Mount Batur Trekking and Natural Hot Spring

Mount Batur Trekking and Natural Hot Spring: An Authentic Bali Adventure

A sunrise trek up Mount Batur is often called a must-do in Bali—and for good reason. This tour, priced at just $55 per person, combines the thrill of climbing an active volcano with the soothing relaxation of a natural hot spring. The full day lasts around 10 hours, starting early in the pre-dawn hours from Ubud, with pickup included to make your journey hassle-free.

What we love about this experience? First, the guides are genuinely knowledgeable, making the ascent informative and safe, and second, the views from the summit are truly breathtaking. Watching the sun break over the caldera and seeing Bali’s landscape glow in the early light is unforgettable.

A potential drawback? The early start—set at 2:30 am—requires a good deal of early rising and some cold morning chills at the summit, so bring warm clothes. This tour suits those who enjoy moderate hikes, value authentic natural scenery, and appreciate well-organized tours that balance adventure with comfort.

Key Points

• Stunning sunrise views over Mount Batur and the Kintamani caldera
• Guided trek with friendly, knowledgeable guides ensuring safety and insider tips
• Thermal hot springs offering relaxing thermal waters from volcanic sources
• Early start means waking before dawn but rewards with spectacular scenery
• Comprehensive package including transport, entrance fees, breakfast, and equipment
• Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation

An In-Depth Look at the Mount Batur and Hot Spring Tour

The Itinerary and Highlights

The adventure begins in the early pre-dawn hours, with your driver arriving around 2:30 am to pick you up from Ubud. This early pickup is part of what makes the experience special—you’re hitting the mountain before the crowds, catching the most magical moment of the day. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the hour-long ride to the starting point in Serongga village.

Once you arrive at the base, you’ll be equipped with a walking stick and headlamp, both included in the tour. The guided ascent takes approximately two hours, but the pace can be adjusted based on your comfort level. Multiple reviews mention how pacing is flexible—your guide will stop for photos and breaks whenever needed, which is crucial for making the climb enjoyable rather than exhausting.

At the summit, you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise, with views that many describe as “magnificent” and “absolutely stunning.” The sky lightens with shades of orange, pink, and purple, revealing the caldera’s rugged beauty all around. A unique feature of this tour is the chance to see natural steam vents, an extraordinary sight unlike typical mountain hikes where geothermal activity remains unseen.

The Descent and Relaxation

After soaking in the views and perhaps exploring a tribe of friendly monkeys, your journey down begins. The descent is smoother and quicker, providing time to head to the next stop: the Batur Natural Hot Spring. Located in Toya Bungkah village, this geothermal spa offers pools at comfortable temperatures of around 37-40°C, heated by volcanic activity.

Many reviews praise the hot springs as the perfect way to unwind after the climb, with several describing it as a “magnificent relaxation” spot. The experience is calming, surrounded by volcanic landscapes and overlooking Lake Batur. It’s a nice contrast to the early morning hustle—a gentle, therapeutic soak to soothe sore muscles.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price covers a lot—air-conditioned transport, bottled water, a simple breakfast (banana or egg sandwiches, boiled eggs, hot beverages), walking sticks, headlamps, and entrance tickets to both Mount Batur and the hot springs. The only notable omission? lunch, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat afterward.

The Guides and Transportation

A common praise in reviews is for the friendly, professional guides, like Komang, Wayan, and Gede, who go out of their way to make sure everyone is comfortable, safe, and well-informed. The drivers are punctual, courteous, and often arrive early to avoid delays—a small but appreciated detail. Many comments highlight how these guides and drivers contribute significantly to the positive experience, with travelers feeling well cared for throughout.

The Group Experience and Flexibility

This tour typically has a maximum group size of 15, which helps keep it intimate and personalized. The pace varies, but reviews suggest most travelers find the difficulty level moderate—suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. If you’re worried about the early start or the physical exertion, the flexible pacing and friendly guides should put you at ease.

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic experiences—from the geothermal steam vents to the guides’ local knowledge. The price of $55 is very competitive, considering it includes transport, entrance fees, guide service, and breakfast. Many reviews mention how this tour offers excellent value for an experience that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and relaxing downtime.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is perfect for travelers who cherish natural beauty and are eager for a memorable sunrise experience. It’s also suitable for those who want a well-organized, guided adventure without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. If you enjoy moderate hikes with spectacular views and a relaxing hot spring afterward, this tour hits all the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This Mount Batur trek with a visit to the hot springs offers a rich blend of adventure and relaxation. The early start, while demanding, pays off with some of the most breathtaking sunrise views Bali has to offer. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude make the climb enjoyable, and the thermal baths provide a soothing end to a busy day.

For anyone looking to tick off a Bali highlight with minimal fuss, this tour delivers excellent value and authentic experiences. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy moderate hikes and want a comprehensive day trip that combines natural wonders with a touch of local geothermal therapy.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or a small group of friends, this tour offers a safe, memorable way to explore Bali’s volcanic heart. Just remember to dress warmly—those early morning chills are real—and bring your camera to capture the sunrise magic.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with pickup at 2:30 am, so be prepared for an early morning to catch the sunrise from the summit.

Is this a difficult hike?
The climb is considered moderate and suitable for most travelers with a reasonable fitness level. Guides are flexible with pacing and help ensure the ascent is comfortable.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers air-conditioned transport, bottled water, a simple breakfast, walking sticks, headlamps, and entrance tickets to Mount Batur and the hot springs.

Can I customize or cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Changes less than 24 hours before are not accepted.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly, especially for the early morning chills. Comfortable hiking shoes, a jacket, and a camera are recommended. The guide provides equipment like headlamps and walking sticks.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it perfect for solo travelers and families alike. Guides are friendly and attentive to safety and comfort.

For those eager to see Bali’s volcanic sunrise, soak in geothermal waters, and enjoy a day filled with natural wonders, this tour is a top choice. It balances adventure with relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to your Bali itinerary.