How To Visit the Golden Valley Waterfall in Bali

Golden Valley Waterfall is a large waterfall in Munduk where water cascades down the volcanic rock face, surrounded by dense green jungle.

The waterfall can be visited on a short hike or as part of the longer Munduk Waterfall Trek. We've visited Golden Valley a few times now and have put together this full visitors' guide, so you know exactly what to expect.

Quick Summary

Is Golden Valley Worth Visiting?

Yes, Golden Valley Waterfall is worth visiting if you're looking for a short but rewarding waterfall hike. It only took us around 15 minutes each way, and while it was steep in places, the easy hike is suitable for most people.

The waterfall is best known for the cafe overlooking it, which is a lovely spot to enjoy a snack or a cup of local coffee. There's no charge to visit the waterfall, although we'd suggest leaving a donation or purchasing something at the cafe.

Golden Valley Waterfall can be visited on its own or combined with other nearby waterfalls, like Red Coral. Keen hikers can follow the half-day trail known as the Munduk Waterfall Trek, which connects the area's 4 most famous waterfalls.

Don't forget to check out some of the other activities in Munduk, such as the coffee plantation tour at Munduk Moding Plantation or trekking around the twin lakes.

Where To Park

The best place to park for visiting Golden Valley Waterfall is on the roadside next to the entrance.

There used to be a local shop here, but on our latest visit it had been knocked down. Now there's just a small lay-by with room for a handful of motorbikes and one or two cars.

From the parking area, the trail entrance is visible just a few meters to the right and is marked by a small makeshift sign (shown above).

What’s The Trail Like

From the trail entrance, the path to the waterfall is around 250m. The walk took us roughly 15 minutes each way at a moderate pace.

The path is well marked, so it's dificult to get lost. If you'd prefer to follow a map, we recommend downloading the Maps.me app as the trail isn't on Google Maps. Do this before setting off, as it requires a good amount of data to download.

The route zig-zagged down the hill with a mix of muddy pathways, concrete slabs, and makeshift bamboo steps. It was quite steep in places, although we still think it's suitable for anyone with an average level of fitness and good mobility.

Follow the path over the rickety bamboo bridge and you'll first spot the cafe before the waterfall comes into view.

What To Expect

Golden Valley Waterfall is one of the lesser-visited waterfalls in Bali. We've visited a couple of times now and there's only ever been a few other people around.

There is no charge for entering the waterfall. It is privately owned, so we recommend you leave a donation for the local family and village priests who maintain the falls and trail.

There is a cash-only honesty box for donations at the waterfall entrance. For comparison, other waterfalls in the area charge 20,000 - 50,000 IDR ⓘ, so donate whatever you feel is right.

Most people stop at the photo spot just above the waterfall, but we continued down the steps all the way to the base of the waterfall. If you do this, be prepared to get wet from the mist where it hits the rocks below.

There wasn't anywhere to swim as the splash pool was shallow, but we stood under the waterfall to cool off. Flip flops or water shoes would be a good idea here as the river bed is quite stoney.

Next to the waterfall is the Golden Valley Waterfall Eco Café which serves Bali coffee, coconut coffee, and the famous Luwak coffee. They claim this coffee is collected from wild luwaks (civet cats) and not caged. They also have a selection of cold drinks and simple meals.

There's also a basic Western-style toilet next to the cafe which is also donation based.

The Munduk Waterfall Trek

Golden Valley Waterfall sits at the east end of the Munduk Waterfall Trek, so it’s the first or last waterfall depending upon which direction you do it.

You’ll see a sign near the eco cafe at the waterfall saying ‘next waterfall’. Follow this sign towards the next waterfall on the trek, which is Red Coral Waterfall.