Mt Batur is highly recommended for beginner hikers, people with an average fitness level, and those who don't mind putting in the effort for an epic sunrise.
What you need to bring/wear for the hike:
- Water (500ml to 1L, depending on how thirsty you normally get)
- Snacks. It's not compulsory if you eat breakfast before starting the climb.
- Windbreaker. This is EXTREMELY important because the climb starts early and it's very windy and cold at the summit.
- 3/4 tights/pants at least. It's both to keep you warm at the summit and to prevent you from getting cuts and scratches in case you slip or go too close to the plants.
- Hiking shoes/boots. These are not super necessary because I saw people climb in nike trainers, but if you want a comfortable hike without feeling like you're slipping on loose rocks or sand, I recommend shoes with better traction.
You should book a tour with one of the local guide companies there. I did mine with Bali Sunrise Tours. They're very experienced and they conduct hikes every morning. They cost about 60k rupiah per person. My guide was called Adi and he's extremely familiar with the hike and knows which paths to take. He also fits the comfort speed of the group so that everyone is able to manage. A plus is that when you reach the top, he knows the angles and poses for you to get that insta-worthy moment with the sunrise.
What is included in the tour package:
- 2-way transport from your accommodation (if you're staying in Ubud like me, they leave at 2.30am).
- One 500ml bottled water
- Flashlight
- Breakfast of one banana jaffle, 2 hot spring boiled eggs, an orange and a banana
So, the path up Mt Batur starts with a very gentle slope, till you reach the first major pitstop about 1/4 the way up. Then there is fork - the path on the right is shorter but steeper and the path on the left is longer but gentler. Most people would choose the path on the right going up because it's faster and there are less motorcycles to contest with. It's mainly sandy ground with some rocks, so use the rocks to anchor yourself. If you're wearing hiking shoes or boots, then it will be easier because this is what your shoes and boots are made for! About the last 1/3 of the hike to the summit, it starts to get rocky. You'll need to find the path that's more manageable because it's basically large rocks all the way. However, one good thing is that many people do the hike so you're never alone and also, this path is very well-walked, which is why it's manageable for beginner hikers. Trust me, the view is worth it.
I was extremely fortunate to be able to see the sunrise on such a clear day because it rained the night before. Despite shivering in the cold, I witnessed by far the most epic sunrise I've ever seen. The hues of pink, purple and coral all blended together, then transiting to a fiery red and finally seeing the yolk rising at the end to conclude that spectacular display of colours is definitely well worth any form of climb. Do a time lapse if possible! And take many pictures, or just soak in the beauty of it all.
It was such a pleasant experience, but make sure you book with the right people who know what they're doing. It's not worth it to book something that's not as reputable just because it's cheaper.
I'll definitely be back for more hikes!
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| With our guide, Adi! |
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| At the summit of Mt Batur |
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| On the way down |
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| With Mt Batur as the background |
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