Tancak Waterfall

Geological Wonders on the Slopes of Argopuro

Tancak Waterfall stands majestically at an approximate height of 82 meters, making it one of the most iconic waterfalls on the southern side of the Argopuro Mountains. Geologically, this waterfall is formed from ancient rock faults fed by water discharge originating from natural springs at the mountain's peak.

Tancak's primary uniqueness lies in its vertical and wide cliff wall structure. The water doesn't just fall; it crashes following the rock contours, creating a thick mist effect at the base of the pool. When the sun is at a certain position, water droplets carried by the wind often create small rainbows at the foot of the waterfall, a stunning visual phenomenon for anyone who witnesses it.

Ecosystem and Biodiversity: A Preserved Green Oasis

Situated in the buffer zone of a protected forest, Tancak Waterfall is surrounded by a pristine tropical rainforest ecosystem. Along the journey to the location, visitors will pass through the Gunung Pasang Coffee Plantation, managed for generations. The vegetation around the waterfall is dominated by large trees such as banyan trees, cycads, and various types of mosses covering the damp rocks.

The biodiversity here is well-preserved. If lucky, visitors can hear the screech of the Javan Hawk-eagle occasionally crossing the valley, or see long-tailed macaques hanging from tree branches. The high humidity around the waterfall also supports the growth of various wild orchids and aromatic plants, providing the distinctive fresh scent of the mountain forest.

Adventure Experience: Trekking Through the Mist

Visiting Tancak Waterfall is not just about sitting and enjoying the view; it's a challenging physical experience. The journey begins from the parking area in the Gunung Pasang region. From here, visitors must trek for approximately 2 to 3 kilometers.

The hiking trail offers an interesting variety of terrain. At the beginning of the journey, you'll be treated to neat rows of Robusta coffee trees. However, as you get closer to the location, the path turns into an uphill and sometimes slippery dirt track, passing traditional bamboo bridges and crossing small streams. Outdoor activities that can be done include:

1. Nature Photography: Capturing the details of the falling water with a slow shutter technique to capture the waterfall's gentle flow.

2. River Tubing & Bathing: Experiencing the cold sensation of clear mountain water in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.

3. Bird Watching: Observing various endemic bird species along the forest trail.

Best Time to Visit and Seasonal Variations

Choosing the right time to visit is crucial for the best experience at Tancak Waterfall. The most recommended period is at the end of the rainy season or the beginning of the dry season (around May to July). During this period, the water discharge is still substantial, showcasing the waterfall's grandeur at its maximum, while the trekking paths have started to dry and are less slippery.

If you visit during the peak of the rainy season, the water discharge will increase drastically, creating a very powerful spectacle, but the risk of landslides and very muddy paths needs to be considered. Conversely, during the peak of the dry season, the water discharge may decrease slightly, but the water clarity will reach its highest point, making it perfect for swimming.

Conservation and Environmental Protection Efforts

As part of an area bordering plantations and protected forests, conservation is a top priority. Local communities in Suci Village, along with plantation managers, play an active role in maintaining the cleanliness of the trekking paths. Visitors are strictly prohibited from littering plastic waste or damaging vegetation along the trail.

The existence of Tancak Waterfall also functions as an important hydrological regulator for the agricultural land below. Protection of the watershed (DAS) above Tancak ensures that the water supply for Jember residents is maintained throughout the year. Awareness of "Responsible Tourism" is strongly emphasized here to keep the Argopuro ecosystem sustainable.

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Administratively, Tancak Waterfall is approximately 30 kilometers from the center of Jember City, with a travel time of about 1 hour by motorized vehicle. The journey to Suci Village is quite smooth with winding asphalt roads offering scenic hill views.

Facilities at the starting point of the trek (Gunung Pasang Area) are quite adequate, including:

• Spacious vehicle parking area.
• Local stalls offering "Jember Specialty Coffee" and snacks.
• Public toilets and a prayer room (mushola).
• Motorcycle taxi rental services for visitors who want to shorten the travel time to the vehicle's end point before starting the walk.

However, it's important to note that there are no permanent facilities in the core area of the waterfall itself. This is intentionally done to preserve the natural state of the location, preventing it from being distracted by concrete buildings that mar the natural aesthetics.

Tips for Visitors

To ensure a comfortable trip, visitors are advised to wear hiking shoes or outdoor sandals with strong grip. Bringing drinking water and a change of clothes is essential. Additionally, as mobile phone signals may be lost in some parts of the forest, make sure to inform relatives or staff at the front post about your estimated return time.

Tancak Waterfall is a destination for those who long for silence and wish to reconnect with nature. The roaring sound of water falling from over 80 meters, combined with the chirping of birds and pollution-free mountain air, makes this place the most potent remedy for fatigue at the eastern tip of Java Island.