Bali is famous for its beaches, but if you’re looking for an adventure, you need to explore the best places to hike in Bali.
With stunning mountains, hidden waterfalls, and lush forests, Bali offers something for every hiker, from beginners to seasoned trekkers.
Best hike for sunrise views
7km (4.4 miles) round trip, 4 hours, moderate
Mount Batur is one of Bali’s most popular hikes, famous for its spectacular sunrise. Most hikers begin around 3 a.m. to reach the summit by sunrise, offering views of Lake Batur, Mount Agung, and Mount Rinjani.
This moderately challenging hike is ideal for those looking for a rewarding experience without too much strain. Remember to bring an extra layer, as it can get chilly at the summit.
Best hike for wildlife spotting
Various trails from 2 hours to 2 days, challenging (or easy for shorter trails)
You’ll likely encounter deer, monkeys, and exotic birds like the Bali starling. A guide is required, but it’s well worth it for the chance to explore Bali’s unspoiled wilderness.
Best hike for a waterfall swim
2.4km (1.5 miles) round trip, 1 hour, easy
Sekumpul Waterfall is an easy hike, ideal for those looking to combine a short walk with stunning natural beauty.
Best hike for an overnight adventure
19km (12 miles) round trip, 2 days, challenging
Mount Batukaru, Bali’s second-highest peak at 2,276m, is a tough but rewarding hike. This overnight trek takes you through dense forests to the summit, offering panoramic views of Bali’s landscape.
It’s a challenging hike with steep, slippery sections, but camping at the top makes the experience truly magical. You can also do this as a day hike, but it’s a long and tiring journey.
14.5km (9 miles) round trip, 10 hours, very challenging
Mount Agung is Bali’s highest peak and its most sacred mountain. This challenging hike is only for experienced trekkers, covering a steep 14.5km round trip that can take up to 10 hours.
Although the summit has been closed since the 2018 eruption, when open, the views from 3,031m above sea level are spectacular. The spiritual significance of Agung makes this hike a deeply meaningful experience for many.
Best hike for unspoiled lake views
8km (5 miles) one way, 3-4 hours, moderate
The area is peaceful and unspoiled, perfect for a quiet, reflective hike. You’ll also pass several small temples along the way.
Best accessible hike for beginners
3.2km (2 miles) round trip, 1.5 hours, easy
Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of Bali’s most accessible and scenic hikes. This easy 3.2km round trip takes you along a ridge with beautiful views of rice fields and jungle valleys.
It’s perfect for beginners and families, offering a gentle stroll through some of Ubud’s most picturesque landscapes. There are cafes along the way where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
3-4km, 1-2 hours, easy to moderate
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces offer one of Bali’s most iconic landscapes. This easy-to-moderate hike takes you through beautifully sculpted rice fields, with plenty of opportunities to learn about traditional Balinese farming methods.
The hike is not particularly challenging, but the steps can be steep in some places. Take your time and enjoy the views, which are especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Best for waterfall lovers
5km (3 miles) round trip, 2-3 hours, moderate
This hike combines the beauty of Sekumpul with the nearby Fiji Waterfalls, offering a moderate 5km trek through Bali’s lush jungle.
The hike is a bit more challenging than Sekumpul alone, but it’s well worth it for the chance to see multiple waterfalls in one journey. Bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the pools at the end.
Best for waterfall lovers
Sambangan, known as Bali’s ‘Secret Garden,’ offers an adventurous hike through rice fields, waterfalls, and a scenic blue lagoon.
The hike takes around 5-7 hours, depending on how long you spend swimming in the natural pools and sliding down the waterfalls. This moderate hike is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to explore a less touristy part of Bali.
Best for overnight camping
12km (7.5 miles) round trip, 6-8 hours, moderate
Mount Lesung is a hidden gem in Bali’s tropical rainforest. This moderate 12km hike takes you through dense forests to the summit, where you can camp overnight.
The views of the surrounding valleys and lakes are breathtaking, especially at sunrise. If you love stargazing and the sounds of the jungle, this is the hike for you.
Best for a peaceful stroll
The Tirtagangga Rice Paddies offer a peaceful and scenic hike through Bali’s rural countryside.
The easy trail takes you past terraced rice fields, small streams, and traditional Balinese villages. It’s a relaxing hike that gives you a glimpse of local life, away from the tourist crowds.
Best for experienced hikers
60km (37 miles) round trip, 4-7 days, very challenging
Although located on the nearby island of Lombok, Mount Rinjani is one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in the region.
This multi-day trek takes you to the summit of a 3,726m active volcano, with stunning views of Segara Anak crater lake and the surrounding landscape. It’s a strenuous hike that requires good fitness and preparation, but the experience is unforgettable.
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