Leke Leke Waterfall: The Ultimate Guide To This Incredible Jungle Escape

Southeast Asia has no shortage of amazing waterfalls, but Leke Leke Waterfall in Bali is easily one of the most enjoyable to visit. A single stream of rushing water drops through a narrow opening in the jungle, surrounded by steep cliffs, tropical greenery and moss-covered rocks.

It’s become considerably better known in recent years, so calling it a completely hidden gem might be stretching things. However, compared with some of Bali’s most famous waterfalls, Leke Leke still feels wonderfully removed from the island’s biggest tourist traps.

Whether you’re visiting Bali for the first time or exploring Bali beyond the usual locations, here’s everything you need to know before visiting Leke Leke Waterfall.

TL;DR: Summary Of Leke Leke Waterfall

• Leke Leke is a picturesque jungle waterfall in Baturiti, around an hour’s drive from Ubud.
• Visit early for fewer crowds, and allow around 10–15 minutes each way for the walk to the falls.
• Entrance currently costs around IDR 50,000, with swimming, changing rooms and a small cave behind the waterfall.
• Consider staying overnight; there are plenty of waterfalls, rice terraces, temples and other attractions nearby.

Where Is Leke Leke Waterfall

Leke Leke Waterfall is located in Mekarsari village, in the Baturiti area of Tabanan Regency, in the highlands between Central Bali and North Bali. Its inland location puts it within easy reach of several other popular attractions, making it a great addition to a day exploring this greener, cooler side of the island.

It’s around an hour’s drive from Ubud and considerably further from the main tourist areas of southern Bali, depending on traffic. If you’re using Google Maps, search for Leke Leke Waterfall and follow directions to the main parking lot and entrance.

Address: Mekarsari, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia

How To Get To Leke Leke Waterfall

Leke Leke Waterfall is a little out of the way, so the best way to get there depends on where you’re travelling from, who you’re with and what else you want to see. Are you planning a simple day trip, staying overnight in the area, or combining the waterfall with a few other stops?

Either way, here are the easiest options:

• Group Tour – Joining an organised group tour is one of the easiest ways to visit Leke Leke Waterfall. Tours leave from popular areas including Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak and Sanur, often combining the falls with several other attractions in a full-day itinerary.Transport is organised for you, lunch may be included depending on the tour, and you’ll be dropped back at the end of the day. Group tours can also be a good way to meet other travellers while exploring more of Bali.
• Private Car and Driver – For complete flexibility, hire a private car and driver and plan the day around exactly what you want to see. You can choose your own stops, spend as long as you like at each one and even finish somewhere different if you’re staying overnight around Bedugul or elsewhere in Bali.If you do stay in the area, a private driver can also be arranged separately for your return journey or onward travel.

Leke Leke is really too far out to rely on Grab or Gojek, particularly as you may struggle to find a ride back. And however tempting hiring a motorbike or scooter may sound, remember that you may not be legally licensed to ride one, your travel insurance could be invalid, and Bali’s roads can be dangerous even for experienced riders.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Leke Leke Waterfall

The dry season, from around April to October, is generally the easiest time to visit Leke Leke Waterfall. The walking trail is usually drier and safer underfoot, while the pool beneath the falls is more inviting for a swim.

Visiting during the wet season has its advantages too. The waterfall is at its most powerful, the surrounding jungle is incredibly lush, and there are often fewer visitors. The thicker canopy also provides plenty of shade. However, expect slippery trails and muddy sections, while heavy rain can turn the pool brown and make the current too strong for safe swimming.

Whatever the season, early morning is the best time to arrive. You’ll beat most of the day tours, enjoy cooler temperatures and have a better chance of seeing Leke Leke before it gets busy. Arriving close to opening time also gives you plenty of time to continue exploring the surrounding area afterwards.

Opening Times: Open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day except Nyepi.

Is There An Entrance Fee For Leke Leke Waterfall

Yes. The entrance fee for Leke Leke Waterfall is currently 50,000 IDR per person, payable at the ticket office during opening hours.

There are a few optional activities available at an extra cost. The Leke Leke Swing, a large rope swing overlooking the surrounding greenery, costs around 250,000 IDR per person and is not included in your waterfall entrance ticket.

What To Expect At Leke Leke Waterfall

When you arrive at Leke Leke Waterfall, you’ll find a parking area beside the ticket office where you can leave your car or scooter before heading down.

Once you’ve paid the entrance fee at the ticket booth, the trail begins with steps leading past a small warung selling drinks and snacks, with views across the surrounding rice fields and jungle. From here, the walk continues towards the waterfall, with a few interesting stops along the way.

Walking Trail

The walk from the entrance to Leke Leke Waterfall takes around 10–15 minutes each way, following a well-maintained path and a series of steps through thick tropical jungle.

It isn’t a particularly long hike, but there are some steep sections, and the trail can become slippery after rain. Bring decent footwear rather than just flip-flops, take your time and enjoy the surrounding plants and scenery along the way.

Bamboo Bridge

One of the highlights of the trail is the bamboo bridge crossing the stream on the way to the waterfall. Surrounded by dense jungle with rushing water below, it’s one of the most picturesque spots along the walk and a natural place to stop for a photo.

The bridge is sturdy, but the surface can become slippery when wet, so use the handrails and take care as you cross.

Swimming

The natural pool beneath Leke Leke Waterfall is a beautiful place for a pleasant and refreshing swim, with shallower water around the edges and the cascade dropping into the pool in front of you. Conditions can change after heavy rain, particularly during the wet season, so use your judgement before getting in.

There are changing rooms near the falls, along with somewhere to leave your belongings. Storage isn’t secure, however, so keep valuables with you or leave them with someone you trust.

Cave Behind The Falls

Behind the main cascade is a naturally formed rock alcove carved into the base of the cliff. You can wade through the pool and step behind the curtain of rushing water for a completely different view of the falls.

Don’t expect a deep cave disappearing into the mountain. It’s more of a wide, shallow overhang, with moss-covered rock walls and tropical vegetation thriving in the constant spray. The rocks can be extremely slippery, so take care when making your way across.

More Incredible Waterfalls Near Leke Leke Waterfall

Leke Leke isn’t the only waterfall worth visiting in this part of Bali. If you have a private driver or are staying locally for a few days, these are some of the best waterfalls which are relatively easy to reach.

Campuhan Antapan Waterfall

Around 15–20 minutes away, Campuhan Antapan is a peaceful alternative to Bali’s more famous waterfalls. Three small streams flow side by side into a calm pool surrounded by greenery, and the short, easy walk makes it a particularly straightforward stop to add to your day.

Besikalung Waterfall

Also around 15–20 minutes away, Besikalung Waterfall is a much less touristy spot hidden among jungle and rice terraces near the historic Besikalung Temple at the foot of Mount Batukaru. Part of the appeal is the scenic walk through the surrounding countryside on the way there.

Nungnung Waterfall

Around 30–40 minutes from Leke Leke, Nungnung is considerably more powerful and among Bali’s tallest waterfalls. Reaching it requires descending roughly 500 steep steps, followed, unfortunately, by climbing them all again, but the enormous cascade waiting at the bottom makes the effort worthwhile.

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall

Allow around 30–40 minutes to reach Banyu Wana Amertha, where one entrance ticket gives you access to several different waterfalls within the same lush valley. The gentle, well-maintained jungle paths make exploring relatively easy, while the unusual Spray Waterfall is one of the highlights.

Tibumana Waterfall

Tibumana is a little further afield, more than an hour’s drive east, but it’s worth considering if you’re continuing towards Ubud. Its almost symmetrical curtain of water drops into a calm swimming pool, reached via an easy 10–15-minute walk along steps and bamboo bridges.

Top Tips For Visiting Leke Leke Waterfall

Whether you’re visiting Leke Leke or some other Bali waterfalls, a little preparation can make your visit considerably easier, particularly during the wet season. Here are a few things worth knowing before you head down to the falls.

• Visit Early -Arrive early in the morning to beat most people and organised day tours. You’ll also get cooler temperatures and softer light, which is generally better for photography.
• Watch the Weather – Water levels at Bali’s waterfalls can rise surprisingly quickly after heavy rain, even if it isn’t raining directly where you are. Avoid swimming if the water suddenly becomes stronger or changes colour, and follow any advice from local people.
• Swimming Clothes – Pack swimwear and a towel if you fancy getting into the pool. Changing rooms are available, so there’s no need to spend the rest of your day exploring Bali in wet clothes. Remember to cover up again before leaving the falls.

• Insect Repellent – You’ll be walking through humid tropical vegetation, so mosquitoes and other insects come with the territory. Apply insect repellent before heading down the trail.
• Decent Shoes – The walk isn’t particularly difficult, but the path, steps and rocks can become slippery, especially after rain. Decent shoes with some grip are a much better choice than flip-flops.
• Bring a Camera – Leke Leke is an incredibly photogenic waterfall, from the bamboo bridge and jungle trail to the falls themselves. Early morning generally offers the best light and fewer people wandering into the background of your photos. Photography tip: don’t drop your camera in the water!

Where To Eat Near Leke Leke Waterfall

As with everywhere in Bali, this area is spoilt for choice when it comes to food. Expect everything from local warungs to modern gastro joints and coffee with a view.

• Oemah Sari “Home Resto” – Around 15 minutes from Leke Leke, Oemah Sari serves excellent Indonesian food in a rustic setting overlooking the surrounding greenery. Come for the local dishes, the views and the relaxed atmosphere.
• Babi Guling Krisnanda – Just a few minutes from the waterfall, this is a proper local joint and a great place to try one of Bali’s most famous dishes. Don’t expect anything fancy; come hungry for authentic babi guling at local prices.
• Cafe Sukka Baturiti -Around 15 minutes north, Cafe Sukka is a modern coffee shop and restaurant serving Indonesian dishes, pasta and some seriously good coffee. We’ve eaten here a few times and can recommend the spaghetti carbonara.
• House Of Tundra – Continue north towards Lake Beratan, and you’ll find House of Tundra, where the beautiful mountain views are almost as much of a draw as the food. There’s a varied menu, making it an easy stop if everyone wants something different.
• Warung Mina Bedugul – A well-established local restaurant serving a good selection of Indonesian favourites in a spacious, relaxed setting. It’s a handy option if you’re continuing your day around Bedugul, and there’s also accommodation on-site if you decide to stay overnight.

Where To Stay Near Leke Leke Waterfall

It might be a bit out of the way, but there is no shortage of hotels and villas in the area if you decide to stay for a night or more.

• HOMM Saranam Baturiti – An upscale mountain resort surrounded by rice terraces, rainforest and the cool landscapes of Bedugul. There are 81 rooms, suites and private pool villas, along with an infinity pool, spa, yoga studio and two restaurants. Around 15 minutes from Leke Leke Waterfall, it’s a great choice for a relaxing overnight stay that could easily turn into a few days.
• Villa Gajah Mas – A peaceful and affordable place to stay in Baturiti, surrounded by plenty of greenery. There’s a swimming pool, spacious gardens and even a small waterfall within the grounds. A good option if you want somewhere quiet and close to nature without paying resort prices.
• The Green Ponci Bedugul – A small property surrounded by rice fields, with individual suites overlooking the greenery and mountains beyond. The peaceful setting and sunrise views are the main draw, and it’s a good choice if you’d prefer something smaller and more personal than a large resort.
• Desa Seni Baturiti – An eco-friendly mountain retreat surrounded by the green landscapes of Baturiti. There’s a strong focus on wellness and slower living, with yoga, art and cultural activities, alongside farm-to-table dining using locally grown ingredients. With a pool, sauna and plenty of countryside to explore nearby, it’s a peaceful base for spending a few days in this quieter part of Bali.
• Hidden Paradise Bali Peneng – A small, peaceful retreat set on a working vanilla farm in Mekarsari, close to Leke Leke Waterfall. Guests can explore the gardens and farm, enjoy home-cooked food made with freshly picked ingredients, or simply switch off among the greenery. The homemade Italian food is great too, including pizzas using ingredients straight from the garden.

Other Things To See And Do Near Leke Leke Waterfall

There’s plenty more to explore once you’ve seen the falls, particularly if you’re staying overnight rather than rushing back south. From rice terraces and temples to mountain lakes and sunrise hikes, this part of Bali deserves a little extra time.

• Secret Garden Village – More than just somewhere to stop for food, this large eco-tourism attraction combines gardens, local products, coffee experiences, workshops, shopping and restaurants. It’s an easy addition to your day while exploring the Baturiti area.
• Jutiluwih Rice Terraces -Around 40 minutes west, these spectacular rice terraces form part of Bali’s large UNESCO site. Wander among seemingly endless layers of green rice fields and learn more about the traditional Subak irrigation system that has shaped the landscape for centuries.
• Lake Beratan – There’s enough around the lake to fill much of a day. Visit the iconic Pura Ulun Danu Beratan on the lakeshore, explore the surrounding highlands or head out on one of the hiking trails around the Bedugul area.
• Mount Batur – Staying around Baturiti puts you in a convenient position for an early-morning transfer towards Mount Batur. If a sunrise trek is on your Bali itinerary, arrange a pre-dawn pickup and climb to the summit in time to watch the sun come up over the horizon, and light up the surrounding mountains and Lake Batur.

FAQs

Is Leke Leke Waterfall Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Leke Leke is one of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls and an amazing place to visit, combining an easy jungle adventure with a bamboo bridge, a relaxing swimming pool and impressive single-stream cascade, all surrounded by Bali’s natural beauty.

It’s far enough from the busiest tourist areas to feel like an escape, while there’s plenty nearby to make the journey worthwhile.

How Many Steps Are There Down To Leke Leke Waterfall?

There isn’t a reliable official step count for Leke Leke Waterfall. The trail includes stairs alongside sloping and sometimes narrow paths, and the walk generally takes around 10–15 minutes each way. Remember, whatever you walk down, you’ll need to walk back up again.

How Much Does It Cost To Enter Leke Leke Waterfall?

The entrance fee is currently around IDR 50,000 per person. Optional attractions such as the Leke Leke Swing cost extra, so bring some cash and check the latest prices at the ticket booth when you arrive.

How Difficult Is The Hike To Leke Leke Waterfall?

For most people with reasonable fitness, the hike is relatively easy to moderate and takes only around 10–15 minutes each way. There are stairs and some steeper sections, however, and the trail can become muddy and slippery after heavy rain, so decent footwear is recommended.

Is The Waterfall Suitable For The Disabled Or Those Who’re Hard Of Walking?

Unfortunately, Leke Leke Waterfall isn’t particularly accessible for wheelchair users or people with significant mobility difficulties. Reaching the falls involves stairs, slopes and uneven jungle paths, with no step-free route to the main waterfall. Anyone who is unsure about managing the trail should consider their mobility carefully before visiting.

Final Thoughts On Leke Leke Waterfall

Leke Leke Waterfall is well worth adding to your Bali itinerary, combining a beautiful jungle walk with one of the island’s most picturesque waterfalls.

It may take a little more effort to reach than some of Bali’s better-known attractions, but that’s part of the appeal. With plenty of great places to stay nearby, it also makes a good stepping stone for exploring Bedugul, the surrounding lakes, rice terraces and other waterfalls.

Take your time, stay a night or two if you can, and enjoy a quieter side of Bali.