Bali: Mount Batur Jeep Sunrise Tour & Hot Springs with Pickup

Summary

Jeep ride at dawn, black lava fields, mountain light and hot springs steam

You’ll ride by jeep before dawn to catch sunrise above Mount Batur, eat breakfast on a volcanic ridge, rumble across black lava fields with a local guide, soak in natural hot springs, and sip Balinese coffee on your way back—each moment feels both raw and quietly special.

What’s the experience like?

The headlights flickered over the rough track as we bounced our way up toward Mount Batur. I was barely awake, honestly — it was that kind of hour where the sky’s still holding onto its last bit of night. Our driver, Made, grinned in the rearview mirror and promised we’d beat the crowds. I remember the smell of damp earth coming through the open window and someone’s thermos of coffee steaming between us. There was this quiet anticipation — even the jeep seemed to hum with it.

We reached a ridge just as the first streaks of gold broke over Mount Batur. The air felt sharp on my face. Made handed out boiled eggs and fruit for breakfast — nothing fancy but somehow exactly right up there. He pointed out where the 1963 eruption had carved those wild black lava fields below us (I tried to imagine it — whole villages changed overnight). The wind picked up and I pulled my jacket tighter; someone else just stood there quietly, staring at the sun climbing higher. It wasn’t silent though — roosters crowed somewhere far off, and you could hear a few other jeeps rumbling in the distance.

The drive down was bumpier than I expected (my teeth might still be rattling), winding through those crunchy black rocks that look almost alien close-up. We stopped so Made could show us how warm some stones still felt under your palm — he joked about “volcano energy” and laughed when I tried to say it in Bahasa (definitely got it wrong). Afterward, we soaked in Mt Batur’s hot springs; sulfur in the air, water almost too warm at first but then perfect once you sank in. Steam curled around everyone’s faces and for a minute nobody said much at all — just letting muscles unknot after that chilly sunrise.

On the way back to Ubud we made one last stop at a little coffee plantation. The owner poured us tiny cups of Bali kopi while her kid chased chickens between tables. I’m not sure if it was the caffeine or just everything catching up with me, but I felt this weird mix of tiredness and happiness all afternoon. Still think about that view from the ridge sometimes — you know how some mornings just stick with you?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mount Batur sunrise jeep tour

• Join sunrise jeep tour
• See sunrise from rare spot
• Surround Mount Batur and Black Lava
• Learn about largest lava eruption
• Enjoy natural hot springs
• Coffee break and local tasting

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Mount Batur Jeep Sunrise Tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included with your booking.

How long does the day trip to Mount Batur from Ubud take?

The tour typically lasts half a day including transport from Ubud or nearby areas.

Do I need to hike for this sunrise tour?

No hiking is required—the jeep takes you directly to the sunrise viewpoint.

What do we eat for breakfast on Mount Batur?

You’ll get fresh fruit and boiled eggs served at sunrise on the mountain.

Are entry fees included in this tour?

Yes, all entry tickets are included in your tour price.

Will there be a local guide during the jeep tour?

Yes, an experienced driver-guide accompanies you throughout.

Is there time to visit hot springs after seeing sunrise?

Yes, soaking in Mt Batur’s natural hot springs is part of your itinerary.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, all entry fees for Mount Batur and its hot springs, a private 4WD jeep ride guided by a local expert, breakfast served at sunrise (fresh fruit and eggs), plus a stop for Balinese coffee tasting before heading back home.