Private Mount Batur sunrise trek with hot springs

Summary

Mount Batur volcano hike and Kintamani hot spring tour

You’ll catch sunrise above the clouds on Mount Batur with a local guide, then unwind in natural hot springs overlooking Lake Batur—private transport and breakfast included.

What’s the experience like?

The car was quiet as we wound through the dark roads of Kintamani, windows fogging up a little from the cool mountain air. It was just after 3am when we reached the Mount Batur trailhead—still pitch black, but you could hear distant roosters and the crunch of gravel under our shoes. Our guide, Wayan, handed out flashlights and a walking stick each. He grinned and told us to pace ourselves—the climb isn’t long, but it’s steep in places and the volcanic sand can be slippery.

We hiked by torchlight, passing a few sleepy dogs curled up by warungs at the base. The air smelled faintly of sulfur and wet earth. About halfway up, I noticed the sky turning from ink-blue to a soft grey. Wayan pointed out tiny villages below, their lights twinkling like fireflies. By the time we reached the summit—just after 5:30am—my shirt was damp and my legs felt wobbly. But standing at 1,717 meters above sea level, clouds swirling around us and the crater steaming quietly nearby… it was worth every step. The sunrise wasn’t just a view—it felt like an event. Everyone fell silent as the first orange streaks broke over Lake Batur. Wayan brewed us sweet Balinese coffee and handed out banana sandwiches while monkeys darted around hoping for crumbs.

The descent was easier on the knees. Back at the car park, I realized my shoes were caked in fine black dust—a little souvenir from the volcano. We drove down to Toya Bungkah village for a soak in the Batur natural hot spring. The water was almost too warm at first (about 50°C), but after that chilly hike it felt incredible. Steam rose off the pools as we looked out over the lake; locals chatted nearby and someone played quiet gamelan music from a phone. The scent of minerals hung in the air. We lingered until our fingers pruned, then headed back to our hotel feeling both exhausted and oddly refreshed.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mount Batur Sunrise Trek and Hot Spring

• Travel to Mount Batur area
• Trek to Mount Batur summit for sunrise
• Relax at Batur natural hot spring

Top questions

How tough is the Mount Batur trek?

It’s not technical but does get steep and slippery in spots. If you’re moderately fit and take your time (like we did), it’s very doable.

What should I bring for this sunrise hike?

I’d recommend sturdy shoes (the volcanic sand gets everywhere), a light jacket for the chilly start, swimwear for the hot springs, and maybe dry socks for after.

Is breakfast included on this tour?

Yes! Our guide made us banana sandwiches and hot coffee right at the summit while we watched sunrise.

Are there changing rooms at the hot springs?

Yes—there are basic changing facilities and lockers at Toya Bungkah hot spring so you can freshen up after your soak.

What’s included

You’ll get private transportation in an air-conditioned car, all entrance fees covered, plus flashlights and walking sticks for the trek. Breakfast (banana sandwich and mineral water) is included—and your guide takes care of all logistics so you can just focus on enjoying sunrise and soaking in those hot springs.