Bali is often celebrated for its pristine beaches and vibrant cultural scene, but beyond the surf and temples, the island hides some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in Southeast Asia. From volcanic peaks with sweeping sunrise views to lush rice terraces and dense jungles teeming with wildlife, Bali’s landscapes offer something for every type of adventurer. Whether you prefer a challenging summit trek or a leisurely nature walk, the island’s diverse terrain makes it a rewarding destination for hikers of all levels.
If you’re planning a hiking trip to Bali, this guide will take you through seven of the island’s most scenic trails, complete with essential preparation tips, trail highlights, and insights into what makes each trek special.
Bali Hiking Trails You Must Try
Bali’s landscapes are as diverse as they are stunning, ranging from volcanic summits to rainforest-covered hills and iconic rice terraces. Here’s a closer look at the best hiking trails in Bali, including key details like location, difficulty level, and tips for making the most of your trek.
1. Mount Batur
Adventure lovers and hiking enthusiasts must try to trek Mount Batur at least once, as it is not only the most popular hiking trail in Bali but also the most recommended among locals. This active volcano offers a chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking natural scenery while providing a refreshing escape from daily stress. Considered a must-do for every visitor, the trek is famous for its relatively short ascent yet rewarding panoramic views, making it suitable for most hikers.
Mount Batur climb is particularly best to do at sunrise, though it does mean waking up in the early hours. However, the reward of watching the sky transform into vibrant hues of orange and pink is well worth the effort. Though the hike isn’t overly difficult, the steep volcanic slopes and loose gravel demand good footing and moderate fitness. For this, a local guide is recommended, not only for safety but also for navigating the best routes efficiently.
Standing at 1,717 meters above sea level, the trek takes around 2-3 hours to complete. Along the way, hikers can pass through ancient lava fields and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Batur and the surrounding caldera, making this an experience no adventurer shouldn’t miss.
- Location: Penelokan Main Rd, Central Batur, Kintamani, Bangli Regency, Bali 80362
- Opening Hours: 24/7 (Guided hikes start around 2 AM)
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (April to October); sunrise hikes are the most popular
- Entrance Fee: IDR 100,000 ($6.50) + Guide Fees
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Duration & Distance: 2-3 hours (5.5 km round trip)
- Elevation Gain: ~1,717 meters above sea level
- Amenities: Small warungs at the summit selling coffee, snacks, and boiled eggs cooked in volcanic steam
2. Mount Agung Trek
Arguably the most challenging hiking trail in Bali, Mount Agung—known locally as Gunung Agung, meaning “Great Mountain” or “Great Volcano”—is not just a towering natural landmark but also the spiritual heart of the island. According to Balinese folklore, it is believed to be the “navel of the world”, a sacred place where the gods reside. Because of this belief, it is not uncommon to see locals making pilgrimages, burning incense, and offering prayers along the trail, reinforcing the deep cultural and religious importance of the mountain.
As a hiking trail, Mount Agung stands at 3,142 meters above sea level making it a true test of physical endurance and mental resilience. Unlike the shorter and more accessible Mount Batur trek, this climb is steeper, longer, and far more strenuous, requiring hikers to scramble over jagged rocks and navigate loose volcanic gravel. The ascent usually takes 6–8 hours, with most hikers starting at midnight to reach the summit for a breathtaking 360-degree sunrise view of Mount Batur, Lake Batur, the Lombok Strait, and even Mount Rinjani on clear days.
Due to its high altitude, temperatures near the summit can drop to 5–10°C (40–50°F) at night, so proper layering is essential. Hikers are also strongly advised to dress modestly and be respectful of the mountain’s sacred status, as it is deeply revered by the Balinese people. While this trek is reserved for experienced hikers, those who conquer Mount Agung’s peak are rewarded with one of Bali’s most awe-inspiring and spiritually enriching experiences. But remember: while the experience is deeply rewarding, the trek can be unpredictably demanding, and if it becomes more difficult than expected, remember that turning back is not a shame—safety comes first, and the mountain will always be there for another attempt!
- Location: Jalan Sukaluwih, Banjar Gentong, Tegalalang, Gianyar, Bali, 80561
- Opening Hours: 24/7 (Recommended to start at midnight for sunrise hikes)
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season; avoid rainy months due to landslides
- Entrance Fee: IDR 150,000 (~$10) + Guide Fees
- Difficulty Level: Very challenging
- Duration & Distance: 6-8 hours (14 km round trip)
- Elevation Gain: 3,031 meters above sea level
- Amenities: No shops; bring sufficient food, water, and warm clothing
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3. Campuhan Ridge Walk
For a scenic and peaceful walk, head to the Campuhan Ridge Walk, a picturesque trail that winds through Ubud’s lush valleys and rolling hills. This well-maintained pathway stretches for about 2 kilometers, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Bali’s tropical landscape.
The trail begins near the Gunung Lebah Temple, a historic site that adds a cultural touch to the journey. As you walk along the ridge, you’ll be surrounded by tall grasses swaying in the breeze, occasional glimpses of traditional Balinese homes, and the soothing sounds of nature. With no steep inclines or challenging terrain, this trail is accessible to all fitness levels, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Unlike Bali’s rugged mountain treks, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is more about relaxation and immersion in nature than a physically demanding hike. Many visitors choose to explore the trail at sunrise or sunset when the golden light enhances the beauty of the landscape and the air is cooler. Convenience-wise, you’ll find small cafés and warungs along the way where you can stop for a refreshing coconut or a cup of Balinese coffee while taking in the views.
- Location: Jalan Raya Ubud No.23, Sayan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Duration & Distance: 1-2 hours (4 km round trip)
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Amenities: Cafés and small warungs along the way
4. West Bali National Park Trail
As Bali’s only national park, West Bali National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat) remains one of the island’s best-kept secrets, often overlooked by visitors. Spanning 190 square kilometers, this vast conservation area is a haven for nature lovers, offering a diverse mix of rainforests, dry savannas, dense mangrove forests, acacia scrub, and lowland jungles. The park’s landscape is further defined by its extinct volcanoes, visible from nearly every corner of the region. Unlike Bali’s mountain treks, this hiking destination immerses visitors in ever-changing ecosystems, making every step an exploration of the island’s raw, untouched beauty.
There are six different trails to choose from, each catering to different levels of fitness and interests:
- Menjangan Island Loop (3.7 miles, ~1.3 hours, Easy): A leisurely trail on Menjangan Island, featuring pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling spots.
- Savana Hike (4.4 miles, ~1.5 hours, Moderate): A scenic trek through open grasslands and dry savanna, offering panoramic views of the park’s diverse terrain.
- West Bali Coastal Loop (11 miles, ~1 hour, Moderate): A longer yet relatively easy trail along the coastline, with opportunities to see mangroves and marine wildlife.
- Prapat Agung Beach Trail (7.2 miles, ~2.5 hours, Moderate): A coastal trek with stunning beachfront scenery, perfect for those who love ocean views and solitude.
- Pura Dhang Kahyangan Prapat Agung (9.2 miles, ~3 hours, Moderate): A cultural and nature-rich hike leading to a sacred temple nestled within the park’s diverse landscapes.
- Segara Rupek Temple Trail (14.7 miles, ~5 hours, Hard): The most challenging hike in the park, leading to a remote temple and offering breathtaking views along the way.
Along the way, hikers may spot rare wildlife, including the critically endangered Bali Starling, wild boars, deer, and long-tailed macaques. Guided hikes are recommended, as the park’s vastness and rich biodiversity make it easy to miss some of its hidden gems.
- Location: Buleleng, West Bali
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season
- Entrance Fee: IDR 200,000 ($12.25) on weekdays; IDR 300,000 ($18.50) on weekends
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Duration & Distance: 3-5 hours depending on the chosen trail
- Amenities: Guided treks available; limited food options, so bring snacks
5. Tegalalang Rice Terraces
For stunning panoramic views and an insight into Bali’s rich agricultural heritage, a visit to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces is essential. These famous terraced fields are a prime example of Bali’s ancient Subak irrigation system which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. Walking through the verdant fields, emerald green fields, visitors can immerse themselves in Bali’s traditional farming culture, capture picture-perfect in-act moments, or even try their hand at rice planting alongside local farmers.
A hike through Tegalalang’s UNESCO-listed rice terraces is a must for those who want a leisurely walk surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The narrow, winding pathways weave through cascading terraces, offering endless photo opportunities at every turn. For thrill-seekers, the famous jungle swings provide an exhilarating way to take in the sweeping views of the terraces below.
- Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting
- Entrance Fee: IDR 25,000 ($1.50)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
- Duration & Distance: 1-2 hours
- Amenities: Many cafés and warungs nearby
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6. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Aside from Tegalalang, if you’re looking for a leisurely walk through Bali’s iconic rice terraces without the crowds, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are the perfect alternative. Spanning 600 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest rice terrace in Bali and another stunning example of the island’s centuries-old Subak irrigation system. Yet unlike Tegalalang, which is often bustling with tourists, Jatiluwih offers a more serene and immersive experience, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the beauty of Bali’s lush agricultural landscapes.
So, why should this be on your itinerary? A hike through Jatiluwih’s vast, emerald-green fields takes 1–3 hours, depending on your chosen route. With scenic trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks, you can tailor your experience to your fitness level. Along the way, you’ll see local farmers tending to the fields, plowing the land, and practicing traditional rice farming methods that have been passed down for generations. And when you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the terraces, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Batukaru.
- Location: Jalan Jatiluwih Kawan, Desa Jatiluwih, Penebel, Tabanan Regency
- Entrance Fee: Fee is around IDR 50,000 ($3) per person for foreign visitors, while it is at around IDR 20,000 ($1.25) for locals.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
- Duration & Distance: 2-3 hours
- Amenities: Rest stops, cafés, and restaurants nearby
Pro Tip: The view is particularly stunning in the early morning or late afternoon, when the soft golden light bathes the terraces, making for picture-perfect scenery without the harsh midday heat.
7. Red Coral Waterfall Trail (Munduk Waterfall Trek)
It’s no surprise that some of Bali’s most breathtaking waterfalls require a bit of effort to reach, and Red Coral Waterfall in the Munduk region is no exception. This hidden gem is tucked away in a lush jungle setting, offering a peaceful escape from Bali’s more crowded tourist spots. The short but scenic hike to the falls takes you through dense tropical foliage, winding jungle paths, and serene landscapes, with the sound of cascading water guiding you to your destination.
The waterfall can be visited as a standalone hike, taking just 20 minutes, or as part of the Munduk Waterfall Trek, which connects multiple falls in the area. While the trek to the waterfall is relatively easy, the return journey is more challenging as it’s entirely uphill. Fortunately, the incline isn’t too steep, and the well-maintained concrete path makes it suitable for anyone with reasonable fitness and mobility. The trail is well-marked, but using Maps.me for offline navigation is recommended, as stable internet connection can be unreliable in the area.
- Location: Munduk, Banjar, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81152
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during the dry season
- Entrance Fee: IDR 20,000 (~$1.30)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Duration & Distance: 1-2 hours
- Amenities: Warungs and resting areas available
- Location: Munduk, North Bali
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during the dry season
- Entrance Fee: IDR 20,000 (~$1.30)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Duration & Distance: 1-2 hours
- Amenities: Warungs and resting areas available
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What to Know Before Your Bali Trek
Essential Preparations: Gear, Fitness, and Guide Considerations
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots are necessary for volcano treks, while lightweight trainers or sandals are fine for easier hikes like Campuhan Ridge.
- Clothing: Wear moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics and bring a light jacket for high-altitude hikes, as temperatures drop significantly on volcano summits.
- Hiking Poles: Recommended for steep treks like Mount Agung and Mount Batur, where the terrain can be rocky and unstable.
- Cameras: A lightweight DSLR, mirrorless camera, or action camera is ideal for capturing Bali’s stunning landscapes, but for longer treks, a smartphone with a quality camera may be more practical. A waterproof case is also recommended for jungle and waterfall hikes.
- Fitness Level: Some trails, like Tegalalang Rice Terraces, are easy and accessible for beginners, while others, like Mount Agung, require strong endurance and high fitness levels.
- Guided vs. Self-Guided: While trails like Campuhan Ridge and Jatiluwih can be explored independently, hikes like Mount Agung and West Bali National Park require experienced guides for navigation and safety.
Costs and Permits
- Entrance fees vary per trail (e.g., Mount Batur: IDR 100,000, West Bali National Park: IDR 200,000).
- Some hikes, like Mount Agung, require a mandatory guide, which can cost between IDR 500,000–1,000,000 ($30–$65).
- Always carry small cash for fees, as digital payments are rarely accepted in remote areas.
Safety Considerations & Environmental Responsibility
- Check weather forecasts before trekking, especially for volcanic hikes.
- Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or disturbing protected ecosystems.
- Carry enough water and snacks, as shops are often unavailable on longer hikes.
- Avoid single-use plastics and respect Bali’s environmental conservation efforts.
Tips for Hiking in Bali
Best Hiking Seasons
- Dry Season (April–October): Ideal for all hikes, with stable weather and clear views.
- Wet Season (November–March): Rice terraces are lush and green, but mountain and jungle hikes can be slippery and unsafe.
Staying Hydrated & Dealing with Bali’s Tropical Climate
- Bali’s humidity and heat can be intense, so carry at least 1.5–2 liters of water per hike.
- Start early (before 8 AM) or go in the late afternoon to avoid extreme heat.
- Protect yourself with sunscreen, a hat, and light breathable clothing.
Respecting Local Customs & Nature Conservation
- Dress modestly near temples and cultural sites along trails.
- Do not disturb offerings or sacred objects on hiking paths.
- Support eco-friendly tourism by disposing of trash properly and avoiding damage to flora and fauna.
By following these essential tips, you’ll ensure a safe, respectful, and unforgettable hiking experience in Bali.
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FAQ
Campuhan Ridge Walk and Tegalalang Rice Terrace Walk are ideal for beginners as they are easy, scenic, and require minimal effort. These trails offer breathtaking views without steep inclines or technical challenges.
For challenging hikes like Mount Agung and Mount Batur, hiring a guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation. Easier trails like Campuhan Ridge and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces can be done independently.
Mount Batur is the most popular sunrise trek, offering panoramic views of Lake Batur and the surrounding mountains. The early morning ascent is challenging but rewarding with a stunning sunrise above the clouds.
Bali’s trails are generally safe, with only occasional encounters with monkeys, small snakes, and insects. While most animals avoid humans, it’s best to avoid feeding wildlife and be cautious in dense jungle areas.
Camping is not common in Bali, but some areas, like West Bali National Park, allow overnight stays with permission. For mountain treks, most hikers opt for guided sunrise hikes instead of camping.
Experience Bali’s Most Breathtaking Hikes!
Bali’s hiking trails offer a perfect balance of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion, making them a must for any traveler. From summiting volcanic peaks for a breathtaking sunrise to strolling through lush rice terraces and hidden waterfalls, each trek showcases a different side of the island’s beauty. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for a scenic walk, Bali has something to offer.
Beyond the stunning landscapes, hiking in Bali provides a deeper connection to the island’s traditions, passing through sacred temples, rural villages, and conservation areas. With proper preparation, respect for local customs, and an adventurous spirit, your trekking experience will be both rewarding and unforgettable. So, lace up your hiking boots and set out to explore Bali’s trails—where every step leads to new discoveries.
