Ultimate Guide to Sunrise Trekking on Mount Batur, Bali

The Mount Batur hike in Bali is one of the most accessible and popular volcano trekking experiences you can have in Indonesia.

It’s not very hard to do the guided trek on a day trip from any part of the island, and you get to walk to the top of an active volcano with epic sunrise views, smoking heat vents, and wild monkeys.

I’ve hiked Batur many times over the years, and it’s always a memorable adventure in its own way. Trekking in the early morning is especially popular because you can catch amazing views of the sunrise from the top of the mountain, usually in a sea of orange clouds.

Mount Batur is currently open for hiking as of 2024. Back in 2023, there was some talk from the former Bali governor about banning tourists from hiking the mountain, but thankfully that hasn’t happened.

In this guide, I’ll explain how you can hike Mount Batur for sunrise or sunset, with or without a guide, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Quick Facts

• Distance: 3 – 5 kilometers (2-3 miles) return
• Elevation Gain: 500 meters (1,650 feet)
• Top Elevation: 1,717 meters (5,633 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 2 – 4 hours return

Best Mount Batur Tour Guide

If you’re looking for a vetted tour guide for the hike, here’s a top-rated Mount Batur sunrise trekking tour starting at 500k Rupiah ($32 USD), which includes optional hotel pickup and drop-off from places like Jimbaran, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Sanur, Kerobokan, and Canggu.

Additionally, they offer a highly-rated trek that includes a visit to the natural hot springs in Kintamani, with optional transfer from Ubud or Nusa Dua.

These prices are fairly similar to what is quoted on the ground in Bali, and the online reviews are overwhelmingly positive. The tour includes breakfast and trekking equipment like poles, torches, and drinking water.

Where Is Mount Batur?

The Mount Batur volcano is located in the Kintamani highlands, on the northeast part of Bali island.

It’s about a 1 hour drive to Mount Batur from Ubud, or 2 hours from Canggu, Kuta, Sanur, and Seminyak.

If you stay a night at a hotel directly in Kintamani, you can walk to the volcano from your hotel! That’s how we did our latest trek there.

About The Batur Volcano

Mount Batur is part of an active volcano believed to have formed in a massive eruption about 25,000 years ago.

Once (before it blew its top), Batur was apparently more than 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) tall — making it larger than Mount Agung, Bali’s current tallest volcano.

Almost two dozen eruptions have occurred at Gunung Batur since 1804, when records began, with its last eruption occurring from 1999 to 2000.

Despite its history, any signs of volcanic activity are constantly monitored by the Indonesian government, making Batur generally very safe to climb.

Since 2015, UNESCO has listed the Batur caldera as a global geopark due to its stunning volcanic landscapes.

Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking

• Starting The Mount Batur Hike

Mount Batur sunrise tours commence with a very early morning pickup around 2 AM. Your guide will drive you all the way to Kintamani for the hike to the top of the volcano in time for sunrise.

As this is a popular activity, you will likely be trekking alongside dozens (if not hundreds) of other tourists sharing the same path.

At the summit, you’ll cross the rim of the volcano, greeted by packs of Balinese monkeys eager to share your sunrise—and your snacks! Keep a close eye on them.

On our last hike, one monkey managed to steal our entire snack bag; by the time we got it back, he had looted the Pocari Sweat and drank it right in front of us. Nakal monyet.

• How Hard Is The Hike?

The hike up Mount Batur takes roughly 2 hours, depending on your fitness level. Though steep, the path is generally safe as long as you stay on it. If you’re feeling unsure about this hike, just do it!

While anyone can complete the trek, it’s not easy either. The climb can be quite the calf killer, and the descent may challenge your ankles.

This elevation gain means you’ll feel sore afterward. It’s advisable to indulge in a Balinese foot massage as a reward.

If you seek a more challenging volcano hike with fewer crowds, consider the Mount Agung hike nearby. However, that climb is considerably tougher than Batur.

• What Is The Hiking Distance?

The hiking distance varies based on where you start and end, but generally, it is about 3 to 5 kilometers (2 to 3 miles) roundtrip.

The distance figures cited by AllTrails and certain travel blogs are inaccurate for this hike, often overstating it at 9.3 kilometers (5.8 miles). That distance applies only if you completely circle both volcano craters and start from the bottom road in Toya Bungkah village, which almost no one does.

In reality, the trek is much shorter and more manageable, so be cautious of inflated figures you may encounter.

• Mount Batur Elevation Gain

The elevation gain of Mount Batur typically measures around 500 meters (1,650 feet), depending on your starting and ending points.

• Weather On Mount Batur

The weather on this mountain tends to be significantly cooler than other parts of Bali, though it’s never frigid. Overnight temperatures can fall below 10 °C (50 °F), with wind making it feel even colder.

A light jacket is essential for the top view point to stay warm while waiting for the sunrise. Beyond sunrise, the weather warms up, making it easy to shed the jacket on your descent.

However, if clouds or fog roll in, they might obscure your view of the sunrise. Unfortunately, it happens from time to time.

Ultimately, despite your extensive planning, there’s no foolproof way to predict the weather on this hike. You just have to give it a shot and hope for the best.

• Sunrise At Mount Batur

The sunrise at Mount Batur is truly a stunning sight. It is undoubtedly worth the trek.

To the right, you have Lake Batur and the peaks of Mount Abang, with the majestic Agung volcano just peeking above them.

Behind the sunrise lies the Bali Sea, and on clear days, one can even glimpse the shape of Mount Rinjani on Lombok island in the far distance!

• Breakfast At Mt Batur

Following the sunrise, breakfast awaits. Most tour guides include this as part of the trekking package, and you’ll certainly feel famished after climbing the mountain.

Since Mt Batur is an active volcano, you will find small heat vents at the top of the crater where guides usually let you cook eggs by placing them in the heat vents.

How unique is that! When else can you say you’ve cooked eggs using the heat from an active volcano?

What To Bring

• Jacket: An extra layer for the sunrise trek is advisable. You may shed it quickly as you warm up, but you’ll appreciate having it while waiting for the sunrise.
• Footwear: Regular shoes should suffice, but sturdy hiking shoes are preferable. Hiking sandals are an option, but I wouldn’t recommend flip flops due to slippery gravel and steep inclines.
• Poncho: If you’re trekking during the rainy season (especially December to February), consider packing a rain jacket just in case.
• Water: Most tours provide a small bottle of water for the hike, but bringing 1 or 1.5 liters per person is ideal.
• Snacks: While most tours include breakfast, energy snacks are also beneficial for the trek.
• Headlight: Most sunrise trekking tours supply cheap flashlights, but a quality headlight is advantageous.
• Camera: Essential for capturing the breathtaking views. A small tripod can also be useful since it’ll be dark before sunrise.

When To Go

You can hike Batur any time of year, but the best months are April to November, when there’s less rain and improved visibility. June through September tend to be especially dry and offer the best chances for spectacular sunrises.

Hiking during the rainy season is still feasible, particularly in milder months like March when tourist crowds are thinner. Just be sure to wear good shoes and bring a poncho in case of rain.

Deaths & Safety At Mount Batur

Although accidents and fatalities are rare at Mount Batur, there have been two confirmed cases: a 25-year-old Swedish tourist who fell into the crater and died in 2010, and a 70-year-old American who fell to his death in 2022.

Despite hundreds of tourists hiking for sunrise every day, these remain the only recorded fatalities.

The path is generally safe, but please keep away from steep edges. The drop-offs can be easily avoided if you remain vigilant.

Always carry a light for hiking in dim conditions, and guides provide this equipment. Avoid taking selfies or photos near steep cliffs!

By adhering to these guidelines, the Mount Batur hike can be very safe, even for children. I have friends who’ve taken their kids without any issues.

Tour Guide / Mafia Requirement At Mount Batur

Despite the simplicity of the hike, Mount Batur is managed by a local trekking group (often referred to as mafia) that mandates hiring a local guide for climbing.

Your past climbing experiences do not exempt you; you will be required to hire a local guide and pay the associated fees for the Mount Batur sunrise trek.

Individuals attempting to climb without a guide have reported verbal abuse from locals and even threats of physical violence. Hopefully, the Bali government will address this issue.

While I strongly disapprove of rewarding such behavior, it is important to understand this is often driven by poverty. Kintamani is a disadvantaged area of Bali. However, there are additional advantages to hiring a guide:

• Transport: Why navigate a foreign country at 2 AM? It’s wiser to pay someone else to drive.
• Navigation: While the path is clear in daylight, it can be tricky in the dark pre-sunrise.
• Assistance: Guides will help you climb and capture those sunrise photos.
• Supplies: Most tours provide essential items such as breakfast, bottled water, and flashlights.
• Peace of Mind: Is saving $40-$50 really worth the hassle during your vacation?

How To Hike Mount Batur Without A Guide — Directions

If you’re determined to hike Mount Batur without a tour guide, the best approach is via the north side of the mountain.

This trail is quieter, typically used by enthusiasts starting directly from Kintamani village (locals and overnight trekkers) heading for sunrise.

This side was not monitored when we visited, but that might change. My recommendation is to navigate to Red Lava Campground and then hike up the slope.

The way to the top of Mt. Batur is fairly easy to follow without a guide, even in the dark—just follow the elevation. You’ll find numerous trails converging at the summit. The main challenge will be locating the start, so allot extra time for that.

Afternoon Trekking At Batur

If an early start for the sunrise doesn’t suit you, afternoon trekking at Mount Batur is another option.

While you won’t experience the same stunning sunrise at the viewpoint, afternoon hikes help you avoid the crowds.

However, fog may obscure your views, and these times are generally less popular for hiking this volcano.

Sunset Trekking At Batur

If you dislike early starts and wish to spend an extra night in Kintamani, sunset trekking at Mount Batur is also possible.

While the sunset is not as dramatic as the sunrise since Mount Abang isn’t in the background, you’re likely to enjoy some exceptional views nonetheless.

Moreover, for a unique experience, consider a 2-day Mount Batur trek to witness both the sunrise and sunset!

Where To Stay

There are many great budget-friendly hotels in Kintamani if you prefer to stay overnight before your sunrise trek.

The main advantage of staying in Kintamani is that you can enjoy easier access to Mount Batur, allowing you to wake up later for your hike. Starting at 4 AM is certainly better than waking up at 1 or 2 AM if you’re coming from other parts of Bali like Ubud, Kuta, or Sanur.

Staying in Kintamani also allows you to explore other interesting attractions, such as the natural hot springs at Lake Batur or local villages and temples.

Hotels In Kintamani

Kintamani Hot Spring

Due to Mount Batur being an active volcano, there’s also a nearby hot spring named Toya Devasya.

The facilities may not be extravagant, but the hot spring offers a stunning view of Lake Batur and the surrounding mountains, creating an almost infinity pool effect.

Many Mount Batur tours incorporate this hot spring into their itinerary, presenting an excellent opportunity for relaxation after a vigorous hike!

Is Mount Batur Worth It?

The most important question to consider is whether Mount Batur is worth the effort. Yes, absolutely!

Besides the uniqueness of hiking on an active volcano, the experience includes steaming heat vents and playful monkeys, culminating in one of the most awe-inspiring sunrise views in Bali, Indonesia. Despite my general aversion to early mornings, this trek truly encompasses that worthiness!

While you generally won’t witness flowing red hot lava, the southwestern slope of the volcano features a field of ancient black lava rock suitable for dirt biking and other fun activities. Overall, Mount Batur is undoubtedly a worthwhile venture while visiting Bali!

Is Mount Batur Open / Closed?

As of 2024, Mount Batur remains accessible to tourists and hikers! There are currently no plans to close it, and I will ensure to provide updates if there are any changes.

Previously, in May 2023, the former governor of Bali unsuccessfully threatened to close all 22 mountains on the island to hikers due to isolated incidents of tourist misconduct. Thankfully, significant opposition arose, and no new legislation has been issued thus far.

The mountain is rarely closed to the public, generally only occurring temporarily if unusual volcanic activity or safety concerns arise. As it stands, it is still open.

Happy travels!