Your Essential 2024 Kintamani Guide: How to Get Around, Activities, Accommodations, & More

Planning on exploring Bali’s underrated highland region of Kintamani but wondering where to start with your itinerary? Well, you’ve come to the right place! We’re here to help you spice up your Kintamani travel plans with a list of unique activities and attractions –  from adventure-filled hikes with scenic mountain views to relaxing hot springs and rich cultural heritage sites.

But before we fully dive into all the top spots and exciting activities in Kintamani, take note of our in-depth tips on how to get around and some of the most recommended places to stay and eat in the area. 

If you want to make planning your Kintamani itinerary hassle-free, you can book a tour package in advance! Nowadays, many tour operators in Bali offer Kintamani all-day tour packages that typically include activities, guided tours, and transportation. 

This is one of the easiest ways to explore the mountain village as you don’t have to stress about navigating a map while driving a car or motorbike. All you have to do is show up at your designated pickup point, meet your tour guide, hop in the car, and start your journey.

If tour packages aren’t quite what you’re looking for, you can choose to drive a car rental or book a car with a private driver. This allows you to customize your itinerary, manage your schedule, and explore attractions around Kintamani with a lot more flexibility.

Do note that you need to be over 21 years old to rent a car in Bali. Also, you’ll need to present your valid passport, a valid driver's license from your home country, and an international driver’s permit (IDP) as part of the car rental requirements.

Motorbike or Scooter Rentals

For the more adventurous travelers who are also looking for a budget-friendly transport option, renting a scooter or motorbike can give you the best of both worlds. 

Klook has partnered with local scooter rental companies to help you find well-maintained and affordable scooters (whether you prefer a Yamaha or a Honda) and rent one in just a few clicks. All the rental packages are priced at around 10 to 20 AUD per day and come with a free-to-use helmet.

The requirements are pretty straightforward. You’ll need to be over 18 and have your valid passport, driver’s license from your home country, and international driver’s permit ready for checking. 

A lot of tourists usually go to visit Kintamani on a day trip. But if you want to really explore its hidden gems and natural wonders, we highly recommend staying a bit longer and booking a place to stay in the area. Here are some of our top picks:

Chill out and soak up the beautiful sunrise views at N’jung Bali Camp. This popular accommodation features tent-like villas with outdoor dining amenities, a barbecue area, and a lovely garden right in front of the lake.

One of its biggest perks is that you’ll be right on the edge of Mount Batur, making it easier to access trekking and hiking tours from the accommodation.

Treat yourself to a deluxe camping experience at Toteme Glamping! This posh camping accommodation combines the glitz and the glam of a 5-star accommodation with the rugged nature of Mount Batur. The tents are spacious and comfy and include king-sized beds, cool air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

What sets it apart from other camping experiences in the area is that it has elevated amenities including a sundeck, a thermal outdoor pool, and an in-house restaurant. Toteme also offers a variety of activities, including picnics, jeep tours, hiking and trekking excursions, and tours to nearby rice terraces. 

Mount Batur Villa is another great option if you’re looking for a place that lets you recharge and take in the fresh air. With well-designed rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a nearby restaurant, and a 24-hour front desk, this villa gives you everything you need to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay in Kintamani. 

And the best part? You can easily visit nearby cafes and hot springs and go on mountain trekking adventures.

Kintamani promises an unforgettable experience for any traveler – whether you’re an adventurous hiker, a cultural connoisseur, or someone looking to chill out in the mountain’s hot springs. To help you whip up your itinerary, we’ve noted some of the best things to do in Kintamani, Bali.

Standing at an impressive 1,717 meters, Mount Batur is one of Bali’s most scenic and iconic volcanoes. It’s a popular hiking destination that attracts many travelers to Kintamani, challenging them with a 2 to 3-hour hike that can be moderate to difficult. 

Treks are usually scheduled in the early morning hours so that hikers can catch the sunrise over Lake Batur and Mount Agung in the distance. If you’re not a fan of hiking, there are private jeep tours and ATV rides as well. Don’t miss out on this magical experience and book your Mount Batur sunrise trekking or jeep private tour today!

Not sure when you can squeeze in time to try out a local cafe after a hike to Mount Batur? Hit two birds with one stone with a Mount Batur tour that includes a scenic coffee stop!

2. Go on a cycling tour around Mount Batur

Another excellent way to take in the area’s scenic beauty is through cycling. There are different types of cycling tours available in Kintamani, ranging from leisurely rides by the lake to more challenging routes that take you through dense jungle areas, local villages, and even hot springs.

Go on a Mount Batur cycling tour and get a chance to exercise while enjoying Kintamani’s natural wonders! 

What’s a better way to relax after a long hike than to take a dip at the Toya Devasya Hot Springs? This popular Kintamani hot spring destination boasts 7 different hot spring pools where travelers can feel rejuvenated after a good soak. There are also 2 non-hot spring pools for those who want a cooler swim.  

If you’re a coffee lover, Kintamani is a must-add to your itinerary. The mountain region is famous for its Arabica coffee, grown on the fertile volcanic slopes of Mount Batur. This, combined with beautiful lakeside and mountain views, has resulted in many Instagrammable coffee spots around the area. 

Try out different cafes in Kintamani by taking advantage of cafe-hopping tours! You’ll find many options online with some packages offering a sunrise ATV experience or a trip to nearby hot springs or rice terraces. 

Built against the backdrop views of Lake Batur and settled in the foot caldera of Mount Batur, Pura Ulun Danu Batur is one of Bali’s most renowned Hindu temples.  

Within the premises, you can explore 9 smaller temples with almost 300 shrines dedicated to the gods and goddesses of the lake, springs, water, crafts, art and agriculture, art and crafts. You can learn about Bali’s rich culture and temple traditions as you set foot in this historic temple compound. 

From traditional Balinese warungs and buffets serving local dishes to beautiful restaurants and cafes with panoramic views of Mount Batur, Kintamani boasts a wide variety of dining spots. After a long day of exploring the region’s landscapes, be sure to check out some of these restaurant options.

Fuel up with a yummy buffet lunch at the Amora Bali. This buffet-style restaurant overlooks Lake Batur, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking views while eating delectable Indonesian and Asian dishes. 

Some of the meal options include gado gado, chicken satay with peanut sauce, and spring rolls – all cooked with local produce. You can check out their menu for a list of drinks and do note that there are also free coffee and tea offerings at the buffet. 

Looking for a food spot that offers a halal-certified buffet with great views? Head over to the Grand Puncak Sari Restaurant. The popular restaurant has a beautiful outdoor patio area and lots of seating options. 

Guests can choose from 3 affordable buffet menus ranging from 120,000 to 150,000 IDR (around 7 to 9 USD), with some of the meals including nasi goreng ayam, mie goreng seafood, vegetable omelette, fried chicken, and beef satay. 

Enjoy a warm and comfortable dining atmosphere at the Black Lava Cafe. Apart from its excellent lakeside views, this cafe/restaurant offers delicious coffee options and an extensive menu with American, Asian, and Indonesian meals. Their Marinara Pizza and Nasi Goreng are definite must-trys!

Now that you’ve got your options laid out, the rest of the planning comes easy! Feel free to add more Bali activities and essentials by downloading Klook today!