Bali: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike & Hot Spring with Breakfast

Summary

Mount batur sunrise hike with hot springs and breakfast

You’ll start before dawn with hotel pickup and climb Mount Batur’s trails by flashlight alongside a local guide. Watch sunrise spill over Bali from above the clouds, share breakfast on the summit, then unwind in Lake Batur’s natural hot springs before heading back—legs tired but spirits lifted.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I didn’t think I’d actually make it out of bed when my alarm went off at 2am in Ubud. But somehow, by the time our driver pulled up outside the guesthouse, I was awake enough to laugh at my own stubbornness. The air felt cooler than Bali usually does—almost sharp—and there were a few sleepy smiles as we met our guide, Wayan, at the base of Mount Batur. He handed us flashlights and trekking poles (I never use these but ended up being grateful for them about halfway up). It was pitch dark except for little dots of light winding their way up the mountain—other hikers, all quiet except for the crunch of gravel underfoot.

Wayan kept a steady pace and pointed out things I would’ve missed: a faint smell of sulfur (he said it’s normal here), little tufts of grass that only grow on volcanic soil. At one point he stopped to show us how to say “good morning” in Balinese—I tried it and he grinned, probably because my pronunciation was hopeless. The climb wasn’t easy (my legs were burning by the last bit), but then suddenly we were at the top just as the sky started changing colors—soft pinks and oranges over Lake Batur below. Everyone went quiet for a minute, just watching. Wayan made us banana sandwiches and boiled eggs right there on the summit. Eating something warm while your hands are still cold from the hike is weirdly comforting.

The walk down felt lighter somehow, maybe because we’d already done the hard part—or maybe because we knew what was coming next: soaking in those hot springs by the lake. I didn’t expect how good it would feel to slip into that mineral water after hiking in the dark; steam rising around us, sun finally warm on our faces. There were a few locals chatting nearby (one offered me some sweet black coffee—strong stuff), and everything smelled faintly like earth and wet stone. By the time we got back in the van for our ride home, I felt tired but happy, legs aching in that good way you get after doing something real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mount Batur sunrise hike and hot spring

• Start early morning trek up Mount Batur
• Hike under darkness with guide
• Reach summit to watch sunrise
• Take photos of sunrise and views
• Descend back down the mountain
• Relax at nearby hot spring
• Soak in mineral-rich waters
• Return to accommodation by transport

Top questions

How long does the Mount Batur sunrise hike take?

The hike itself usually takes about 2 hours up and 1–1.5 hours down, depending on your pace.

Is breakfast included during this day trip?

Yes, breakfast is served at the summit—usually banana sandwiches, boiled eggs, fruit, snacks, plus coffee or tea.

Are hotel transfers included in this tour?

Yes, round-trip hotel transfer service is included if you select that option when booking.

Do I need to bring my own trekking gear?

No need—flashlight and trekking pole are provided as part of your package.

Can anyone join this Mount Batur sunrise hike?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, heart problems or during pregnancy; moderate fitness is needed.

What do I need for the hot spring visit?

Your entry ticket covers towel use, changing rooms and lockers at Lake Batur’s hot spring facility.

Is there a local guide during the trek?

Yes—a local trekking guide leads you throughout your Mount Batur sunrise hike.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off if selected, all entrance fees covered along with a flashlight and trekking pole for your early morning climb. Enjoy breakfast at Mount Batur’s summit—banana sandwich, boiled egg, fruit—and relax afterward with full access to Lake Batur’s natural hot spring facilities before heading back to your accommodation.