, in excellent condition. And if you are confident on a bike, this is the cheapest way to get around.
Alternatively, you can use a local driver or Grab Taxi. The latter tends to be the cheaper option if you plan on going from A to B. However, if you want a driver for the entire day, you can arrange with a local transport company.
Once you arrive at the parking area of the falls, you’ll need to purchase your ticket at the desk before commencing the climb down. It’s one of the more challenging waterfall hikes in Bali, and you’ll have to get down 500 or so steps to reach the falls.
Nungnung Waterfall in Bali Map
Things to Know Before Visiting
Here is all the key information you’ll need ahead of visiting Nung Nung waterfall:
Opening Times
The waterfall is open 7-days a week from 9 am to 4 pm.
Tibumana Waterfall Entrance Fee
Entrance Fee: 10,000 IDR
Parking: Free
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit any of the Bali Waterfalls is during the months of April-June, shortly after the wet season has ended. Due to the influx of rain, the waterfalls tend to be at their most impressive during this time. Nungnung is one of the exceptions though, and it tends to be fierce all year round.
Relative to most waterfalls in Bali, Nungnung is one of the lesser-known ones. That said, it does pay to visit early morning if you want to avoid the crowds. If you are a photographer, this will be your best chance of snapping some beautiful shots without people in them. Although, the downside is that the sunlight doesn’t tend to hit until around midday.
It’s rare to find this place heaving with tourists, and so if you don’t mind a few others around, you could visit at any time during the day. Just keep in mind that the falls close at 4 pm.
Guided Tours
Guided Tours are available for most attractions in Bali, including Nungnung Waterfall. You can organise tours online or through the numerous tourist offices located across the island. That said, they can be quite expensive, and we find it far more enjoyable to explore the island independently.
Time Required
We recommend allowing 2-3 hours to visit Nungnung Waterfall, including the hike down.
Photography
Nungnung is one of the most Insta-worthy waterfalls in Bali (Are you following us on Instagram? Follow us here!) however, if you want to take photos, there are a few things you may want to consider.
- Early mornings are the quietest at the waterfall; however, there is no sunlight. That said, we personally favoured the moody lighting and mist during that time.
- The splashback from the falls is pretty relentless, and you’re going to want to protect your equipment accordingly.
What to Wear
Here are some items that we recommend wearing to make your visit to the waterfall more comfortable.
- Comfortable shoes for the strenuous hike down
- Water shoes to wear in the water – We Recommend: Aleader 2 in 1 Hiking Shoes. Use code OURTASTEFORLIFE15 for 15% off your order
- Waterproof Bag to protect valuables – We Recommend: Waterproof Dry Bag-10L/20L/30L
- Bathing suit & towel for the obvious – We Recommend: Microfiber Travel Towel
Our Experience at Nungnung Waterfall
Nungnung Waterfall was always an essential addition to our 10 Day Bali itinerary. The momentous falls, located in the heart of the Bali jungle, appeared captivating. Combine that with a challenging hike down and back up again, you have yourself quite the adventure!
Bali is renowned for its lush nature and scenic views, and the early morning drive to the falls was a revitalising way to start the day. The island feels like a totally different place at that time of the morning. You can cruise the roads without worrying about the traffic while experiencing the tranquil vibes that Bali is really all about.
We arrived at the parking area just before opening time, relieved to find we were the first ones there. Shortly after, a local whizzed down on their motorbike to collect the entrance fee, so they must keep an eye out for tourists driving by. We paid the 10,000 fee and commenced the trail down to the falls.
It’s quite a trek to get down to the falls, and while you pass through a lush jungle area, there’s nothing too special about the hike itself. Thankfully, the stairs are in good condition so you can pick the pace up to get down quicker. I didn’t count the stairs, but I’d say there are easily 500 or more. All in all, it took us around 10-15 minutes to reach the bottom, moving at a moderate pace.
I should probably mention that it’s one thing coming down the stairs, and another going back up. We are both relatively fit and enjoyed the challenge; however, those less able may find it a struggle. Although, if you do get tired, there are regular pitstops where you can take a break.
Swimming at Nungnung Waterfall
We heard the sheer wrath of the waterfall before we saw it. Nungnung Waterfall is a 60-foot force to be reckoned with! It’s clear why it’s often referred to as one of the best waterfalls in Bali. We looked on in awe, as we felt the spray from the pummeling flow of water. If you want to take pictures here, you’ll need to take extra care of your equipment. You have been warned!
Nungnung is one of few waterfalls in Bali where it is permitted to swim; however, the immense power of the water was enough to deter us from taking a dip. The lagoon encompassing the falls is pretty big, and some people do get in. But getting caught up in that kind of force is not a fight I would count on winning.
If you do swim, please take extra care not to get too close to the falls. No locals are hanging out at Nungnung to look after your safety, so it’s down to you to know your limits. Nevertheless, whether you swim or not, Nungnung Waterfall is well worthy of a visit during your time in Bali.
More Waterfalls Near Ubud
Chasing waterfalls is one of our favourite things to do in Ubud. Don’t forget to check out these other waterfalls when spending time in Bali!
- Tibumana Waterfall
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall
- Tegenungan Waterfall
- Leke Leke Waterfall
- Sumampan Waterfall
Where to Stay in Ubud
Hostel – Puji Hostel and Bungalow – Set just a short 10-minute walk away from Ubud market, Puji Hostel and Bungalow offer comfortable dorm-style rooms in a picturesque location. The onsite swimming pool overlooks sweeping rice fields, while guests can also enjoy the on-site restaurant and common area.
Budget Private – Gatra Ubud Inn – Located in the heart of Ubud, Gatra Ubud Inn is a traditional Balinese style property boasting a beautiful garden and comfortable rooms. All rooms are equipped with a private room and wifi is available throughout the property.
Luxury – Element by Westin Bali – After spending 4 nights at Element Westin Bali, we can highly recommend this stunning hotel Ubud if you seek a touch of luxury.
For more places to stay in Ubud you can check the latest prices here.
Travel Responsibly
It should go without saying; however, when enjoying your time at Nungnung Waterfall, 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.
- Take care along the trail and by the falls. There are no staff minding the area.
More on Bali
Are you planning a trip to Bali? Don’t forget to check out these other articles to help with your trip planning!
10 Days in Bali – Ultimate Guide & Itinerary
Bias Tugel Beach Bali – A Guide to Secret Beach
Double Six Beach Bali – Ultimate Guide
Bali to Nusa Penida – Ferry & Speed Boat Guide
Well, that concludes our guide to Nung Nung Waterfall in 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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