Reviewed · UBUD TOURS
Banyuwana & Banyumala Waterfalls Tour Private – All-Inclusive
North Bali’s waterfalls are the heart of this day, especially Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, where a forest path leads down through banana trees, tropical plants, and flowers to cool water below. You also get a private car, a flexible schedule, and time at Ulun Danu Bratan, so the day mixes exercise, scenery, and culture rather than focusing on one photo stop.
I like the undivided attention of a private driver and the chance to slow down for pictures, swims, or breaks. I also like the useful mix of places: waterfall trails, mountain views, rice terraces, a Hindu temple, and a coffee plantation. The catch is the distance and the climb back up. A day advertised at 7 to 8 hours can become much longer from southern Bali, and the stairs are steep, slick, and tiring.
Key points to know before booking

- Banyumala means a real forest walk: Expect a beautiful descent through tropical growth before reaching the twin cascades.
- Banyu Wana adds a second demanding trail: The route includes steep stairs and a stream crossing on stepping stones.
- Private service gives you room to adjust: Guides including Dodik, Asta, Ravy, Kadek, Made, and Gede have been praised for patience, photos, and adapting the pace.
- The waterfalls are the main event: Swimming beneath the falls is possible, but the return climb can be strenuous.
- Ulun Danu Bratan provides a quieter change of mood: The temple sits beside Lake Bratan in the cool Bedugul highlands.
- The $50 price covers the basics: Private transport, pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and entrance fees are included, but lunch is not.
Why the waterfalls make this a memorable Bali day

Many Bali day trips pile up viewpoints and shopping stops. This one has a stronger centerpiece: you walk into the forest and reach water that feels earned rather than simply photographed from a roadside platform.
At Banyumala, the route itself is part of the reward. You descend through banana trees, tropical flowers, and thick plants toward the waterfall area. The path offers a gradual change from road travel to forest walking, and the setting feels more natural than a polished attraction.
The water is the best reason to bring a change of clothes. Several stops may offer fine pictures, but the chance to stand or swim in the fresh plunge pool gives the day a physical memory. If you only want viewpoints, you can stop higher up. If you are comfortable with the trail, continuing to the water is worth the effort.
The private format helps here. You can ask for a pause when your legs need it, spend longer at the falls, or skip a section if rain makes the steps unsafe. Guides named Dodik, Asta, Ravy, Kadek, Made, Gede, and others are praised for friendly service and patience. Asta is particularly noted for taking creative pictures, while Kadek and Ravy are described as helpful when adjusting the pace or plans.
That said, do not mistake private transport for an easy excursion. You still need to walk the trail yourself. The tour is recommended for ages 12 to 65, and most people can take part, but fitness and balance matter more than the age range suggests.
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Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, a lovely descent into the trees

Banyumala is listed as the first waterfall stop, with about an hour allowed. The trail passes tropical flowers, plants, and banana trees as it drops into the forest. This approach gives you a proper sense of place before the water comes into view.
The word twin fits the scene: the falls are known for two streams flowing into a pool. You can take pictures from the trail and, depending on conditions and your comfort, get close to the water. The forest setting also gives some relief from Bali’s heat, though the walk remains damp and slippery in wet weather.
Wear sports shoes with a good grip. Flip-flops are a poor choice for a trail where wet steps and mud may be present. You should also pack a plastic bag or waterproof pouch for your phone, wallet, and camera. The suggestion to bring a waterproof camera is practical, not decorative.
The one-hour allowance may feel short if you want a long swim and plenty of photos. It is enough for a focused stop, but the exact time will depend on walking speed, weather, and how much of the trail you use.
Banyu Wana Amertha, steep stairs and a stream crossing
The second waterfall stop adds another hour and includes roughly a 30-minute hike. The descent is steep, and some stairs are difficult. You also cross a stream using stepping stones, so this is where footwear and balance become especially important.
Banyu Wana Amertha is a good match for you if the walk is part of the appeal. The forest path and water create a stronger outdoor experience than a quick roadside visit. But you should not book this expecting a gentle stroll. The difficult part is often the return, when the heat and uphill stairs catch up with you.
Take the descent slowly. Use the rails where available, watch each step, and keep your hands free if possible. A private guide can help with photos and pace, but the tour information does not promise special hiking equipment or wet-weather gear. Bring your own raincoat or umbrella if mountain showers are possible.
Some outings connected with this route include several waterfall views and local guides who explain village life. The supplied details also describe a local guide at Sekumpul sharing information about the area. This matters because the private driver may handle transport while a local waterfall guide handles the trail itself. Confirm who will guide each section when you book.
Sekumpul, the route detail you should clarify
The tour description uses both Banyumala and Banyu Wana, while the wider description and several experiences refer to Sekumpul Waterfall. This is important. Sekumpul is another famous north Bali waterfall area, and some versions of the day appear to include its viewpoint or lower trail.
The walking details described for Sekumpul include a first viewpoint after about 15 to 20 minutes downhill, followed by another roughly 10-minute descent to the falls. The lower section is the part associated with swimming and closer views. Some people choose the viewpoint only, especially when thunderstorms make the final descent or climb risky.
There is also mention of motorcycle rides back toward the top for about 20,000 Indonesian rupiah, less than $2 at the time described. Do not assume this is part of every version of the tour or included in the $50 price. Ask the provider to confirm the exact route, local fees, and any optional ride.
The wording around the waterfalls is not perfectly consistent, so clarification is sensible. Ask three direct questions before paying: Which waterfalls are included, is Sekumpul part of the day, and does the listed admission cover any local guide or motorcycle transfer? This avoids a mismatch between the title and the actual plan.
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Ulun Danu Bratan beside Lake Bratan
After the waterfall section, the tour visits Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a major Hindu temple complex beside Lake Bratan near Bedugul. About 45 minutes is allowed here, making it a compact cultural stop rather than a long temple visit.
The setting is the attraction. Temple structures rise near the lake in Bali’s mountain country, and the cooler air offers a welcome change after the forest trails. You can take photographs, look at the temple grounds, and let the day shift from physical activity to quiet scenery.
I like this stop because it gives the tour more range. A waterfall-only trip can feel repetitive, while Ulun Danu Bratan adds a clear cultural element. Still, 45 minutes will not let you explore every part at length, and the visit may feel brief if you prefer temples to nature.
Dress and behave respectfully at the temple. The supplied information does not list a dress code, so ask your driver if you are unsure about current entry rules.
Rice terraces, volcano views, and the coffee stop

The wider route description includes views of Kintamani Volcano and the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Several accounts also describe breakfast overlooking Mount Batur or the caldera, with one person calling it the best meal view of the trip. Breakfast and lunch are not the same thing, however. Lunch is explicitly not included, so budget for food during the day.
These stops are often used for photographs, and they are valuable because they break up the long drives. The rice terraces show how carefully Bali’s farmland follows the contours of the hills. The volcano viewpoints offer a broad mountain view, though clouds can obscure the summit and weather is outside the operator’s control.
A coffee plantation may also be included toward the end or along the route. Luwak coffee is available for purchase, with one price given as 1,100,000 Indonesian rupiah for 250 grams. That is a useful warning: tasting and shopping can be separate matters. You do not need to buy coffee to make the tour worthwhile, and you should ask prices before committing to a purchase.
Because the listed itinerary names only three main stops while the wider description includes rice terraces, volcano views, and coffee, confirm how many locations fit into your departure point and available time. Adding every stop can turn a 7 to 8-hour outing into a 10 to 12-hour day.
Long drives are part of the bargain

From Ubud, the day may fit more comfortably into the stated duration, though traffic and mountain roads still affect timing. From Kuta, Jimbaran, or other southern areas, expect a much longer day. One account describes a 7 AM to 7 PM outing, with drives of about two hours to the coffee plantation, another hour and a half to a Mount Batur viewpoint, and another hour and a half toward the waterfall area.
That schedule is demanding, but it also explains the value of private transport. You are not arranging several taxis or trying to reach remote waterfall roads on your own. A driver who knows the island may adjust the route around traffic, as Newman is praised for doing, and you can keep your belongings in the vehicle while walking.
The tradeoff is simple: you see a lot of Bali, but you spend a lot of time in the car. If you have only one free day and want a broad taste of the island, that may be a fair exchange. If you want a relaxed day with long swims and slow temple visits, choose fewer stops or start from a closer base.
The tour begins at about 8 AM, but some departures have started earlier. Confirm your pickup time and location, especially since the experience is associated with Ubud in one place and Kuta or southern Bali in another.
What $50 per person really buys
At $50 per person, the price is strongest for a pair or small private group that values convenience. You receive hotel or port pickup and drop-off, private transportation, an English-speaking driver, and fees and taxes. A minimum of two people is required, and group discounts may be available.
The private car is the main value. North Bali’s waterfalls are not a simple Ubud walking excursion, and the route combines several distant areas. Having one driver for the day gives you control over breaks and lets you ask questions as you go.
The price does not include lunch, drinks, coffee purchases, souvenirs, or any cost that might apply to an optional motorcycle ride. Bring cash for food and small purchases. Also bring sunscreen, a waterproof camera or phone cover, dry clothes, and a plastic bag for wet items.
One point to check is the meaning of English-speaking driver. Some guides offer useful explanations and cultural context, while one experience describes the driver as transport only, with little explanation of the places along the way. If you want a full guiding service, request an English-speaking guide rather than assuming the driver will provide detailed commentary at every stop.
Who should book this private waterfall tour?
I would choose this tour if you want to see Bali’s rural north without arranging transport yourself, and you are comfortable with a demanding walk. It suits couples, families with older children, and small groups who want a private pace.
It is especially good for you if photographs, swimming, mountain views, and a temple visit all sound appealing. The mix is broad, and guides such as Asta, Ravy, Kadek, and Gede have been praised for friendliness, patience, and help with pictures.
I would hesitate if you have trouble with steep stairs, poor balance, or a strong dislike of long car rides. The waterfall trails can be slippery, and the climb back is harder than the descent. Heavy rain can also change the experience, so take weather seriously and do not feel pressured to reach the lowest point.
Free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations inside that window are not accepted for a refund.
Should you book it?
Book this tour if you want a full day of north Bali scenery and are happy to work for the waterfalls. The private format, hotel transport, flexible pace, and strong guide service make $50 per person a reasonable deal for two or more people.
Before booking, confirm the pickup area, total expected duration, exact waterfall names, and whether Sekumpul is included. If the route is clear and your shoes are ready, this is a rewarding way to trade Bali’s crowded southern sights for forest paths, cold water, mountain air, and a temple beside a lake.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The stated duration is about 7 to 8 hours. From Kuta, Jimbaran, or other southern areas, the day can take considerably longer because of driving time. One described schedule ran from 7 AM to 7 PM.
Where does the tour start?
The listed start time is 8 AM. Pickup is offered from hotels or ports, but the information connects the experience with Ubud and also describes departures from Kuta and southern Bali. Confirm your exact pickup area and time before booking.
Is the tour private?
Yes. Only your group takes part in the private activity.
How many people are needed to book?
A minimum of two people per booking is required. Group discounts may be available.
Are admission fees included?
Yes. Admission tickets, fees, and taxes are included in the stated inclusions.
Is lunch included?
No. Lunch is not included, so bring money for food and drinks.
Are Banyumala and Banyu Wana waterfalls included?
The itinerary lists Banyumala Twin Waterfalls and Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall. The wider description also refers to Sekumpul, so confirm the exact waterfall route with the provider before booking.
Is swimming possible?
Swimming in the fresh waterfall water is described as part of the experience, especially at the lower waterfall areas. Bring a change of clothes and a plastic bag for wet belongings.
How difficult is the walking?
The tour involves challenging stairs, steep descents, slippery sections, and a stream crossing on stepping stones. It is recommended for ages 12 to 65, but you should be comfortable with a demanding uphill return.
What should I bring?
Bring sports shoes, sunscreen, a change of clothes, a waterproof camera, and a plastic bag or other waterproof container for valuables. Money for souvenirs and food is also useful.
What happens if I need to cancel?
You can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience start time. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted for a refund.
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