Waikelo Waterfall, Sumba - Image 1
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Waikelo Waterfall Sumba

4.6
·352 reviews·, Indonesia

Discover Waikelo Sawah, a hidden gem in Sumba where a unique waterfall emerges from a cave amidst stunning green rice fields.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Waikelo Waterfall, Sumba - Image 1

Waikelo Waterfall Sumba

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Waikelo Sawah, a hidden gem in Sumba where a unique waterfall emerges from a cave amidst stunning green rice fields.

4.6
(352 reviews)

"A waterfall in the middle of ride paddies and surrounded by a jungle. Some places you have to see to believe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Hire a Local Kid Guide

Local children can guide you to the best waterfall spots for a small tip. They know the paths well!

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The rice fields offer no shade, so wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid sunburn.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waikelo Sawah Waterfall

Waikelo Sawah Waterfall

Middle of rice fields

A unique waterfall emerging from a cave, nestled amidst vibrant green rice paddies. A truly picturesque sight.

The Hidden Cave

The Hidden Cave

Near the waterfall

Explore a fascinating cave system near the waterfall, offering a glimpse into another world. Be cautious during high water levels.

Lush Rice Fields

Lush Rice Fields

Surrounding the waterfall

Wander through serene, green rice fields that create a stunning backdrop for the waterfall and offer a peaceful walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Guide

Many visitors recommend hiring local children as guides to find the best spots, especially the waterfall hidden within the rice fields. They know the paths and can lead you to the 'banyan tree' waterfall. Be prepared to offer a small tip for their help.

Respect the Environment

While the natural beauty is stunning, some reviews mention litter. Please help keep Waikelo Sawah clean by taking your trash with you. Respect the local customs and the natural environment for future visitors.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

THIS IS SUMBA. Where traditions stand tall and nature writes poetry. From majestic thatched rooftops by the sea, to hidden waterfalls and cliffs kissed by turquoise waves — Sumba is raw, real, and breathtakingly underrated. 📍 East Sumba, Indonesia Cr/ Ig: @tsvtvs #WonderfulIndonesia #SumbaIsland #EastSumba #IslandVibes #TropicalEscape #HiddenParadise #BeachVibes #IndonesiaTrip #MangroveMagic #Suns...
@wonderfulid
48.7K likes • 452.5K views

🎯 Hire a Local Kid Guide

Local children can guide you to the best waterfall spots for a small tip. They know the paths well! Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The rice fields offer no shade, so wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid sunburn. Reddit

Satu surga tersembunyi yang ada di pulau sumba #adventure #sumba #matayanguwaterfall #alamliar #nttpride🏝🔥 #fyp
@el_xylo
35.8K likes • 275K views
Sejak bila waterfall bestie dengan sawah padi ni? Parahhhh!!!! 📍Waikelo Sawah Paddy, Sumba Barat #tfpsumba #thefadaeloproject
merrafazira
240 likes • 3.9K views

💧 Swim Responsibly

The water is natural and clear, perfect for a dip. Be mindful of the natural swamp-like areas. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

The combination of waterfall, cave, and rice fields makes for stunning photos. Instagram+1

Sumba Waterfall, Waikelo Sawah 🌱🏞⛲️💦 Waikelo Sawah, Air terjun dari Gua di Sumba Barat Praijing Village at West Sumba #Bali #legianbali #kutabeach #paradisebali #wonderfulbali #sanur #kuta #sunset #balisunset #dalung #wonderfulindonesia #balivlog #balinese #balitrip #balitravel #legian #waikuri #sumba #praijingvillage #waikelosawah #waikelo
paradisee.bali
93 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Hire a Local Kid Guide

Local children can guide you to the best waterfall spots for a small tip. They know the paths well! Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The rice fields offer no shade, so wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid sunburn. Reddit

💧 Swim Responsibly

The water is natural and clear, perfect for a dip. Be mindful of the natural swamp-like areas. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

The combination of waterfall, cave, and rice fields makes for stunning photos. Instagram+1

🗑️ Keep it Clean

Help preserve the beauty by taking all your trash with you. Reddit

💰 Small Entrance Fee

Expect a minimal entrance fee and parking cost for vehicles. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(352 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Waikelo Sawah is praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the unique waterfall nestled within vibrant rice fields and a cave. Visitors enjoy the serene atmosphere, the opportunity to swim, and the picturesque scenery, often enhanced by local children acting as guides. However, concerns about litter and occasional requests for unreceipted fees detract slightly from the otherwise idyllic experience.

"This is truly a wonderful place. Walking in the lush green rice fields is extremely pleasant. The local children led us to the big tree, where there was a beautiful stream. The photos we took were very beautiful."

YAO

"The road is easy to reach. Lots of people take a swim and washing their clothes as the water is clear and surrounded by rice fields. You can take a walk along the side and take nice pictures. Family gathering place, bring the food and enjoy the scenery. Go inside the cave and you find another world inside, but I don't recommend when the water is high, and many accidents happen here. Sad that many people don't understand to keep the place clean, much garbage along.
Something you have to change!"

Maria Z

"The area has a cave, paddy fields, and waterfall. A kid led the way to the waterfall, they asked 10k Rupiahs/0.7 dollars. The path is quite far, about 700 meters from the dam so make sure you give extra tips for the kids who accompany you. But, there there was a dude who asked for “cleaning fees” without a receipt or whatnot."

Aptu Dika

What People Like

Unique waterfall and rice fields
Serene natural beauty
Refreshing swimming spots

What People Dislike

Litter in the area
Unreceipted fee requests

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Waikelo Sawah is located in Southwest Sumba Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur. It's about a 40-minute drive (approx. 30 KM) from Tambolaka city. While some roads are accessible, local guides or a 4WD might be beneficial for reaching specific spots like the waterfall near the banyan tree. InstagramReddit

Google Maps might initially lead you to a water dam. To find the actual waterfall, it's best to ask local children who can guide you through the rice fields to the 'banyan tree' waterfall. Reddit

Walking through the rice fields is a common way to reach the waterfall. Be prepared for a walk of about 700 meters from the dam area. Reddit

Some visitors have noted seeing cars drive closer to the waterfall by the banyan tree, but the exact route isn't always clear. Hiring a local guide can help clarify access. Reddit

The 'banyan tree' is a key landmark where the main waterfall is located. Local children will know how to guide you there. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around Rp. 2,000 per person, with an additional small fee for motorcycle parking. Instagram

No advance booking is usually required for Waikelo Sawah Waterfall. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival. Instagram

While the official entrance fee is low, some visitors have reported being asked for 'cleaning fees' by individuals without official receipts. It's best to clarify any additional charges. Reddit

Waikelo Sawah is a natural attraction, so it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully appreciate the scenery. TikTok

It's advisable to avoid visiting during heavy rain or when water levels are high, especially if you plan to explore the cave, as this can be dangerous. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy the unique waterfall emerging from a cave, wander through the beautiful rice fields, swim in the clear water, and explore the natural surroundings. It's also a great spot for photography. InstagramReddit+1

The water is generally clear and safe for swimming, but be aware that some areas might resemble natural swamps. Avoid swimming during high water levels, especially near the cave. Reddit

Yes, there is a cave near the waterfall that you can explore. However, caution is advised, particularly when water levels are high due to potential accidents. Reddit

The combination of the waterfall, cave, and vibrant green rice fields offers numerous photo opportunities. The morning light is ideal for capturing the lush scenery. Instagram+2

Information on specific facilities like restrooms or changing rooms is limited. It's advisable to come prepared or inquire locally. TikTok

🍽️ 🧺 Food & Dining

There are no specific restaurants or food stalls mentioned at Waikelo Sawah itself. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic. Reddit

Yes, many visitors enjoy having picnics amidst the scenic rice fields. It's a popular spot for family gatherings. Reddit

Food options are likely to be found in Tambolaka, the nearest major town, before or after your visit to the waterfall. TikTok

Local Sumba cuisine often features fresh seafood, rice, and local vegetables. Exploring local eateries in towns like Tambolaka is recommended. TikTok

While not mandatory, tipping local guides for helpful advice, including food recommendations, is appreciated. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The unique waterfall emerging from the cave, the expansive green rice fields, and the surrounding jungle offer diverse photographic opportunities. Instagram+2

Morning light is often recommended to capture the vibrant green of the rice fields and the soft glow on the waterfall. Golden hour in the afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting. TikTok

Information regarding drone usage is not readily available. It's advisable to check local regulations or inquire on-site before flying a drone. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive rice fields and waterfall. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan to swim. Instagram

Experiment with different angles to showcase the waterfall's origin from the cave. Including the surrounding rice paddies in your shot will add context and beauty. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Waikelo Sawah offers a wonderful natural playground for families. The gentle walk through the rice fields is manageable for most children, and the clear water provides a safe and fun environment for them to splash around. Hiring a local child as a guide can be an engaging experience for kids, as they can interact with their peers and learn about the local area. Reddit

Encourage your children to appreciate the natural beauty and perhaps even help in keeping the area clean. Bringing picnic snacks and drinks is a great idea, as there are no food facilities on-site, allowing for a relaxed family meal amidst the scenic views. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and hats for everyone's protection from the sun. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Waikelo Sawah is a dream destination. The unique juxtaposition of a waterfall emerging from a cave with vibrant green rice paddies offers endless creative possibilities. Capture the ethereal morning light illuminating the fields or the dramatic shadows during the golden hour. Instagram+2

Experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the vastness of the landscape and telephoto lenses to focus on the details of the waterfall and cave. Don't forget to capture the local life, such as people doing laundry or children playing in the water, which adds a dynamic element to your shots. Consider bringing a waterproof camera or phone case if you plan to get close to the water or swim. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers

While not a strenuous hike, Waikelo Sawah offers a rewarding adventure for those willing to explore. The walk through the rice fields to reach the waterfall is an integral part of the experience, offering a glimpse into rural Sumba life. For the more adventurous, exploring the cave system near the waterfall can add an extra layer of excitement, though caution is advised. Reddit

Consider combining your visit with other natural attractions in Sumba to create a more comprehensive adventure. The journey itself, often involving local guidance, adds to the sense of discovery. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for the tropical climate. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Landscape of Waikelo Sawah

Waikelo Sawah is renowned for its distinctive natural beauty, primarily characterized by the Waikelo Sawah Waterfall emerging from a cave and its stunning integration with lush green rice fields. This unique combination creates a picturesque and serene environment that captivates visitors. The waterfall itself is not exceptionally high but its origin from within a cave adds an element of mystery and wonder. The surrounding jungle further enhances the natural appeal, making it a hidden oasis. Instagram+2

Many travelers are drawn to the peaceful ambiance of the rice fields, which offer a pleasant walking experience. Local children often act as guides, leading visitors to the best viewpoints and the main waterfall, typically located near a prominent banyan tree. This interaction with the local community adds a personal touch to the visit. The clear, natural water is also a draw for swimming and even for locals to do their laundry, highlighting the water's importance to the community. TikTokReddit

However, the natural beauty also comes with a responsibility. Some visitors have noted concerns about litter, emphasizing the need for everyone to maintain the cleanliness of this precious natural site. Understanding the local context and respecting the environment are crucial for preserving Waikelo Sawah for future generations. Reddit

Navigating and Experiencing Waikelo Sawah

Reaching Waikelo Sawah Waterfall involves a journey through the beautiful Sumba landscape. While Google Maps might point to a water dam, the true gem, the waterfall, requires a bit more exploration. Visitors are strongly advised to seek guidance from local children, who are familiar with the paths through the rice fields and can lead you to the waterfall for a small tip. This not only ensures you find the best spots but also supports the local community. Reddit

The walk through the rice fields can be around 700 meters from the dam area, and it's important to be prepared for the lack of shade. Sun protection, including sunscreen and a hat, is essential to avoid sunburn. The natural water is inviting for a swim, but visitors should be aware of the natural, sometimes swamp-like conditions in certain areas. Caution is also advised when exploring the cave, especially during periods of high water. TikTokReddit

While the official entrance fee is minimal, be aware of potential requests for additional 'cleaning fees' from individuals. It's always good to clarify any charges. The overall experience is one of natural immersion and local interaction, making it a memorable stop for those exploring Sumba. InstagramReddit