Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall
Adventures Behind the Roar of Nature
Borneo » Indonesia
Indri | July 18, 2025
🌳 Behind the Lush Forest of Samarinda
Surrounded by screens that never stop glowing. Constantly interrupted by notifications that never seem to end. Drained by exhausting daily routines. So, we stepped aside to consider plans for exploring the Samarinda Forest.
At first, my friends and I only planned to get some fresh air on the weekend. However, after discussing and exchanging opinions, we discovered the rarely heard of Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall. Not many people know about it, but that’s precisely its charm. It’s in a hidden location with few signs, which makes it feel more pristine.
🏕️ Camping at Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall
My first steps took me through a dense forest alongside my friends. The dirt road we followed was slippery from the night’s rain. Eventually, we reached a fork in the path and decided to take the quieter route. Muddy roads led us forward, forcing us to cross wet bushes and slippery tree roots. All around, the silence of the Kalimantan forest embraced us.
A low rumble gradually echoed through the branches and leaves, growing louder with each step. After forty-five minutes of trekking, we finally arrived. From behind the trees, a brownish, murky curtain of water began to reveal itself, cascading down from a short yet majestic cliff. It was the Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall. Though the rain had muddied the water, its wild, untouched beauty remained undeniably captivating.
Upon arrival, we searched for a safe, flat area to pitch our tents. My friends and I chose a spot near the waterfall and quickly got to work. While we focused on setting up the tents, one of us stretched a tarp overhead as extra cover in case of rain. With the blue sheet secured, we had built a simple but effective shelter in the heart of the forest. There was no signal, no distractions only the gentle sound of flowing water and the soft breeze caressing the leaves.
Soon after, the atmosphere began to change. What had started as a simple journey quickly turned into a full-fledged adventure, enriched by the sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, and the crisp forest air. With every step, the wilderness seemed to draw us in deeper.
Once we settled in, we opened our supplies, prepared drinks and food, arranged our gear, and lit a small fire. Somehow, everything felt more alive in this place. Even a simple bottle of water and a few instant snacks seemed special in the calming atmosphere of the forest.
About Me
Thanks for looking! I’m Indrian, and this is my travel blog.
I’m an Indonesian. Who loves traveling since was a kid, I’ve started exploring the forest around where I live and visiting some places with my friends or even camping together.
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💧 Unspoilt natural beauty
The thunderous sound of water crashing from three sides greets my ears instantly. Though not particularly tall, the waterfall’s unique terraced and widened formation creates a stream that seems to embrace the entire rock wall.
As I approached, the scent of wet forest and freshly rained soil filled the air. All around, lush trees cast a gentle shade, while the sound of rushing water intertwined with birdsong and rustling leaves to create a soothing, evocative backdrop.
Flowing steadily, the water had a distinctive brown colour evidence of recent rainfall upstream. Even so, the atmosphere remained remarkably clear and fresh. Adding to the scene’s raw beauty, the earthy tone of the soil highlighted nature in all its unpolished glory.
A closer look reveals large logs leaning against the edge of the stream likely carried there by the current and left as if they’d paused to rest. Their presence enhances the wild, untouched feel of the place, suggesting that nature still holds sway here, far from human control.
Small ropes and simple wooden sticks planted in the ground suggest that this place is not only visited but also cared for. They hint at the presence of people who live in harmony with nature and leave a gentle, positive mark on it.
Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall may not be the tallest, but it captivates with its natural, humid atmosphere and seamless connection to the tropical forests of Borneo. For anyone seeking to escape the constant noise of the outside world, this hidden gem offers the perfect retreat.
What makes Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall unique?
Right in front of us stretched an incredible sight, two streams of water falling side by side from a rocky cliff, forming twin waterfalls that were both majestic and calming. Surrounding the scene, tall trees stood firm like silent guardians, shielding the area from the chaos of the outside world.
Although the water was murky due to recent rainfall, the sound of the rushing stream remained soothing to the ears. More than just a photo spot, Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall invites visitors to slow down, reflect, and disconnect from the demands of everyday life.
If you’re looking for a place where you can truly breathe, look no further than this hidden waterfall. Rushing side by side between dark rocks and wild trees, its three powerful streams create a view rarely touched by tourists. More than just a photo spot, Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall is a place to pause, listen to the rhythm of flowing water and rustling leaves, and let your mind slowly unwind.
📸 The joy that flows at Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall
After setting up our tents and taking a short rest, we moved closer to the waterfall. There, the constant roar of the flowing water seemed to call out to us, as if inviting us to make it the backdrop of our laughter that day.
One by one, we stepped forward to stand in front of the waterfall. A cool breeze carried splashes of water, refreshing the air around us. Moments later, cameras were out, and spontaneous poses and laughter filled the scene.
Laughter and jokes echoed around us nothing was scripted, everything just flowed naturally. We jumped around, pointed at each other, and exchanged witty remarks, all while streams of water cascaded behind us like majestic curtains of nature.
Our visit wasn’t just about enjoying the beauty of nature it was also about letting our inner child run free. Whether laughing, posing for photos, or getting muddy, every moment became part of a deeper connection with the wild. And at Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall, it’s that very simplicity that turns ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.
Afterward, we took a quiet pause to truly savour the moment. There was something special about sharing this kind of beauty with friends people who embraced the same spirit of adventure, didn’t mind getting dirty, and knew how to enjoy life even without a phone signal.
We came to realise that moments like these can’t be bought. Beneath the waves and amidst the sounds of nature, the journey became something more than just travel. It turned into a story woven from laughter, courage, and a willingness to step beyond comfort zones.
Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall is more than just a destination. It’s where you can unwind, laugh at the little things, and remember that true happiness often lives in the simplest moments genuine laughter, the beauty of nature, and the presence of loyal friends.
💦 💦 The Laughter that Flows Amidst the Rushing Waterfall
Amidst the roar of the waterfall, we discovered something equally precious. Every pose, step, and joke was a reminder that nature should be enjoyed and celebrated, not just in silence.
💌 Message in the Middle of the Flood
Sitting under the shade of a tree, we took a moment to enjoy the sound of the endlessly falling water. The atmosphere was so peaceful, it felt as though every worry had been carried away by the current.
Shortly thereafter, one of my friends suddenly pulled a piece of cardboard out of his backpack. At first, everyone assumed it was just a food container, but to our surprise, he had written a simple message on it with a blue marker.
Then, he stepped forward and stood in front of the waterfall, raising the cardboard high above his head. Written in slightly slanted handwriting was a heartfelt message that read:
“Kak Ay, stay strong. Stay happy. Don’t tire yourself out!”
A soft silence fell over us, followed by small, knowing smiles. In that quiet moment, we realized these were the kinds of memories that gave our journey meaning. Soon after, we began writing short messages to one another not long, not poetic, just sincere. Every word felt like a reminder that this trip wasn’t only about the places we visited, but also the feelings we’d carry home with us.
⚙ Balancing Work and Vacation
When it was my turn to write a message, a simple yet meaningful sentence came to mind, Let Berambai Waterfall be the answer. This place wasn’t too far, nor was it crowded just wild enough to reconnect us with nature. Surrounded by rushing water, wet leaves, and slippery ground, it became the perfect setting to reset our minds.
Amid the roar of the waterfall, I found myself carefully scribbling on a piece of cardboard:
“Life must be balanced between work and vacation.”
The message was simple but it struck deep. In a world where ambition and packed schedules often take the lead, it reminded us that our bodies and minds crave rest just as much as they strive for success.
I stood there for a moment, watching the endless fall of water. Maybe that’s how life continues always flowing, always moving forward. But if water can pause and settle in a quiet pond, then surely we can too.
🚶♂️ Closing the day and opening up
Ultimately, nature never runs out of ways to touch the heart. One friend stands silently before the endless flow not in confusion, but overcome by quiet emotion. In moments like these, something within us begins to restore itself.
A soft breeze drifted through the trees, carrying with it the sound of trickling water and the scent of wet earth. No city noise, no looming deadlines just him, and a voice that may have come from within, one too often drowned out by the chaos of everyday life.
He looked as if he were staring at the sky hidden behind the leaves. Nothing in life is truly perfect, but peace however small can be enough. Sometimes, we don’t need to escape reality, we just need to give ourselves time to breathe.
So, if you ever feel bored, tired, or empty, seek out a place like this. Let yourself stand among the trees, listen to the sound of the water, and allow your body to rest. Sometimes, what we truly need is a quiet space and the courage to pause.
Sometimes, the best journey isn’t about how far we go, but how deeply we explore ourselves.
🐞 Small Life Around the Waterfall
As we walked along the dirt path near the waterfall, the roar of rushing water filled our ears, and tiny forest creatures began to appear. One of them, a bright orange pill bug with black stripes, caught our attention as it expertly curled into a ball when we got too close. This rolling motion was its natural defense against disturbance, a clever trick to protect itself from predators on the damp, dark forest floor.
Details like these reveal that the forest surrounding Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall shelters a wide range of fascinating life even in its quietest, most hidden corners.
Though small, details like this enrich the experience of exploring Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall reminding us that even the tiniest things can leave a lasting impression.
🍆 When Night Falls: The Warmth of Fried Eggplant in the Middle of the Forest
As night slowly fell, a chill settled into our bones. The waterfall’s roar remained steady, now harmonizing with the song of crickets and the earthy scent rising from damp soil. That was our cue it was time to gather around the fire and prepare something warm to eat.
We lit the portable stove and began preparing the simple ingredients we had brought along. Among them were purple eggplants, already washed and cut into pieces, ready to be cooked. The meal wasn’t anything fancy, but it filled our stomachs and warmed us through the cool night air.
We placed the eggplant slices into the hot oil one by one. A sizzling sound immediately filled the air, competing with the slowly fading noises of the night. Soon, a fragrant aroma wafted through the campsite. At that moment, our attention shifted not just to nature, but to the pleasure of taste.
We sat in a circle, waiting for the eggplants to cook while chatting and laughing together. With no cell phones, no signal, and no notifications to distract us, the moment belonged entirely to forks, stoves, and friends ready to share simple fried food.
We enjoyed the crispy brown eggplants right away, paired with warm rice and a packet of instant chili sauce. Surprisingly, they tasted just as good as restaurant food maybe even better. After all, in the middle of the forest, gratitude and togetherness were the most essential ingredients.
That night, Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall became more than just a place to rest. It turned into a humble kitchen, filled with laughter, shared meals, and the kind of simple joy that’s nearly impossible to find in the city.
🎒 Here are some tips for visiting Berambai yang satunya Waterfall
Before setting off to enjoy nature’s beauty, read the following tips to ensure a more comfortable and safe trip. These simple suggestions will help you make the most of your time at Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall, whether you’re going solo or with family and friends. From choosing the right footwear to knowing what to pack, a little preparation goes a long way.
📌 Choose the Right Day
- ✅ Come when the weather is sunny, preferably during the dry season (June–August), as the roads will be drier and easier to navigate.
- 🚫 Avoid visiting after it rains because the dirt roads become slippery, and the waterfalls have strong currents and murky water.
- 🧘♂️ Visit on weekdays for a quieter atmosphere. Weekends can be quite crowded, especially at the main attractions.
📍 Use the right vehicle:
- 🛵 Motorcycles are better for navigating narrow, damaged roads.
- 🚗 Cars can reach the parking area, but make sure they have high ground clearance, as there are rocky and potholed roads.
- 🗺 GUse mapping apps like Google Maps. If you get lost or are unsure, ask local residents for directions.
👣 Trekking Preparation:
- 👟 Wear non-slip hiking shoes or sandals, as the trail can be slippery and rocky.
- 🎒 BBring only what you need and avoid carrying heavy loads if you plan to trek long distances.
- 🔦 JIf you plan to stay overnight, bring a flashlight or headlamp, as the area is completely dark at night.
🍽️ Food and Equipment:
- 🍱 Bring snacks, drinking water, and personal supplies, as there are no shops near the location.
- 🧻 Bring wet wipes, trash bags, and personal items, as there are no public restrooms.
- 🔌 A power bank is useful because there are no electrical outlets at the location.
🛡️ Safety and Nature Ethics
- ♻️ Bring all your trash home with you. Keep the area clean and respect nature.
- 🔥 If you build a campfire, make sure you don’t burn too many dry leaves, and make sure you extinguish it before going to sleep or leaving.
- 🚫 Do not vandalize rocks or trees. Nature is not a place to leave traces of your ego.
⛺ Camping? Prepare these
- 🏕 A waterproof tent and a mattress or sleeping pad.
- 🔥 A portable stove and a small gas canister (if you want to cook).
- 🧥 A jacket, as nights can be cold and windy.
- 🐜 Mosquito repellent, antiseptic, and a basic first aid kit.
📹 Documentation? Yes, but…
- 📸 Take plenty of photos and videos, but don’t disturb the surrounding habitat.
- 🎥 “Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall” is great for wildlife content, vlogs, or travel documentaries.
- 🙏 Always ask permission before photographing local residents or venturing onto uncharted paths.
✨ Bonus Tips:
- Bring a friend! This place is safer and more enjoyable when shared with others.
- If you enjoy writing or creating content, bring a notebook or record voice notes, and you may find inspiration in the tranquility of nature.
📍 Location & Route
Berambai Village, Sempaja Utara (Batu Besaung area), Samarinda Utara District, Samarinda City, East Kalimantan
🎟️ Entry ticket:
- Free entry (donations to the local community are appreciated).
- You can leave your motorcycle at residents’ homes and pay a voluntary fee.
⚠️ Note :
There is no official ticket booth here, but you can make a voluntary donation to the residents who maintain the area. Motorcycles are safe to leave at nearby residents’ homes; everyone is friendly and welcoming.
⚖️ The difference between Berambai Waterfall and Berambai Yang Satunya Waterfall.
Aspects | Berambai Waterfall | Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall |
| It is still in the Batu Besaung area, in the Berambai hamlet in North Samarinda. | It is located not far away, but the path branches off further inland from the main location. |
| The busier trail is easy to recognize and is frequently visited by local tourists. | The more secluded trail tends to be quiet and is suitable for those who prefer a private atmosphere and “getting lost in a new place.” |
💦 Number of Water Flows: | There is generally only one main waterfall, which is tall and straight. | There are three adjacent waterfalls, which are unique and rarely found around Samarinda. |
| There are many standard tourist spots (large rocks and wet areas). | More natural and wild areas are suitable for exploration and camping photos. |
| This area is more frequently visited and has stalls, toilets, and basic gazebos. | There are almost no facilities, so be prepared to survive on your own. Bring your own supplies and take your trash home. |
| Often used for family picnics or water activities. | It is more suitable for camping, jungle trips, and experiencing the wilderness. |
| It’s busy on weekends or holidays. | It is quiet, peaceful, and serene, and you feel like you have your own private spot. |
| It’s easier to find on Google Maps. | Ask local residents or follow community trails/nature guides. |
| Suitable for beginners, families, and short visits. | It is also suitable for those seeking tranquility, solo trips, or creative exploration. |
Location
Trekking Access
Photo Spots
Facilities
Camping Area
Atmosphere
Directions:
Recommendations🧭 Note:
Both are located in the Batu Besaung Forest Area. However:
- The main Berambai Waterfall is the more well-known destination in Samarinda.
- The Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall, meanwhile, feels like a “hidden gem” known only to local residents and nature lovers.
🔥 We End The Day with A Bonfire and Stories
After a long day of adventure, we gathered in a circle around a gently flickering campfire, deep in the dark forest. The flames weren’t large, but they gave just enough warmth to chase away the chill, soothe our tired hands, and light up our relaxed, smiling faces.
Meanwhile, the distant sound of the waterfall continued serving as the perfect backdrop for light conversations that, unexpectedly, turned deep. With no signal or electricity, only the fire’s glow and the quiet of the night remained, giving us space to reconnect with ourselves.
Then, one by one, we fell silent. It wasn’t due to a lack of things to say, but because we understood that some moments are better left to the crackling of the fire, the steady beat of our hearts, and the quiet language of nature without words, without song.
In conclusion, a trip to Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall is more than just a vacation. It’s a return to something quieter where laughter echoes among friends, and where we find the space we often forget, a space to pause, breathe, and simply be.
Take a moment to explore the untouched beauty of Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall! With its soothing water sounds, cool forest air, and tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect escape from the rush of everyday life. Gather your friends, pack a simple picnic, and experience the quiet magic hidden behind the roar of this natural cliffside waterfall. 🌿🌊✨
That’s all for today! I’ll be back soon with more stories from my new place. If you’ve ever been to Berambai yang Satunya Waterfall, I’d love to hear your story in the comments. Or maybe… would you like to go there together someday? 😄
