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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Waikelo Waterfall Sumba
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

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.
"A waterfall in the middle of ride paddies and surrounded by a jungle. Some places you have to see to believe."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
Surrounding the waterfall
Wander through serene, green rice fields that create a stunning backdrop for the waterfall and offer a peaceful walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Guide
Respect the Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
💧 Swim Responsibly
The water is natural and clear, perfect for a dip. Be mindful of the natural swamp-like areas.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The combination of waterfall, cave, and rice fields makes for stunning photos.
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!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The rice fields offer no shade, so wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid sunburn.
💧 Swim Responsibly
The water is natural and clear, perfect for a dip. Be mindful of the natural swamp-like areas.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The combination of waterfall, cave, and rice fields makes for stunning photos.
🗑️ Keep it Clean
Help preserve the beauty by taking all your trash with you.
💰 Small Entrance Fee
Expect a minimal entrance fee and parking cost for vehicles.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
The 'banyan tree' is a key landmark where the main waterfall is located. Local children will know how to guide you there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around Rp. 2,000 per person, with an additional small fee for motorcycle parking.
No advance booking is usually required for Waikelo Sawah Waterfall. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms or changing rooms is limited. It's advisable to come prepared or inquire locally.
🍽️ 🧺 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.
Yes, many visitors enjoy having picnics amidst the scenic rice fields. It's a popular spot for family gatherings.
Food options are likely to be found in Tambolaka, the nearest major town, before or after your visit to the waterfall.
Local Sumba cuisine often features fresh seafood, rice, and local vegetables. Exploring local eateries in towns like Tambolaka is recommended.
While not mandatory, tipping local guides for helpful advice, including food recommendations, is appreciated.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique waterfall emerging from the cave, the expansive green rice fields, and the surrounding jungle offer diverse photographic opportunities.
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.
Information regarding drone usage is not readily available. It's advisable to check local regulations or inquire on-site before flying a drone.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Landscape of Waikelo Sawah
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.
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.
Navigating and Experiencing Waikelo Sawah
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit