Our trip to the Tiu Kelep waterfall was quite an adventure, but unfortunately, it came with some frustrating moments that seemed to be a common theme among visitors.
At the entrance, we were immediately approached by a group claiming to be the area’s organization, insisting that it was compulsory to hire a local guide. They demanded IDR 150k initially, but after some negotiation, we saw other tourists manage to secure a guide for IDR 50k. The trekking itself can be adventurous, especially during the rainy season when paths are damaged and river crossings become challenging.
One major issue is the deceptive tactics employed by these guides. We witnessed them leading tourists directly through the stream, resulting in soaked shoes and an unpleasant experience. On the other hand, my partner and I managed to find a way to cross using rocks and kept our feet dry. Other tourists even congratulated us for our dry passage, highlighting that the guides' methods seem deliberately inconvenient to justify their services.
Moreover, the entry experience is marred by additional costs. You are expected to pay for everything, from parking to entry tickets, and the so-called guides try to upsell you at every corner. One tourist mentioned they settled at 200k for two people, which included the entry tickets but no food or water. Although the guides can be helpful, particularly with aggressive monkeys and navigating to the second waterfall, the overall impression is one of being scammed rather than supported.
The waterfalls themselves are stunning and well worth the trek. However, since the 2018 earthquake, you can no longer bathe in the natural pools at the base, which diminishes the experience slightly. It's essential to know that guides are not necessary, and if you choose to hire one, negotiate hard. Prices initially quoted can be ridiculously high, sometimes as much as 250,000 IDR, but should be bargained down to around 100,000 IDR.
In conclusion, while the Tiu Kelep waterfall is undeniably beautiful, the experience is somewhat tainted by the aggressive and misleading tactics of the local guides. If local tourism authorities genuinely want to encourage visitors, they should reconsider these practices to create a more welcoming and honest...
Read moreA Magical Double Waterfall Experience at Tiu Kelep
Tiu Kelep Waterfall is an absolute gem that offers not just one, but two stunning waterfalls in one visit! The walk to reach the falls is as much a part of the experience as the waterfalls themselves – a scenic trek through lush forest, crossing rivers and enjoying the sounds of nature as you go.
The first waterfall you’ll encounter is Sendang Gile, which is beautiful in its own right. But continue a bit further, and you’ll reach the real highlight – Tiu Kelep. The sight of the water cascading down in multiple streams, surrounded by vibrant greenery, is absolutely breathtaking. It's a place that feels almost magical, like a hidden paradise.
The hike is fairly easy, and the journey there is filled with beautiful views, making the whole experience that much more enjoyable. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty, and the cool, refreshing water at the base of Tiu Kelep is perfect for a quick dip after your walk.
In summary, Tiu Kelep Waterfall is a must-visit if you’re in Lombok. Two incredible waterfalls, a picturesque walk, and a sense of adventure – what more could you ask for? Highly...
Read moreTicket entrance: IDR20k
There will be this group so called the areas’ organisation whom will ask u to go to the information counter. So called it is compulsory to go there! So this guy will briefly explained u about the waterfall and upon finished, he will mentioned to you “it is compulsory for u to get a guide to head to the waterfall as it is hard” you can actually ignore this rule and proceed on ur own. He demanded at least IDR150k.
However, if ur keen, you can do ur trek on ur own and get the guide from gojek area inside. You can nego and I got him for IDR50k and he was helpful.
The trekking was a bit adventurous as we went during the raining season and the river crossing path was damaged and had to walked in a heavy water stream.
Just for the picture, it’s not worth!
Btw, the guy at the information counter he Simply lied to me that the sliding is working and I can do it if I take his services. Too bad they closed the dam due to rainy and it will caused more damages. So sliding was not working that day.
Additional cost again from the area information guy is for the parking! So ridiculous as u need to pay for...
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