Last updated on July 1st, 2024 at 11:58 am
One of the best waterfalls we have ever seen is Tumpak Sewu waterfall in East Java, Indonesia. Unfortunately, it is not that straightforward to get to this top Java attraction, and even more difficult when departing the next day.
This guide of how to get to Tumpak Sewu waterfall will provide you with all the essential information including different transport options required for getting to the best waterfall in Indonesia, as well as, departing from the falls the next day.
We struggled to find information on how to get to Tumpak Sewu waterfall so we are here to answer all your questions in one place, all the same questions we asked for ourselves, so as to make this visit to Tumpak Sewu waterfall as effortless and enjoyable as possible.
Let’s get straight into it.
Where is Tumpak Sewu Waterfall?
There are many breathtaking waterfalls in Indonesia, and Tumpak Sewu waterfall is arguably the most beautiful of them all.
This natural paradise is located within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, with the closest city being Malang.
Despite the relatively short distance of 65 kilometers between the two locations, the journey from Malang to Tumpak Sewu waterfall will still require almost 2 hours of travel.
How to Get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
As previously mentioned, getting to Tumpak Sewu is not that straightforward for such a popular Java attraction. But where there is a will, there is a way.
To incorporate a visit to Tumpak Sewu waterfall with other incredible Java attractions, check out our 7-day East Java Itinerary.
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Day Trip
How to Get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Private Tour
The easiest way to visit Tumpak Sewu waterfall is by taking a day trip from Malang, which most people opt for. Numerous tour operators offer similar packages, typically including a private driver, guide, and entrance fees.
How to Get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Group/package Tours
Alternatively, there are comprehensive tour packages available that also include visits to Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen in a 3-day visit.
Most packages visit Tumpak Sewu from Malang. Afterwards, you will drive to Banyuwangi to climb Mount Ijen later that evening, (around midnight).
Although the distance between Tumpak Sewu and Banyuwangi is 220 kilometers, the drive will still take 6 hours.
This option tends to be more expensive, but it offers a hassle-free experience with all arrangements taken care of, such as accommodation, breakfast, private driver, and entrance fees.
How to Get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Grab
A cheaper option is to use the Taxi app – Grab. When there is a group of you, this will significantly reduce costs per person. A fare one way starts around 300.000 – 350.000 IDR (17- 20 Euro).
If you are planning to return to Malang that same day, make sure to strike a deal with your driver as there is NO grab available around the waterfall!
How to Get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Rent a scooter
Numerous hotels in Malang provide scooter rental services, typically priced at around 70,000 to 100,000 IDR per day. We suggest considering this option if you plan to visit multiple destinations besides Tumpak Sewu in a single day.
However, be aware that the roads will be congested with a lot of traffic for the two-hour journey, and the drivers in East Java are insane!
If you’re inexperienced with driving scooters in Asia, we advise against choosing this option.
How to Get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Public Transport
The cheapest option, but also the slowest option, is public transport. There is a train available from Malang but this is such a slow option we wouldn’t even consider it.
Instead of a train, you can take a bus to Lumajang, busses depart from Gadang Bus Terminal in Malang.
Make sure to tell the driver that you intend to get off at Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and not Lumajang, or you might find yourself 60 kilometers past your destination!!
A bus ticket should cost no more than 70.000 per person, and we would only recommend this option if you are on a budget and continuing your journey to Banyuwangi to visit Mount Ijen.
You will be very tight on time if you plan to take a return bus to Malang.
Now that you know how to get to Tumpak Sewu waterfall, read our post about choosing the best route to explore Indonesia’s best waterfall once you get there. There is quite a bit of important information to consider dependent on your fitness, fear of heights, and more.
What About an Overnight Stay?
We opted for an overnight stay when visiting Tumpak Sewu waterfall.
Accommodation near Tumpak Sewu waterfall is limited, with only a few options close to the waterfall. However, there are guest houses within a walkable distance of approximately 1 to 2 kilometers.
The area you will be looking for is Sidomukti, however, if you search Tumpak Sewu in booking.com this will also come up.
Most accommodation is situated quite far from the falls, which will require transport or the rental of a scooter to reach them. Therefore, make sure to check your accommodations’ exact location before you book.
How to Get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Transport The Next Day
Keep in mind that if you travel independently to Tumpak Sewu waterfall without a tour and decide to stay overnight, reaching your next destination the next day is not straightforward.
You’ll be relying on public transportation since private drivers are not always guaranteed, and Grab is not available.
Mount Bromo – If you’re planning to climb Mount Bromo after Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, you’ll need to backtrack to Malang and then catch another bus to Probolinggo.
Alternatively, take a bus to Lumajang, and from there get another bus to Probolingo. Take note that buses are not frequent, with only a few services operating each day.
Another point to consider is that you must take another minibus from Probolingo to Cemoro Lawang. These buses only depart when full but buying all the seats and leaving immediately is possible. This will cost you around 250.000 to 300.000 IDR, depending on your negotiating skills.
Mount Ijen – The nearest town to Mount Ijen is Banyuwangi, and getting there by public transport is even more complicated.
If you opt for buses, you’ll need to take three separate ones. Firstly, you’ll head to Lumajang, then take another bus to Jember, and finally catch a bus to Banyuwangi. Quite an adventure, isn’t it?
Another option involves catching a bus to Lumajang and then boarding a train to Banyuwangi (Ketapang Train Terminal).
However, there’s a drawback: only two trains depart daily, one at 08:38 and the other at 19:57, a ticket will cost less than 60.000 per person.
There is a third train, but it departs at 02.04 AM, enough said about that option….
Often the morning train is booked out, so make sure to book early to secure your ticket.
The Ketapang Train Terminal is situated within walking distance of various budget-friendly accommodation options such as the popular Ijen Backpackers (9 Euro), as well as even more affordable homestays like Ayudia Homestay and Olivia’s Guesthouse (only 5 Euro, perfect for a few hours rest before an early morning wake-up for your Mount Ijen trek). Additionally, it’s close to the Ketapang Ferry terminal, where you can catch a ferry to Bali.
Hitchhiking – Lastly, if you’re seeking a different kind of adventure, hitchhiking is an excellent option. While it may be slow-paced, it’s also enjoyable and cost-free.
We hitchhiked from Tumpak Sewu to Banyuwangi and had a fantastic day doing it with lots of friendly and fun interactions with the locals.
While we didn’t face any issues and had a great time, if you’re a solo female traveler, you might want to consider skipping this option for safety reasons.
How to Get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Final Tips
- If you are visiting Tumpak Sewu waterfall on a day trip make sure to bring a towel and a change of clothes, as you will be getting wet at the waterfall.
- Bring a dry bag to protect your valuables. Additionally, protect your phone by using a ziplock bag.
- Access to the waterfall closes after 3 PM. However, you can still visit the Tumpak Sewu waterfall viewpoint.
- Climbing down from the East side entrance requires you to go through water. If possible wear old shoes or alternatively rent water shoes for 20.000 IDR at the entrance gate.
- Cash is king! No card payment is accepted.
- Don’t forget to find out the best route to walk when visiting Tumpak Sewu.
Enjoy Visiting Tumpak Sewu Waterfall!
Getting to Tumpak Sewu waterfall may require a small bit of effort, but the reward is so worth it.
We loved our visit to Indonesia’s best waterfall, and even more, we can guarantee that you will love it just as much.
Let us know how you get on and if you agree that Tumpak Sewu is Indonesia’s best waterfall.
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Hi, I came across your website. I was thinking of renting a scooter to go from Malang to the waterfall. I’m wondering insane is insane (you mentioned the drivers of East Java)? 🙂
I’ve driven one on Bohol and Cebu islands (Philippines), northern Vietnam (but not in crazy Hanoi), northern Thailand (around Pai and Mae Hong Son), and on Lombok island (Indonesia). I’m generally okay with SE Asian traffic but only in light to moderate traffic (i.e. I’d never drive in the major cities). how fast does traffic go (is it typical SE Asian, 40-50km/h?). Also wondering about terrain – is the road flat and paved or bumpy or on dirt/gravel roads? Is it on hills/mountainous terrain? Pretty straight or lots of curves? Any insight you have would be helpful!
Also did you drive an automatic or semi automatic? Thanks!
If you have driven in others SE Asian countries you will be fine! Expect the same kind of driving “styles”! It is not crazy busy but they just drive fast – you know yourself! The roads are all paved but mountainous, just take your time and you will be ok. you got this 🙂