Mt. Batur (Gunung Batur)

The basics

If this volcano is on your bucket list, the best thing you can do is sign up for an early-morning trek to the summit. Most Mt. Batur (Gunung Batur) tours depart from Ubud at 2am or 3am and arrive at the base of the volcano before sunrise. 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 views of Mt. Agung and the surrounding mountains.

Since Mt. Batur is an active volcano with black lava fields, you’ll likely also get to experience a very unique breakfast. Think: eggs boiled on the heated rocks. After you’ve made the trip, soothe your sore muscles in the volcano’s crater lake, Lake Batur (Danau Batur). Its natural hot springs are a destination in themself. It’s also possible to combine your Mt. Batur sunrise trek with whitewater rafting on the Ayung River or a coffee plantation visit.

Things to know before you go

• Reaching the top of Mount Batur volcano is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.

• Dress in layers, especially if you’re doing Mount Batur sunrise trekking; 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.

How to get there

While it’s possible to climb Mt. Batur without a guide, it’s much more convenient (and safe) to visit as part of a guided group tour or private 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.

When to get there

It’s important to inquire about current activity before making the trek because Mt. Batur is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. For the best chance of clear skies, breathtaking views, and dry weather, plan to visit between April and October. July and August tend to be busiest on the trails.

Who can make the climb

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.

Ways to explore

To comply with local regulations, you must hike Mt. Batur with a guide. Most Mt. Batur tours leave in the wee hours to arrive at the base of the volcano well before sunrise. Trekkers then make the 2-hour summit hike using headlamps and typically eat a breakfast of eggs and bananas. Many tours include a stop at the natural hot springs near Lake Batur (Danau Batur) to soothe tired muscles, and some visit a coffee plantation. Other options for exploring Mt. Batur include sunrise Jeep tours, downhill cycling tours, and daytime, sunset, and camping treks.

Accessibility

Mt. Batur is not wheelchair accessible, and the hike requires moderate fitness.

Age limits

The early start and uphill scramble will challenge young children.

What to pack

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle, plus swimwear if you’re visiting hot springs; while temperatures are low on the sunrise climb up, the sun can burn on the way down.

What to wear

Layers are a must on the sunrise trek, with comfortable, closed-toe, grippy shoes essential at any time of day.

Not allowed

Local regulations require you to hike with a guide, and they are enforced at sunrise.

Address 

The main starting points for the Mt. Batur trek are near the village of Toya Bungkah, about a 24-mile (39-kilometer) drive north of Ubud.

Driving

Driving in Bali is challenging and dangerous for visitors, especially when it's dark. A tour is a smarter option than self-driving, or you can overnight in Toya Bungkah to minimize night driving.

Public transportation

There’s no easy way to reach Mt. Batur by public transport. Take a tour.

Best times to visit

Sunrise is the most popular time to climb Mt. Batur, but you can enjoy a less crowded experience climbing at other times of day.

Best days to visit

Check the weather forecast before committing to a sunrise hike, as the views generally disappear on overcast days.

Best months to visit

For the best chance of sweeping views, clear skies, and dry weather, plan to visit between May and October. July and August tend to be the busiest on the trails.

Special events

Trail runners and ultra runners can experience the mountain area on the BTR Ultra running event each May.