7 North Bali Hidden Waterfalls for 2026: Off-Grid Hikes & Swim Spots

Hidden waterfalls North Bali 2026. If the phrase makes your shoulders drop and your breathing slow, you’re my kind of traveler. As a Bali waterfall chaser for IneedMyVacation.com, I’ve hiked these trails for years, chasing emerald pools, misty canyons, and the hush you only hear when jungle air feels like a whisper. In this guide I share seven quiet swim spots for 2026, the hikes to reach them, and how to plan a safe, sustainable day out.

I ranked these falls by seclusion, swim quality, hike time, and safety. Inside, you’ll get a live map with all seven pins, a ranked comparison table, entry fees in IDR with simple USD notes, and the best time to visit each one. The 2026 vibe favors eco-conscious trips, wellness hikes, and nature escapes, and North Bali fits that shift perfectly. I lace up early, carry small cash for ticket huts, pack light, and follow local etiquette: greet the keeper, tread gently, leave no trace.

Gear I trust: grippy shoes, a quick-dry towel, and a small first aid kit. Safety I live by: start early, keep an eye on rain, and never jump without a guide. Photo idea for your first stop: Banyumala Twin at sunrise, still pools and soft gold light. Alt text: Hidden waterfalls North Bali 2026, Banyumala Twin at sunrise.

Plan your 2026 North Bali escape On Trip.com here.

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Off-Grid Paradise: Hidden Waterfalls North Bali 2026

Image created with AI: Sunrise glow on a jungle path leading to a hidden pool, perfect for North Bali off-grid hikes 2026.

Hidden waterfalls North Bali 2026 are not the loud, signposted stops where vans pile in. “Hidden” here means whispers of birdsong, local ticket huts, clear pools with only a few swimmers, and trails that wake up with the morning light. North Bali off-grid hikes 2026 reward early starts. At dawn, you’ll find cool air, fewer people, and that rare feeling that the jungle took a deep breath, just for you.

What makes these spots special in 2026:

• Swim spots with fewer people
• Short to moderate jungle trails
• Clean water pools
• Birdsong and cool jungle air
• Budget entry fees

Logistics are simple. Ride a scooter or car to the trailhead, pay a small fee at the local hut, and walk in. Bring cash for entry, usually 10,000 to 20,000 IDR (about 1 to 2 USD). Some falls have optional guide services, especially where jumps or river crossings are involved.

One gear tip: wear non-slip hiking shoes that grip wet rock. One safety tip: if rain is in the forecast, go early, move carefully on steps, and skip risky crossings. For deeper planning and route ideas I like to keep handy, the Bali Waterfall Guide Buy on Amazon is a solid pocket resource.

Image created by AI. Off-grid hikes North Bali 2026, jungle path to hidden waterfall.

Your Custom Waterfall Map and Quick Plan

Use this interactive map to explore North Bali and locate each waterfall. Search for “Banyumala Twin Waterfall”, “Sekumpul Waterfall”, or any name from this guide to get directions and trailhead info.

Search each waterfall name in the map to get directions! Open Full Map

Find hotels near these waterfalls On Trip.com here.

Top 7 Off-Grid Waterfalls for 2026

I ranked these by seclusion, swim quality, hike time, and overall safety. Read each H3 for fee notes in IDR with simple USD, round-trip hike times where helpful, and swim potential. If a spot involves jumps or slick boulders, I call it out. I’ve marked 2026 updates where trails, kiosks, or guide rules matter.

Pro tip: pack Waterproof Hiking Shoes Buy on Amazon for traction on wet stone and roots. It keeps your day smooth and your focus on the water.

Keyphrases you’ll see sprinkled through this section are intentional to help you plan: hidden waterfalls North Bali 2026, North Bali off-grid hikes 2026, and best swim spots North Bali waterfalls 2026.

Banyumala Twin Waterfall: Emerald Pools and a Quiet Jungle Bowl

Banyumala feels like a hush in green. Twin curtains fall into a clear, wide pool that invites a slow float. Arrive early for first light on the surface and an almost private swim.

• Fee: ~20,000 IDR (about 1 to 2 USD)
• Hike: about 1 to 1.5 hours round trip, moderate, with steep steps and some roots
• Swim: calm and photogenic, a favorite for a peaceful dip
• 2026 note: trails remain in good shape, watch for slick spots after rain
• Safety: water shoes help on slick rocks

If you’re looking for the best swim spots North Bali waterfalls 2026, this pool belongs at the top.

Photo created by AI: Banyumala Twin Waterfall pool, hidden waterfalls North Bali 2026.

Sekumpul Waterfall: Misty 7-Tier Cascade

Sekumpul is a dramatic cluster of seven waterfalls with misty spray and a powerful flow. The 1-2 hour hike descends through lush jungle—rewarding but demanding.

• Fee: ~20,000 IDR (about 1 to 2 USD)
• Hike: 1–2 hrs round trip, moderate-strenuous
• Swim: Yes, strong spray—invigorating but not calm
• 2026 note: Local guides recommended for safest route

Aling-Aling Area: Slides & Jumps with Guide

Famous for natural slides and cliff jumps (3m-15m). Viewing is free; swimming/jumping requires a guide for safety.

• Fee: 15,000–20,000 IDR + guide fee
• Hike: 15–30 mins
• Swim: Yes, with guide only

Nungnung Waterfall: Powerful Drop, Strong Current

A towering 50m fall with a deep pool. Steep 500+ steps down (and back up).

• Fee: ~20,000 IDR
• Hike: 20–30 mins RT (steep)
• Swim: Yes, strong current—caution advised

Leke Leke Waterfall: Quick Soak in a Canyon

Smaller but scenic, with a bamboo bridge and shallow pool.

• Fee: ~15,000 IDR
• Hike: 20–30 mins
• Swim: Quick soak

Gitgit Waterfall: Easiest Access, Family-Friendly

Short, paved path—ideal for kids or quick visits.

• Fee: ~20,000 IDR
• Hike: 10–15 mins
• Swim: Short dip

Sumampan Waterfall: Calm Soak Near Ubud

Quiet, easy access, and a peaceful pool.

• Fee: ~15,000 IDR
• Hike: <15 mins
• Swim: Calm soak

Ranked Comparison Table and How to Use It

Use this table to compare hike times and swim potential at a glance. Fees are subject to change, so bring small cash and a friendly smile.

Rank	Waterfall	Hike Time	Swim?	Hotel Link
1	Banyumala Twin	1–1.5 hrs RT	Yes, wide calm pool	See nearby stays
2	Sekumpul	1–2 hrs	Yes, strong spray	See nearby stays
3	Aling-Aling Area	15–30 mins	Yes, with guide	See nearby stays
4	Nungnung	20–30 mins RT	Yes, strong current	See nearby stays
5	Leke Leke	20–30 mins	Quick soak	See nearby stays
6	Gitgit	10–15 mins	Short dip	See nearby stays
7	Sumampan	<15 mins	Calm soak	See nearby stays

When to Visit, Swim, and Save in 2026

North Bali off-grid hikes 2026 feel best when trails are quiet and pools are clear. Plan with weather, light, and budget in mind. Here is how I time trips, book smart, and keep my pack light.

• Start early, usually before 8 a.m., for cool air and softer light.
• Carry small cash for tickets and snacks.
• Pack snacks, water, a quick-dry towel, and a small kit.

Booking tip: stash a Quick-Dry Towel Buy on Amazon in your daypack. It weighs almost nothing and makes one-stop swim days easy.

Seasonal Guide: Dry vs. Rainy Months

• Dry season (July to October): clearer trails, easier swims, cooler mornings.
• Shoulder months (April to June, November): green views and light showers.
• Rainy season (December to March): stronger flows and muddy paths; start early, bring a poncho.

Water levels rise after heavy rain. Skip swimming if the current looks strong or the water is opaque. Early morning visits give you the softest light and the least traffic. I carry reef-safe sunscreen and an Insect Repellent Buy on Amazon for shaded trails.

Bundle flight + hotel on Trip.com for savings.

Trip.com Booking Tips: Save on Flights and Stays

1. Book DPS flights 6 to 8 weeks out for better fares.
2. Fly midweek to dodge price spikes and airport queues.
3. Stay near Munduk if you want early trail access to Banyumala, Gitgit, and Aling-Aling.
4. Bundle hotel and transfer if you plan a late arrival, it removes pickup stress.
5. Use free cancellation for weather shifts, then adjust your waterfall order.

Ballpark fares from Southeast Asia can be friendly if you avoid holidays. Early mornings help beat heat and crowds at popular falls like Sekumpul. Keep a Quick-Dry Towel Buy on Amazon in your day bag so you can swim twice and still be dry for lunch.

Search flights to Bali On Trip.com here.

Safety, Etiquette, and Sustainability

• Stay on marked paths and respect local signs.
• No glass by pools, pack out all trash.
• Keep noise low so others can enjoy the calm.
• Support local warungs and ticket huts.
• Do not jump without a guide, especially at Aling-Aling.
• Basic first aid: bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a small wrap for sprains.
• Check rain forecasts and be ready to reroute.

FAQs About North Bali’s Hidden Waterfalls 2026

Q: What is the easiest hike for families?
A: Gitgit is the simplest, with a 10 to 15 minute walk on a clear path. Banyumala is moderate but manageable, with steps and roots. If you want a quick win day, plan Gitgit first, then a slow lunch, then Sumampan closer to Ubud. For stays, browse options on Trip.com while you map your loop.

Q: Where is the best early swim?
A: Banyumala’s wide pool is calm and clear if you arrive before 8 a.m. Leke Leke is also a peaceful soak, though shallow. If you like cooler water, Sekumpul will wake you up with mist. Pack a Snorkel Mask Buy on Amazon if you want to float and look down at rocks and leaves.

Q: Do I need a guide at Aling-Aling?
A: For viewing only, no. For any swimming, slides, or jumps at Aling-Aling, Kroya, or Kembar, go with a local guide. It keeps you safe and protects the site. It also helps routes adjust if water levels rise.

Q: What are typical entry fees in 2026?
A: Most are 10,000 to 20,000 IDR, roughly 1 to 2 USD. Bring small cash for tickets and snacks. Some sites add a guide fee if you choose that option. Prices can change slightly by season or local updates.

Q: Are these falls safe for kids?
A: Choose easy paths like Gitgit or Sumampan, and bring grippy shoes. Keep a close eye near wet rocks, and set a no-jumping rule. Early starts help you avoid slick crowds on steps. A towel and snacks make breaks easier.

Q: Best base towns to stay?
A: Munduk for Banyumala, Gitgit, and Aling-Aling access. Bedugul works if you want a cooler base near lakes and early starts. Ubud is a good add for Sumampan and Leke Leke day trips. Trip.com has a range of stays across these areas.

Q: Can I reach trailheads by scooter?
A: Yes, most trailheads are scooter-friendly in good weather. Park in marked areas and bring a rain layer in wet months. If you prefer a car, local drivers know the roads well, especially around Munduk and Sekumpul.

Conclusion

Seven quiet jungle bowls, seven different moods. From the wide calm of Banyumala to the mist of Sekumpul, the joy here is simple: cool water, clean air, and time to breathe. Use the live map to plan a smart route, then skim the ranked table to set your swim priorities. Pack light, go early, and keep your footprint small. When you think about hidden waterfalls North Bali 2026, picture yourself ankle-deep at sunrise, listening to a green world wake up.

Chase 7 North Bali hidden waterfalls in 2026! Book now.

Image created with AI: Hidden waterfalls North Bali 2026, aerial of Banyumala Twin.

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