Hidden Canyon Beji Guwang: Not a stroll, but a full-fledged trek
The canyon in the village of Guwang, 15 km south of Ubud (about 30 minutes by transport), is a narrow gorge with sheer rock walls carved out by the river over thousands of years. This isn’t a relaxing viewpoint; it’s a real hike: the route, around 3.5 km across slippery stones and shallow water, takes about two hours and requires good coordination and physical fitness. Local guides often go barefoot, but tourists are better off wearing trekking sandals, aqua shoes or regular sneakers – the rocks in the riverbed really are slippery, and without reliable footwear it’s easy to lose your footing.
Entry costs around 200,000–240,000 IDR per person depending on the format (short or long route); some packages include a guide, towel, access to a shower, and a light snack after the trek. A guide is mandatory for your first visit – the route isn’t obvious and sometimes requires knowing exactly where to cross the shallow water. The site operates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but during the rainy season the canyon is occasionally closed due to rising water levels – check the current status before you go if you’re traveling in November–March. A taxi via Grab will cost approximately 100,000 IDR from Sanur and around 350,000 IDR from Nusa Dua one way.
Kanto Lampo: A waterfall that doesn’t look like an ordinary waterfall
Just 20–30 minutes from Ubud, in the village of Beng (Gianyar Regency), is Kanto Lampo waterfall – its distinctive feature is that the water doesn’t fall as a single stream but cascades down multi-tiered layered rock steps, creating a completely atypical visual pattern for waterfalls. It’s this unusual geometry that has made the place go viral on local social media — photos of Kanto Lampo look very different from the classic “vertical” waterfall you see on postcards.
Entry costs a symbolic 20,000–25,000 IDR per person, parking is 2,000 IDR for a scooter and 5,000 IDR for a car, and from the parking area to the waterfall itself it’s a 5–10 minute walk. There are showers, toilets and changing rooms (basic but clean and free) on site, as well as locker rentals for 10,000 IDR. No need to book in advance – just come and head to the entrance. Open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Practical tip: bring a change of clothes, towel, and some cash in small denominations — cards are not accepted here, and getting change can sometimes be difficult.
How to combine both places in one day
The distance between Hidden Canyon and Kanto Lampo from Ubud is comparable (about half an hour each way), and both places close between 5:00 PM–6:00 PM, so it makes sense to plan your route like this: morning – the more physically demanding Hidden Canyon (while it’s cool and there are fewer people); afternoon – a relaxed Kanto Lampo as the finale of the day. Rent a scooter in Ubud (around 50,000 IDR per day) or order a car through Grab — both options work equally conveniently for this route.
Practical Checklist
- Hidden Canyon — 200,000–240,000 IDR, about 2 hours of trekking, guide required for the first visit, non-slip shoes needed.
- Kanto Lampo — 20,000–25,000 IDR, no booking required, 5–10 minute walk from parking, open until 6:00 PM.
- Bring cash in small denominations – cards are not accepted at either place.
- During the rainy season (November–March) check if Hidden Canyon is open — sometimes it’s closed due to water levels.
- Both places can easily be combined into one day from Ubud: canyon in the morning, waterfall in the afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a guide for Hidden Canyon Beji Guwang?
Yes, a guide is mandatory for your first visit — the route isn’t obvious and requires knowledge of the fords; on subsequent visits you can go independently upon request.
How much does it cost to enter Kanto Lampo?
20,000–25,000 IDR per person, plus a small parking fee (2,000–5,000 IDR) — no need to book in advance.
Is Hidden Canyon Suitable for Children or Seniors?
No, the route is physically demanding: slippery rocks, a wade through water, about two hours of trekking – it’s not recommended for children, seniors, and people in poor physical condition.
Can You Visit Both Places in One Day?
Yes, they are located approximately half an hour apart from Ubud — it makes sense to start with the more demanding Hidden Canyon in the morning and finish the day with the peaceful Kanto Lampo.
What’s Next
Check out the guide to Nusa Penida and sort out scooter licenses if you’re planning on renting transport.
Entrance fees and route availability can change, especially during the rainy season – check for updated information before your trip.
