Bali: Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Tour & Hot Spring Soak

Summary

Sunrise on Mount Batur by jeep with black lava fields and hot springs

You’ll catch sunrise from a classic jeep atop Mount Batur with coffee in hand, then explore dramatic black lava fields and soak in steamy hot springs by Lake Batur. Local guides share stories and laughter along the way. It’s an early start—but those colors and quiet moments will stick with you long after you leave Bali.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d ever watch the sun come up over Bali without breaking a sweat, but there we were—bumping up Mount Batur in this old 4WD jeep before dawn. The air was cool enough to make me zip my jacket, and our driver, Wayan, grinned at us in the rearview like he knew something we didn’t. When we finally stopped (I still had sleep in my eyes), he handed us coffee so strong it nearly woke the volcano. We climbed onto the roof of the jeep—yeah, really—and just sat there while the sky turned this wild orange behind the silhouette of the crater. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it never looks right compared to what you see with your own eyes.

After sunrise, Wayan drove us down to these black lava fields that look like another planet. The ground crunched under my shoes—like walking on burnt toast—and there was this faint smell of earth after rain. He told stories about the last big eruption in ‘63; I could see how proud he was of his home even though it’s always changing. There were a few other jeeps around but mostly just silence and that weird feeling you get standing somewhere ancient. I kept picking up little rocks until my pockets got heavy.

Later we soaked in a natural hot spring near Lake Batur (I could’ve stayed all day). The water was almost too warm at first but felt perfect after that chilly morning ride. Some locals were laughing nearby—one woman waved at me when I almost slipped getting in (graceful as ever). If you book one of the bigger packages, you can add stops at Tegalalang Rice Terrace or Tegenungan Waterfall too, but honestly just sitting in that steam watching clouds drift over the lake… I still think about that moment sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mount Batur sunrise and local attractions

• Drive 4WD jeep to Mount Batur
• Watch sunrise at 1,365 meters
• Enjoy breakfast on jeep roof
• Explore black lava formations
• View active volcano and caldera
• Soak in natural hot spring
• Visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Explore Tegenungan Waterfall
• Ride jungle swing (optional)
• Play ATV and rafting (optional)

Top questions

Do I have to hike for the Mount Batur Jeep tour?

No hiking is required; you ride up Mount Batur by 4WD jeep for sunrise.

Is breakfast included on this day trip?

Yes, a light breakfast with coffee or tea is served during sunrise on Mount Batur.

Are hotel pickups included?

Yes, hotel pickup is included with your booking.

Can I visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace or Tegenungan Waterfall on this tour?

These are available if you book specific package options that include them.

Is entry to the hot spring included?

The hot spring soak is included only if you book a package with that option.

How high do we go during the jeep tour?

You reach about 1,365 meters above sea level for sunrise views.

Are towels provided for the hot spring?

Towels are provided if your package includes the hot spring visit.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle, sunrise drive up Mount Batur by classic jeep with local guide, light breakfast with coffee or tea served on site, entry to black lava fields, and—for certain packages—a soak at natural hot springs with towel and welcome drink provided. Lunch is included if you choose combo packages featuring rafting or ATV rides.