climbing mount batur for sunrise
Mount Batur is an active volcano located in the northern part of Bali. It stands at an elevation of about 1,717 meters (5,633 feet) above sea level and is renowned for its sunrise trek and panoramic views. If you want to climb it, be prepared to wake up at dawn and start walking around 3:30am.
Where to sleep before climbing mount Batur?
It is better to stay close to the starting point. Mount Batur area has a lot of charming, super cozy cottages type of accommodation.
I recommend you stay at Batur Cottage, which is owned by a very welcoming woman. She will always make sure you have everything you need. The beds are really comfortable and breakfast is copious (as you’ll have breakfast on top of the mountain cooked by your guide + another one when you are back at the hotel). She organized my ascent and I paid 400.000 IDR (car + guide + headlamp + breakfast at the top + bottle of water)
Getting around Batur - In general in Northern Bali, Gojek and Grabs are illegal so do not expect to find any scooters. Cars are sometimes available but favor taking a normal taxi and bargain the price a little, or rent your own scooter (100.000 IDR/day).
Where to eat in Batur - I personally think that the food in that area is not the best. Very expensive for local food and many places close very early. I recommend going to Pondok Bali Cottage’s restaurant where the food is tasty. If you want a nice atmosphere but with average food, you can go to Oculus restaurant.
preparing to climb mount batur
You will need to find a guide that will accompany you during the ascension. Their are many tour companies that organise it OR (and often), you can ask your hostel/hotel to organise it for you.
- Difficulty - This is not an easy climb. Being in good physical condition is necessary.
The price will depend on how far your accommodation is from the starting point
You will start walking at around 3:30 am, the ascent lasts approximately 2 hours depending on your pace (and the group pace!)
There are two ways. One is faster but steeper, the other one longer but a little easier. The one you’ll borrow will depend on your guide.
Once at the top, you’ll be able to choose your seat. Your guide will prepare breakfast that you’ll enjoy during the sunrise.
Tell your guide whenever you want to start climbing down
Once at the bottom you will be driven back to your accommodation (and in my case have a second breakfast)
Good things to know before climbing mount batur
At no time will you find a toilet. Bring some paper in case of emergency
It can get really chilly at the top, especially after sweating during the ascent. Prepare a warm hoodie/windbreaker/puffy jacket to warm you up
Take some snacks and an extra bottle of water
Take some cash in case you want to rent a blanket or buy a snack/coffee/tea
Take a wooden stick with you if you find one/need one to help you ascent
Private tour or with a group?
Taking a private guide is really good as he will be focused only on you. You will be able to walk at your own pace without being pressured by the group, or on the contrary, slowed down by the group. Also, you will get your breakfast quickly and will be able to decide when you want to start climbing down. Also, you will probably arrive at the top before the others so you’ll be able to choose your seat.
BUT, being in a group can lead to new friendships and nice discussions. You have to decide for yourself.
What is there else to do around batur?
Pura Jati Segara temple - This Hindu temple is located on the edge of the Mount Batur lake. The entrance is based on donation, and they will give you a Sarong to enter.
Lake view - Not far from the Geopark museum you will see many restaurants overlooking the lake. It is worth stopping there to have a coffee or something to eat as you have a breathtaking view of the lake and Mount Batur. Beware that they all close around 7:00 pm.
Hot Springs - I have NOT done them, but it is apparently something worth doing while in Mount Batur/Kintamani.
