One-Day Waterfall Itinerary in Malang That Will Refresh Your Soul
Known for its mountains, pleasant atmosphere, and yes, waterfalls, Malang is a picturesque city in East Java. If you’re looking to spend one full day surrounded by nature, fresh air, and cascading water, this itinerary is made for you. We’ve put together a complete one-day plan to visit some of the best and most accessible waterfalls (or coban, as locals say) around Malang and Batu. All you need is a good pair of shoes, a sense of adventure, and your camera fully charged.
Let’s dive right in!
7:00 AM – Start Early in Malang
Either toast and coffee from a nearby café or nasi pecel (rice with peanut sauce and vegetables) are good light breakfast options to start the day. Try to hit the road before 7:30 AM to avoid traffic and make the most of your day.
Malang is surrounded by waterfalls, but most are located around Batu, which is about 30–45 minutes from the city center by motorbike or car. Our route is designed to minimize travel time while giving you a mix of popular and peaceful spots.
7:30 AM – Coban Putri
Location: Tlekung Village, Batu
Travel Time from Malang: ~30 mins
Entrance Fee: Rp10,000
Parking Fee: Rp5,000
Coban Putri is a great starter — easy to access, not too crowded in the morning, and very Instagrammable. The twin waterfalls here are not too tall but sit beautifully against green cliffs. There are fun photo spots too, like bamboo platforms and “giant hands” looking out over the forest.
Because of its gentleness, the track is ideal for warming up. You may even be the only one with it if you get up early.
Tips: Go before 9:00 AM to avoid tour groups.
20-Minute Drive to Next Waterfall
Continue through scenic roads lined with pine trees, apple orchards, and traditional houses.
9:30 AM – Coban Rais
Location: Oro-Oro Ombo, Batu
Entrance Fee: Rp10,000
Optional Add-On: Batu Flower Garden – Rp30,000
Parking Fee: Rp5,000
Coban Rais is one of Batu’s most famous waterfalls. To reach it, you’ll trek through a forest trail (roughly 1 km), and it’s a bit steep in places — but completely worth it. The waterfall is about 75 meters tall, dramatic, and surrounded by mossy rocks and thick forest.
Nearby, Batu Flower Garden offers swings, sky bikes, and panoramic photo spots if you want extra adventure.
Good to know: Wear proper shoes. The path can get muddy after rain.
12:00 PM – Lunchtime in Batu
By noon, you’ll be starving. You have a few great local options:
- Warung Khas Batu – traditional Javanese meals with mountain views
- Pupuk Bawang Café – cozy café with rice field views and Western dishes
- Omah Kitir – pizza, pasta, and good coffee
Eat light but satisfying — you still have more nature to explore!
1:30 PM – Coban Talun
Location: Tulungrejo Village, Batu
Entrance Fee: Rp10,000
Parking Fee: Rp5,000
Coban Talun offers a magical forest vibe. The walk to the waterfall takes about 15–20 minutes, and you’ll pass through pine trees, flower fields, and bamboo huts. The surrounding air is cooled by the mist from the tall and strong waterfall.
Because fewer people visit it than Coban Rais, the atmosphere is more tranquil. Great spot for quiet time, reflection, or even a nap under the trees.
Fun tip: There’s a camping area nearby if you ever want to return for an overnight nature stay.
3:30 PM – Coffee with a View
Head to Pupuk Bawang Café, only 15 minutes from Coban Talun. Grab an iced coffee or herbal tea and relax with a view of rice fields and rolling hills. This is your time to rest your legs and scroll through the amazing photos you took.
5:00 PM – Optional Sunset Stop: Paralayang Batu
If you still have energy, drive up to Paralayang Batu, a paragliding spot with panoramic views of Batu city. During sunset, it’s magical. Watch the sky change colors while paragliders soar above the mountains.
There’s also a photogenic wooden deck where you can enjoy the breeze and take a few final shots before heading back to town.
What to Pack
- Comfortable hiking shoes or sandals with grip
- Lightweight rain jacket (just in case)
- Change of clothes and a towel
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks and small bills for entrance fees
- Power bank or extra battery for your phone
Final Tips
- Weekdays are better — less crowded and more peaceful.
- The greatest time to see waterfalls is early in the morning.
- Hire a local guide if you’re not confident with directions.
- Respect nature — no littering, no loud music, and take only memories.
Malang is more than just apple orchards and mountain views — it’s a paradise of waterfalls waiting to be explored. This one-day itinerary blends nature, culture, and a bit of thrill — perfect for solo travelers, couples, or backpacker groups. By the end of the day, your body might be tired, but your soul will feel brand new.
