Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is a gigantic waterfall surrounded by lush green jungle and towering cliffs. The water cascades down with full force, plunging 120 meters (393 feet) into the gorge below. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, which means thousand waterfalls, is located in eastern Java. As impressive as it sounds, it truly is a sight to behold. It forms a massive wall of water and is often dubbed the most beautiful waterfall in Indonesia. To top it off, there’s another stunning waterfall nearby called Kapas Biru Waterfall. These are undoubtedly two unique waterfalls to visit during your trip to East Java!
Visiting Tumpak Sewu Waterfall with or without a Guide?
The hiking trail to the waterfall is straightforward and can be done without a guide. However, many people choose to hire a guide because they know the best spots for photography and can also take pictures of you and your group. You can arrange for a guide on-site at the parking lot, but be sure to agree on a price in advance.
What Does the Hike to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Look Like?
Below is a detailed description of the hike.
Visit the Viewpoint
If you’re arriving by scooter, you can park at this parking area. Here, you pay a few dollars for entry and then follow the path that leads you to the famous viewpoint in about 10 minutes. There are two platforms from which you can admire Tumpak Sewu Waterfall from above. The wall of water is already incredibly impressive from here.
Drone Tip: If you want to fly a drone, you can do so from this point. It won’t be possible near the waterfall due to the wet conditions and poor signal. If you fly high on a clear day, you can capture a stunning photo of the waterfall with the volcano in the background. It’s a perfect shot!
Hike Down to the Waterfall
After enjoying the view at the viewpoint, it’s time to hike down to the base of the waterfall. You’ll take a route that includes paths, stairs, and streams, which will take about 30 to 40 minutes. Wear sturdy sandals or shoes that can get wet; do not wear flip-flops. You’ll need to climb down several small cascades where your shoes are guaranteed to get wet. The route is not difficult, but you’ll need to watch your step to avoid slipping.
Tip: If you don’t have the right shoes, you can rent good water shoes at the parking lot.
Arriving at Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
When you finally reach the bottom, you’ll see and feel the mist from the waterfall. Before you round the final corner, you’ll need to pay another entry fee of a few dollars to access the base of the waterfall. You’ll be in awe when you see the immense waterfall up close. The natural beauty is breathtaking! Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed at Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, but just standing at its base is an extraordinary experience.
Tip: If you enjoy exploring more of the area, you can continue to Gao Tetes Waterfall after your visit to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. After a short, adventurous hike, you’ll reach this small waterfall with shallow water—perfect for a refreshing dip!
Also Visit the Beautiful Kapas Biru Waterfall
Just a seven-minute drive from the parking area at Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is another stunning waterfall. Kapas Biru Waterfall is completely different and absolutely worth a visit. From the starting point, it takes over half an hour to reach the waterfall. You’ll navigate through the jungle, climbing and scrambling along a natural staircase. Along the way, you’ll encounter a ladder about 4 meters (13 feet) high, which may be a bit daunting for those with a fear of heights. You’ll quickly hear the sound of falling water, but it will take a little longer before the waterfall finally reveals itself. As you walk through the last of the palm trees and bamboo, the landscape feels like something out of a fairy tale.
Packing List for the Waterfalls
- Bug spray
- Sturdy sandals, water shoes, or shoes that can get wet
- Rain jacket
- Water
- Snacks
- Towel
What is the Best Time to Visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall?
The best time to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During the dry season, the chances of sunny weather are highest, and the hiking trails are not as slippery. If you plan to visit the waterfall during the rainy season, be aware that heavy rainfall can make the paths difficult to navigate. In some cases, the waterfall may even be closed. The route to the waterfall includes sections where you must walk through water, and during the rainy season, the water level can be too high to pass.
Where to Visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall From?
You will likely travel to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall after visiting Mount Bromo. It’s a good idea to spend a night near the waterfalls so you can visit them at your own pace and timing. Choose a quieter time of day, and you’ll probably have the waterfalls almost all to yourself! There is no village or town near the waterfalls to serve as a base, and unfortunately, there are very few good hotels available. I stayed at D’corner Homestay, a simple yet good homestay. The friendly owners are super helpful and hospitable. The entrance to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from the homestay.
