Hidden deep within the lush rainforests of East Java, Indonesia, lies the captivating Madakaripura Waterfall. Tucked away in a dramatic canyon, this mesmerizing cascade plunges from a height of over 200 meters, creating a breathtaking spectacle of natural beauty. Known as the highest waterfall in Java, Madakaripura is shrouded in legends and holds a spiritual significance for the locals. As you embark on a journey to this enchanting site, prepare to be awestruck by the thundering roar of the water, the misty atmosphere, and the serene tranquility that surrounds this hidden gem of East Java.
MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL IN PROBOLLINGO, EAST JAVA
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Madakaripura Waterfall near Probollingo in East Java.
HOW TO GET TO MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL
From Probolinggo, the drive took us about an hour. We got lost a couple of times because Google Maps isn’t exactly perfect. I’ve pinned the exact location below on the Madakaripura map.
If you look on the map below you will see Air Terjun Triguna Ronggolawe. Take the road towards this and you will see the signs on the road. As you can see Madakaripura Waterfall is kind of between two main roads. The one on the left does not lead you there and takes you up a treacherous, pothole-ridden dirt road. It was fun…
TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN EAST JAVA
- Surabaya: Bumi Surabaya Resort – Perfect oasis in the middle of Surabaya
- Near Bromo: Royal Orchids Hotel – Huge hotel with classy rooms and pool
- Near Ijen: Ijen Resort & Villas – Amazing garden, pool and views
MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL TOUR
As you can see this blog makes it clear you don’t NEED a guided tour but it makes it much easier and potentially more organized and enjoyable with a guide who knows how to get there, the best viewpoints and how to keep you safe. The tour I recommend has almost 1000 positive reviews and combines the waterfall with the ‘must-do’ experience of a sunrise at Mount Bromo.
MOUNT BROMO SUNRISE & MADARAKIPURA WATERFALL TOUR: For a little bit extra, combine the Mount Bromo Sunrise with a visit to the best waterfall in East Java.
ARRIVING AT MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL
When you arrive at the parking lot you will need to buy a parking ticket for 7,000 rupiahs. But then you cannot drive the next 4km to the waterfall. You can either walk or take a motorbike taxi (There are many men waiting) for 10,000 rupiah, which is less than $1 USD.
We decided to grab the motorbike taxi, which took us to the start of the trail, which is probably about 1.5km itself. Therefore if you don’t take the moto-taxi you would be doing an 8km round trip plus a 3km round trip. Essentially you can choose a 3km round trip or 11km round trip and save $1.50 USD and enjoy a nice walk.
MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL ENTRANCE FEE
At the entrance, you will need to pay about 20,000 rupiah entrance fee. With all of the parking, moto-taxi, and entrance fee it all adds up to about 45,000 total per person, which is getting quite steep comparatively. But it’s worth it.
The trail is paved the whole way until you reach the falls. Then lots of men will approach you trying to sell you a poncho and iPhone covers etc. You don’t need them but you will get quite wet. So it’s up to you.
You are only under the falling water for less than a few seconds so if you move quickly your gear and clothes don’t get destroyed. We had our camera gear and just walked through quickly with our bag covers on.
Okay, that is the logistics covered. I hope that helped. Now you are at the waterfall.
EXPLORING MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL
The first part of Madakaripura Waterfall is actually just the lead-up to the main waterfall but it is equally impressive. Water streams down the lush green walls into the river below. For most of the way you can walk through the river without getting wet but there are some points you have to pass through the falling water. This is truly one of the most magical spots I have ever been to.
After you make it through the river, you will climb a little section that leads you to the main waterfall. It is huge and I believe it might even be the highest waterfall in East Java. That might seem like an easy feat but after some of the huge waterfalls, we visited we couldn’t believe that!
The waterfall crashes down into a pool that is a vivid turquoise color. The waterfall is inside a narrow keyhole amphitheater. About 80m in length and 30m in width this is a small area. When you look up you can see the leafy walls curving around you, which is an amazing feeling.
ADVENTURE BAG FROM MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL
This is an adventure bag. It is full of trash. Every time I go on an adventure I collect one adventure bag full of trash. It’s my small way of saying thanks to mother nature for allowing me to enjoy her beautiful creations.
If we have time to go on an adventure we have time to collect an adventure bag on the way back out of the trail once we have enjoyed the waterfall, the hike or the beach. Adventure hard!
Tag your @adventurebagcrew on Instagram and mention @adventurebagcrew in your Instagram stories to be featured and inspire your friends, family, and followers to join the movement!
MORE EAST JAVA TRAVEL GUIDES
- The Ultimate Guide: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN EAST JAVA
- Mount Bromo without a guide: MOUNT BROMO WITHOUT A TOUR
- Ijen Crater Trek: IJEN CRATER TREK AND THE BLUE FLAME
- Madakaripura Waterfall: MADAKARIPURA WATERFALL
- Island hopping in East Java: TABUHAN ISLAND & MENJANGAN ISLAND
- East Java Beaches: PAPUMA BEACH AND PAYANGAN BEACH
Dukun
Thursday 7th of March 2019
Beautiful photo, The right shot. Thank you for visiting our village