Your Guide to Hiking in Bali: 10 Best Bali Hikes

Bali might be famous for its beaches and temples, but if you love the outdoors, the island’s hiking trails are just as epic. 

From sunrise treks up volcanoes to jungle trails leading to hidden waterfalls, there’s plenty to explore. The hikes here aren’t always easy – steep climbs, unmarked paths, and Bali’s heat will test you – but the views are worth every drop of sweat. 

Whether you’re after adventure or just want to escape the crowds, hiking in Bali is a must-do.

Can You Go Hiking in Bali?

Yes, you can absolutely go hiking in Bali! 

While the island is famous for its beaches and surf, it’s also home to lush jungles, towering volcanoes, and scenic rice terraces perfect for exploring on foot. 

Whether you want to climb Mount Batur for a stunning sunrise, trek through the waterfalls of Munduk, or wander the green hills of Sidemen, there’s something for every level of hiker. 

Some trails are easy to access, while others, like Mount Agung, require a guide and a bit of stamina. 

So, if you love adventure, don’t forget your hiking boots – Bali has more to offer than just sand and sea.

10 Best Hikes in Bali

Keen to get out and explore Bali’s trails? Here are ten of the best.

Mount Batur

• Distance: 7 km (4.4 miles) round trip
• Duration: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best for: Epic sunrise views

Mount Batur is Bali’s most famous trek, and for good reason. The sunrise from the summit is legendary. 

You’ll start hiking in the dark (usually around 3 am) with a headlamp, climbing steadily for about two hours until you reach the top. It’s cold up there, so bring a warm jacket.

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the caldera lake, Mount Agung, and even Mount Rinjani on Lombok. 

After taking in the scenery, you’ll walk along the crater rim, passing volcanic steam vents before sliding down the gravelly slope on your way back. Most people do this hike with a guide, but if you’re experienced, you can tackle it solo.

How to get there: Stay in Toya Bungkah village near Lake Batur the night before. Most people book a sunrise trek from Ubud, which includes transport and a guide.

Check out our detailed guide on hiking Mount Batur for all the info.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

• Distance: 3.5 km (2.2 miles)
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Best for: A relaxing morning walk

This isn’t a hardcore hike, but it’s a must-do if you’re in Ubud. 

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a scenic path that winds through rolling green hills and rice fields. It’s super easy and a great way to stretch your legs, especially if you’ve been hopping between Bali’s cafes all week.

Start early to avoid the heat and the crowds. If you go around sunrise, you’ll only have to dodge the occasional influencer setting up their perfect Instagram shot.

How to get there: The trail starts near the Gunung Lebah Temple in Ubud. Just follow the path up the hill, and you’re on your way.

Mount Agung

• Distance: 14.6 km (9.1 miles)
• Duration: 8–10 hours
• Difficulty: Hard
• Best for: Hardcore adventurers

Mount Agung is Bali’s highest and toughest hike. You’ll be climbing steep, uneven terrain in the pitch dark, starting around 2:30 am to make it to the summit for sunrise. It’s exhausting but totally worth it for the bragging rights alone.

If you attempt it, make sure you go with an experienced guide who offers transport.

How to get there: Most people start from the Pasar Agung Temple trail, which is shorter and slightly easier than the other route. You can stay in the nearby villages of Selat or Besakih before your trek.

We’ve got a complete guide to hiking Mount Agung that shares all the details you need to know about reaching this awesome summit.

Twin Lakes Hike

• Distance: 2–6 hours (depending on route)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best for: Jungle vibes and lake views

This hike takes you through lush jungle, past Hindu temples, and along the edges of two stunning lakes – Buyan and Tamblingan. 

The trail starts at Tamblingan Lake Temple and follows the shore. If you’re up for it, you can keep going around Lake Buyan, eventually reaching a scenic camping spot.

A unique part of this hike? You might get to cross the lake in a traditional canoe, which adds to the adventure. 

Some say you need a guide, but others have done it solo – just be prepared for locals trying to sell tours along the way.

How to get there: About 1.5 hours north of Ubud. Stay in Bedugul or Munduk for easy access.

Lempuyang Temple Hike

• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Duration: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best for: Temple lovers and stair climbers

You’ve probably seen those famous “floating” temple gate photos from Bali. Spoiler: the reflection effect is a camera trick. But beyond the crowds taking Insta shots, there’s actually an amazing hike!

The trail takes you past multiple temples and through misty jungle before reaching the summit. 

It’s mostly stairs, so get ready to feel the burn. You’ll need to wear a sarong (required for temple visits), but don’t worry – it won’t get in the way of hiking.

How to get there: A 45-minute drive from Amed. The hike starts at the famous Lempuyang Temple.

Mount Catur

• Distance: 8 km (4.9 miles)
• Duration: 7 hours
• Difficulty: Hard
• Best for: Jungle hiking with a view

Mount Catur is next to Beratan Lake, home to Bali’s iconic Ulun Danu Temple. 

The trail follows a steep jungle ridge up to the summit. Start early to avoid getting stuck in clouds – if they roll in, you won’t see much from the top.

This is a tough hike with some scrambling sections, so be ready for a challenge. But if you’re fit and travel light, it’s doable.

How to get there: Stay in Bedugul. The trail starts from the eastern side of the lake – search for “Gunung Pucak Mangu” on Maps.me.

Red Coral Waterfall Trail (Munduk Waterfall Trek)

• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Best for: Chasing waterfalls

Munduk is Bali’s best spot for waterfall hikes, and this trail takes you past some of the most beautiful ones. 

It connects Laangan Melanting Waterfall and Munduk Waterfall, with plenty of chances to cool off in the pools along the way.

Bring a swimsuit – you’ll want to take a dip.

How to get there: Stay in Munduk village. The trail starts near Ekommunity hostel, which has awesome jungle views.

West Bali National Park – Gunung Klatakan Trail

• Duration: 8 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best for: Off-the-beaten-path jungle trekking

West Bali National Park is one of the island’s least-visited spots, making it perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. 

The Gunung Klatakan Trail is the best option for hikers – it’s a full-day trek through dense jungle, leading up to Mount Klatakan.

Since you’re required to have a guide, you won’t get lost. But expect to haggle over the price.

How to get there: It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Lovina or a 4-hour drive from Canggu. Most people stay in Pemuteran or Gilimanuk.

Mount Abang

• Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
• Duration: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Hard
• Best for: Epic views of Mount Batur

Mount Abang sits across from Mount Batur, offering unbeatable views over Lake Batur. It’s a super steep climb, but totally worth it. 

If you camp at the top, you’ll get an incredible sunrise – and on a clear day, you can even see Mount Rinjani on Lombok.

How to get there: About an hour’s drive from Ubud. There’s an entrance fee of 150,000 IDR, so bring cash.

Mount Batukaru

• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Duration: 9 hours
• Difficulty: Hard
• Best for: Hardcore jungle hikers

Mount Batukaru is Bali’s second-highest peak and one of its least-visited trails. The climb is brutally steep, but the summit views are worth it. You’ll also pass Luhur Batukaru Temple at the start, a stunning Hindu temple in the jungle.

How to get there: The trail starts from either Luhur Batukaru Temple or Luhur Bhujangga Waisnawa Temple. The second option is quieter if you want to avoid pushy guides.

Check out our guide to hiking Mount Batukaru for all the details.

Hiking in Bali: Tips and Considerations

As Bali’s not known for being a hiking destination, it’s important to arrive prepared for your adventures. Here are some important tips and considerations to remember when hiking in Bali.

Which Regions of Bali are Best for Hiking?

Bali has some epic hiking spots, but the best region for you depends on what kind of adventure you’re after. 

If you want dramatic volcano views, head to the northeast, where Mount Batur and Mount Agung dominate the landscape. These hikes are famous for their sunrise treks, offering mind-blowing views from the summit.

For jungle and waterfall hikes, central Bali is your best bet. 

The Munduk and Bedugul regions are packed with lush forests, hidden waterfalls, and less touristy trails. If you’re into wildlife and coastal hikes, West Bali National Park has some great trails where you might spot deer, monkeys, or even the rare Bali Starling.

The bottom line? Volcano lovers should go north, waterfall chasers should head inland, and wildlife seekers should explore the west.

When is the Best Time to Go Hiking in Bali?

The best time to hike in Bali is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The weather is mostly sunny, the trails are dry, and the views are crystal clear.

Avoid hiking from November to March, unless you love trekking through mud and dodging tropical downpours. The rainy season makes trails slippery and dangerous, and if you’re climbing a volcano, there’s a good chance you’ll be stuck in thick clouds with zero views at the top.

If you’re doing a sunrise trek, prepare for chilly mornings – yes, Bali can get cold at higher elevations.

What Gear Do You Need for Hiking in Bali?

You don’t need fancy hiking gear for most Bali trails, but a few essentials will make a big difference:

• Good shoes – Flip-flops won’t cut it. Lightweight hiking shoes or good trainers are a must.
• Water – Lots of it. There’s nowhere to refill on the trails.
• Sun protection – The Bali sun is no joke. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Rain jacket – If you’re hiking outside the dry season, expect sudden rain.
• Headlamp – If you’re doing a sunrise trek, you’ll start in the dark.
• Cash – Many trails have entrance fees, usually around 100,000-150,000 IDR ($6-10 USD).
• A travel map app – Trails aren’t well-marked. Apps like Maps.me or AllTrails are lifesavers.
• If you’re camping, you’ll need a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking gear. You can rent camping equipment in Bali, but it’s best to ask around in expat groups for recommendations.

Are Bali Hiking Guides Necessary?

This is a grey area. Technically, you don’t need a guide for most hikes, but in practice, you’ll often be pressured into hiring one – especially at popular spots like Mount Batur.

Hiring a guide is a good idea if:

• You’re inexperienced or unfamiliar with unmarked trails.
• You’re hiking in places like West Bali National Park, where a guide can point out wildlife.
• You want to do an overnight trek and need gear.
• Guides aren’t expensive – Mount Batur guides cost around 100,000 IDR ($6 USD) per person. If you really want to hike solo, try to blend in with a local group or head to lesser-known trails where no one will hassle you.

Local Tips for Hiking in Bali

• Respect sacred sites. Many mountains have temples and altars at the summit. Don’t camp or leave trash near them.
• Don’t rely on trail signs. Most trails aren’t marked, so stay on well-worn paths and use offline maps.
• Start early. Not just for sunrise hikes – Bali gets insanely hot by midday.
• Prepare for steep climbs. Many Bali hikes are short but steep—you’ll be sweating buckets.
• Speaking a little Indonesian helps. If you can chat with local rangers in Bahasa Indonesia, you might get discounts on entrance fees.
• Scooters are your best friend. Bali’s public transport won’t take you to hiking spots. Rent a scooter for easy access.

Beyond Bali: Hiking in Indonesia

Bali is amazing for hiking, but Indonesia has way more to offer if you’re up for an adventure. 

Just next door on Lombok, Mount Rinjani is an epic volcano trek with jaw-dropping crater lake views. It’s a tough multi-day hike, but totally worth it. 

Over on Java, you can hike Mount Bromo for surreal, otherworldly landscapes or tackle Mount Semeru, the island’s highest peak. 

Sumatra has wild jungle treks where you might spot orangutans, and if you’re feeling really hardcore, Papua’s Carstensz Pyramid is one of the most challenging climbs in Southeast Asia. 

If you love hiking, Indonesia is an absolute paradise beyond just Bali.

Wrapping Up

Hiking in Bali is an adventure you won’t forget. Whether you’re climbing volcanoes, trekking through rainforests, or chasing waterfalls, the island has something for every explorer. 

Just come prepared – bring the right gear, watch the weather, and don’t underestimate the trails. 

A good guide can make a huge difference, but solo trekking is possible too. Most importantly, soak in the views, respect local culture, and enjoy the wild side of Bali. Now, go hit those trails!