The Top 5 Best Hikes in Bali, and Things to do There!

While Bali, Indonesia rewards visitors with a rich history and culture represented in the many temples and religious sites, the island also features stunning natural landscapes: terraced rice fields, towering volcanoes, and beaches perfect for exploring. And thanks to Bali’s tropical climate, nature is easily accessible no matter what time of year you visit. For intrepid travelers, discover the best of the Land of the Gods with your own two feet on one of the island’s best hikes.

Tips: Bring lots of water, sunscreen, a hat, and an extra layer of clothing. Most hiking should be done early in the morning to beat the heat and enjoy the best views. Be respectful of local communities and refrain from hiking during religious ceremonies. Consider bringing Indonesian Rupiah for any purchases you’d like to make along the way.

1. Mount Batur

Mount Batur is an active volcano located in Bali, Indonesia. It is a popular destination for hiking and trekking, as the summit offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the nearby Lake Batur. Visitors can also participate in sunrise tours to watch the sunrise from the summit. Other activities in the area include visiting hot springs and traditional villages.

Here are five things to do in Mount Batur:

1. Hiking and trekking: Mount Batur is a popular destination for hiking and trekking, with several trails leading to the summit. The most popular trail is the one that starts from Toya Bungkah village and takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit.
2. Sunrise tours: Visiting Mount Batur for the sunrise is a popular activity. Many tour operators offer guided sunrise trekking tours, where you will hike to the summit in time to see the sunrise.
3. Visit the hot springs: After your hike, you can relax in the hot springs located near the base of the mountain.
4. Visit traditional villages: There are several traditional villages located around Mount Batur, such as Trunyan village, which is known for its unique death rituals and traditional houses.
5. Take a bike tour: Some companies offer bike tours around the volcano, which is a great way to explore the surrounding area, including the villages, temples, and lakes.

2. Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a beautiful rice terrace located in the Tegalalang district of Bali, Indonesia. The terrace is a popular spot for tourists to visit and take in the stunning views of the rice paddies that are terraced into the hillside. The terrace is also surrounded by lush green forests, which add to the picturesque landscape.

Things to do at Tegalalang Rice Terrace include:

1. Take a walk along the terrace: The terrace is open to visitors, and you can take a leisurely walk along the terrace and take in the views.
2. Take a tour with a local guide: Local guides can provide you with more information about the terrace and the traditional Balinese irrigation system that is used to water the rice paddies.
3. Visit the local shops and cafes: There are a number of shops and cafes located along the terrace where you can buy souvenirs or have a meal.
4. Take a scenic drive: Tegalalang Rice Terrace is located near Ubud, which is a popular destination for tourists. You can take a scenic drive from Ubud to the terrace.
5. Enjoy the cultural performance: Many tour operators include a traditional cultural performance, where you can witness traditional Balinese dances and music performed by local performers.

3. Munduk

Munduk is a small village located in the mountains of Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its beautiful views, traditional village atmosphere, and outdoor activities.

Munduk has a little bit of everything: waterfalls, river gorges, paddy fields, coffee plantations, small temples, large swaths of green spaces, and Bali’s oldest living Banyan tree. Explore the area’s well-loved landscape by hiking any one of its 12 different trails. They range in length and difficulty, from easy to challenging.

Here are some tips for visiting Munduk:

1. Plan your visit: Munduk is located in the mountains, so it can be cooler and mistier than other parts of Bali. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly and pack warm clothing.
2. Rent a motorbike: Munduk is not easily accessible by public transportation, so renting a motorbike is a good option. It will give you more flexibility to explore the surrounding area.
3. Visit the waterfalls: Munduk is home to several beautiful waterfalls, including Munduk Waterfall and Melanting Waterfall. Be sure to visit at least one of them.
4. Take a guided tour: You can take a guided tour of the traditional village and learn about the culture and history of Munduk.
5. Go for a hike: Munduk is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests.

4. Sabangan

Sambangan is a small village located in Bali, Indonesia, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. It is known for its crystal clear water, and the village is surrounded by rice fields and mountains. Here are some things to do in Sambangan:

1. Visit the Secret Garden: The Secret Garden is a popular attraction in Sambangan, it is a hidden waterfall that can only be accessed by a guided trek, it offers beautiful views and refreshing swimming holes
2. Take a dip in the natural pools: Sambangan is home to several natural pools, such as Pucuk, Kembar, and Changing, all offering crystal clear water and a great spot for swimming and relaxing.
3. Go for a hike: Sambangan is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, there are several hiking trails available, such as the trek to the Hidden Waterfall, Munduk Waterfall, and Melanting Waterfall, all offer great views and an opportunity to experience nature.
4. Visit traditional villages: Sambangan is home to traditional Balinese villages, such as Jatiluwih and Munduk, where you can see traditional houses and learn about the culture and customs of the local people.
5. Visit the rice terrace: Sambangan is surrounded by rice fields, it offers a great opportunity to see the traditional Balinese irrigation system and learn about the process of growing rice.

5. Candidasa

Candidasa is a coastal town located in the Karangasem Regency of Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional village atmosphere, and outdoor activities.

For a relatively easy nature hike in a hilly area, consider Candidasa. Leave from Tenganan village and take the trail through neighboring Macang and Ngis. You’ll wander past many rice fields, with views of towering mountains and palm trees. Like most hikes in Bali, leave early to beat the heat and properly enjoy the area.

Here are some things to do in Candidasa:

1. Visit the beaches: Candidasa is home to several beautiful beaches, such as White Sand Beach and Pasir Putih Beach, both offering crystal clear water and great spots for swimming and relaxing.
2. Take a boat tour: Candidasa is home to several islands such as Gili Tepekong and Gili Biaha, both offer a great spot for diving, snorkeling, and swimming
3. Visit traditional villages: Candidasa is home to traditional Balinese villages, such as Tenganan and Bugbug, where you can see traditional houses and learn about the culture and customs of the local people.
4. Visit the water palace: Tirta Gangga is a water palace located just outside Candidasa. It is known for its beautiful gardens and swimming pools.
5. Go for a hike: Candidasa is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, there are several hiking trails available, such as the trek to Mount Agung, offering great views and an opportunity to experience nature.