Sumampan Waterfall

SUMAMPAN WATERFALL – A HIDDEN GEM IN BALI

Sumampan Waterfall is still somewhat of a hidden gem in Bali. At the same time, it’s one of the most majestic waterfalls on the island. Located in the heart of a charming village in Ubud, a trip to the falls is a pleasant retreat from the busy town centre.

After stumbling upon the falls purely by accident, we were surprised to have never heard of them before. Lush rice fields and towering palm trees encompass the fall. While hanging vines and trees give it a real jungle vibe.

In this guide, we advise everything you need to know ahead of visiting Sumampan Waterfall in Bali. Including entrance fees, how to get there, what to expect & more. 

Sumampan Waterfall in Bali – A 2019 Guide

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How to Get to Sumampan Waterfall

Sumampan is one of the best waterfalls near Ubud and easily accessed from most of the tourist hubs in Bali. It paves the way for Tegenungan Waterfall, so it makes sense to combine the 2 if you fancy a waterfall adventure. 

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.

If you follow the location pinned on the map below, you should have no trouble finding the waterfall carpark. I’d only say that it seems a little odd as you have to drive down a dirt road lined with houses. The current parking area is tiny, and I couldn’t help but wonder how they’d cope if the waterfall became popular.

From the parking area, it’s a short hike, but also a sketchy one. Again, it feels slightly strange as it looks like you’re trespassing through somebody’s land. The path winds into a lush jungle area, followed by 50 or so steps down to the falls.

Sumampan Waterfall Map

sumanpan waterfall

Sumampan Waterfall Entrance Fee

Entrance Fee:  Free. However, there is a donation box requesting 5,000 IDR. I assume it has been set up by whoever lives on the corner property, but there doesn’t appear to be anybody monitoring it. We slipped a small note in the box purely because it felt like we were intruding on their land.

 Parking:  Free

Things to Know Before Visiting

Here is all the key information you’ll need ahead of visiting Sumampan waterfall:

Opening Times 

The waterfall is open to visitors 7-days a week from 6 am to 6 pm. 

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit most waterfalls in Bali is during the months of April-June, just after the wet season. As a result of all the rain, the waterfalls are at their most ferocious at that time. If you visit amid the dry season, there is a possibility some waterfalls could be dried out.  

Thankfully, Sumampan Waterfall is still a hidden gem in Bali, so you don’t need to worry about crowds at any time of day. On the other hand, it doesn’t take long to visit. You could go here on a morning adventure before spending the day on the beach or exploring further afield.  

Time Required

We recommend allowing around 1 hour to visit Sumampan Waterfall, including the hike down.

What to Wear

These items should help make your visit to the waterfall more comfortable.

  • Comfortable shoes.
  • Water shoes – We Recommend: Aleader 2 in 1 Hiking Shoes. Use code OURTASTEFORLIFE15 for 15% off your order
  • Waterproof Bag – We Recommend: Waterproof Dry Bag-10L/20L/30L
  • Bathing suit & towel – We Recommend: Microfiber Travel Towel
Sumampan Waterfall
Sumampan Waterfall – A hidden gem in Bali

Our Experience at Sumampan Waterfall

If we hadn’t been staying in Sumampan Village during our time in Ubud, we’d never have known about Sumampan Waterfall. We were out for a run when we saw the sign and pledged to come back one morning with our camera.  

Located in a quaint little village on the outskirts of Ubud, it feels like worlds away from the tourist hubs of Bali. The culture is raw and traditional in these parts, and you’ll be surprised at how curious the locals are to see you. The Balinese are always welcoming, but it’s not often they see Westerners in the local villages.

Anyhow, after lots of hello and smiles, we made it to the entrance of the waterfall. While a sign on the gate confirmed we were in the right place, it was odd to see the dirt track lined with houses. There were families outside going about their day, and although we aren’t shy, it felt strange walking along their driveway at 7 in the morning.

We put some money in the donation box and followed the trail around the back of the houses. The route opens up onto a sweeping ricefield on one side, and a palm-fringed jungle on the other. Although there is no paved walkway, you can tell efforts have been made to make the waterfall accessible to tourists.

The dirt path continues down into the jungle, where a couple of mini swings and chill-out huts blend into the scenery. Soon enough, we got our first view of the waterfall and were taken aback by its beauty. Since we’d never heard of it, I guess we didn’t expect it to be quite so impressive. 

A Hidden Gem in Bali

Across the way, lush ricefields adorn the cliff from which the waterfall cascades. I secretly hoped we’d had our drone at that point as it would have made for a spectacular aerial view.  

From this point, the trail down to the falls gets a little sketchy. By this I mean the stairs aren’t in great shape, but unless it’s been raining, they are perfectly safe. I would only suggest avoiding in wet weather as there isn’t much of a barrier to protect you should you slip.

At the foot of the stairs, a river is all that separates you from the falls. Depending on the time of year, it may be too dangerous to cross as you can’t see the stepping stones. When the water levels are lower, you can pass with ease. But it’s up to you to make a sensible decision as there are no locals here looking out for your safety.

Regardless if you can cross or not, the view from the other side is pretty awesome. The crashing river, combined with hanging vines and lush fauna, resembles an authentic jungle vibe. So if you’re looking for a mini adventure, or a spot to escape the hustle and bustle, Sumpampan Waterfall is a worthy addition to your Bali Itinerary.

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!

  1.  Tibumana Waterfall
  2.  Tukad Cepung Waterfall
  3.  Kanto Lampo Waterfall
  4.  Tegenungan Waterfall
  5.  Nungnung Waterfall
  6.  Leke Leke Waterfall

Travel Responsibly

When visiting the waterfalls, it’s essential to be mindful of yourself and the environment.

Check out our article on becoming a responsible traveller. In the meantime, here are some things to consider when visiting Sumampan Waterfall.

  • Keep rubbish secure until you can dispose of it properly
  • Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.
  • Pay attention to warning signs and make sensible judgements. Have fun, but stay safe.

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 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 come 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 in Ubud if you seek a touch of luxury.  

For more places to stay in Ubud, you can check the latest prices here. 

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

Sekumpul & Fiji Waterfall in Bali – A 2019 Guide 

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 Sumampan 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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Charlotte & Natalie

Hi There!

We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.
Here you will find everything from LGBTQ+ travel & lifestyle advice, to comprehensive guides and itineraries designed to make your travel planning easier.
We want to inspire you to live the life of your dreams.

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