Mount Batur is an active volcano located in the northeastern region of Bali. It has 2 concentric calderas, with the southeastern part containing a caldera lake. As part of UNESCO’s Global Geopark Network, the mountain is a protected geological heritage on the island.
Over the years, it’s become an increasingly popular trekking destination because of the straightforward trails to the crater. Rising 1,717 meters above sea level, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking sunrise and sunset views at the summit.
Nowadays, hiking Mount Batur is one of the go-to activities in Bali. Whether you’re a mountain lover, a thrill-seeker, or just someone who wants to experience a different side of the island, it’s something that you should consider including in your travel itinerary.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you find the best Mount Batur hiking tours and take note of what to expect on the trek, including hiking tips and answers to frequently asked questions.
Getting to Mount Batur
No matter where you are in Bali, it’s pretty simple to get to Mount Batur once you figure out your mode of transportation. But, do note that the travel time can take a bit longer since the mountain is farther up the island.
To give you an idea of the distance, it’s around 1 and a half hours away from Ubud and around 2 and a half hours away from Seminyak.
By tour packages
A lot of Mount Batur tour packages already include hotel pick-up and drop-off for guests. For travelers staying in areas like Kuta, Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud, which are a bit far from the mountain, this is one of the best ways to get to Mount Batur without hassle.
The best part is that you won’t have to book a separate tour for the hike since the pick-up and drop-off are already part of the travel package.
By private car charters
Booking a private car charter with a driver is another great way to get to your hiking base at Mount Batur. It’s quite similar to booking a tour package except that it usually doesn’t include the hike itself.
No need to stress about navigating the way to Mount Batur on your own. With these car charters, a driver will come to collect you at your accommodation and all you have to do is prepare for the trek and hop on in.
Mount Batur Tour Options
Now that we’ve settled on how to get to Mount Batur, you can start looking for the perfect tour package for you. Catch amazing sunrise (or sunset!) views and experience an orange sea of clouds at the top of Mount Batur with fun trekking or 4WD jeep tour packages.
Hiking/Trekking Tours
For sunrise trekking tours, you can expect a really early morning pick-up to get to the top of the mountain just in time. Both local and international tourists usually go for the sunrise tours for the amazing views, so you can also expect that there’ll be a lot of people on the trails.
Overall, the trek is moderately challenging, spanning 3 to 5 kilometers back and forth. It usually takes most around 2 to 4 hours to complete, including the time it takes to hike to the top, enjoy the sunrise views, and capture photos for the memories.
If you don’t like the early call time and want to avoid the crowds, you can book a sunset trekking tour instead. Similar to the sunrise tours, experienced guides will assist you and make sure you stay safe.
4WD Jeep Tours
Get to Mount Batur’s summit easily by booking a 4WD Jeep Tour. These tours are perfect for travelers who want to experience the majestic Mount Batur sunrise or sunset views without the added stress of hiking for 2 to 4 hours.
You can book a simple and hassle-free Mount Batur Sunrise Experience by 4WD Jeep in advance. Or, if you’re feeling a little extra and want someone there to take nice photos of you at the summit, you can opt to book the Mount Batur 4WD Jeep Sunrise Tour With Photographer.
Klook tip: As you’re preparing for your Mount Batur experience, don’t forget to download Whatsapp on your phone. It’s the main messaging app that local guides and tour operators use to coordinate with travelers. While you’re at it, it’s also best to reserve a 5G SIM card or get a fast and reliable Indonesian eSim ahead of time so that you’ll have mobile data and internet access.
FAQs on Hiking Mount Batur
To help make planning easier for you, we’ve listed down some of the most commonly asked questions related to climbing Mount Batur.
1. What should you wear?
If you’re going on a trek, it’s pretty much a no-brainer to make sure you’re wearing comfortable hiking gear like trekking shorts or leggings and reliable shoes with a good grip (since the trails can be quite slippery!). Other things you can wear include:
- Jacket - It can get really cold during morning hikes and the winds can get quite strong at the summit too so wearing a jacket can help keep you warm during the trek.
- Rain poncho - There are times when you also can’t predict the rain so having a rain poncho on hand can be a huge help in shielding you from the elements.
- Headlamp - This is especially useful for morning treks when the trail is quite dark. You can prevent accidents like trips and falls if you have a clear view of where you’re going.
- Gloves - Wearing gloves can also help you keep warm during the hike. And they’re also useful for preventing nicks and grazes on your hands, especially if you might need to use your hands to hold on and balance on rocks.
- Hat and sunglasses - Protect your eyes against the sun with a good pair of sunglasses or a hat.
Klook tip: Don’t forget to wear sunscreen to protect yourself against the harsh UV rays!
2. What should you pack?
You don’t necessarily need to bring too many things with you during the hike but it's always good to be prepared. Some important things you should pack in a small bag or rucksack include:
- Drinks - Bring a water bottle with you or any drinks with electrolytes so you can stay hydrated during your trek.
- Snacks - It’s always a good idea to have a little snack on hand to eat when you’re feeling a bit hungry or tired. Don’t bring heavy snacks though as it might be difficult to continue the hike with a too full stomach.
- A camera or phone - Of course, don’t forget to bring your phone or camera with you! Prepare to capture memories with the most Instagrammable sunrise or sunset views at the peak of Mount Batur.
- Extra clothes - If you want to feel fresh after your hike, bring extra clothes to change into.
Klook tip: Another important thing to pack in your hiking bag is an emergency kit! You never know when you might need plasters or band-aids for blisters or medicine for an upset stomach.
3. How difficult is the hike?
Depending on your fitness level, the hike can either be less or more challenging for some. But the general consensus among trekkers is that the climb to Mount Batur is at a moderate difficulty (sometimes made more challenging in rainy weather).
Photo credit: LA khai-way on Unsplash
However, you don’t have to worry too much as there’s a marked path all the way to the top and your tour guides will assist you throughout the trek.
4. How long does the hike take?
Overall, the hike can take around 2 to 4 hours depending on how quickly you get to and from the summit and if you stay a while to enjoy the views.
5. When is the best time of the year to go hiking?
The dry season, which starts from May to October, is the best time to hike Mount Batur.
6. What’s the terrain like?
At Mount Batur, you can expect a mix of slippery volcanic sand slopes, rocky areas, jungle-like paths, and loose dirt and gravel sections. This is why it's highly recommended to wear sturdy hiking shoes with a good grip.
Nearby Places to Visit
Kintamani Cafes
While you’re exploring Mount Batur, stop by the nearby village of Kintamani and get a taste of locally grown Arabica coffee at their famous cafes.
Surrounded by stunning lakeside and mountain views, cafes like Black Lava and El Lago are the perfect spots to unwind, refuel, and capture Instagram-worthy photos.
You can make a separate cafe hopping itinerary or you can book a Kintamani Cafe and Mount Batur sunrise package to maximize your trip. A lot of tours to Mount Batur have this cafe stop option so you can grab a coffee and get something to eat after the hike.
Batur Natural Hot Springs
Go on a side quest and relax your muscles after the hike by taking a dip at Batur natural hot springs. You can enjoy the rest of your day swimming in any of the 10 pools available on-site.
Some tour packages like the Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking or Jeep Private Tour in Kintamani Bali from Klook, let you choose between trekking or private jeep tours with additional inclusions. With this kind of tour package, you can customize your itinerary to include a photo shoot, an ATV adventure, rafting, or even swimming at Batur natural hot springs.
Klook tip: If you plan to include the hot springs in your itinerary, make sure to bring your swimwear with you.
Trunyan Village
Regarded as one of the most unusual places to visit in Bali, Trunyan Village allows you to witness interesting indigenous Balinese funeral rites.
In this village, you’ll find that their deceased aren’t cremated in traditional funerary ceremonies as most Balinese Hindus do. Instead their dead are laid out on the ground around a large old tree, forming a literal boneyard within the village.
For travelers who are interested in visiting the village, it's best to book a private tour of Trunyan Village ahead of time to ensure a smooth experience.
Kato Lampo Hidden Waterfall
Take the less traveled path and experience the natural beauty of Kato Lampo waterfall. This is another attraction near Mount Batur that’s only an hour away. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal clear waters and wash away the stress and grime of your trek.
You can also capture memories and take photos against the beautiful and Instagrammable backdrop of the cascading waterfalls.
For a stress-free trip, complete your itinerary by checking out activities, hotels, and other travel essentials in Bali!
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