masterthesis-playground/raft/corpus/topic=4__part=014__n=60.txt

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


(1) I personally found this place romantic. Being in front of huge Volcano mountain, lake and few other peaks.\nWe took a taxi from ubud centre for $20 and had buffet lunch at the restaurant with view of mount batur. Our driver took us to lake down the road and it was a bumpy ride but we enjoyed. Going early morning saves you from traffic and gives you a good clean view hopefully if it's not that cloudy. Take a light jacket too as it's a little cold up.
(2) Arranged this trip through a tour company in Monkey forest Road. Pick up was at 2am. We began climbing at around 3.30 with or guide Gede who was a really great guy. Offering help and encouragement when needed. The climb its self was moderately difficult ( I am probably only average fitness). The view and the sunrise was amazing and something that will stay with me for a longtime.
(3) Booked through a hostel when staying in Ubud we were a group of back packer  .\n\nThis walk was hard - we asked prior to booking and were told the hike was fairly easy. Admittedly, we are not in tip-top shape but at the same time are fairly averagely healthy 20 year olds. It was hard and it was not overly fun.\n\nThe safety especially when walking down was very questionable and many people had slipped when walking down the volcano. The sunrise isn’t that impressive.\n\nThere are no toilets so make sure you go for the number two before you hike or else you will be very uncomfortable when hiking.
(4) Having read online that you do not need a guide to trek up to mount batur I decided save some cash and drive & walk up it myself. However when I arrived at the trail entrance (around 11.30) I was immediately stopped by a group of locals posing as guides at a gate and told I would have to pay 600'000 rupee for a guide and that it wasn't possible to do it on my own. Knowing that they were trying to scam me I attempted to just push past but they grabbed my backpack and surrounded me with no way past. As I wasn't going to fight a group of locals I attempted to skirt around the outside of the entrance, however they patrolled the area and caught me and began calling me a terrorist and many other things. Eventually it escalated to death threats when I ignored them and kept climbing at which point I left. Just thought I'd give a warning to any solo travellers.
(5) A active volcano and chance for telling to same. Get up early and enjoy this opportunity of lifetime.
(6) The climb up is as arduous as you trying to resist your favourite KFC fried chicken wing.\n\nOnce you resist the first wing, you are on your way to resisting the whole bucket of fried chicken. THE ONLY WAY IS UP.\n\nGuides are all friendly and helpful in helping you to reach the peak. All climbers ascending should be equipped with this common mindset - to get to the top safely but gradually.\n\nAll the way up! You’ll love the view up there.
(7) This is a must go if you're in the area. I had a muscle tear in my acl and I managed to climb it. It was quite tough but the views at the end was worth it. Also do ask your guide to take you on a private tour once you reach the top. 10/10 would recommend
(8) 1. Introduction\nMt. Batur is an active volcano located near Lake Batur, about a two hour drive north of Kuta. It is a very popular climb due to the magnificent sunrise views from its three summits (Congratulations Point, Western Summit, Main Summit 5,630 ft.).\n\n2. Trailhead\nThere are two main starting points:\n1) Batur Guide Station in the village of Toya Bungkah near the Bukit Mentik Temple. This is the more popular of the two trails to the top because it is a shorter and gentler climb. I used this trail and this review is about this trail.\n2) Pura Jeti – this is the trail to choose if you like a steep trail, jagged rocks, and also fewer other climbers on the trail.\n\n3. Information Sources\nUnfortunately, I was unable to find reliable information about this climb before my hike so I decided to write this review in the hopes that it would help others enjoy this experience.\n\n4. Level of difficulty\nThe level of difficulty primarily depends on your fitness. This hike is doable for anyone in reasonably good condition if they walk at a pace that is appropriate for them. Even though it is steep in sections and the scree can be challenging, to an experienced hiker in good condition this will seem like a fairly moderate climb. But to someone who is not in that good of hiking shape this can be a challenging and difficult climb.\n\n5. Best time of year\nMt. Batur can be hiked year round, but the best weather is usually April – October. The busiest months are July and August.\n\n6. Guides\nAlthough guides are not required, and not really needed since the trail is easy to follow, it is probably best that you hire one. Many people have written about the harassment, bullying, and threats that climbers who do not wish to use a guide are subjected to at the trailhead. You can either hire a guide ahead of time or hire one at the trailhead in Toya Bungkah. There is an association of guides and the rate is fixed.\n\n7. Trail distances\nToya Bungkah Trail 5 miles (Round trip)\nPura Jeti Trail 6 ½ miles (Round trip)\n\n8. Elevations\nToya Bungkah Trailhead 3600 ft.\nFlat Section of Trail 4800 ft.\nCongratulations Point 5600 ft.\nSummit 5630 ft.\n\n9. Vertical Elevations\nThe vertical elevation you will climb to the summit is 2,030 ft. There are no ups and downs on this trail before reaching the crater rim at Congratulations Point. If you wish to hike to the highest summit of Mt. Batur it is a 5-10 minute hike from Congratulations Point. You will descend about 50 vt. ft. and then ascend about 80 vt. ft. more to reach the highest summit.\n\n10. Itinerary\nMost people try to summit for sunrise, leaving their hotels from Kuta at about 2 AM to start the trek at about 4 AM. The advantages of doing this are:\n1) Hopefully seeing a beautiful sunrise from the summit.\n2) Cooler temperatures to climb in.\n3) Less traffic from Kuta, etc. to the trailhead.\n\nThe major disadvantage is that you will not be alone. There are often 500+ people on the trail and the summit with you. I opted to leave the hotel at 9 AM and started at 11:30 AM. There was traffic from Kuta and the sun was out and it was hot climbing, but we saw no one else on the trail and only a father with his daughter praying at the summit temple. Choose the experience you wish.\n\n11. Trail description\nThe trail is mostly volcanic rock and scree. It is steep in numerous places and ascending in the scree can be challenging as you tend to slide back each step. Splaying your feet a bit (walking like a duck), can give you more traction. The key is to choose well where you step and just slowly keep moving forward. The first 10 minutes of the trail is fairly flat or moderately uphill. This is mostly an agricultural area. But after this, the trail is fairly steep all the way to Congratulations Point with one exception. About halfway up there is a flat section for about 100 meters. Many people who feel that they cannot, or do not want to, climb higher stop here. Fortunately, this is also a good place to view the sunrise.\n\n12. Water along trail\nThere is no water along the trail. If you do the sunrise hike, there will be people on the summit selling water, soda, beer, food, etc. so you will only need to carry what you need for the way up. The prices reflect the fact that these items must be carried up. If you hike during the day like I did, then you must carry sufficient water, etc. for both the ascent and descent. I carried 1 liter, which was sufficient.\n\n13. What to bring\nIf you do the sunrise hike it can be chilly at the top, especially if you arrive early and have to wait for the sunrise. Bring along a warm layer. If you hike later in the day like I did, the sun can be brutal. I would recommend a lightweight long-sleeve shirt, sunglasses, baseball hat/sun hat and sunscreen.\n\n14. Time estimates\nThis is always a hard thing to say since it depends on many factors including your fitness level, weather, pack weight, how often you stop to take breaks, pictures, etc. That being said, most people take 1 ½ - 2 hrs. to reach the summit. A very fit and experienced hiker can summit in less than an hour.\n\nThe descent will take about ½ - ¾ of the time it took you to ascend. It is great fun. The scree that was so challenging on the ascent is now your friend. Each step you take, you also slide another couple of feet down in the scree accelerating your descent. One disadvantage. Your shoes will be filthy (outside and inside) from the volcanic scree, dust, etc. as will your legs from the knee down.\n\n15. Altitude\nMt. Batur is certainly high enough that you will notice the difference in your breathing, but other than this, very few people have any issues with the altitude.\n\n16. Misc.\nIf you are coming from Kuta or Denpasar, there are a lot of interesting things to do on your drive back, including:\n1) Hot springs\n2) Waterfalls\n3) Craft stores in Ubud\n4) Rice Terraces in Ubud\n\nI would recommend talking with your transport provider beforehand and choosing to enjoy a few of these things after the hike on the way back to Kuta.\n\n17. Conclusion\nHiking Mt. Batur was one of the highlights of my time in Bali. I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
(9) We were picked up at our hotel at 2 am by our private driver. We arrived at abt. 4 am at the foot of Mount Batur, where we were already expected by our private guide especially for the Mount Batur. The climb is quite heavy, certainly not for beginners. Not only up but descend is heavy also. Due to my bad fitness conditions, I was glad I could use the Suzuki driving me up to the top (almost) just 5-7 min walk to the top. It costs extra money, but for people who are in bad fitness condition and like to experience magnificent and breath-taking view on the sunrise and the Mount Agung, its worthwhile. I certainly recommend this, although I have learned from our guide that we were lucky with the weather, as it is not for sure when you are at the top that you will see the sunrise due the bad weather conditions. Not only the sunrise is fantastic, but you can see the crater and hot steam geysers. Certainly one of the top three things to do in Bali.
(10) \nWe left seminyak around 1 am and almost 2 hours drive to kintamani.\nWe asked one guy to guide us to the top, it was for only IDR 300.000 for 6of us.\nEasy trek and we stop almost every 10 minutes as my   are not accustomed to hiking, beautiful star light something that we did not see everyday. we reached the top before 5am.\nBeautiful sunrise from top, we were just walking around the caldera and enjoy the moment.\nGoing down was a bit dusty and slippery because of the sands.\nEasy trek, great view and beautiful sunrise.\nMust in bali.
(11) The trip was very nice. We started from Ubud, it was showering at night and we were about to cancel the trip. But finally we went and it payed of fully. We saw a clear sky with thousands of stars, the climbing was not too hard, even my friend in flip-flops managed it. The sunrise was one of the most beautiful scenes I've ever seen. The view of the volcano on the opposite side and the lake on the bottom surrounded by clouds won't touch you only if you are heartless. All the people were very excited and enthusiastic and the overall atmosphere was very nice. And no \taxi-taxi\" on the way.\n!!! But keep in mind, that the reason am be price for this tour including transportation is 300-350k per persone even after the fuel price increase. If they start telling you fairy tales about a super expensive entrance and guide, look for other people to make this tour for you."
(12) Very interesting to visit the caldera and see how the people are mining the volcanic rock and sand ( for building) also using the fertile alluvial soil around the base of the volcanos for growing flowers ,fruit and veg,\nBeautiful volcanic landscape and so interesting . Glad we visited here
(13) Nice view of the volcano and the adjacent lake. It is a bit of a drive to get to but worth it for the views
(14) Wow! What an amazing morning we had hiking up Mt Batur- it’s safe to say that our hike was made especially special by the outstanding service we got from our guide & his amazing family. (Incase you’re already sold on this adventure contact +62 877-6038-1082 - Bazir - there’s no better guide around).\n\nI’ll start by saying the whole booking process was super easy, I actually found our guides number on a previous post and whatsapped him, he got back straight away with a laid out plan of what to expect, what we needed to bring, prices etc.\n\nHe advised us to bring long pants and a jacket, rightly so too! We are pretty used to cold weather but it was a chilly one for sure, we were stoked that we had a jumper, windbreaker and thermal leggings on so we could enjoy the sunrise while feeling warm!\n\nBazir’s father who also used to guide himself picked us up at 2:30am on the dot, as planned from our accomdation in Ubud. He was ever so friendly & made the travel really easy.\n\nAround 3:30 we arrived at the base of Mt Batur, Bazir was there ready and waiting for us with a beaming smile! We set off up the volcano on an amazing path, Bazir took us up an alternative route to the main tourist route as it was less busy, a little shorter but steeper- this was incredible as the other route was rammed with people! He always mixes up the route depending on what the customer wants, fitness levels, times etc.\n\nHe was very knowledgeable and gave us lots of information on the way up and the top as well as causal friendly chats. We arrived to the crater around 5am to be greeted by an amazing red strip in the sky as the light started to set in. As we took in the incredible views Bazir whipped us up some delicious coffee & breakfast with eggs and fresh fruit, it was all perfect.\n\nWhile enjoying my breakfast my hat got swept up in the wind and flew into the crater! Bazir so kindly climbed straight down into the crater to retrieve it for me- a pretty epic extra service if you ask me!\n\nAfter the sun had risen (which was mesmerising) we had a stroll around the crater, saw some monkeys, took some pictures and got some great local knowledge!\n\nWe strolled back down to base, enjoying the sun- it’s really amazing to go up in the dark and down when it’s light- as we got to the bottom Bazir’s dad was there waiting for us to drive back- the whole service was so prompt and organised! they really did go above and beyond to make it all so easy and smooth.\n\nOn the way home we stopped at the coffee plantation and the rice terrace, both were incredible and it was so great to get to see a bit more on our way back to Ubud.\n\nI honestly can not recommend this family enough, they do many different types of tours, including a sunset & sunrise camping tour on Batur- i’ll definitely be doing this with them next time. They are an incredibly kind hearted family who provide an amazing service for tourists in Bali, it’s an added perk that they grew up at the base of the volcano so they really are all true locals.\n\n+62 877-6038-1082 Bazir
(15) don't forget when you visiting bali come to kintamani district ,in here more better in the morning come and less of tourism,and get nice view ,some time cloudy come if come at afternoon.\neasy to find meal on the area with your bugged and mostly for trekking to mount batur and down hills for cycling bike end of ubud area.\non the way we can find coffee plantation and organic farms.
(16) An awe inspiring view from all angles. incredibly windy at the top but well worth the walk. Make an early morning start to see the volcano and the view as the sun comes up
(17) I won't go into the details of how beautiful and breathtaking the views are from atop Mt. Batur as most have already covered this. Definitely worth a visit, if you have time.\n\nNow the downside. There are some, not all, but some guides who are very aggressive and literally act like thugs. Contrary to what they may tell you, you are allowed to visit the volcano without a guide. At least that is what both some locals and Lonely Planet have told me. My wife and I visited the volcano and were not planning on paying a guide 400,000 IDR for the privilege of taking a hike since we have both GPS and a pretty detailed map of the trails in an app (Maps with me Pro).\n\nWe were confronted by one guide who just started shouting at us when we told him we were looking for an admissions office and did not have money for a guide. He subsequently went on to watch over me while my wife went to check out the entrance to the trail. We did not speak in the meantime. While waiting, another guide (his friend, I assume) came over to ask if I needed a guide. I told him we did not have money for a guide. The original guide again started shouting at me for no reason, saying that I did not respect their country and he would bring me to the police.\n\nHaving found the entrance to the trails, we subsequently went to park our moped at a local restaurant. The owner was kind enough to let us do so and an older gentleman congratulated us on not using a guide since the trail was straightforward. As we went to the entrance, the two guides drove by, with a third guide in tow holding a stick, to beat us there. Long story short, there was a lot of aggression and threatening moves (i.e I would be hit if I decided to continue down the path).\n\nAnyway, after a few detours and trying to lose them while they followed us, we eventually lost them and made it into the volcano area. The hike was magnificent! Since we started late morning, there was no one at the crater except us! We encountered a few guides asking us if we needed a guide on the way and when we said no, they did not say it was illegal to not have one, so I assume it is OK.\n\nThese guides really gave the locals a bad image. Please be careful of a bald/skinhead guy driving a red Ninja motorbike. The others I cannot give a descriptive description. If you are on a budget, an unguided hike may be the best bet.
(18) I am not beginer in treking and i reach peaks as Mt.Kinabalu(Malaysia),Cerro Rico(Bolivia)Mt .Elgon(uganda),G.Merapi,G.Lawu,G.Ciremai(all in Indonesia) and others ,BUT night trek in heavy rain to TOP of Mount Agung was really horror trip!!5 hours way to peak was in heavy rain start around 1,30 AM,on way isnt any shelter and visibility was around 5 meter in mist!!During trek was impossible change vet cloth and use dry one becouse non stop very heavy rain.Every turist who go up in night mist and rain is in pity situation ,way down is almost impossible becouse Plenty of small ravines and recesses, slippery boulders, and streamlined streams with a clayey channel prevent a safe nightfall. In this situation, it is possible to stay alone in a heavy rain or to climb steadily.We arrived at the top just before dawn, totally soaked and cooled after five hours of excursion. The sun is about six o'clock in the morning. At that time, it is also halting, about half an hour of heavy rain.\nOn the wet boulders of the peak it is difficult to move and with a little carelessness you can easily fall into the crater.Downhill takes about 3 hours, daylight is better, but it is not safe here in the form of slippery boulders, small holes of holes and submerged streams with clayey bottom. Horseshoes or Nordic walking sticks can not be used because they can not deny on slippery boulders! In the area of about an hour walk under the summit, the rain begins again, the hills here form horsetails and can not be hidden under the rain !!If it is dry, you can experience a medium-sized output suitable for a bit more proficient tourist, but in case of fog and mist, your trip can easily change in hell !! Any injuries in the top of the mountain are insoluble, leg fractures or more bruises can trap you for a long time On the slopes of the volcano. There is no mountain rescuer or Mountain Service, as in the European mountains! This volcanic mountain is definitely not a place for an easy family trip with a bit of adrenaline.A busy travel agency will never offer you this trip at a time in the mountains It's raining !! Only non-seasonal agents, asking for a profit at any price, are glad to promise and organize anything !!!\nI have paid a sum of 100, -USD for the trip to this mountain (included in the price of the land by car from Tulamben and back plus mountain guide.
(19) We drove as far to the top as possible, and ended up at a temple.\nThe views from here are incredible as we were above the cloud line, and could see so far that it was sooo impressive.\nTher are options to go up at 0200 am to see the sun rise , BUT you must be very fit and no knee problems.\nA magical experience mt Agung.
(20) Long haul from Ubud but worth it for the views especially in December with Agung fuming - Tried to access the top half of the climb but too many stairs so didn't make it
(21) Mt. Batur is one of the active volcanos. Getting out of the hot sea weather and up to this moountain has a nice cold weather. You can see the ashes and the lava formation from the old eruption. A must visit place in Bali.
(22) when people decide Bali, this is one of the highlight when in bali. you must visit this active volcano on a clear day to have the best view.\nMt Batur heads Lake batur. its a beautiful view.
(23) The driver was at our lobby 15 mins before schedule , we were staying in Ubud only so we started at 2.30 am. The driver was extremely courteous who drove us safely.\n\nKeep some change handy using the bathroom costs : IDR 5000, you can rent a jacket for IDR 50000. Incase you need refreshments there is a shop down where you can pick up stuff. Though while climbing you will have people selling stuff, not sure how they are priced though.\n\nI would say that certain level of fitness is necessary , if you are a first time trekker , good luck ! It is steep towards the end of the trek and slippery because of the volcanic ash !\n\nHowever now from the mid point they have a dirt bike service that can take you up to a certain point and gets you down , that comes at an additional charge.\n\nPLEASE do not carry eatables if you are not okay with monkeys around you , one of the monkeys was eating into a pack of cigarettes. Also another monkey actually got onto a lady back and removed candies from her back pack.\n\nBut the view is breath taking and it is completely worth the trek !\n\nAlso save yourself the trouble and do the trek with a group or a guide !
(24) challenging and steep 1 Km hike to the bottom, but worth it. Don't go if you have a fear of heights. And wear sneakers. Don't forget your snorkel.  It costs money to use the toilet, but I think the fee is included with most tours.
(25) Dream view of Mount Batur and Lake Batur would beat Kuta and all of its glamour hands down. Join the climbing team if you are in a good state and want to challenge yourself physically.
(26) its a beautiful sight & place only destroyed my money hungry guide organisation. Was walking up track to festival at base of Mt Batur when physically stopped by 4 local guides on scooters demanding we go no further without guide. We told them going to festival & not climbing, but they continued to demand we pay & then one of the guides kicked & punched me & another started throwing large rocks at one of my  . When I mentioned the police the situation escalated!!!
(27) I climbed Mount Batur with a sunrise trekking group, and it was by far the best thing I did while I was in Bali. My hotel booked me with a trekking group, so I'm not actually certain the name of the organisation I went with! However, whoever they were, they were great!\n\nThere were 7 in our group, three very fit European trekking type couples, and me on my own - a somewhat unfit Australian with dodgy knees! Everyone in my group took great care of me, and Annie, one of our two guides was excellent. She lagged behind the group to stay with me and chat, and make sure I was ok, and offered a hand to help me up the tricky parts where my knees weren't coping quite so well.\n\nThe driver collected us from our accommodations at around 2am, and the drive out to the mountain (volcano) was a couple of hours, with a breakfast stop along the way (included in the $50 price of the tour).\n\nThe walk up the mountain was, for me, quite hard going, but definitely doable, as I took it fairly slowly. The fit ones in my group made it to the top about 20 minutes before me, so it is around a 1.5 to 2hr climb. It is 13.5km from the carpark to the summit and back.\n\nThe view from the top is absolutely stunning! The sunrise can be seen over Mt Agung, the highest mountain in Bali, and over lake Batur. The tours provide breakfasts of eggs and banana sandwiches. It is possible to buy hot chocolate or coffee at the top for about $5.\n\nThere were a lot of people, so it certainly isn't a solitary experience (unless you wander away from your group and induce panic!). My guide informed me that in peak season there may be up to 500 people climbing at a time; there were around 200 the day I climbed.\n\nAt the top, there are many lovely monkeys, but they are well behaved. They will steal food or water bottles if you have these things though.\n\nI would definitely recommend joining one of the many tours that run the sunrise trekking, and doing this climb. If you have a moderate level of fitness, it won't be a problem - but you do need good hiking boots!
(28) me and my wife was on our honeymoon and we decided this will be the first challenge we accomplish together right after marriage.\n\nWe start the hike at 0330hrs. After an hour it got very2 steep and difficult for my wife. With only the moon light and our torchlight to guide us. Luckily we had a private guide.\nWe reached the peak just nice before sunset. The view was amazing. the trip down we took a different route an easier but definitely longer. But the view hike down was also superb.
(29) Early morning start and a moderate hike up the mountain. Well worth the effort. Guides are great, took good care of us, and we all managed to get to the top, amazing sun rise and view. Can be chilly at the top, so bring something warm. You need decent runners, or hiking shoes, bit slipply coming down, gloves would have been nice, as you tend to use your hands to steady yourself, rocks are rough! Monkeys are great to see, they will come to you if you have fruit/food.
(30) the hike is early but it's all worthwhile for such a view and experience, it's relatively easy hike. the locals are very friendly and helpful along the hike, the trail is very well maintained and clean. Jero and his guides are all very friendly and helpful throughout the whole tour . they are very accommodating to your needs during the tour, the trip is privatised and customisable to your requests.\n\nThanks a lot Jero and his team. i will definitely engage them again for future hikes.
(31) Beautiful sunrise climb! Not for the faint hearted. Some fitness levels needed but so worth it after the two hour climb. Banana sandwiches and eggs offered as breakfast at the peak.\nMonkeys join you and enjoy the view. Just watch your stuff as they will take what ever takes there fancy.\nBy far one of the best things i have ever done.
(32) There were about 10 of us that did a sunrise qigong session viewing this beautiful mountain and it well worth waking at 4:00 a.m. to do so! If you go that early be prepared to be a bit chilly and take your jacket! Most of us did not and we worked really hard to get warmed up!! After our session we went to the lake and it was magical. It was very still and quiet as we watched he fisherman take out. So nice because motors are not allowed on the lake.
(33) A 2am start from Ubud hideously early; after 40 minutes we stopped at a \coffee house\" for delicious banana pancakes and coffee. A rather miserable luwak (civet cat) in a cage advertised the world famous \"poo-coffee\". Bleak and sad at that hour. To the lake and then a 2 hour hike in total darkness to the summit. Our party were generally healthy and fit but without much recent training. The 60 year olds did it easily though with effort. Sadly the clouds rolled in just at sunrise but then cleared again to give magnificent views of the lake; volcanic lava flows; Mt Agung in the distance and then even Lombok island across the northern strait. Magnificent. We had no special clothes or climbing footwear and did it without difficulty in shorts / t-shirts / trainers though in the morning 18 degrees C at the top non cotton tops and some form of jacket would have been more comfortable.\nWell worth the subsequent fatigue and achey thighs and a good response to the delicious Balinese food we have been having 3+ meals a day."
(34) I was trek to mount batur, that very nice, sunrise was amazing, the volcano still active, this is best volcano ever i did trek.\nI recommended for who want to see amazing views in Bali.
(35) The main purpose of the trekking up to mount batur is for the sunrise, but instead i especially love the starry sky. It is so beautiful along the way trekking from the starting point. Started travelling from Seminyak to Mount Batur area at 2am, had some local coffee(kopi luwak, vanilla coffee, etc) and light pancake before heading to starting point where we meet our guide. Important: be prepared with warm jacket as the area is above sea level thus it is chilling along the way and up at the peak before the sunrise. The trek are mainly sand, small stones and rocks. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the first stop where the crater is. The trekking might requires a bit of stamina if done without stopping. While waiting for the sun to rise, guide prepared boiled egg (placed inside the steaming rocks) and banana sandwiches. Moving down the mount might be tricky but quite fine if doesn't rain. Worth the trek!
(36) I just finished my trip to Bali (October 26, 2016) and summiting Mt. Agung the long way from Pura Besakih Temple. Most of these reviews are the shorter easier hike to the crater rim and did not give me enough information (I felt) so I am writing this review so others who wish to attempt this route will have hopefully better information. I am a seasoned hiker having summited many mountains in Europe, Kilimanjaro, Peru in the Cordirella Blanca, Mt Olympus etc. This is not an easy summit for a variety of reasons. It is 6000 vertical feet of continuous, steep climbing and you will not gain time on the descent. Do not attempt this unless you have experience and you simply must hire a guide. Why? Because when you hire a guide, they register your names with the police. If anything happens, the police will come looking for you. If you have no guide, they will NOT bother to look for you and your family/friends will have to come and do it. Our guide told us of a Russian who died the prior week by not using a guide, getting to the summit, the cloud cover comes in and he chose the wrong path down and fell to his death. Also this year two Indonesians died without a guide and one body is still somewhere on the mountain. So pick the right guide to start ahead of arriving in Bali because the best guides are in demand. I did use a guide recommended by Lonely Planet. Basically look to the guide to provide some water (we got one liter which is not enough - you should have 2-3 liters), plenty of snacks and lunch plus hot tea or coffee. They also will direct you on the right path so you know where to go.\nPickup from Ubud is about a 2 hour ride to the start so be prepared for this. Allow plenty of time to get to the summit! It will take you at least 6 hours and if you are unsure (or slower) allow yourself 7 to 7.5 hours. It was not cold when we started but pitch black. I do not recommend using local guides trekking poles as they are in really bad condition and mine collapsed on me. I wish I had brought my own Leki poles with me. They will provide a good headlamp although I had my own. Wear long pants - I saw one person in shorts and he regretted it. Also bring rain gear as it will probably rain on the way down - it doesn't last long but you will get soaked. I just had a rain jacket and that was fine. The summit was not as cold as I thought but I did need a fleece jacket (as did the other 6 people on the mountain top that day). I also had a fleece hat/gloves although I did not need them.\n\nFrom the start, it is disorienting to hike at night because you cannot see ahead and how far it is. The trail starts fairly flat and starts angling up right away. After 30 minutes of fairly flat you are climbing and you will be climbing steeply almost the entire time. Keep this in mind as they are no long flat areas to recover. The climb is first through the forest with tree rooted trail. The trail also has erosion spots. At one point, half the trail collapsed on me and I looked to my right to see I was now above an 8 ft. landslide. Fortunately I didn't end up at the bottom of it and was able to recover. Be cautious of the sides of the trail and stay to the middle. There are no ropes on the trail but at certain really steep points they have long strips of cloth you can hand onto to pull yourself up. You climb for several hours through the forest before reaching above treeline. Be prepared for the forest to be hot/humid. You may also need an electrolyte drink (they do have this in Bali) to replace salts etc or bring your own powder to mix. At this point, the climb is more interesting with what I would consider mild scrambling through rocks/boulders. Now you can see the crest of the mountain. While climbing up you get a 180 degree view from Densapar to Kuta which is quite beautiful. At the crest, you will then see the first false summit and you will be going up a pebble/scree path. After that you go down a narrow path with drop off on both sides to the final summit (it's actually down then up then down and up but it's relatively easy compared to the climb). Depending on the time of year, sunrise could be at 5:30 or 6:30am so check on that before deciding when to start. Hopefully at the summit you don't have low clouds so you can see 360 degree views of Bali. Fortunately we had high clouds but a good view.\n\nThe descent is also very difficult. When you get to the tree area, I would recommend using the cloth \ropes\" to rappel down. We also heard how inexperienced people fell down the mountain, some rolling for quite some distance so don't think you won't get injured and be careful. By now you have been hiking the entire night without sleep and you are tired. I had my Asolo hiking boots on and I still found it difficult to get a grip on this trail. We had two drenching rains on the way down but they did not last long. It is also difficult to gauge how far you have to descend because you have no visual reference points when you came up. Instead, I used my altimeter watch to figure out how much farther I had to go.\n\nIs it worth it? If you like to climb, then yes it is worth it. We were lucky to have great views. Our guide climbs this mountain 4 days a week during the season and he said the day before there was no view at all at the top. It will definitely give you a feeling of accomplishment."
(37) It's quite hard for solo traveler like me to book from online tour. So here is the tip for anyone who did a solo trip and want to join other group (sharing tour). Like what it has been said in the forumn, you can book the trip the day before on a tour booth at ubud street. Just go for one, asked for batur trekking trip and asked the price. I got it for idr 350k. The price include pick up and drop off from your hotel (ubud area), brrakfast 2 times (pancake banana before the trekking and egg sandwich at summit), mineral water (the driver will asked if we already bring our water or not), guide for trekking, ticket retribution (100k/person). The driver pick up us around 2am and it took 1 hour to reach kintamani area. The trekking start right away after we arrived. Please go to toilet first before the trekking and I suggest it to go to the cafe where we get our early breakfast rather than at batur (you need to pay 5k for toilet). Trekking take 2 hours for up and another 2 hour for the way down. After trekking there will be a short stop for coffee plantation but you can ask the driver to skip it and going right away to our hotel. The whole tour end at 10 am (as our group decided to skip coffee plantation).\nAbout the view from summit : it was breathtaking and almost magical!! This trip was just made my day. We couldn't see the sunrise because it was cloudy,, but still the view is just worth all the sweat and hard breath I got because the trekking. It was not the hard one, but I would not say it easy too. And dont forget to bring your jacket! It was a freezeing at the top
(38) We hired a local guide to bring us to Mt. Batur....The journey to Mt. Batur was very bad as the driver was driving like a crazy man!!!... We had to keep telling him to slow down but he didn't even bother to listen..\n\nUpon reaching the mountain, we are welcome by the beautiful view of Mt. Batur and the weather is so cooling... and we decided to head for a buffet lunch in a restaurant (can't remember the name of the restaurant) which was recommended by the local guide...We were told that the buffet lunch was 350K per person which was very cheap...\n\nThe food was okay since we are paying 350K only....nothing much to complaint but the view of Mt Batur is awesome .....Once we had finished our lunch and called for the bill, guess what...we are so surprised that we have to pay 900K per person for the lunch!!!! And we know that we are being cheated by the guide....since we are on holiday and doesn't want to spoil our trip, we just pay and go....\n\nSo be careful when you are hiring the local guide...I would recommend to use any guide that was being introduce by the hotel.
(39) My friend and I used to run marathons and we thought this hike would be a breeze, but it turned out to be difficult and definitely NOT for the UNFIT! It was scary going up and down this mountain, we feared falling from the cliff! We were just glad that our trek guide was very cautious and helpful, he even carried our belongings to the top! I was disappointed when we reached the peak and realized that it was sooooo cloudy, the sun didn't come out! We couldn't see anything! But for about 5 to 10mins, the skies cleared up and THE VIEW WAS SPECTACULAR! In the end, it was worth the climb! ;)
(40) Only briefly saw the volcano whilst I was in Ubud - such a beautiful mountain/volcano. Would love to be able to do the trek on the next trip. If you get the chance it is a good photo opportunity and to hear about the history of it.
(41) On June 20th, my friend and I hiked up the famous Mount Batur. We woke up at 1am and travelled by car for about 2hours. We went inside a food shop with all the other hikers and they served us coffee/tea and fried bananas then we started hiking at 4am.\n\nThe trail was very foggy because it was raining in other parts of the country but the soil was so dry. The hike was so smooth until one lady in our group hyperventilated. Because of that we only had to stay at the first peak and can’t continue to reach the summit. I asked the guide if we could go on our own (my friend and I) but he said no because we should hike as a group. That was disappointing! I paid quite a lot only for that. I don’t blame the lady but I was so mad with the guide.\n\nWe waited until 6:30 then we went down. The pace was so fast that I couldn’t take photos of the lush forest, porous igneous rocks, lichen living on the bark and some bryophytes I saw on the way down. There was no talking and no information from the guide himself. The tour should finish at 11 but we finished at 8:30 because the guide was hiking quickly, not in the mood and all he cares is to get home as early as he can and get some rest for another hike the following day. Although the hike wasn’t challenging, it was still beautiful and at least I took a good photo of Mt. Agung by stopping for a while and then run to catch the group.\n\nFor hikers like myself, I don’t recommend Mt. Batur. I should have had booked for Mt. Agung.
(42) I did this by booking with a tourist desk in Ubud (not sure which provider) it was cheap. I was picked up late, 3am, but had been waiting since 2am as this was the pick up time I was told. Be aware that Indonesian time is very relaxed!\n\nWe were driver for about an hour to the base, you do the climb with loads of other people. It was warm despite being dark so don't carry loads of layers, just one is fine for the top.\n\nThe path is slippery rock, so wear shoes with good grip but I was fine in trainers.\n\nThe sunrise terrace is crowded so try and get to the front for a uninterupted view. We were provided with 'breakfast' on the bus to have at the top, it was awful so I'm glad I had my own coconut bar and drink.\n\nThe view makes up for all of the delays and food, it is incredible. Seeing Agung in full light is also impressive.\n\nThe climb down is harder due to the slippy rock but the views are also good!\n\nThe drive back took forever due to Ubud traffic, didn't arrive back until 12pm so don't plan much for the next day!
(43) so after climbing many a peak in the uk and Europe how could we not climb this amazing sight . So we turned up at the car park (2am) with no guide booked we were promptly approached by ( a guy we now know is ) wayan. He was very passive aggressive when he demanded we used a guide . When I said \we do not want to\" he eventually said we need to pay 100000 pp to climb it ! ! When asked why he said \" you don't go to temple and museums for free \"\nAt the end of the day, come to any of europe , I will not be stood at the bottom of crib goch or the eiger demanding money to climb them . He was so aggressive , pointing and phoning friends ect I paid 100000 rp to his friend (only fearing for the hire car safety not ours ). Basically we were bullied into paying.\nAny how take heed, stick to the left at the large temple or again pay, and as previously mentioned this is not a easy climb ! In fact it's chuffing difficult but an amazing expirence . Can you do it without a guide ??? Yes but I've even got to admit that the torch light from other guides helps so follow them .\nThe coldera it's self is out of this world ! The trek is hard ! Please do it without guide but you will need energy food and 2 litres of water each .\nFive stars in my book but who reads 5 star reviews plus there's too many for a good reason .\nNot sure if this is true but on our route for the \"real summit\" you turn left on a pretty hard trek , not that it bothered us but I over heard wayan telling the people being guided it is not possible today even though they had paid to go to the top !!!!\n1 did we need a guide ? No\n2 would we have benefited from a guide ? Debatable!\n3 torches are essential\n4 follow the graffity to the top.\n5 if it's so much a religious place clear some of the s#|t from the top ( left behind by the guides ) not the tourists !!!\n6 don't climb if you have any health problems\n7 stick to the left of the big temple\n8 please be careful this is not a stroll !\n9 stay clear of wayan\nLoved every minute of this volcano even though I can not walk now ! X woody x Rach\n"
(44) We just went for a touristy drive to see the volcano and the lake beyond, and we were not able to see anything at all, even though it was not raining in Ubud it was totally overcast in Penelokan. It was our bad choice of day or season for this trip. There was a lot of traffic on the way and we ate in a restaurant on the cliff edge which was not very good, although the view must be awesome on a clear day (but forget the food).
(45) I was picked up at 2am to do the trek and it was worth it. You were given torches and a lot of people in groups all walking together up the volcano. Some bits were more challenging than others because of the volcanic rock, particularly on the way down. When we reached the summit we waited until the sun rose and the views were stunning, I would highly recommend doing it!
(46) The landscape is great in all the area, especially from the external border of the caldera. And you can drive inside the caldera, around the peak and along the shores of the lake. In my opinion, it is not fair to give money to the local guides. As it is stated here and on wikitravel, they threaten any person that try to make the easy one hour trekking without paying a lot of money to them. I went to the local association of the guides (PPPGB, to be precise, there's the shop/office on the road near the lake and the start of the walk) and they told me it is against the law to visit without a guide (ridicoulos). Then they tried to scare me, and in the end they also asked 15 USD just to let me go alone (but after I paid). Unfortunately in Indonesia (a country I love) you cannot go to the police for something like that. Please be all aware of this, as it is really uncommon in Bali. Also, check the local weather forecasts, as most of the tour are meant to see the sunset, and this requires clear sky (not so common up there).
(47) Mount Batur is a must see! Was lucky to have good weather that day. Viewing mount Batur from a distance (Kintamani) was very nice. My tour guide told me there's a hot spring near the volcano. Apparently you can also do sunrise trekking. Will have to try next time!
(48) Overall we enjoyed our experience however this was due to a magnificient guide and the beautiful sunrise.\n\nWe booked our trip in advance with Bali Volcano. The company was very prompt with responses to our questions prior to departure.\n\nThere were 3 of us with varied experience when it came to trekking. I've done many trek/climbs and I found it easy. Whereas one of our group had done limited trekking and found it difficult. She said that if it hadn't been our guide that held her hand all the way up, she wouldn't have made it to where she did. There is a nice viewing spot prior to the last summit push and that was where 2 of our group watched the magnificent sunrise. I pushed onto the top by myself and it was well worth the effort.\n\nI expected that we would get a decent breakfast - the other two were offered some kind of bright pink rubber muffins. Well, we think that's what they were but even the monkeys wouldn't eat them! Thankfully we took our own water as although water was meant to be provided, it wouldn't have been enough.\n\nThe worst thing about our experience was the trip home. Half way home our driver pulled over as he saw some commotion on the side of the road. After having a conversation with some strangers on the side of the road, he put some creature (initially I thought it was some type of reptile) behind my seat just near my feet. It was alive and I was scared of it. The whole way home I curled up in a ball as I thought it may attack. I also did some research as it didn't sit comfortably with me. It turned out to be a Pangolin which is endangered and there is an illegal trade in Bali. I was devastated. I tried to find some local wildlife number to try and get them to meet us at the hotel to save it. Unfortunately, I couldn't find one. I confronted the driver and he laughed and said he was going to put it in his garden. So he is a liar as well. I have photos of the pangolin and the driver's number plate.\n\nSo, do not use Bali Volcano.\n\nHowever, do climb Mount Batur for sunrise as it is lovely.\n\nRemember to wear good shoes and take enough water.\n\nRemember trekking in the dark is different to daytime trekking and it is uphill!!
(49) My wife and I booked this tour through the activities desk at our Nusa Dua hotel. We were not given any details about who was running the tour but we're told that the start time was to be 2am in the lobby area. When we arrived we were met Augustine and his driver who took us on the two hour trip to the foot of the mountain. We were introduced to our local guide, Suchi who was from a nearby village. After paying park entrance fees the climb started. It was pretty busy on the way and a little congested in spots. It is not an easy climb! My wife and I are reasonably fit but by the time we reached the top of the climb a lot of sweat had flowed. Once on top and as the sun started rising it was all worth it. Eating breakfast of banana sandwich and hard boiled egg with Balinese coffee which was supplied and taking in the view was the highlight of our trip to Bali. The trip back down the mountain was a tricky affair as the track was loose and slippery. I lost a bit of skin in one fall!\nOverall Mt Batur was a great experience and I would recommend it to all with a reasonable level of fitness.\n\nSome hints for those considering this trek. If you have a headlamp take it. It's handy to have free hands when climbing. Also if you intend doing some of the other attractions in this area consider staying in one of the resorts in the area for a couple of days as the trip takes a couple of hours from Kuta or Nusa Dua which eats into holiday time! Also soothe tried muscles at the nearby hot springs after the climb.
(50) We did a trip to Mount Agung with a guide, which you can not do without. The trip is long, heavy and a little dangerous sometimes. You climb for four hours up, the way down takes two hours. We didn't make it to the top because I wasn't strong and fit enough, so with a lot of effort and sweat we made it until above the trees so our guide could make us a fire where we could wait for them to come back. Even though we didn't make it, being out there all alone with a bonfire underneath a sky full of stars watching the sunrise was magic. We were above the clouds and the trees and it was so beautiful and quite romantic even. If you want to this, be sure you are in good shape and you have good hiking shoes, otherwise it's just too hard. But the view and the experience are worth the sore muscles the day after. To those in good shape and who feel confident about climbing a mountain we would definitely recommend this, it's something to never forget!
(51) Hiking to the top of Mount Batur during the night was very exhausting. We had to go very fast to reach the top before the sunrise and the path that goes up is very hard to walk. It's very slippery due to it being lots of small lava stones that roll away under your feet when you step on them. It is also incredibly steep. All of it was worth it for the view and sunrise we got to see! The sun was coming up behind the other mountain with the lake in front of it. It was beautiful! Going down was not as several people from our group slipped and had bleeding legs since the lava stone is very rough.
(52) Mount Agung climb 11-05-2017. Would have to have been the most mentally & physically challenging that I have ever done in my life. Just be very aware that unless you are a very, VERY experienced hiker/climber with an excellent level of fitness and a general disregard for health and safety, you will not have a good time doing this trek. The climb started relatively steep, with the climb becoming more steeper and less safer the higher we ascended. It became apparent to us that if there was a serious injury near the peak then there were no qualified first aiders with us. I'm sure that there should have been some kind or ropes or something to stop us falling over on rocks. Complete torture for 8 hours!!!!\nPositive side, fantastic view and the guide we had was absolutely brilliant. He has been doing it for 15 years and well worth the money. He supplied the driver, all the equipment and food, well organised. He does this for a living and didn't even break into a sweat. Wayan tegteg
(53) We were so excited to see my batur. After setting out alarms for 140 we we picked up at 230am, had a quick breakfast before we went started the climb and off we went! The climb is all uphill and lots of navigating the rocks. Don't even attempt it without proper trainers or hiking boots. Took us about 1h45 mins to reach the top where it was covered in think clouds :( breakfast was prvoided but dont expect much) the view on the way down was better though. Booked though a street vendor in ubud and managed to haggle a good price. Overall well worth it, we were glad we didn't even without the sunrise view
(54) Nice walk to the top I'm reasonably fit so it did it in hour and a half, the last part was reasonably steep good shoes are recommended. Monkeys were funny at the top sadly not a great sunrise for us but a well worthwhile experience
(55) Let me first say that Mount Agung was my very first mountain experience. At that time I was relatively fit and did mainly running, but I did not read the reviews and was not mentally or physically prepared for (what should have been about 12hours)the 14 hour tough hike I was about to embark on.\n\nWe started from Besakih Temple at 10pm, the weather was cool and I was in tights and a dry fit t-shirt. Have about 3 litres of water in your pack and bring along both breakfast and lunch. High cut hiking boots, headlight (60-100 lumens at least), poles, base layer, hiking pants, mid layer jacket and wind / waterproof jacket are a must especially for those like me coming from a country that is summer all year round, and of course your camera!\nYou will be walking through the tree line, climbing up roots of trees, slipping on scree through narrow channels, and climbing up boulders way above the clouds. Don’t forget to pace yourself and take rests every hour or so, sit down and take in the view of Bali lit up at night and just star gaze. The scenery and vegetation changes as you go up, so take your time to appreciate it on your way down. Once you reach the summit, which is a relatively narrow ridgeline, it will get very windy. Sit down at the top and enjoy the sun rising, casting a shadow of the perfect peak before you. See Mount Rinjani in the distance to the east and gaze down towards Mount Batur to the west. It’s simply breath taking.\n\nComing down was painful because I didn’t have poles, at some points it will be easier sliding down on your butt than to walk down, well that’s what I did! Thus here I recommend hardy pants. Coming down the tree line back down to Besakih temple is harder than going up so if you have weak knees do bring a patella guard.\n\nFor first timers in Asia, I would suggest attempting Mount Kinabalu or at least Mount Batur first to get the feel of hiking before conquering this mountain. Although it maybe tough, the experience and the view was simply unforgettable.\n\nFor more pictures and a detailed packing list, you can visit my blog @ https://kayladeedum.wordpress.com/
(56) It was about 2 hours drive from Kuta. Scenic beauty of mount Batur from Kintamani is breathtaking. Landscape looks marvelous. We had our lunch at one of the restaurants serving Balinese food. Food was quite tasteless.\nThere are pestering vendors trying to sell sculptures around the place. Though if you can bargain, you could get a good deal. A good variety of fruits are available along the way.\nWhile going to kintamani we were told to pay about IDR 90,000 (approx. 8 USD) at a place. This was called as entry fee to kintamani and car parking charges.
(57) We booked our tour through Bali Eco Cycling who advertised this trek as a relatively easy climb, suitable for most persons and children. This is quite misleading as the sunrise hike has participants walking in the dark up (often) steep, boulder-and-rock-strewn paths. I am not in great physical shape, but the hour+ long, steep, slippery climb (the second half) challenged even my younger, fitter  . Our local guide was amazing, and without her I would have had a difficult time indeed.\n\nSadly, the fog prevented us from seeing the sunrise, or even much scenery, so the effort to reach the top seemed wasted.\n\nIf you feel that this hike is for you, know that you will be walking (and climbing) in the dark, up steep paths, over loose rock for roughly 2 hours. I would suggest \shopping around\" for your tour company (as there are many different prices) or, as another reviewer suggested, just join the hundreds of people already going and bring your own flashlight. There is no guarantee of a view at the top of course....\n\nThe young people guiding us get full marks and more! They were amazing! I wish that the bulk of the money our group paid for this tour went to them, but I suspect it didn't.\n\nI remain ambivalent as the activity was simply too strenuous for enjoyment."
(58) I wasn't sure what to expect of the hike after reading all of the reviews of it being so challenging... pack a decent pair of shoes (running shoes are fine - hiking shoes if you're less confident of a hiker) and be in moderately good shape and you're fine. The guides stop for breaks enough that as long as you can manage to walk on a path that is at times a little steep or rocky, you'll be OK.\n\nThe hike is so worth it. No photo or video could capture the peace and beauty of witnessing the gorgeous sunset that appears after you have made it to the top. Add to that the delicious coffee a person is selling at the top in glass containers, this is a really amazing way to start your day and totally worth it!\n\nI had also read in some reviews that the guides are shady, requiring more money to go further, etc., and just want to state that we experienced nothing of the sort. Our guide was professional, friendly and helpful.\n\nOverall, I wasn't sure about waking up so early and taking such a large chunk of the day to do this, but I'm so glad that we did!
(59) Whilst it's been a long time since this volcano erupted, you can still see the blackened areas - with nearby homes. The view from the bridge is good - but like with most areas in Bali, every tourist spot is commercialised and everyone trying to sell you things.
(60) We have been coming to Bali for 5 plus years now and we never fail. To take a motor bike trip up the mountain. It never fails to inspire me love the view.\nIt is a nice ride on the motorbike takes a little over a hour to get up there and about 45 min back from Ubud.bring a jacket as it gets cool as you climb up the mountain.