How to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall in East Java, Indonesia

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is a natural marvel located in East Java, Indonesia. Often referred to as “a thousand waterfalls”, Tumpak Sewu is renowned for its stunning beauty and unique formation. Given its geographical and natural significance, Tumpak Sewu has become a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It’s becoming rapidly more popular, so be sure to include it in your plans for your next trip to Indonesia. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to plan your visit to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. From best times to visit, entrance fees, and even some personal recommendations, we’ve got you covered.

About Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
How to get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Accommodation near Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
How to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Entrance fees
Best time to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Safety tips and considerations
Additional activities and nearby attractions

About Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall stands out as one of East Java’s most breathtaking attractions. The waterfall’s unique horseshoe shape allows for multiple cascades to fall simultaneously, creating a stunning panoramic view. On top of that, the waterfall is surrounded by a rich ravine and beautiful forest. Talk about a scenic landscape! At Tumpak Sewu, you can do as much (or as little) as you want. Just want to enjoy the view? Great! Up for more adventure? Let’s go on a hike! More on that later. 😉

How to get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Reaching Tumpak Sewu Waterfall requires some planning, given its remote location in the Lumajang Regency of East Java. The nearest major city is Malang, approximately 70 kilometers (about 2 hours) away by car or scooter. Another option is Surabaya, which is roughly 150 kilometers (around 4 hours) from the waterfall.

By car

We recommend hiring a car and driver if convenience and safety are your top priorities. You can ask your accommodation if they know someone that can drive you around, or check Klook for a reliable driver in Malang.

By scooter

For those seeking a more adventurous approach, renting a scooter or motorbike is a very fun and inexpensive alternative. This is what we did, by the way, and we really recommend it! It’s a nice way to enjoy the scenery along the way, and we were also able to overtake a lot of cars that were stuck in traffic.

Pro tip
The best way to get to Tumpak Sewu is by following the road to Parkir Tumpak Sewu on Google Maps. This route is the easiest and safest to follow. While there are other routes available on Google Maps, they may take you through some sketchy roads best avoided.

With a private tour

Other transportation options are limited, but you could opt for a private tour to explore Tumpak Sewu. By doing it this way, transportation is included, and you will have a knowledgeable guide that shows you the in and outs of Tumpak Sewu. Join a private tour of Tumpak Sewu from Malang.

Accommodation near Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Given the distance, staying overnight near Tumpak Sewu is advisable. There aren’t many accommodations in the area, but we still managed to create a list of places to stay for every budget. Here are our recommendations near Tumpak Sewu Waterfall:

JAVA Hostel Tumpak Sewu — Happy Monkeys Village | €

How to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

The viewpoint

The Tumpak Sewu viewpoint offers a spectacular panoramic perspective of the waterfall. Arriving early to catch the sunrise is what we recommend you do, it’s truly magical. You will see the mist rise, and the first light of the day shines amazingly on the falling water. The viewpoint is easily accessible and provides a safe and convenient spot for photography. It’s definitely the first thing you have to do when you arrive, and depending on your mood it can be the only thing, too. It’s a great place to see Tumpak Sewu in action, even more so with all the greenery that surrounds it.

Hiking to the bottom

For those seeking a more challenging experience, hiking down to the base of Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is a must. The descent begins near the viewpoint, where you will have to navigate a pretty challenging trail. Along the way you’ll come across bamboo ladders, rocky paths, and some steep sections. This means that proper hiking shoes and a cautious approach are essential! The moment you reach the bottom, you’ll be greeted with a close-up view of the multiple cascading falls. Only those who hike to the bottom of the falls will be able to truly grasp their sheer size and power. The view from above is nice, yes, but down here it’s really something else! The base of the waterfall also is an excellent spot for taking some dramatic photos. Disclaimer: you will get wet (there’s no way to avoid it).

Pro tip
If you don’t want to visit the viewpoint, try to enter Tumpak Sewu via the entrance on the West. That way you only have to pay 50,000 IDR once!

Goa Tetes Waterfall

A short 10-minute trek from Tumpak Sewu, you can find Goa Tetes Waterfall. Most people skip on this one, so you could call it a “hidden gem” of some sorts! Goa Tetes is full of unique rock formations and cascading waters that flow through a series of small caves and tunnels. The route to Goa Tetes is relatively easy compared to the descent to Tumpak Sewu’s base. We recommend you take a packed lunch and enjoy it here, so that you can prolong your stay just a bit longer!

Entrance fees

Tumpak Sewu viewpoint: 50,000 IDR (around € 3)
Tumpak Sewu hike: 50,000 IDR
Goa Tetes: 20,000 IDR (just over € 1)

Best time to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

The optimal time to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is during the dry season, from April to October. During this period, the weather conditions are at their best, with clearer skies and safer trekking routes. You can’t rule out the occasional downpour, but it will rain much less frequently and the terrain will be less intense than during the wet season.

Also, avoid weekends and public holidays, as a lot of locals tend to visit Tumpak Sewu during their time off. And, as always, the later you arrive, the more people that will be there.

Safety tips and considerations

Appropriate footwear: The trek can be slippery and challenging. Hiking shoes that can get wet and have good grip are a must.
Waterproof bag: If you plan to explore the base of Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, be prepared to get wet. To protect your important belongings like your camera, phone, and passports, make sure to use a waterproof bag to keep them safe and dry.
Waterproof jacket: Building on the previous tip, it’s also a good idea to wear a lightweight rain jacket or poncho. This will help keep you dry and comfortable while you explore Tumpak Sewu Waterfall.
Hydration and snacks: Bring enough water and snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Local guide: If it’s your first time, hiring a local guide might be a good idea. They know the way, and can take you to some places most people don’t visit.

Additional activities and nearby attractions

While Tumpak Sewu is the highlight, the surrounding region offers some additional attractions:

Mount Semeru: The highest volcano in Java, a great place for challenging treks and stunning views.
Kapas Biru Waterfall: Another lesser-known but equally beautiful waterfall in the area. It takes a 20 to 30 minute hike to reach the falls.