Experience the Best Hiking in Bali on These 7 Scenic Trails
Bali is famous for its beaches, temples, and even quad biking adventures. But if you ask me, some of its most memorable moments come from places that require a good pair of hiking boots.
Whether you’re planning to visit solo or with your family, lacing up for a scenic trek is one of the best ways to discover this island’s natural beauty.
So, if you’re looking to get your heart racing while chasing breathtaking views, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’re diving into the best hiking spots in Bali that are guaranteed to deliver great experiences.
1. Mount Batur
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Website: https://www.mountbatursunrisetrekking.info/
Location: South Batur, Kintamani, Bangli Regency
Contact: +62 878 615 85681
Pricing: Free
If you’re looking for an unforgettable sunrise hike in Bali, Mount Batur is the one. We started the trek at 3 AM in the chilly darkness, but the promise of a golden sunrise kept us going.
The 7 km round-trip takes about four hours, and the climb is moderate yet steady. Reaching the summit at 1,717 meters felt like stepping into a dream, with views stretching across Lake Batur and towards Mount Agung.
Most hikers join guided tours from Ubud, which makes logistics easier, especially for transportation and flashlights. The reward? Watching the sun rise over a sea of clouds while sipping hot coffee at the top.
| Pro Tip: Start your hike early, ideally around 2:30 AM or 3:00 AM. This will let you catch the sunrise from the summit, which is absolutely stunning. |
2. West Bali National Park
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Website: https://www.westbali.net/west-bali-national-park
Location: VFCG+X44, Sumber Klampok, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency
Contact: [email protected]
Pricing: $$
West Bali National Park offers coastal, jungle, and savanna hikes, with trails ranging from 5 km day walks to 30 km or more overnight treks. Entry costs IDR 150,000, and hiring a licensed guide costs around IDR 500,000.
We chose a medium-level loop through the jungle that ended at the beach, where we spotted macaques, deer, and even a few colorful starlings along the way. It felt like a total change of pace from Bali’s busier central areas.
Most trails are unpaved and can get muddy, so waterproof shoes are essential. Some sections also had no phone signal, which made us even more grateful to have a local guide.
| Pro Tip: Don’t skip the local guides at the park entrance. They help you spot wildlife you’d otherwise miss and know which trails are open or muddy depending on the season. |
3. Mount Agung
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Website: https://mountagungsunrisetrekking.com/
Location: Jungutan, Bebandem, Karangasem Regency
Contact: +62 821 462 81263
Pricing: $
Trekking Mount Agung is one of the most challenging hikes in Bali. At 3,031 meters, it’s the island’s highest point and demands serious stamina, especially on the steep ascents.
The trail we took started from Pasar Agung Temple, which is slightly shorter but still took us about 6 hours round trip. Every step was worth it for the sweeping views that stretched far beyond Bali.
Weather at the top can be unpredictable, with temperatures dropping below freezing and wind gusts increasing rapidly. Some years, the route is closed due to volcanic activity or ceremonies, so it’s important to check ahead.
Aside from that, there are no water sources or shelter along the way. There is also very little tree cover, making it a very exposed route.
| Pro Tip: Start early and check for updates on volcanic activity before you go. Mount Agung is an active volcano and is sometimes closed to hikers. Bring a walking stick (or rent one at the base), and you’ll thank yourself on the way down. |
4. Sekumpul Waterfall
Website: http://sekumpul.net/index-en.html
Location: Jalan Air Terjun Desa Sekumpul Kecamatan Sawan Kabupaten Buleleng, Kota Singaraja
Pricing: $
Sekumpul Waterfall is a magical jungle trek. It’s like nature’s hidden cathedral. The trail winds through forests, rice terraces, and river crossings, adding a bit of adventure to the experience.
It’s about a 5 km round trip, with steep descents and uneven paths that make the journey just as thrilling as the destination. The hike involves steep steps and slippery rocks, especially after rain, so it’s not ideal for those with knee issues.
However, it’s a rewarding adventure for anyone who loves dramatic nature.
Small warungs (eateries) near the trailhead offer coconuts, coffee, and local snacks, perfect for relaxing after a hike. It’s quieter in the mornings, so go early if you want that postcard-perfect shot without the crowds.
| Pro Tip: Start your hike from the Lemukih route instead of the main Sekumpul entrance. It’s less crowded and offers three waterfalls along the way (Sekumpul, Hidden, Fiji). |
5. Campuhan Ridge Walk
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Website: https://campuhanridgewalk.com/
Location: Kelusa, Payangan, Gianyar Regency
Pricing: Free
If you’re after something gentle and scenic, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is the way to go. It’s only about 2 km one way and doesn’t feel like a hike, but more like a stroll with stunning views.
We loved how peaceful it felt, with views of rice fields on both sides and a gentle breeze running along the path. It’s not remote, but it’s still a refreshing break from Ubud’s bustle.
Early morning or late afternoon is best, not only for cooler temperatures but also for better photos and fewer people. If you’re interested in stopping by, there are art galleries and spas nearby.
There is also Karsa Cafe at the end, a hidden gem ideal for smoothies or a foot massage with a view.
While the trail is paved, it’s still good to wear comfortable walking shoes.
| Pro Tip: Start just after sunrise or before sunset. Not only is the lighting better, but it’s cooler and far less crowded. Try to avoid midday if possible. There’s zero shade along the ridge, and it can get brutally hot. |
6. Munduk
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Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/indonesia/bali–3/munduk-waterfalls
Location: Banjar, Buleleng Regency
Pricing: $
Munduk is like stepping into a highland fairytale. The air is cooler, the landscapes are lush, and the trails offer a wonderful experience, featuring a jungle, waterfalls, and coffee plantations.
There are multiple hiking routes, but we chose the one that led to Red Coral Waterfall. It was quiet, misty, and completely enchanting. It’s not a strenuous hike, but some trails can be slippery after rain.
There is no official ticket booth, but each waterfall typically charges a small fee of around IDR 10,000. Most paths are narrow and sometimes poorly marked, so we used an offline GPS map and followed local advice.
Along the way, you’ll pass coffee and cacao farms, sometimes with signs offering tastings or fresh brews. Temperatures hover between 18°C and 24°C, which makes hiking here much more comfortable.
There aren’t many formal eateries on the trail, but small warungs serve hot tea and local snacks. Misty mornings add a moody charm, especially if you’re hiking before 10 AM.
| Pro Tip: The trail around Munduk is a maze of forks and seldom-used paths. We recommend downloading an offline map before you go, either Maps.me or AllTrails. |
7. Sambangan Secret Garden
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Pricing: $$
Website: https://www.thebalibible.com/details/secret-gardens-of-sambangan-14369
Location: Jalan Raya Desa Sambangan, Sambangan, Sukasada, Buleleng
Sambangan Secret Garden, often called Bali’s Secret Village, sits just 15 minutes from Singaraja in the island’s quiet northern region. We found it to be one of the most untouched places in Bali, with thick forests and peaceful farmlands lining the trail.
The trek from the starting point to the waterfalls takes about 30 minutes. It’s not overly strenuous, but the terrain can get slippery, so decent footwear is necessary.
At the heart of it all is Aling-Aling, the biggest waterfall, followed by a series of other gems like Blue Lagoon and Kroya Waterfall. We especially loved that the area isn’t just for admiring from afar. You can swim, slide down natural rock slides, or cliff-jump if you’re feeling brave.
A guide is mandatory here, and for good reason. They lead you safely through the trails and explain which waterfalls are safe for different activities.
| Pro Tip: Gates open at 8 AM. Visit early to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid the busload crowds and afternoon showers that are typical in northern Bali. |