To best appreciate the Mount Batur experience, sign up for an early-morning trek to the summit. Such excursions typically depart from Ubud at 2am or 3am and arrive at the base of the volcano while it’s still dark. Trekkers then make the 2-hour journey to the top of the volcano using headlamps and the light of the moon, an effort rewarded with amazing sunrise views of Mt. Agung and the surrounding mountains. Since Mt. Batur is an active volcano, you’ll likely also get to experience a very unique breakfast of eggs boiled on the lava-heated rocks. After you’ve made the trip, nearby Lake Batur offers hot springs perfect for relaxing tired muscles. It’s also possible to combine your Mt. Batur sunrise trek with whitewater rafting on the Ayung River or a coffee plantation tour.
Climbing Mt. Batur volcano is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
Dress in layers; it’s chilly before sunrise but will warm up significantly once the sun comes up.
Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for the trek down.
While it’s possible to climb Mt. Batur without a tour guide, it’s much more convenient (and safe) to visit as part of a guided tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Ubud, as well as breakfast at the top. The starting point for the hike is usually the village of Toya Bungkah, about an hour by bus from Ubud.
Since Mt. Batur remains one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, it’s important to inquire about current activity before making the trek. For the best chance of clear skies and dry weather, plan to visit between April and October. July and August tend to be busiest on the trails.
It takes about two hours to make the ascent to the top of Mt. Batur, and the hike is almost entirely uphill over jagged volcanic rocks. It’s a moderately difficult hike suitable for those with at least an average fitness level.
