I’ve dreamed of visiting Bali for as long as I can remember. The lush beauty, the spirituality, the overall good vibes – Bali is truly an Asian gem. When I had the opportunity to visit Bali through a yoga retreat with my local yoga studio, I knew I had to jump on it! Our itinerary was set and I was so looking forward to strengthening my yoga practice while exploring the beauty of Bali.
One item that really stood out to me on our itinerary was a ‘Sunrise Trek up Mount Batur’. Of course, I was intrigued and mighty curious about this one of a kind trek. Was I thrilled about waking up in the middle of the night to hike? Not in the slightest but I knew this would be a wonderful memory for my travel logs. My mission was to be fully prepared for this adventure but, when I tried to research information on the Mount Batur trek, there was very little to go by. There was either information making the trek sound like a piece of cake or a strenuous nightmare. But, not to fear! My goal is to give you all of the detailed information you need to not only be prepared to hike but make this an experience you’ll never forget!
Your Guide to Trekking Mount Batur
First off, you’re probably wondering what the heck a Mount Batur is and why it’s such a big deal. Mount Batur is an active volcano staying at 1,717 meters tall and located in the Kintamani region in Bali. It’s become quite popular for trekking as there are uninterrupted views of the sunrise (and many monkeys!) to experience at the top. It’s a trek like no other and one I think everyone needs to experience in their lifetime! If you’re curious, read on for my tips for a successful trek:
1. Be prepared to wake up early, like really early. The trek will promptly start at the base of the volcano at 3am. Yup, you read correctly! With that said, make sure you’re getting a descent amount of sleep the night before. Depending on where you’re staying, this could mean waking up at 1-2am. I recommend packing any belongings the night before so you’re ready to go in the morning! A typical backpack with water, light snacks, and any additional layers you want to bring with you will do for this trek. This is also your chance to use the restroom one last time before you start trekking because you won’t find any along the way!;
2. Once at the base, you’ll be greeted by two local guides (our guides Putu and Wayan were AHmazing!) who will offer you flashlights and a bottle of water. There is also a small shop to purchase snacks or rent a jacket. The flashlights that are provided aren’t in the greatest shape so I would recommend bringing your own. You can even wear a headlight if you wish to free your hands (although not required);
3. Now that you’re all set to go with flashlights in tow, you’ll make your way on the trail with your guides (one in front of your group and one behind). Remember, it is pitch black! You’ll be using your flash light as soon as you make your way through the trail. At the start, the trail is paved as you make your way through a small local community. You’ll see (with your flash light of course!) lush crops of fruits and vegetables and may hear a crow or two from the local roosters!;
4. As I mentioned above, the trail itself starts off paved. From the paved trail you will eventually veer off onto a dirt path which will lead you up the volcano. The trail itself is mostly dirt and rock with a gradual incline. My favorite part is the gradual incline 🙂 Not so favorite part, the switch backs. There are quite a few that you will notice closer to the top, where the rocks can get quite large but, it’s nothing super strenuous by any means;
5. There are plenty of places to stop for breaks along the way. Your wonderful guides will have you take breaks at certain parts of the trek and remind you to drink water along the way. Again, no restrooms on the trail! One thing to point out is, due to the popularity of this trek, the trail is super busy. There is never a point in the trail where there isn’t someone either in front or behind you trekking up single file. With that said, everyone is very respectful of one another’s space;
6. About 2 hours later, you’ll find yourself at the top where you’ll be just in time to see the sun slowly peeking through the clouds. There are plenty of places to sit and admire the true beauty of the sunrise and plenty of Instagram worthy opportunities! Now is the time to sit, relax, and admire the gorgeous view! While doing so, your awesome guides will be busy making you breakfast. The breakfast isn’t much – tea, a white sliced bread sandwich filled with sliced banana, and hard boiled eggs cooked with volcanic steam;
7. Once you’ve managed to snap all the photos of this picturesque glory, you’ll start to make your way back down the volcano – but not without making friends with a monkey or two! There are a TON of monkeys at the top and you’ll notice more as you make your way back down. They are completely harmless (so long as you are not holding on to any food or drink!) and may even jump on you if they are tantalized by something you’re carrying. One little guy decided to jump on my leg briefly but truly did no harm and was just being his super cute and playful self!;
8. Making your way down the mountain may seem easier but it tends to be rockier, and the slippery. Again, your awesome guys will be there offering you a helping hand as you try not to slip on your butt!
I truly hope you will one day experience this unique, inspiring, and unforgettable trek!
Have you trekked Mount Batur? Let me know your experience in the comment section below!
