Stairs, water, and temple views in one day. This private-style tour is built around Banyumala and Banyuwana Amertha waterfalls, then wraps the effort with a stop at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan on Lake Bratan. I like that the day is handled end-to-end with hotel pickup and a driver, and you’re not spending your energy figuring out buses or routes.

One of the best parts is the photo-friendly variety: tropical forest paths with banana trees, plus classic Bali viewpoints like the Tegalalang rice terrace and Kintamani volcano area. Another big plus is the feel of private attention, and you may get a guide with a fun, picture-happy style like Dodik or Asta mentioned by past guests.

The main drawback is the “moderate hike” part isn’t cute. Expect challenging stairs and slick descents, including a steep walk down and a stream crossing on stepping stones. If you have knee trouble or hate slippery rocks, plan carefully.

Key Points to Know Before You Go

• Private transport with pickup and drop-off so you start fresh and focus on the scenery
• Two waterfall descents with forest scenery and a reward at the lower pools
• Lake Bratan temple stop that breaks up the hiking with mountain views
• Coffee plantation timing that can help you shop (and budget) after the wet part of the day
• Start at 8:00 am and plan for a long day even if the advertised duration is shorter
• Slick steps and wet ground mean shoes and careful pacing matter more than bravado

The Idea Behind This Day: Waterfalls Plus Real Bali Stops

This isn’t just a waterfall stop-and-snap trip. The tour strings together a sequence that makes sense: you begin in Bali’s more “classic” scenic zones, then you earn the cool-down with rainforest trails and steeper stair walking, and you finish with culture at a lake temple.

I like how the pacing usually gives you moments to breathe. You get forest shade while descending, then you’re above-water again for viewpoints and temple photos. That matters because the waterfalls are the centerpiece, but the day still feels like a full tour rather than one long scramble.

The private format also helps. Instead of being herded in a loud group, you can move at a realistic hiking pace. Past guests specifically highlighted guides who were patient on the steps and good at picture moments, with names like Ravy, Kadek Tosa, and Newman showing up in the feedback.

Morning Drives: Rice Terraces and Volcano Views Before the Wet Part

You start in Ubud area, with an 8:00 am start time. The drive itself is part of the experience. You’ll likely stop for iconic views, including the Kintamani volcano area (described as a smoking summit view) and Tegalalang rice terraces, which are famous for a reason. Even if you’ve seen rice terraces in photos, seeing them from the roadside gives you a sense of scale and rhythm.

I also appreciate that this section of the day is more forgiving than the waterfall trails. It’s a chance to get your bearings, check your camera settings, and make sure you’re wearing footwear that works for both sidewalks and damp steps later.

One more practical point: this tour style is about getting you to multiple regions across Bali. That means the road time can add up. If you’re the type who hates “being in the car,” treat this as a day-trip adventure and pack your patience.

Banyumala Twin Waterfalls: The Forest Descent That Feels Like a Garden Walk

The first waterfall stop is Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, and the approach is half the fun. The path is described as beautiful, lined with tropical flowers, plants, and lots of banana trees as you descend into the forest. That matters because you’re not just walking to water—you’re walking through a living environment.

You also get a solid chunk of time here (about an hour), which is helpful. You’re not rushing between photos and looking at the waterfall from one angle only. You can explore the area safely at your own pace, then pause to let the sound and mist settle in.

What to watch for: the forest path gets slick when it’s humid or damp. Even if the trail looks flat, treat it like it could be slippery, especially if you’re wearing sandals. Your future self will thank you for wearing shoes with grip.

Banyuwana Amertha: Steep Descent, Stairs, and Stepping Stones

Next up is Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall (often grouped under the Banyuwana/Banyumala branding). Getting there is more physical: you reach it after a roughly 30-minute hike that includes a steep descent. This is the part where the tour tells you to take caution, and they’re not kidding.

You’ll also cross a stream using stepping stones. That’s a classic Bali waterfall approach—beautiful, but not something you want to do while rushing. If you’re worried about balance, slow down and pick each step like it matters. It does.

Time is again about an hour at the waterfall area, which means you’re not just passing through. You have room to find a decent viewing spot, snap photos, and (if conditions allow and you feel comfortable) cool off at the lower water.

The key consideration here is footwear and pacing. Sport shoes are recommended, and honestly, that’s the difference between enjoying the day and clenching your way through every stair.

The Sekumpul/Sekumpi Waterfall Reward: Where the Trek Turns Into a Swim Day

Even though the official stop names center on Banyumala and Banyuwana Amertha, the bigger reason this tour gets booked is the Sekumpul waterfall trekking experience. This is where the day turns from “pretty hike” into “I worked for that view” territory.

Here’s what you should expect from the way the hike is described:

• Downhill first, often to a viewpoint where you can see the falls
• Then a second push lower for the best waterfall experience and swimming opportunities
• Lots of steps, with rails and sections that can feel steep

One past group specifically mentioned that Sekumpul can feel like multiple waterfalls in one area, with the overall setting described as magnificent and refreshing. They also warned that the hike up can be no joke and that stairs can be slick.

So my practical advice is this: treat the descent like a warm-up and save some energy for the climb. If you’re tired halfway up, the best move is short breaks. Don’t try to out-stubborn the stairs.

Also, keep an eye on weather. Mountain Bali can change fast. If you see dark clouds forming, it may affect footing around the falls.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: A Temple Stop That Actually Fits the Day

After the wet and physical part of the day, you head to Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a temple complex on the shores of Lake Bratan in the mountains near Bedugul. This stop is about 45 minutes, which is long enough to take photos and understand the setting without feeling rushed.

What makes it valuable isn’t just the temple itself. It’s the contrast. You go from rainforest moisture and river stepping stones to mountain light and lake views. Even if you’re not deep into temple architecture, the location makes the stop feel special.

Quick practical note: you’ll likely be in hiking clothes or at least damp-adjacent. Plan to look for a comfortable moment to adjust before temple time.

Coffee Plantation Timing: Souvenirs, Luwak Pricing Reality, and a Calm Finish

The day typically ends with a coffee plantation stop. This is where you can browse, taste if offered, and shop. It also gives you a chance to dry off a bit—at least mentally.

If you’re considering buying coffee, set expectations. One useful detail mentioned is that Luwak coffee can be priced around 1,100,000 IDR for 250g. Other coffees and teas may be less expensive, but the main point is simple: plan your budget for the day if you want to bring something home.

I also like that this stop can be a gentle landing after the hike. You’re not rushing between activities now; you’re in a slower pace zone.

Price and Value: What $50 Buys (and Why It Often Feels Worth It)

At $50 per person, this is positioned as a value-heavy private day because several costs are bundled. What you get includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private transportation
• An English-speaking driver
• All fees and taxes (so you’re not surprised at ticket gates)

Lunch is not included, so you’ll want to decide if you’re comfortable buying food on-site or bringing snacks. Either way, build a small food budget.

The “value” really shows up in the logistics. North Bali waterfall days can be hard to stitch together without wasting hours switching taxis. Having a private vehicle that handles the travel between scenic stops—and dropping you back at your hotel—turns this into a true day-trip experience instead of a puzzle.

One extra timing reality: the tour is listed as about 7 to 8 hours, but a long day is still normal with waterfall hikes and mountain drives. If you hate late returns, don’t schedule anything important for the evening.

What to Pack: The Small Things That Save the Day

This is the tour where your packing list matters more than your outfit. The tour recommends bringing:

• Change of clothes
• A plastic bag or dry method to keep valuables safe
• A waterproof camera if you want waterfall shots without worry
• Sport shoes
• Sunscreen
• Money for souvenirs

I’d add one practical mindset: you’re walking in conditions where things get wet, and surfaces can be slick. Pack for the worst moment, not the best moment. If you’re already wearing shoes with good grip, you’ll enjoy the hike more.

Also, bring a way to keep your phone dry. Even if the water isn’t directly splashing you, mist and damp steps are enough to cause trouble.

Guide Quality: Private Attention Can Make or Break the Hike

Private tours win when the guide understands pace and comfort. The feedback around guides like Dodik, Asta, Ravy, Kadek Tosa, Newman, and others highlights a few repeating strengths:

• Patience on the stairs for people moving slower
• Good picture help, including “let me catch that angle” moments
• Basic explanations and helpful navigation through the stops

Not every operator treats the driver and guide role the same way. Some days, you might get mostly driving plus on-site guidance. Either way, ask quick questions early in the day: where are the best photo spots, which sections are slickest, and what the easiest pace feels like for your group.

If you’re prone to fatigue, tell your driver/guide at the pickup point. A small adjustment can keep the hike enjoyable.

Who This Tour Suits Best (and Who Should Think Twice)

This day fits best if you want a mix of:

• Waterfall time with a real hike
• Bali scenery stops like rice terraces and volcano-area views
• A cultural finish at Lake Bratan

It’s considered suitable for ages 12 to 65, and most people can participate, but the stairs and steep descents are the deciding factor.

If you’re someone who hates steep climbs, has mobility limits, or struggles on uneven surfaces, think carefully. The waterfall experience is worth it, but it isn’t a walk-in-the-park.

On the other hand, if you can handle stairs with breaks and you’re comfortable using stepping stones, you’ll probably love the payoff. The day is built around that moment when the falls feel close enough to hear and the air turns cooler.

Should You Book This Banyuwana & Banyumala Waterfalls Tour?

I’d book it if you want a full day that mixes rainforest waterfall trekking, temple scenery, and classic Bali viewpoints, all handled with private transport. The $50 price can feel fair because pickup, drop-off, and key fees are included, and you’re paying less for logistics headaches.

I’d skip or choose another option if stairs and slippery steps are your enemy. You can still enjoy waterfalls in Bali, but this one asks your legs to work.

My final advice: go with the mindset of a hike day, not a casual stroll. Wear the right shoes, bring a dry plan for your valuables, and give yourself permission to take breaks. If you do that, this tour has the kind of payoff that sticks with you longer than a photo.

FAQ

How long is the Banyuwana & Banyumala Waterfalls tour?

The tour is listed as about 7 to 8 hours.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 8:00 am.

Where does the tour take place?

It’s in Bali, with the base location listed as Ubud, Indonesia.

What waterfall stops are included?

The day includes Banyumala Twin Waterfalls and Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall, and it’s described as a trekking experience to the Sekumpul/Sekumpi waterfall area.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Hotel/port pickup and drop-off are included.

Are entrance tickets included?

Yes. Admission tickets are listed as included for the waterfall stops and the temple stop.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch is not included.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s private, and only your group participates.

What should I bring for the hike and waterfalls?

Bring change of clothes, a plastic bag or other way to keep valuables dry, waterproof camera (if you have one), sport shoes, sunscreen, and money for souvenirs.

Is the guide English-speaking?

Yes. An English speaking driver is included.

Is there any walking on stairs?

Yes. The tour involves walking on challenging stairs and steep descents, with caution advised.

How does cancellation work?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.