Bali is widely known for its picturesque beaches, iconic temples, and vibrant culture. But beyond the turquoise waters and bustling markets lies an untamed side of the island—one that speaks directly to the soul of every nature lover. Hiking in Bali is a transformative experience, offering breathtaking views, lush jungle trails, volcanic peaks, and encounters with the island’s rich biodiversity.
In this article, we’ll guide you through Bali’s most scenic hiking trails, ranging from gentle rainforest walks to challenging volcanic climbs. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a curious wanderer, there’s a trail waiting for you in Bali’s heartland.
🏔️ 1. Mount Batur: The Sunrise Pilgrimage
Location: Kintamani
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours (ascent)
Best Time to Hike: 3:30 AM – 9:00 AM
The Mount Batur sunrise hike is arguably the most famous trek in Bali. Adventurers from around the world rise early to catch the first light of day from this 1,717-meter-high active volcano.
As you ascend under a blanket of stars, the trail meanders through volcanic ash and rocky terrain. The reward? A golden sunrise that paints Lake Batur and the surrounding caldera in breathtaking hues. On clear days, you can even spot Mount Rinjani in Lombok in the distance.
Pro Tip: Wear layers and bring a flashlight or headlamp.
🌋 2. Mount Agung: Bali’s Highest Peak
Location: Karangasem
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 6-8 hours (ascent)
Best Time to Hike: Midnight to sunrise
Standing at 3,031 meters, Mount Agung is Bali’s tallest and most sacred mountain. The climb is grueling, steep, and not for the faint of heart—but the panoramic view from the top is beyond comparison.
Mount Agung offers two main routes:
- Pura Besakih Route (Longer but more scenic)
- Pura Pasar Agung Route (Shorter, more direct)
Trekkers are often guided by locals who understand the mountain’s spiritual significance, ensuring safety and cultural respect.
Warning: Due to occasional volcanic activity, check current safety conditions before hiking.
🌿 3. Campuhan Ridge Walk: Ubud’s Natural Escape
Location: Ubud
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1-2 hours
Best Time to Hike: Morning or late afternoon
This gentle trail through lush hills and palm groves is perfect for those wanting a peaceful nature walk. Campuhan Ridge offers dramatic views over deep river valleys and traditional Balinese villages.
Unlike the volcanic hikes, this path is well-paved and suitable for beginners. Yoga retreats and local cafes along the route add to the experience.
Tip: Bring your camera—sunsets here are picture-perfect.
🌴 4. Sekumpul Waterfall Hike: Jungle Trek to Paradise
Location: Buleleng, North Bali
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours
Best Time to Hike: Morning to early afternoon
Sekumpul isn’t just one waterfall—it’s a series of powerful cascades surrounded by towering cliffs and jungle greenery. Getting there requires a hike through rice terraces, river crossings, and a descent down hundreds of steps, but the view is unforgettable.
Swimming in the base pool is refreshing, and local guides often share stories about the area’s cultural and ecological importance.
🐒 5. West Bali National Park: Wildlife and Wilderness
Location: Jembrana and Buleleng Regency
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: Varies (1–6 hours)
Best Time to Hike: Early morning
Far from the crowds of southern Bali lies a pristine sanctuary filled with native flora and fauna. West Bali National Park features mangroves, savannah, rainforests, and coral-lined coasts.
Trekkers may spot Bali starlings, deer, macaques, and even monitor lizards. Multiple trails are available, including coastal treks and mountain routes leading to the park’s highest peak, Gunung Patas.
Pro Tip: Hire a licensed park guide to enhance your wildlife spotting.
🌾 6. Jatiluwih Rice Terrace Trails
Location: Tabanan
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1-3 hours
Best Time to Hike: Morning or golden hour
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces showcase Bali’s subak irrigation system and centuries-old farming traditions. Walking through this lush green patchwork is like stepping into a living painting.
Several loop trails allow you to explore the rice fields and local villages, with the backdrop of Mount Batukaru creating a perfect composition.
Don’t Miss: Traditional warungs serving Balinese meals with terrace views.
🌲 7. Munduk Waterfall Loop
Location: North Bali
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-4 hours
Best Time to Hike: Morning
Munduk is a hidden gem in the mountains of north-central Bali. Its cool climate and fertile lands make it a haven for waterfalls and spice plantations.
The Munduk Loop Trail connects several waterfalls like Red Coral, Labuhan Kebo, and Melanting through winding jungle paths. Along the way, you’ll pass clove trees, coffee plantations, and local farms.
Bonus: Stay overnight in an eco-lodge for sunrise views over the valley.
🏞️ 8. Sambangan Secret Garden Trek
Location: Sambangan Village, North Bali
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-5 hours
Best Time to Hike: Morning
Known as the “Secret Garden”, this trek takes you deep into a lesser-known paradise filled with rivers, waterfalls, and natural pools. The trail includes several scenic spots like Aling-Aling Waterfall, Kroya, and Pucuk, where you can cliff-jump or slide down smooth rock surfaces.
Guided treks are highly recommended as the paths can be slippery and remote.
🐾 9. Lake Tamblingan Rainforest Trek
Location: Bedugul Highlands
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours
Best Time to Hike: Morning or afternoon
A mystical lake surrounded by dense rainforest and ancient temples, Tamblingan offers a unique hiking and canoeing combo. The trails weave through moss-covered trees, wildlife habitats, and sacred sites of Balinese Hinduism.
Guided treks often include a dugout canoe ride across the lake—an ethereal experience when morning mist hangs low over the water.
🌊 10. Nusa Penida Coastal Hikes
Location: Nusa Penida Island
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: Varies by trail (1–4 hours)
Best Time to Hike: Early morning or late afternoon
While technically off the main island, Nusa Penida offers dramatic coastal hikes and cliff-edge views. The hike to Kelingking Beach is steep but iconic, with its T-Rex-shaped cliff becoming one of Bali’s most photographed landscapes.
Other trails include Atuh Beach, Diamond Beach, and Peguyangan Waterfall, accessed by narrow stairways carved into the cliffs.
🧘 11. Sidemen Valley Trails
Location: East Bali
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 2–4 hours
Best Time to Hike: Morning
If Ubud feels too crowded, head east to the peaceful Sidemen Valley. This region offers trails through bamboo forests, rice terraces, and traditional weaving villages.
You’ll hike alongside sacred rivers and might catch a glimpse of farmers working in conical hats, maintaining the tranquil rhythm of rural Balinese life.
🌺 Hiking Tips for Bali
- Start early: Temperatures rise quickly, and trails are more peaceful at dawn.
- Bring water and snacks: Hydration is key, especially on long or steep hikes.
- Dress appropriately: Light, moisture-wicking clothes and sturdy shoes are essential.
- Respect nature and culture: Many mountains are sacred, so follow local customs and avoid littering.
- Hire local guides: Especially for remote or challenging trails—they enhance safety and share valuable insight.
📸 The Reward: Nature’s Grand Spectacle
Every hiking trail in Bali tells a story—of ancient legends, volcanic power, and ecological richness. Whether you’re hiking for spiritual connection, fitness, or pure wonder, the island offers landscapes that etch themselves into your memory.
From volcanic peaks touching the heavens to secret waterfalls deep in jungle canopies, Bali’s hiking trails are more than a destination—they’re a journey of the soul.
🧭 Final Thoughts
While the beaches of Bali often steal the spotlight, the heart of the island beats strongest in its mountains, valleys, and forests. These hikes offer a way to truly connect with the land, step away from tourist traps, and experience the serenity and spirituality that define Bali.
So lace up your hiking boots, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore Bali’s most scenic hiking trails—where every step leads to something extraordinary.
