masterthesis-playground/raft/corpus/topic=4__part=007__n=60.txt

[TOPIC] 4
[Stats] N=60 | Source=../data/original/reviews.tab


(1) The views are unreal, but the dangers are absolutely real. I'm not an experienced climber and I should have known better, but I'm motivated by challenges. Of the 10 people that started up in their respective groups, 6 turned back and only 4 of us made it to the summit that morning.\n\nWe started our climb a little after midnight to reach the summit by sunrise and looking over cliffs in the dark was a bit intimidating to me. My guide was fantastic and I couldn't have done it without him. Wayan was very patient with me even when I was very cautious in the more dangerous situations. Despite my strong fitness level, my legs were on fire during the last hour down. My knees were locking up and my feet were covered in blisters, which made every step torture.\n\nThe pictures I got were beautiful, but had I known the risks, I wouldn't have done it.
(2) Too crowded and risky trekking. You can't back out in between. Path is extremely narrow and completely filled with ash and pebbles which makes it very difficult to climb. Good part is our guides were there with us for the whole trip and supported whenever required. Yes, it is a rewarding expetience once you are at the top. View from the top is mesmerizing.\nOverall a mixed experience. Anybody with slightest doubt must avoid.
(3) Just to clarify: I did not trek to the top of it, I just viewed it from a distance. I went to a restaurant that had a great view of the mountain, which was very pretty. I would have done the trek, which I understood was fairly short and easy, if I had had the time. It is worth a visit on your Ubud daytrip :-)
(4) The trek is easy and the view from the top is amazing… therefore there are hundreds of tourists going up at 4 am to see the Sunrise at 6 am… that's good for tourism business, but it is a pity for the site. The top of the volcano has been equipped with benches, like in a cinema… and you can buy coffee and tea in the small shops… We miss the wild nature, and Don't forget that it is a volcano that has already erupted several times...
(5) You need 2 hours to enter the mountain - it is really worth it, views are spectacular, Later it is really good to go around volcanoo (around caldera) - one more hour.\n\nYou can go there by day, or start at night - to see sunrise from the top. I saw sunrise and it was worth. Sunrise about 6 am (depends of time in the year). - You hav to start your climb about 4 am,\n\nBeware of monkeys at the top, the want Your food, but they are no dangerous (but be carefoull).\n\nYou have to be carefoull, watch out weathrer forecast before You enter the mountain.\nWe have great view (and we were in rain season), but if there will be a lot of clouds, Your views won't be so good.
(6) The climb is very nice. But it is certainly not too difficult to do it on your own, which is what the local guide association insists.\nI think is also much better off starting at dawn than in the middle of the night.\nDon't go without good trekking shoes.
(7) Challenging climb towards the top, took 4h and camped to have coffee while waiting for the sun to rise. The trek was worth it! Awesome feeling at the top. :)
(8) Absolutely worth the early wake up and trek up. There are a few negatives to be aware of though: we ended up with a guide who could barely speak English which made things a bit harder - I think we could have easily asked to change when he was first assigned to us though. It was also very busy which slowed us down a lot and detracts from the feeling of remoteness! Lastly the food that is provided by the tour operators for breakfast is pretty bad. The view makes up for all of these though.
(9) Okay, 2 o clock in the night is early. but it is really worth it.\nThe climb is okay.. yeah i was very tired and swetty and everything.\nBut the guides are so nice, and they help you very good.\nwhen you are at the top.... just perfect !\n\nthe way back was a little bit scared because of all the stones and it was very slippy.
(10) OMG I went up Mount Agung last night - I was picked up from my hotel at Nusa Dua at 2000. I arrived at Besekih at 10:30 waited 30 minutes as we started at 2300 supposedly to be on time to see the Sunrise from the top. Most of the trail was loose stone and soil, it was difficult going up because the feet slide back. At times there were vines to hold onto and pull yourself up. The guides stopped twice to pray and give offerings to the Gods. Mine stopped once more to have a break.\nWe reached the top at 0240. Sunrise is at 0530, there was no shelter up there, the wind was howling and so strong I had to hold on to my guide, you would think we were sweethearts the way I was holding on to him for my dear life. If we stayed one more minute there, we would have developed Hypothermia. I was wearing 3 layers of clothing plus a thick jacket. There was no way I was waiting for any Sunrise.\nWe quickly headed down - now the real FUN began!!! Remember the loose stones and soul that I was telling you about? It was the scariest experience i've ever had. We were literally skiing down. My bum was sore from falling down. My guide was literally holding my hand nearly the whole way. Did I tell you that the trail is narrow and the sides were so deep, you can't see the bottom? Thank God I was doing it at night or I'm sure I would have freaked out. It took us 3 hours to go down.\nI love the mountains. I was using this hike as a training for my next race in the mountains but I will never recommend this trip to anyone. It was just plain dangerous. Maybe some other time of the year when the trail is not so dry and slippery.\nI used the Darma Wayan tour group. They were very friendly but I would have preferred a guide who could speak English. Mine didn't. This is another dangerous part as how could we have communicated in case of Emergency.\n\n
(11) The hike was a bit strenuous going up, but then again you are hiking to the top of a volcano. But that view when the sun rises, and you've totally forgotten all about the hike up. Definitely dress warm, it's chilly in the wind while you're watching the view. Advice: DO NOT wear contact lenses. Sand + Wind = Dangerous Combo\n\nHighly recommend to anyone who has appreciation for pure natural beauty
(12) Third time to Batur.\nMount Batur is one of volcano in Bali nowadays still active. Its specialized for easy track lovers and could be reached in 1,5 to 2 hours trek. Most of visitor reach the summit and would be rewarded by breathtaking views and wonderful sunrise with Mount Rinjani, Agun, Abang and Lkae batur as background. The unique nne is experiences to boil the eggs at the volcanic steams.\n\nDuring decent, it will be bit faster and you have to be careful because there is alt f rock and slippery but don't worry about it, Made will help you until the end of your trip.\n\nBest guide, best driver and it one of our best experienced in Bali, we really recommended to do this attraction, just WhatApp jezzn on +6281904082208, he will organize your trek to mount Batur.
(13) The 4 of us wants to go from toyabungkah but instead we were registering from purajati, but nevermind the goal is the same, mount batur. We arrived one day before to find a guide at the official guide office, after some negotiation we had a deal, and we will start at purajati at 03.00\nIt took us 2 hours 15 minutes of slow walk to get to the peak, unfortunetly we werent able to see anything because of the heavy mist. We were a bit dissapointed, but we cant predict the mothernature. The view all the way to the peak itself is pretty cool especially on the way down. We were climbing at the wrong time because its very crowded during august, there`s plenty traffic jam everywhere around the mountain LOL. I'll definetly want to come again when its low season.
(14) Our AirBnB host sorted the sunrise hike for us through a friend of his who owns one of the many tour/trek companies offering the hike.\nWe loved it- it’s definitely worthwhile doing. We were picked up from Ubud at 2am and must have started climbing at around 3.30 or so. It can be really hard work at points which are especially rocky/have loose rocks.\nComing down is trickier in a way and this was where we saw the most people slip or injure themselves (not many though).\n\nThe sunrise was beautiful, and we were lucky as the guide told us it had been cloudy many mornings before. It’s chilly at the top- be sure to bring layers.
(15) It is a very steep to climb but you need to be very fit. You can leave from two places, one from Besakih temple and it takes 6 hours roughly, or from A place called Pasir i think and here it takes roughly 3 hours and you reach the bottom part of the volcanic rim.
(16) Awesome early morning start with very rewarding sunrise. We then navigated the rim of Mt Batur which is not got the feint hearted or those people with a fear of heights - the paths are small! Well worth the hike and a dip in the hot springs after
(17) Every climb is different, every sunrise is different but still absolutely beautiful! Definitely worth the climb!
(18) Mount Batur is an active volcano. It is sorrounded by lava. It's very amazing. The temperature ofthis area is comparatively low. So no one get tired. Natural view is very nice.
(19) To crowded for my taste but perhaps that's just the risk when travelling during high season...\nWe had the \misfortune\" to have bad weather and so no sunrise for us at the top but hey, that's nature right? :)\nThe walk up? Sorry, never again at this time of day/night! I talked with some people during this trek (when i was up the mountain that is because during the trek i could definitly not :o) and they said the same thing as me: even with a good condition, it's a hard \"walk\"! At some point it's more rockclimbing actually...\nIf i would do it again (and that's a big if), i would definitly do it during the day as a daytrek (also possible)."
(20) This is not for the feint of heart, or for anyone without a very good level of fitness. 5 of us started our day at 3 am, 3 of us made it to the top and 2 of us turned around and went back after half an hour already out of breath and hearing it would be another 2 hours to the peak.\nMy brother who ascended to the peak (not the 1st plateau) says it was extremely difficult and that those who claim this is easy have probably stopped before the peak at one of the lower viewing points.\nIt is not easy, not for someone without significant fitness level and not worth getting up at 3.00am for. It's no more special a view than what can be seen from the tourist spots or halfway up where the view is just as spectacular.\nPlease don't try this if you have any health issues or you are not fit. Not worth the money or the pain.\nMy brother was very excited and exhilarated but more for achieving the virtually impossible than for\nThe 'gangsters', basically Mt Batur bouncers or mafia at the bottom, threatened a young group of German tourists we had met the night before, with a knife when they had arrived and asked if they could climb without a guide. This was even after the group of 3 had offered 600 thousand rupiah (5 au less per person than what we paid). The young tourists said it was horrific and terrifying and even when they left they were followed by the gang who ensured they were not going to try and climb without payment. I would understand the safety issues however this is certainly not an acceptable, hospitable or ethical way to go about it.\n
(21) 40mins drive from Ubud center, nice view of Batur lake and valcono. if you like adventure, then you should try early morning trek.
(22) It took 2 and a half hours for us to reach the base of Mt.Batur from Bali via taxi.We asked for a guide at the registration counter and were surprised that they do bargain on the guide fees too.The guide charged us 50 USD, which was justified.We had read the reviews about the sunrise tours & were keen to do but due to hectic schedule before & after, decided to start at 8.30am from bali. We reached around 11am, hired a guide & started walking.There was almost no hiking for the initial 5 kms( later we realised that a car could come uptil this point, & we did the same on our way back).After a temple at the foothill of Batur, the hiking begins.It took us 2 hours to hike up, the terrain was rough and narrow, but the view kept getting awesome.The lake looks better n better with height.Our guide was a young man in his early 20s & had tremendous energy & kept us motivated.At the top , one can see the crater.He showed us a few places where one can see and feel the steam coming out.It was amazing.There is a cave temple but only locals are allowed to go( as told by guide, in proper attire with sarongs).Coming down was more tiresome & it took almost the same time.There are no shops or any place to eat.So plan to carry sufficient supplies with you, though,There was a small kiosk at the beginning from where one cd buy water, chocolates etc.We come bk by 1530 hrs.The experience is amazing.MUST DO IN BALI, if you can spare one full day & have loads to energy.Enjoy hiking Mt.Batur & experience the warmth of nature!
(23) If you want to trek up the Mt Batur, you will have to spare an entire day. Trust me, it't absolutely worth it. Beautiful walking trail and an amazing view from the top. If you just want to capture some great pictures, there are heaps of restaurants right opposite to the volcano. Enjoy a hot brew and some delicious sea food :)\n\nMake sure that you do not visit on a cloudy day as the clouds tend to get real low and this will definitely dampen your experience.
(24) I'll start by repeating what many other reviewers are saying: the real summit should not be attempted if you are not in great shape or an experienced hiker. This trek is really difficult and also really dangerous.\n\nHowever if you think this is for you absolutely do it. Best view I've ever seen in my life and so rewarding when you finally get to the top after many long hours in the dark. Stunning.\n\nDon't forget to bring warm clothing! It gets really cold and windy on top. Get yourself a good jacket.
(25) I can't offer too many knowledgable superlatives about the views as our visit was a complete white-out with the mist refusing to lift and reveal anything at all. I imagine it would have been stunning considering the arduous climb but we couldn't wait longer than one hour at the top and will visit next time on a clear sunny day, not risk it again getting with up at 3.30 to 4 am. for the 2 hour hike to catch the sunrise at 6.15 or so.\nI've now seen enough \World's Best Sunrises/Sunsets in Indonesia ( where every land form higher than a coconut tree is reputed to offer the ultimate visual experience) to know that that it's rarely the case and I will now opt for seeing such views during broad daylight, well after the mist has lifted, than risk seeing nothing at all. (A thought reinforced by overhearing a guide saying that with these sunrise treks, it was in fact more common to see a wall of mist, than anything else)\nNow, to the other things no one tells you.\n(1) Unless your parents were certified mountain goats you absolutely must wear appropriate footwear, especially if going up in the dark. Towards the top of the climb it gets very steep, slippery and also jagged (basalt and haematite outcrops, scoria pebbles rolling underfoot) It can be very dangerous. (we assisted a girl in tears with torn ankle ligaments on the way down.) There are no formed steps so although it's fun having pre-Nanny State responsibility for one's survival, injuries here are all too common. Wear snug fitting joggers or such with decent ankle heel/ankle support, especially important if doing the climb in the dark.\n(2) If you're old enough to be put out to pasture like me, consider that you will need to grab onto a lot of rock and haul yourself up, if you slip your hands may also fall onto sharp rock so it you have some lightweight leather gloves bring them.\n(3) Don't carry a heavy backpack, makes it twice as hard to be agile and to balance, travel light.\n(4) Take you own very light, disposable type raincoat. About five minutes into the trek it started to drizzle, our guide suggested we would get completely drenched for two hours so we needed raincoats, I agreed, and I suggested that, of course they supplied them didn't they? (this was a package deal including all accommodation etc) but no, they didn't, and the reason for that became very obvious now that we were standing on a mountain in woop woop, in the pitch black with no choice but to pay whatever they asked for? So the bill would be $5 each thank you, for our party of nine.\nWhen I pointed out that I hadn't come down in the last shower and could actually buy, not rent the very same raincoats for about $1.50 each in Denpasar, so this in fact constituted blackmail, the guide became highly offended and said he wasn't a criminal. I agreed, but said that he was however part of the mafia like Mt. Batur Association which was obviously more concerned with lining it's pockets than the welfare of tourists. This local tourist shake-out organisation controls every little aspect of this climb, (including forcing you to hire one guide for every 3 tourists). I would have normally headed home at this stage on principle, and it was looking very unlikely that we'd see anything anyway, other than perhaps some broken limbs. But I agreed to be out-voted by my companions who had travelled a long way to see this latest \"sunrise to end all\" and decided to ignore my suggestion that they watch the one in the film Melancholia instead. As the under 30's had marched on regardless, we reluctantly handed over the money for 4 raincoats. Of course just then the drizzle stopped and it soon became obvious that this whole area is in fact extremely arid, the fine black volcanic sand everywhere hadn't been washed out by a good hard rain in a very long time, so the threat of us trying to negotiate a dangerous climb in the dark and in pelting rain was a simple ploy to get another $45 out of us.\n(5) Best tip of all: wear a head lamp, it will make a big difference as you will need both your hands. These nowadays lightweight things which go around your forehead, are cheap and readily available in Bali. If not, take a small but powerful torch, one per person is essential.\n(6) Take your own food and some water.\nFinally, the Mt.Batur area produces excellent mandarines, also the delicious fresh tamarillo juice, is not to be missed, but the meals served at the top of the caldera most certainly are. Survival rations of a hard boiled egg and a banana sandwich on Bali's dry, stock standard, day old, sweetened bread is not my idea of a breakfast to write home about. A simple bowl of nasi, plastic spoon and some mandarines would far preferable.\n(Parting comment: When I mentioned I might write something onTrip Advisor, so ripping people off was perhaps ill advised, we were told that those $1.50 raincoats which had cost us $5, were now ours to keep.)"
(26) I wanted to go climb a volcano for awhile and when I was last in Bali Agung was the target. While the tourists flocked to Batur I felt like I wanted to earn the view. There are a lot of ways you can do Agung and there are several routes to choose from. Me and a friend decided to take the hardest route which goes from Besakih in the west to the summit.\n\nI won't say that this route is hard but it demands respect because it is a straight shot from around 1200 meters above sea level to the summit which rises 3033 meters above the ocean.\n\nMost of the trek took place through the rising forests and it took from the start to the finish about 6 - 7 hours and then you would repeat the trek in reverse which is a test of nerve and exhaustion.\n\nFrom the peak next to the caldera you can see Nusa Penida and the two smaller islands and as the sun rises you can see Mount Rinjani in the distance. To meet the sunrise you have to start at 11pm the day before and should have headlamps, walking sticks (more for the way back) and good shoes.\n\nI think that this trek isn't for someone who just wants to get a good view. It is for those that want to earn the view. This is the holy mountain in Bali and all you have to do is go up and see the view to realize why the ancient Balinese would consider this mountain sacred.\n\nYou can do the trek in a day and the other routes from Pura Pasar Agung Temple are shorter and allow you the choice to go to the summit or just round the caldera. You get great views of Baur from the Western edge of the mountain and from the Summit you can see into the crater created from the last eruption in 1963.\n\nWe had a good guide who set a good pace and always made sure we were OK but he didn't know much about the history of Agung and more just led us up. It was an exhausting day trip and by the end of it my legs were butter but it was worth every step for the view and to say I went to the highest and holiest place on Bali.
(27) Yes, I challenge myself to hike for the first time :D For beginner you can start at 2 AM or earlier because it will take time approximately 3 hours (because do a lot of stops to take a breath), if you already pro, you can start even from 3 or 4 AM :D. You will keep walking without stops.\nIn meeting point (Pura Jati, Toya Bungkah) You should pay IDR 10.000 for retribution and there's wooden stick available (free) if you need it during hiking. Coffee and tea also available.\nFirst journey is ramps track, you need guide if you don't know this track well because in the night the direction it's not really clear and little bit confusing. Then you will facing rocky climbs. After you pass Post 1 , you will see Mount Batur monument, there's a lot people set up their tent. Next track is full of sand gravel, keep your steps until you find the TOP of the mountain :D Yey,there's a warung to buy coffee, tea, or cup noodles when waiting sun rising. All your energy paid by beautiful scenery at the top. In other side you can see active crater. You can continue your journey to Batur 2, on the way you can see people boiled egg with smoke from the crater. This track is little bit challenging, you will found footpath, in your left is active crater in your right is a gap. Watch your step. Then next track is same with when you climb. Yey you successfully conquer the highest active volcano 1717 m !
(28) During my visit to Bali for a conference I decided to stay an additional day for the hike to Mt. Agung. It was very worthwhile - the trek is beautiful, the sunrise monumental and the views if the clouds are sparse are amazing!\n\nI opted for the longer trek via Besakih temple.\n\nThe hike is actually fairly moderate for seasoned hikers and in dry conditions it should take around 5 moderate hours and not the 7 hours indicated elsewhere on the site. Concerned about this, I pushed to go faster ending in waiting for around 90min next to the Big Rock formation and lighting a fire as higher up would be colder to wait. Nevertheless, it is worth arriving to the top earlier than dawn as the spectacle of the sky as the light starts breaking is amazing.\n\nThe professionality and responsiveness of the Wayan Darma team was amazing. I highly highly recommend opting for their services. You can call or contact Wayan via WhatsApp on +62 812 46059004 for an arrangement.
(29) My partner and I set off with Gada(pronounce G'Day) and Jero in time to arrive for sunset. Jero was carrying everything we needed for our stay on the mountain top, apart from our personal packs, on his back. We did the sunset hike, which is quite steep in places, but not too long. We are both 58, fairly fit and managed with no problem. Although there was no sunset that night due to low cloud, but occasionally the cloud would clear leaving a fantastic view of the valley below. The guides cooked us beautiful spicy vege soup and whole fish for main course. They then lit an open fire and played guitar and sang. It was a great night. We were awoken to sunrise trekkers coming up the hill. They can be a bit noisy, but we were quite the attraction with Gada lighting another fire for breakfast. The breakfast was cooked in the steam from the active volcano vents. The sunrise that morning was spectacular. The hike out was via a circumnavigation of the volcano rim before descending. These guides from Balihiking.com are just fantastic. I thoroughly recommend them. The only downside for us was the thin hiking mattresses provided were a little harsh on old bodies. Self inflating ones would have been a huge improvement.
(30) As it's rightly said No pain no gain .To have amazing sunrise view you need to wake up early morning for Hiking with rugged trail but once u reach the top view is mesmerising .You need to have Tour guide and need to take warm cloth at top it become chilled .Don't forget to bring your camera or you will regret not to have the amazing profile picture .Negotiate Well for tour as prices are charged based on how u negotiate .Dont carry big backpack as it's become burden while Hiking .
(31) For folks 50+ and in so-so shape, the trek up Mount Batur is strenous, to say the least. Be advised. The trek down is strenous, too (the front thighs). Duly warned, do the trek! It is an unforgettable experience. We had a very nice guy to guide us, Diana, who was very attentive of needs for breaks. The entire trek was a spiritual experience with a.o. a small ceremony at the shrine for the god of the vulcano. Needless to say, the sunrise was unforgettable. A small and very welcomed breakfast was served... eat something before starting out is my best advise. And remember to bring plenty of water. At the trail head there are many stalls where they sell water and small food. After the big show (sunrise), Diana showed us around in the area, introducing us to the resident monkeys, viewing the caldera, having a quiet moment of contemplation at the entrance to the local shrine, etc. All in all a very rich experience.
(32) You do not \need\" a guide. It is only advisory - the guys in the area said they would shoot at us if we walked up the mountain without a (very expensive) official guide and that there was no other way around it. They also said our bikes \"will not be safe\" if we didn't get one but they would be fine if we did.\n\nWe drove to the other side and paid 100,000idr per person for a ticket and walked up without a guide.\n\n"
(33) SO cold once we got there after the intense 2 hour hike. Treacherous hike - if you aren't fit, or comfortable with heights might want to reconsider. Bring snacks and a warm sweater for the top. We did neither and mega regretted it.\n\nWas so so so so worth it though!!! Amazing hike, challenging and great workout, views unbelievable and worth every minute. Even the 130am wake up call. We loved it!!
(34) Amazing view. Awesome place to see volcano and enjoy local food. Choose sunny day (if possible) to get great clear view of the volcano and the valley.
(35) I completed the sunrise trek up Mt. Batur in June and highly recommend doing it yourself. Don't remember what I paid to do it, but plenty of others have noted the cost. I will mention, like many others have, that it is a very difficult journey up. You begin around 2am and let me tell you, it was worth getting out of bed that early just to see the sky filled with endless stars. It was breathtaking.\n\nThe trek itself is about two hours depending on how often you stop for a breather. There are about 200 of your closest   making the trek up as well, so it can get crowded at certain points. However, don't let that stop you! It was a bit difficult at times, certainly not for anyone who's unfit or leads a sedentary lifestyle. But if I can do it, you can too. The entire path is either rock or sand, neither of which were easy to navigate. Luckily, my guide was absolutely amazing - patient, funny and willing to lend a hand when necessary.\n\nUpon reaching the summit, you can't help but be incredibly proud of yourself for completing that treacherous, 2-hour hike. You'll sweat and your muscles will hurt, but boy is it worth it. The cool breeze that awaits you at the top, and the anticipation for that beautiful sunrise is truly amazing. And those views! Yep, you just gotta go and experience it for yourself. Just know, this is not a glamorous hike and if you're lucky enough, you'll get a guide who's happy to help you up the volcano, and share stories of his culture and family with you along the way.\n\nJUST GO ALREADY!
(36) We organized in our Hotel the tour which includes a Driver, breakfast and a guide.\nAs the tour starts around 2am we prefered the organizes tour instead of going there by our own.\nYou Need around 1,5 hours from Ubud. Arriving at the starting Point in Batur you see a lot of other tourists and a lot of local guides. Our guide was a Girl at age 17. First we were sceptic, but she is doing the tour every day so she knows the ways very good. Her english was also good, so everything was fine.\nThis was our first hiking tour, so it was hard but good! Going up the batur took around 2 hours. Arriving at the top, the guide prepares breakfast. Hot drink can be bought there.\nWe waited for the sunrise. It was really cold but also an amazing Feeling being at the top. Unfortunately we could not see anything from the sunrise due to the strong fog. But this is the weather and no ones fault! Going up the mountain, the weather was getting better, so we could see how high we were and enjoyed the fantastic view.\n\nAt the end we were really tired, but it was an amazing Adventure! For everyone who is not professional but want to hike a volcany at least once, Batur is perfect!
(37) First time in my life I had to wake up at 2am and go climb a mountain. But it was all worth it. Picked us up at 2.30am and started trekking at about 4am. Tour guide was helpful even though we were slow. Up at the mountain peak, the view is breathtaking. We enjoyed the sunrise with some breakfast provided by the guide. Best experience!
(38) We reached the area in the late afternoon when the volcano was completely covered by fog and clouds, but the day after we woke up at 5 in the morning to start one of the most spectacular sunrise we ever seen.\nAgung was completely clear until 8 o'clock giving us the opportunity to get some of the most epic photos.
(39) Initially, the mandatory guide policy was frustrating, but once we got on our way, our guide warmed up to me, and I realized he ended up with very very little of the 300,000 Rupiahs that my wife and I paid. It goes to the corrupt government of Indonesia, who cuts the humble local guides a small monthly check. In reality, the guides are more dependent upon tips from satisfied hikers than their short-changed paychecks. If you go farther than the normal up-and-down hike, which we did, you are expected to tip your guide. We went up, then hiked the rim of the crater, then had breakfast and hiked the long way down. So on top of the 300,000, we tipped him another half of that. For budget travelers, it was an expensive outing (especially after paying our driver). But we knew it was worth it. Our guide was funny, energetic, took lots of pictures for us, answered our questions, and ensured that we had a good time. In the end I was really glad that we were with \Geronimo.\"\n\nAs an advanced hiker, the hike was not at all demanding--I never broke a sweat--but for others I could see it was a challenge. I was glad I packed our headlamps. Those came in handy. Also, proper hiking shoes are recommended. If you're wearing low-cut shoes, you're certain to get black sand and small pebbles in your footwear.\n\nThe views were fantastic. We caught the sunrise at the top, and the sky was clear in the east, with clouds rolling in through our midst from the west. It made for a spectacular sunrise. At one point, the sunrise was shining through the misty clouds passing by, and the whole sky was ablaze with yellow light. From the top, you could see the Bali Sea, Batur Lake, as well as Mt. Agung, the highest point in Bali. It was great."
(40) Literally my favourite part of my holiday. Waking up in the middle of the night to trek up at sunrise Mount Batur. The views are amazing -camera an absolute must. The walk is not for the faint hearted as when its light and you have to walk back down, the paths are not man made but completely natural and all over the place - you dont actually see the drops to the side when walking up!. Wear good hiking boots or trainers, long sleeved clothes and layers u can take off because its cold to begin but then you get hot walking up and then its freezing up the top. Need to be reasonably fit. No toilet at top so bring some sanitary wipes at least. Guide was hilarious and fun and super motivating. If you miss out on this you will regret it.
(41) Mount Batur, also known as Kintamani volcano, has been the most favorite tourist destination in the central moountains area of Bali. The main attraction for visitors is located around lake Batur where Penelokan village provides spectacular views of this crater lake and Mount Batur, set in a vast volcanic caldera. A climb to the summit of Mount Batur 1700 metres and still an active volcano to watch the sunrise is a great experience for more energetic travellers. Danau lake Batur, located on the southeast side of the volcano is 16 kilometres wide and is a popular fishing spot.\n\nToyobungkan has a hot springs and is located by Danau Batur. The water is said to have healing properties and to come from the heart of Gunung Batur.
(42) I can say it is the best natural views I have ever seen in my life, amazing expirement to start moving 3:00 am in the darkness and go up for about 2 hours in order to reach at the top of the mountain before sun rise, that was amazing monkeys, caves and the steam (not sure if that was volcano steam) it was like a wonder land !
(43) As park of a private day trip organised by our hotel we took in the breathtaking sights of the volcano and lake. High up in Bali the views are amazing and mesmerising. It is a slight tourist trap with an over priced restaurant at the top (food might have been worth it we did not eat there), however the scenery is stunning. It is a slight track to get there, the roads are very bumpy on the way and when you arrive also very dusty. Again like all of Bali you have to hand over money to drive to the top, not sure who the money goes too ! Worth it, yes.
(44) There is no doubt the view at the top is spectacular, especially for sunrise. The route up takes about 1h 45m to the very top 2200m and has one or two moderate sections. The air gets thin at the top too. The route down is a different story! At a guess, over 50% of people fell down on the way back - a mixture of loose rock and walking on fine volcanic ash down a very steep hill.\n\nI enjoyed the trip but you must be fit and nust have some hiking experience.
(45) Having read many books that explain Gunung Agung's significance in Balinese culture and spoken to local friends about their climbing experience I made up my mind to reach its summit. Glorious early morning views of it from the beaches of Sanur as I walked the soft sand in my borrowed boots was great motivation and finally I had the opportunity. I Wayan Widi Yasa wayan.idguides@gmail.com was a wonderful guide. He and his family have been the guiding family for generations - he's been climbing Mt Agung since he was 11 - 22 years ago. He is light on his feet, perfectly balanced, gracious and encouraging and so knowledgable with excellent English. He literally guided me step by step as need be when traversing the massive rocks and giving exact to the minute time frames. His enthusiasm for the environment and the climb and the pleasure at eventually arriving with the dawn at the summit was as genuine for him as it was for me. It was an extreme challenge for me but one that was so worthwhile. The clear sunrise was royal reward for the effort with exceptional views across Bali's volcanoes to the west to Java and its closest volcanoes and to the east over Mt Rinjani and Lombok. Thank you again IWayan for turning the possibility into such rewarding certainty - forever in your debt
(46) Trip to Kintamani to view Mount Batur and lake Batur is a tradition that all tourist undertake. On the way to Kintamani, we stopped by a few cottage industries where we got to see Batik work, Silver smith and Wood carvers. On reaching Kintamani, we stopped by a restaurant which had a great view of the active volcano Mount Batur. There is a lake on the bottom of the volcano which I understood was actually a crater. Over lunch we enjoyed the view of this mountain and lake at a distance. We could also see a few houses very close to the foothills of the mountain by the lake. The waiter told us that the volcano had last erupted in 2000. I wished we could get closer to the volcano but our cabbie told us that it would be a long ride. If there is another time I visit Bali, I would like to trek in the mountains here.
(47) There are many other stories just like ours about the Mountain Mafia here. I only wish I had read them before deciding to do this hike. While the mountain is beautiful and the weather cool and refreshing, the people are the scum of the earth and the worst you will find on the island. Please boycott this place until hopefully one day it is cleaned up and the thugs driven out or jailed. There are many other amazing places in Bali to enjoy without financing these criminals.
(48) An early start! 1am pick up but the views were worth it. The guides are brilliant they are full of information about the area plus they get you up and down safely. You will be picked up from your hotel in an air conditioned car and driven to the base for coffee and pancakes. Around 4am you will start the walk up. The walk up isn't the hardest but the path has a lot of loose stones which do move when you stand on them so make sure you wear suitable shoes.
(49) We arrived at the village of mount batur and there was a very very bad energie. It's like a scary place! We wanted to climb the mountain by our self, but that was impossible. The mountain is ruled by the mafia of this town. The local are getting very aggressive if you try to do it by your self. And the ask like min.400.000 and no ticket nothing!(don't pay more than 200.000).we meet people who paid 600.000. Anyway I think it's a ridiculous easy climb, you climb with thousands of people step by step up the mountain. The locals see you as dollars notes. They make a really nice business there!
(50) Unknown to my girlfriend at the time, the top of Mount Agung was to be the place for me to ask the big question. The ideal sunny conditions never transpired but this just gave it a unique experience, and the outcome was positive anyway....she said yes!\n\nPs - it is a tough old climb, virtually rock climbing
(51) First of all- the mount itself is a free place, there s no forestary or something you have to pay for. Just take the road to the left going from ubid and park the bikein a secure place. Imade this three times and one this 'guides' damaged the tube. Tube is 30.000, their adsistance is 300.000- 500.000 for a person. So i agree to pay for tubes as much as needed) climb itsels is simliest ever- 1100 to 1600m only. Comparing to agung its a child walk
(52) Not a good area to be visited, as we have to pay to cross the road to get to Batur, then we have to pay again to trek the mountain. Too much tourist and rubbish, with the collection of money from the tourist, the organizer doesnt pay attention to it.
(53) My dad, me and a friend booked a private guide who brought us to the top. In the beginning you have a normal road (in my opinion) but our friend was unfit and found it really hard. Then there was a meeting point (after 30min) where you have to chose between the easy road and the difficult road. You can also go by motorbike to a place near the top (what our friend did because she was not gonna make it to the top). My dad and I chose the difficult road because we like challenges but this was way to difficult haha. I had to take a break every 2 minutes because it was really steep and you just had to take big steps the whole time. But the guide said that the easy road is way to crowded and that a lot of motorbikes pass by what makes you not enjoy nature to the fullest. After maybe 1,5h we met our friend back and continued a 10min walk to the top and enjoyes the sunrise. It was beautifull but also really cold so you will definitely thank yourself later if you bring a blanket!! On the way back we did the easy road and it looked way more easy then the road that we did to the top. We also waited untill most of the people went down so we could relax and not be bothered by big groups passing by the whole time.\nI liked the hike and would recommend but I think when u go in summervacation it is way to crowded and difficult to enjoy.\n
(54) Great stop for our guide so we can have a beautiful picture of Mount (Mountain) Batur with a story behind.\nMany nice photos you can take and also you can buy many things.
(55) I really enjoy the beautiful view...nice place to enjoy view of the mountain in Bali. The best view is early morning when sun rises.
(56) Just completed the ascent about a week ago. Went as a solo woman climber and had a wonderful female native guide. As an experienced mountaineer found it to be a good tough trek that involved some class three scramble in the final hour. Shocked that there's so little to brief people before they go. Caution you to bring your own headlamp, Trek poles and serious mountain boots or good traction. Layering up and down essential and that includes gloves. No safety brief, no real signage, no route maps, just trust your guide. Forget anyone having the classic ten essentials, safety gear. I went during the rainy season and was fortunate to go under clear skies and dry conditions. Not safe to do in rain due to slick rocks even under best conditions. Memorable trip up with just me and my guide. Many times I turned my lamp off to experience the stars. I say again, bring your own headlamp to ensure you have light. I met a few at top with guides who had no light, or were handed a flashlight and, or their headlamp failed. You WILL need to use your hands in many places. Be in excellent cardio condition. And trust your guide - they set a good pace and will get you up and back safely. My guide went much slower than I wanted but realized she was pacing me to arrive just prior to sunrise and to not have us spend too much time at top, in the cold and wind waiting for it. And she brought hot Balinese cofffee!
(57) The sunrise trek is definitely worth getting up for. The views at the top are amazing and the guides are all so helpful! Beautiful!
(58) It is unbelievable the stories about the Mafia in toya bungkha is true. You risk your life going up the volcano on your own because the people in the town might actually kill you... We were offered 50$ for two persons but still for an easy walk way too expensive do not do it....it seemed that the owner of the volcano Bungalows in toya bungkha is the head oft the Mafia the way he looked at US because we didnt want to pay him or this Kindergarten walk...so do not support him...climb the volcano From somewhere else....
(59) This Hike is amazing and well worth it. My friends and I did it with a group of 16, with the majority of us making it to the summit for sunrise. Our leading guide was Wayan Widiyasa who I could not recommend more highly. He arranged 3 vans to pick us all up from our Legian Hotel at midnight and then met us with 5 other guides at Pasar Agung to begin our hike. All this for a price of $300,00.00 Rp per person. BARGAIN!\nIf you are contemplating this hike I strongly suggest contacting Wayan by email ahead of time and he can help to provided you with any information you may need.\nThe hike itself was very intense. Even though this is the easiest route, it is by no means a walk in the park. I consider myself to be a quite fit, 30yo male and this was the hardest physical activity I have ever completed. The Hike is 3.5 hours up, 30-45 mins up the summit to enjoy the views, and then 3.5 hours back down. I strongly suggest taking a lot of care coming down on the steep rocky sections. I found this out the hard way by twisting my ankle only 10 minutes into the descent. Luckily one of the guides helped me get back down only 15 minutes or so behind the rest of my group.\nThis was such a rewarding experience and one that I will truly treasure for the rest of my life. If you are thinking about it, just do it. You will be glad you did.
(60) You won't have a single regret waking early at wee hours to climb up in the dark w torch lights. (Not that tough, amateur level?) the moment when i saw the first glimpse of the sunrise, it'll pay off ;)