Bali Hiking Guide 2026: Best Sunrise Hikes & Easy Nature Trails

Bali is more than beaches. If you like nature, Bali has sunrise volcano hikes, green rice terrace walks, waterfalls, and cool forest trails, many of them doable even if you’re not a pro hiker. 

Below, we’ll explain the best sunrise spots in Bali for 2026—across South Bali, Ubud, East Bali, and Nusa Penida—plus simple timing and safety tips so you can enjoy the view without rushing or missing the best light.

Before You Hike in Bali

Use a local guide for volcano hikes

For Mount Batur, Mount Abang, and Mount Agung, hiking with a local guide is strongly recommended (and often expected). Routes can change, it’s dark before sunrise, and safety matters.

Choose the right season

• Dry season (around April–October): clearer sunrise, less slippery trails

• Rainy season (around November–March): still possible, but bring rain gear and expect mud

Note: Weather in Bali has been less predictable, so “dry/rainy season” months are only a general guide. Check the forecast and confirm conditions with your guide before sunrise hikes.
 

Best bases for hiking

• Ubud: best all-around base (many hikes within day-trip distance)

• Kintamani: best for sunrise volcano hikes (Batur/Abang)

• Munduk: best for waterfalls + Twin Lakes

• Pemuteran: best for West Bali National Park
   

Best Sunrise Hikes in Bali (2026)

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek (Kintamani, Bangli)

Best for most people. Popular, beautiful, and not too technical.

• Hiking Level: easy to moderate

• Why go: sunrise view over the caldera + Lake Batur

• Typical start time: very early (many hikes start around 3–4 AM)
   

Simple tip: the top can feel cold—bring a light jacket.

Mount Abang Sunrise Hike (near Lake Batur, Bangli)

A quieter sunrise choice near Kintamani.

• Hiking Level: moderate (often feels longer than Batur)

• Why go: fewer crowds + forest vibes + great lake views
   

Best for: people who want sunrise but don’t want the busiest trail.

Mount Agung Sunrise Trek (Karangasem)

This is Bali’s most serious sunrise hike.

• Hiking Level: hard (long, steep, demanding)

• Why go: iconic mountain + big achievement

• Important: only go if you’re fit, experienced, and guided. Weather and local conditions can affect access.
   

Best for: experienced hikers who want a challenge.

Best Non-Sunrise Trails (Easy to Moderate)

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces Walk (Tabanan)

Classic Bali scenery: wide rice fields and easy walking paths.

• Hiking Level: easy

• Why go: peaceful views, cooler area, great photos
  Tip: go early to avoid heat and crowds.
   

Batukaru Area (Tabanan) — cool forest feeling

A nice highland escape with a more local atmosphere.

• Hiking Level: easy to moderate (depends on route)

• Why go: cooler air + rainforest mood
  Respect note: some areas are sacred—dress politely around temple zones.
   

North Bali Waterfalls (Buleleng) — choose 1–2 in a day

Great for a nature day with short hikes and water views.

Popular options:

• Sekumpul (big waterfall area)

• Gitgit (easy access)

• Banyumala Twin Waterfalls (beautiful and peaceful)
   

Tip: paths can be slippery—good shoes help.

Twin Lakes Walk (Buyan & Tamblingan, North Bali)

Cooler, greener, and less crowded.

• Hiking Level: easy to moderate

• Why go: forest trails + lake views + calm vibe
  Tip: bring insect repellent.
   

West Bali National Park (near Pemuteran / Gilimanuk)

For people who want a different side of Bali—more wild nature.

• Why go: protected landscapes + wildlife + quieter trails
  Tip: follow the park’s entry rules and booking system (this area is managed and regulated).

Conclusion 

Bali hiking in 2026 is easy to enjoy if you pick the right trail. Want sunrise? Go for Mount Batur (most popular), Mount Abang (quieter), or Mount Agung (only for strong hikers with a guide). Prefer something relaxed? Choose Campuhan Ridge, Jatiluwih, North Bali waterfalls, Twin Lakes, or West Bali National Park. Pack the basics (good shoes, water, light jacket, headlamp for sunrise), follow local rules, and start early—then your hike will be safer, smoother, and way more memorable.