After soaking up the sun in Uluwatu and drinking one too many cocktails in Gili T, I decided it was time to tick off one of my biggest bucket list items: Climbing Mount Batur.
My friend and I were picked up at 2 am from our accommodation in Ubud and started our hike by 3:30 am to make it in time for sunrise. While the hike itself wasn’t too difficult, I really struggled with the early morning wake-up.
Was it worth it? 100%. I reached the top in time for a perfect sunrise overlooking Mount Agung.
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about the Mount Batur sunrise hike, including my personal experience. And hopefully it will convince you to add it to your Bali itinerary too.
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How to hike Mount Batur
Mount Batur is located in the Kintamani District, but you don’t need to stay in this area to hike it.
The drive to the trailhead took us 90 minutes from Ubud – this is where I recommend staying.
If you’re coming from Seminyak, Canggu, or Uluwatu, it will take you closer to 2.5 hours.
I did this tour, which included transport from all areas of Bali. There’s the option to add on other experiences after the trek, but I knew I’d be exhausted and would just want to relax, so I skipped the extra stuff.
Mount Batur difficulty
The most difficult part of trekking Mount Batur was getting out of my warm bed to venture out into the dark at 2 am. It’s not a great wake-up call, that’s for sure.
In all seriousness, the hike isn’t hard and if you’re relatively active, you shouldn’t find it too difficult.
But it’s not easy either!
From the trailhead, it takes 2 hours to reach the peak. As you get closer to the top, the path gets steeper (and busier). This is the part I struggled with the most – especially considering how uneven the path was and all the loose volcanic rock.
If you’re really concerned that it might be too difficult for you, there is the option to book a jeep tour like this. However, the jeeps don’t have access to the summit so you’ll still need to hike the final stretch.
When to trek Mount Batur
Ideally the best time for the hike is during the dry season from April to September. This is also the busiest time.
I, on the other hand, did the hike in January – the wet season!
During the wet season (November to March), there is a high change of daily thunderstorms. But these normally take place in the afternoon, not at the crack of dawn.
Luckily we had no rain during our hike.
My experience
We started our Mount Batur sunrise hike in complete darkness. The first section involved walking through fields and forests on a trail laden with volcanic rock.
We did the hike out of season so it wasn’t too busy. I’ve heard it gets extremely congested during the dry season, so best you manage your expectations.
I was desperate to make it to the peak in time for sunrise, so I tried to get to the top asap.
Little did I know that I had more than enough time and didn’t need to rush. I definitely overexerted myself and my body was sore the next day!
Once at the summit, we had the most beautiful sunrise and the views were incredible. Getting back down took us an hour – but it was extremely hot by this stage.
READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE BALI PACKING LIST
What to pack
Wear layers! When you first begin the trek, it’s chilly.
But as you get higher, the temperature gets warmer and when the sun eventually appears, you’ll be hot and sweaty.
Hiking boots aren’t necessary but I advise you to wear comfortable trainers.
Here’s what else to pack.
- Cap and sunglasses.
- Headlamp: Most Mount Batur trekking tours arrange a headlamp for you, but don’t take it for granted that they will.
- Snacks: Breakfast may be included in your trekking costs, but confirm this.
- Money: Boiled eggs and coffee are sold at the peak. It’s slightly more expensive than you would find elsewhere in Bali, but by the time you reach the summit, you will have worked up a big appetite.
- Water: Bring at least 2 liters. When you descend Mount Batur, it will be scorching hot, and you’ll want to stay hydrated.
- Waterproof jacket: The weather can be unpredictable, so if you have a raincoat, make sure you pack it in.
What to do after Sunrise Trek
Some people choose to stop at the hot springs near Mount Batur or visit a coffee plantation before heading back to their hotel in Bali. This tour is an excellent option if that’s what you’re keen for.
And whilst it does make sense as the hot springs or coffee plantations are en route, I’m so glad I went straight back to my hotel.
After our Mount Batur sunrise trek I was tired, dirty, and hungry. I treated myself to a hot shower, a delicious meal, and some cocktails followed by a magnificent afternoon nap!
READ MORE: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ULUWATU ACCOMMODATION
Final thoughts on trekking Mount Batur for sunrise
The early morning wake-up call is so worth the stunning views you’ll get from the peak of Mount Batur. It was one of the highlights of my trip and showed me how diverse Bali really is!
Yes, it’s an active volcano, but it’s completely safe to climb (and hundreds of people do it every day).
If you enjoy this type of outdoor activity, you’ll love discovering all these hidden gems in Bali.
Looking for more Bali travel information? Check out my other posts!
- Best Places to Stay in Bali [Insiders Guide]
- 9 Awesome Things To Do in Munduk, Bali
- 10 Best Things To Do in Gili Trawangan
- Exploring Balian Beach: Bali’s Hidden Gem
- The Best Beaches in Uluwatu
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Nice one Carryn.
These early “mornings” are always worth it 🙂 If you go for something like this. I haven’t been on Batur, but this January I got to experience watching a sunrise from Ijen (volcanoe on the nearby Java island; there are day tours from Bali). It was out of this world spectacular.
Hi,
Thanks for visit Bali and sharing all your tips and experience while you Bali especially Mt Batur Trekking. The picture is beautiful and one particular picture was a place I’d visit 🙂
You got nice stories and really had good times!