The Most Interesting Routes in Bali: 12 of the Best

Bali is known for its stunning beaches, but the island is also full of excellent hiking trails with breathtaking views. And everyone , regardless of skill level, can find a route to suit them!

Secret waterfalls, sacred volcanic peaks, enchanting rice fields, ancient temples, and giant trees. Bali is a paradise for hikers and trekkers, with its diverse landscapes. We've compiled this guide to the best hikes and walks on the island .

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When to hike in Bali

The best time for hiking Bali 's dry season (May to September) is in full swing. The central plateau and northern regions are perfect for jungle and volcano treks. It can get cold, so be sure to pack warm clothing! Bring a backpack , plenty of water and food, and trekking shoes , and explore the surrounding area!

Mount Batur

Mount Batur, or Gunung Batur, is a trekking mecca in Bali. It's an active volcano that towers over the island at an altitude of 1,717 meters. Most people choose to hike early in the morning to enjoy the famous sunrise view from Mount Batur, but to do so, you'll need to leave around 4:00 AM.

There are two main routes. The most popular start from Pura Jati or Toya Bungkah. The hike to the summit takes about 2-3 hours. The easier route involves heading toward Songan, turning left at Serongga, and driving to the parking lot. From there, it's only about 45 minutes to the summit. Finish your hike at the nearby hot springs—there are plenty of options.

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Mount Agung

Mount Agung is the most challenging hike in Bali. It's the island's highest mountain and sacred volcano. Locals consider it an exact replica of Mount Meru, the central axis of the universe. It's a popular but incredibly challenging trek in Bali, often starting a couple of hours before dawn . The mountain is 3,031 meters high, and the climb takes about 12 hours (6-7 hours one way) if you depart from Besakih Temple.

You can also depart from Pura Pasar Agung—this hike takes 3-4 hours each way. Both routes require a guide. Please note that climbing Mount Agung is prohibited during religious holidays.

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Rice terraces

The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are one of the most popular places to visit in Bali. They are one of Bali's signature attractions, attracting many tourists for their colorful views. But you should also visit the Tirtagangga rice fields, which are very picturesque for photography , although less popular. A walk along the terraces very easy, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and pristine streams.

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Tirtagangga

The Tirtagangga district in eastern Bali (Abang) is known for its mid-20th-century water palace, beautiful lush rice fields, and irrigation systems. However, the area also offers several pleasant hiking trails. Casual hikers can spend a couple of hours exploring the area, while more experienced hikers can book a guide to take them on a more challenging route.

A great option is the linear trail from Tirtagangga, which takes you through the charming villages of Lempuyang, Bukit Kusami, and Budakaling. The total duration is approximately six hours.

After your walk, be sure to stop by the Water Palace, where you'll find a pool filled with spring water, koi fish, magnificent sculptures, and fountains! There are numerous authentic restaurants , as well as shops and boutiques. Entrance to the palace costs about $3. It's best to hike these trails early in the morning to avoid the heat.

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Candidasa

Candidasa is a very hilly area, ideal for trekking in Bali. The main hiking trail starts from Tenganan, a small ancient village in Karangasem district. The trail leads to the neighboring villages of Makang and Ngis. It passes through tropical forests and rice fields along the way, then turns back to Tenganan. This hike is not very long and should take only a couple of hours.

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West Bali National Park

Bali Barat National Park is located on the island's west coast. Its forests are home to a rare bird species, the endangered Bali starling. Hiking trails through this magnificent park will allow you to spot wild pigs, monkeys, and barking deer. The hike takes approximately seven hours. Other hikes, lasting between one and two hours, are also available, such as the Prapat Agung Trail in the north or the Teluk Terima Trail near Labuan Lalang Pier.

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Jungle Munduk

Munduk is a relatively small area with well-marked trails. It's one of Bali's best areas for hiking enthusiasts. There are 12 magnificent hiking trails to choose from, including a two-hour hike to the Red Coral Waterfall and a challenging six-hour hike to the Dutch Colonial District. You'll enjoy views of waterfalls, hidden temples, tropical forests, and much more. Be sure to enjoy a cup of the exclusive luwak coffee and chat with the friendly locals.

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Campuhan Ridge

in Ubud . It's a short, easy walk along a paved road through stunning jungle scenery, and not at all challenging. It's best done early in the morning, before the heat sets in, or in the evening.

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Sekumpul Waterfall

Sekumpul is the tallest and certainly the most stunning waterfall in all of Bali. During your walk, you'll pass temples, rice fields, monuments, and vibrant fruit orchards, as well as traditional local homes. The area is just 6 km from Singaraja and is easy to find thanks to the signs. Simply park your car in the designated parking lot in Sekumpul village and pay your entrance fee.

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Mount Katur

Mount Katur, towering over Lake Bratan, Bali's second-largest lake, is one of the island's volcanic peaks , the fourth-highest at 2,096 m. The hike to the summit begins at the Gua Jepang caves, built during World War II, and takes about three hours; the trail is fairly easy to navigate. At the very top is a small ancient temple where you can even spend the night.

This is an ideal alternative to the challenging trek to Mount Batur. However, avoid trekking during the rainy season (October to March).

It's also a relatively cool area on the island and a great respite from the Balinese heat. After your descent, try water skiing on the lake or rent a boat.

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Route near Lake Tamblingan

Enjoy the serene natural scenery of Lake Tamblingan.

Danau Tamblingan is one of three volcanic lakes located on a plateau in north-central Bali. Tamblingan and Buyan are known as the Twin Lakes. It's the perfect getaway for a couple of days, just an hour and a half from Ubud . Explore the pristine rainforest with exotic birds and giant ficus trees, and take a traditional canoe ride on the lake. Temperatures can be quite chilly, so it's best to bring warm clothing.

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Botanical gardens

Sambangan is a forest in northern Bali, also known as the Secret Garden, as it is located off the main tourist routes. The hike begins at the Sambangan Secret Garden waterfall. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to admire the magical waterfalls of Pucuk, Kroya, and Kembar, as well as coffee plantations, rice fields, and all the beauty that Balinese nature has to offer.

Giant ficus trees, wild monkeys, bamboo forests, and exotic flowers—people come here for a leisurely stroll. At the end of the route, there are also several natural hot springs, offering the opportunity to recharge!

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