Lombok, an Indonesian island east of Bali, is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes. Hiking to a waterfall in Lombok offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty. From the majestic Tiu Kelep to the easily accessible Sendang Gile, Lombok’s waterfalls cater to hikers of all skill levels. This guide provides essential information on the top waterfall hikes, including trail difficulty, duration, and what to expect along the way.
What Are the Top Waterfall Hikes in Lombok?
Lombok boasts several breathtaking waterfalls, each offering a unique hiking experience. Here are the top five waterfall hikes:
- Tiu Kelep Waterfall
- Sendang Gile Waterfall
- Tiu Teja Waterfall
- Benang Stokel Waterfall
- Benang Kelambu Waterfall
Let’s explore each of these in detail.
How Challenging Is the Hike to Tiu Kelep Waterfall?
Tiu Kelep Waterfall is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in Lombok. Here’s what you need to know:
- Location: Senaru, Northern Lombok
- Distance from Nearest Town: Approximately 30 minutes from Senaru
- Elevation Gain: Moderate, with some steep sections
- Estimated Hiking Time: About 40-50 minutes from Sendang Gile Waterfall, or 1 hour 3 minutes from the trailhead
- Trail Rating: Moderate
- Notable Challenges:
- Sharp tree branches
- Slippery rocks
- Several river crossings
- Poorly marked path
- Walking through water and muddy/dirt trails
Despite these challenges, the reward is a stunning 45-meter waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
What Makes Sendang Gile Waterfall a Popular Choice?
Sendang Gile Waterfall is often combined with the Tiu Kelep hike and is known for its accessibility:
- Location: Senaru, Northern Lombok
- Distance from Nearest Town: Approximately 10-15 minutes from Senaru
- Elevation Gain: Minimal, mostly downhill
- Estimated Hiking Time: About 10-15 minutes from the main road
- Trail Rating: Easy to Moderate
- Notable Features:
- Short trek downhill
- Concrete steps
- Well-marked trail
This waterfall is perfect for those seeking a quick and easy nature experience.
How Does Tiu Teja Waterfall Compare to Other Hikes?
Tiu Teja Waterfall offers a unique hiking experience:
- Location: Northern foothills of Mount Rinjani, Northern Lombok
- Distance from Nearest Town: Approximately 3.6 km from the nearest village
- Elevation Gain: Moderate
- Estimated Hiking Time: About 1-2 hours for the 3.6 km hike
- Trail Rating: Moderate
- Unique Aspects:
- Hike through cacao and banana plantations
- Lush, humid environment
This hike provides a glimpse into Lombok’s agricultural landscape alongside natural beauty.
What Can Hikers Expect at Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls?
These two waterfalls are often visited together due to their proximity:
Benang Stokel Waterfall
- Location: Batukliang Village, Central Lombok
- Distance from Nearest Town: Approximately 15-20 minutes from the main entrance gate of Mount Rinjani National Park
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Estimated Hiking Time: About 15 minutes from the park’s main entrance gate
- Trail Rating: Easy
Benang Kelambu Waterfall
- Location: Same as Benang Stokel
- Elevation Gain: Minimal, with a short descent
- Estimated Hiking Time: About 15-20 minutes from the main entrance gate
- Trail Rating: Easy to Moderate
Both waterfalls offer relatively easy hikes with stunning rewards.
Are Guided Tours Available for Waterfall Hikes in Lombok?
Yes, several tour operators offer guided waterfall hikes in Lombok:
| Tour Operator | Offerings | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| TravelTriangle | Guided tours to Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile | 50,000 rupiah per person |
| Viator | Day trips to Benang Kelambu and other waterfalls | Varies, starting from Senggigi, Mataram, or Kuta |
Most guided tours include:
– Transportation
– Local guide
– Sometimes meals or snacks
– Duration: Usually a full day
– Group Size: Often small for a personalized experience
No special permits are typically required, but reservations are recommended.
What Should Hikers Know About Trailhead Locations and Accessibility?
Understanding trailhead locations and accessibility is crucial for planning your hike:
- Tiu Kelep Waterfall: Trailhead near Sendang Gile Waterfall in Senaru. Parking available.
- Sendang Gile Waterfall: Accessible from the main road in Senaru. Parking available.
- Tiu Teja Waterfall: Trailhead in the northern foothills of Mount Rinjani. Parking available.
- Benang Stokel and Kelambu Waterfalls: Trailheads near the main entrance gate of Mount Rinjani National Park in Batukliang Village. Parking facilities available.
Most waterfalls have well-marked trails accessible on foot. For some, like Benang Kelambu, local motorbike taxis can be hired to get closer to the waterfall.
When Is the Best Time to Hike to Waterfalls in Lombok?
The best time for waterfall hikes in Lombok is during the dry season, from May to September. During this period:
– Trails are less slippery
– Weather is more favorable for hiking
During the monsoon season (January to April):
– Trails can be slippery and dangerous
– Waterfalls may be more powerful but potentially hazardous
Always check local weather conditions and trail status before embarking on your hike.
Hiking to a waterfall in Lombok offers a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice, there’s a waterfall trail suited to your skill level. Remember to respect the environment, stay safe, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery that Lombok’s waterfalls have to offer.
References:
1. TravelTriangle: 8 Heavenly Lombok Waterfalls And Some Tips To Visit Them Right
2. We Seek Travel: 12 Amazing Waterfalls on Lombok, Indonesia (+ Map)
3. Hungariandreamers: 5 Epic Waterfalls in Lombok You Must Visit