Mount Batur Sunrise Trek – The best sunrise trek on an active volcano
November 20, 2018
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek is one of must do activities in Bali. Mount Batur is one of the active volcanoes in Bali along with Mount Agung. The last known eruption was in 2000. It is an UNESCO protected area. Being a protected area, a permit and guide is required for trekking.
The early morning drive
I booked the trek to Mt Batur for 400,000 IDR. The price was inclusive of pickup from my hostel in Kuta, Bali and drop at Ubud. If you are booking from Ubud, it will be cheaper by 100,000 IDR. We started our trip from Kuta at around 1 AM and reached the agency’s meeting point at 3 AM. They provided us with light snacks and coffee. We had to wait for the other members of the group to arrive. Once all the group members arrived, we left to the starting point of the trek, which was a 30-minutes’ drive.
My group of five along with guide started the trek at 4:15 AM. They had provided us torches for the trek, as it was pitch dark. A headlamp is more apt for this situation than a torch.
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek First Viewpoint
The initial part of the trek was easy. It became more difficult as we progressed. During the ascent, we would see many cultivations. Apparently, after eruptions, once the lava has cooled down, it becomes a fertile area. There is a temple located in the area just before the ascent. All the guides stop here to pray.
Midway of the trek, we would see the colors of the sky changing. After about 90 minutes into the trek, we reached the first viewpoint at Mount Batur. There is another viewpoint further up. But, few members of our group were really tired and did not want to continue. This is one thing, which I hate about group treks.
Sunrise view from Mount Batur
Around the Mountain
Once the sun came in picture, we could see the rest of the place properly. Batur Lake could also be seen from the viewpoint.
After a while, the guide took us to an area where steam was coming between the rocks.
Descent through the bike trail
For the downhill trek, we did not use the same route that we came up. We took the bike trail. There were many motor bikes on that trail. It probably would be taxis for bringing people down. I am not sure. The route was scenic as well as dusty. I missed my face mask.
We reached our taxi at around 7:30 AM. It took us 90 minutes uphill and 45 minutes downhill.
Even though the distance covered is not much, this Mount Batur sunrise trek remains one of most favorite treks. I would definitely be doing this the next time I come to Bali.