If you want to see Bali from above before most people are even awake—and taste real Balinese coffee straight from the source—this trek is for you. It’s not easy, but reaching Mount Batur’s summit at sunrise is unforgettable.
The alarm went off at 2:00 am—way too early, but somehow it felt right for something like this. Our driver picked us up in Ubud while the streets were still empty, headlights bouncing off sleepy warungs and stray dogs. By the time we reached the higher starting point, the air was cool and smelled faintly of wet earth. Our guide, Kadek, handed out flashlights and hiking sticks before leading us up a narrow path that zigzags through black volcanic sand.
I remember hearing nothing but our own footsteps and the occasional rooster crowing somewhere far below. The climb took just over an hour—faster than I expected, though my legs definitely noticed every step. Mount Batur actually has three peaks; Kadek explained we were heading to the highest one. When we finally reached the top (1,717 meters up), there was this quiet excitement as everyone found a spot on the warm rocks. The sky started changing from deep blue to streaks of red and orange—honestly, photos don’t do it justice. Breakfast was simple: eggs cooked in volcanic steam and sweet Balinese coffee poured from a battered thermos.
On our way back down, we stopped at a small coffee plantation tucked behind rows of banana trees. The owner showed us how they roast beans over an open fire—smoke mixed with the smell of fresh grounds hung in the air. We tried a few sips of their house blend while watching chickens dart around underfoot. It’s these little moments that stuck with me more than anything else—the early morning chill, hot coffee in my hands, and that feeling you get when you’ve done something just outside your comfort zone.
The hike takes about 1–1.5 hours to reach the summit from our higher starting point. It’s manageable if you have moderate fitness; there are some steep sections but our guide will go at your pace.
Wear comfortable shoes with grip (it gets slippery), bring a light jacket for chilly mornings, and maybe an extra snack if you get hungry easily. We provide flashlights and water.
Yes! You’ll get eggs cooked using volcanic steam plus hot tea or coffee while watching sunrise from the peak.
The trek is accessible for most ages with moderate fitness; infants can ride in strollers and specialized seats are available if needed.
You’ll get round-trip transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a hiking stick and flashlight for safety, bottled water along the way, plus breakfast and a welcome drink at the summit. The tour also includes a stop at a local Balinese coffee plantation where you can sample fresh brews and learn about traditional roasting methods.
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