The archipelago of Indonesia is home to a diversity of landscapes like rainforests, volcanoes, lakes, beaches, rivers and even snow-capped peaks (in New Guinea). Its natural heritage deserves admiration and respect, and invites visitors to explore the landscape through sea and overland trails. It's no surprise then that the country is home to charming views of waterfalls gushing into rocky pools.
Here are five of the best you should visit on your Indonesia tour.
In the highlands of North Sumatra lies the Sipiso-piso Waterfall near Lake Toba, a caldera formed from the eruption of a supervolcano. This long and narrow waterfall drops 120m into a gorge and is popular with visitors because they can often spot a rainbow at its base. It is surrounded by green pine forests and the mists give the scene a magical glow. A viewpoint offers visitors a place to take in the beauty of the area.
Located in the north of Bali, this 35m high waterfall divides off into two tiers to crash down on the rocks below. The waters are refreshing and clean so you can’t not take a swim in them to cool off. Don’t confuse this waterfall with the nearby Gitgit Waterfall, another popular tourist destination with natural swimming pools and foliage which is accessible via a rocky walking trail.
Located in the vicinity of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java is the 200m high Madakaripura Waterfall. Fondly known as “the eternal waterfall” since its waters never cease to pour down, visitors must trek about 20 minutes through rivers and rocky paths to reach it. The second-tallest waterfall in Indonesia flows into a natural chamber through which reflected sunlight shines on wet moss on the rocky wall. The place is believed to be the final meditation place of military commander Gajah Mada from the Javanese kingdom of Majapahit, which existed from the 13th to 16th centuries.
Near Mount Sibuatan in North Sumatra is the 75m high Dua Warna Waterfall. Its name means “two colours,” in this case white and blue. The water at the base is grayish-white while the waterfall that spills over the top is light blue. The colour difference is caused due to the presence of phosphorus and sulfur. The temperature of the water varies too. The blue water is colder while the grayish-white water is warmer. Spend your time here swimming, relaxing, lighting a campfire and even camping for the night.
You will find the 100m high Moramo Waterfall in the southeast of Sulawesi. This is a multi-tiered waterfall which cascades through an astounding 127 levels. The serenity of the forested landscape makes it a picturesque spot for relaxation and photography. Take a dip in any one of its clear pools and enjoy the ambience of this secluded spot away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
There are direct flights from Mumbai to Jakarta’s Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK). Flights from Bengaluru and New Delhi land at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali.