masterthesis-playground/raft/corpus/topic=4__part=032__n=60.txt

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


(1) We visited here on a day trip around the area! The view was great a nice clear day so we could see the volcano and the lake. Next trip to Bali I think I will do the hiking tour and climb the mountain. I think it would be well worth it.
(2) Climbing Mt Batur is definitely Not a walk in the park if you have been a couch potato and not done your exercise.\n\nWe went with Sunrise Trekking and was a very enriching family bonding experience.\n\nCatch a nap before the 1-2am wake up call and do sleep on the long ride to the starting point and don't bother with any stops before that because you need the rest.\n\nWe climbed on Xmas eve and there was hardly anyone. At the summit, there were only 2 other groups, not more than 20 folks.\n\nDo climb at your own pace and do not be intimidated by other fitter climbers and worse, equally unfit climbers who conveniently blame you for \holding them back\".\n\nYou don't need to be at the summit to witness the glorious sunrise, instead turn back every rest top to capture the changing kaleidoscope moments.\n\nYou will find drinks and snacks vendor suddenly joining your climb and if they help you along, do show your appreciation by supporting them. It's a really tough job for that pittance amount. Of course, support the ones who helped you and you are not obliged to help the whole lot.\n\nContrary to many bad press, the guides are essential help for novice climbers and they were most polite and genuinely helpful and deserve a tip after the climb. Take time to talk to them, especially on the unhurried climb down to learn more about their livelihood.\n\nWith global warming, it's not that cold at the peak. A good fleece jacket or windbreaker would do and you really need it when you rest at the peak. Anyway the hot drinks provided will warm you up. It's takes special courage the eat the flies infested buns and fruits though. Don't feed the gangs of monkeys you will find at the peak.\n\nFound the climb down more strenuous without proper shoes (wore sneakers) and socks. Do lace up well so your feet don't slide forward and curl up your toes.\n\nLastly, do spend some time to up your fitness to really enjoy the climb."
(3) It is not a difficult trek. Usually, the tour group starts at around 2-2.30am by van and reaches the base by 3.30. It is a relaxed 2hr climb to the top. The first half is mostly a sandy incline. Volcanic rocks start after that. Neither parts are difficult, but there is a risk of falling on rocks and hurting yourself. Also, the rocks are rather sharp, and trekking/hiking shoes are necessary. Climbing down may be a little more time-consuming. But the view from the top is totally worth the effort. And you will be back at the base by around 10am.
(4) We are a young couple (22 and 23) who often go hill walking in Scotland, so our fitness isn’t amazing but we do more than most people. We were picked up at 12:40am from our hotel and went to another hotel to pick up two other Vietnamese girls. We then drove towards mount batur and stopped for breakfast – which was a pancake and a tea/coffee. We got handed our lunch to take up mount batur to eat at the top.\n\nWhen we reach the bottom we were introduced to our guide, who was really friendly and spoke good English. The only negative I would say was that the girls we were paired with had never hill walked before and were not really dressed appropriately for doing so (wearing jeans and vans..giving them blisters) so it meant we had to constantly stop to let them rest, we feared we would miss the sunrise because of this. Again not the guides fault but perhaps it would be better if the company we went with paired people together based on skill ability as it was beginning to get annoying having to constantly stop. Again were not amazing hill walkers but these people had never done this in their lives.\n\nWhen we reached the top the guide asked us if we wanted photos taken and we just sat watching the sunrise. The way down was very slippery and i fell but the guide held my hand the whole way down and was a huge help :) Completed in June 2017 and I believe we paid 500,000 rupiahs each including transfers from Legian. If we return to bali would love to do Mount Agung.
(5) Mount Agung dominates Bali; it is there, sombre, silent, brooding with cloud garlanding the summit. Hordes of tourists, trekkers that have braved the early morning journey to the top. For Balinese it is a place of pilgrimage. Eruptions have caused death and destruction and lava flow has devastated areas of the landscape. But even from the devastation comes renewal. Endless columns of trucks now transport 'lava sand' for construction projects throughout Eastern and South East Bali. Worth a visit to look in awe at this volcano.
(6) We did a day trip to Canggu Beach & loved it BUT walking to buy lunch we saw a great rate at a money exchange booth on the roadside (big mistake).. 3 men were running it & after I counted the money twice & placed it on the counter while they asked if we had small change.... Obviously while we were looking in our bags the guy behind the counter took a heap of money from the pile I had counted without us seeing!!\nWhen we got home we counted & were missing a lot of the money! We were back in Ubud & no receipt either which wouldn't have mattered anyway! Our day was ruined & our trust totally gone! We warn others in the area... It was just a wooden makeshift 'office'on the side of the road... Be careful! Not far from the beach.. LHS heading away from the beach
(7) Definitely check out this huge volcano you can drive into! Grab lunch on the crater rim, drive around the outside, and even drive down into it and go for a dip in Lake Batur! Tremendous views, and several temples to visit on the crater rim.
(8) It is a very difficult climb for me. The route is very sandy and slippery. Very little shade. Sunsreen, Mask, Good hiking shoes and stick, warm clothes, working gloves and 2 litre of water at least and some food is must.\nLocal guide recommended, Mr. Wayan Dartha, He is a very good man. Very supportive physically and mentally.\n+6285 237 008 513\n\nIt is very worth it once you get up to the top and see the sunrise.\nAnd definitely a good story to tell your grand kids.\n\nDan
(9) This is an absolute must do. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle and re-group with nature this is awesome. You won't be disappointed. Only 2 hours drive from Seminyak. We hired a private car for 500,000 rupiah and paid 250,000 per person for our guide. We were picked up at 2.00am and arrived at 4.00am for the climb. Our guide took a different route to the other trekkers so it was completely private. It was steep and he was fast but we loved it. We returned at 9.30am but took a longer route around the crater and took time taking photo's. There are monkeys when you go to the crater. They are not aggressive.\nYou can do this in sneakers if you haven't bought hiking boots, but if you have boots use them. The rocks are a bit challenging. We did it in shorts and just took a light jacket for the top. Make sure you ask to go to the crater after the summit. It is so amazing. It was the highlight of my trip. So, so glad I bothered to do it. I'm sure there are cheaper options but we were on a short trip and just took the easiest option. The lake is amazing and really you could easily spend a day in this region. Do it! We also stopped into the coffee plantation which has a beautiful outlook.
(10) Mt batur is one of active vulcano in Bali smaller than Agung but really awesome to see sunrise from the top ,located in Bangli regency took around 2 hours drive from Seminyak ,Kuta ,Nusa dua.60$ all inclusive hotel transfer two time breakfast or 70$ for the best package free transfer professional guide trekking,twice breakfast than swimming in Toya devasya natural hot springs than lunch with amazing panoramas.
(11) For sure the greatest experience on Bali! We started the trip at 4 AM and in 1 hour and 10 minutes we reached the Top of the Vulcano. It is a easy trip for everyone, you dont need to be a profesional climber if you wanna get there. But be careful, there are brassy Monkeys at one of the check points :)
(12) The climb was tiring of course, but when we reached the crater rim, we knew it was worth the effort. It wasnt easy, but on the way up we were treated with views that only mount agung could give. Well they say you only live once, and experiencing agung and its natural beauty is worth every effort
(13) Amazing view. Really peacefull and not your everyday scene. Really really cold on top and the lunch is reasonably cheap. You shoukd go and visit the mount batur. Its worth the entrance fee.
(14) An awesome activity, average fitness required, good walking shoes, warm jacket, a headlamp is useful and start from Ubud if you can (shorter driving times). Check the weather forecast. The view is spectacular. We prearranged guides through our driver (Bali Tours Ngurah Alun) and avoided the rush and chaos as we pulled into the carpark.
(15) This is a fairly easy climb but there are SO many people doing it there can be traffic (people) jams going up and down. The views of the sunrise and surrounding area are amazing and make it worth the early start and the number of people. There are other hikes on the island that are a lot quieter if you want. Did it with a ten year old and she was absolutely fine with the climb.
(16) We did this trek and they described it as easy. FAR FROM IT. Very steep and uneven surface. Takes about 2 hours to get to the top. But once there so worth it! Very incredible experience to do for sunrise couldn’t recommend it enough! We then went to hot springs afterwards which i recommenced doing.
(17) One has to trek down to the beach below to see the true beauty of the place. The trek should be made preferably in shoes or sandals with back strap and would be better if the start is made early like 8.30 am so that it isn't too hot. The trek route has been fitted with rails to hold onto so it makes the walk easy as well and not so scary! Ofcourse you still sweat it out in the entire journey but the coconut water at the end of it is so refreshing :)
(18) My wife and I stopped at a local restaurant with spectacular views of Mount Batur, which is the second largest volcano in Indonesia. Batur is 1,717 meters above sea level, and yes, it is still active. The most recent eruption was in 2004, before that was 1994, and the largest eruption to date was in 1963.  We enjoyed a traditional Balinese lunch while taking in the views. Great experience!
(19) We did this trek on our 20th wedding anniversary and it was absolutely epic!\nOur driver from our Villa in Candidesa picked us up at 2am, waited for us while we did the trek and then dropped us at our next hotel in Ubud, stopping at the Tegallalang rice terraces on the way.. thanks Ketut!\nKetut also arranged for a guide for us (Mede) who we met at the bottom of the mountain. There were hundreds of people waiting to climb but somehow our guide seemed to avoid the crowds just meeting a few groups of people on the way.\nI found the climb quite difficult and needed a helping hand a lot of the way but wow..was it worth it when we reached the top! We arrived a good half hour before sunrise and enjoyed fruits, banana sandwiches and boiled eggs cooked in the steam in the rocks and chatted to other climbers who also found it more challenging than anticipated but there was no-one who regretted what they had just accomplished!\nThe views, the scenery, the sunrise and comradarie were just spectacular.\nWe spent over an hour at the top and then came the climb down!\nFor some reason we took a different path down to everyone else, only passing maybe another 20 climbers, and this climb was so difficult, a lot harder than going up.\nIt was very steep and very slippery, full of volcanic rocks and sand but also when it opened up and you felt safe again it was so spectacular. When we reached the \safe\" parts our guide would tell us we had done the hardest part but then we would find ourselves back in it again.\nI was very relieved to reach the bottom but also so in awe of what we had just done. Such a highlight of our wonderful trip to Bali.❤️"
(20) The sunrise trek starts at 3 in the morning, and as u reach the top you are mesmerized by the sheer beauty of sun coming out of the clouds. The trek in the night is quite steep and tiring but the feeling at the top is very good. The volcano is active with hot steam and rocks coming out of the vents.
(21) When visiting Bali, this is a must see. It's beautiful despite the trek up the mountain it's worth it.
(22) My family and I booked volcano trek last year, precisely on 25 of December 2015. The mountain absolutely amazing, the views offered wonderful. It was certainly worth the effort get up at 10.30 am !!!.\n\nMy family and I really lucky have Jero jezzn as our tour guide, He was extremely great guy, patient humoral, patient and helpful all the way up and down during our trek. Beside of that, he also excellent, English and knowledgeable about volcano and culture of Bali. He explain us the think what he know about volcano and others and he very well photograph. I love to know Jero and you are the guy who made our trip in Bali memorable!!\n\nBefore and after sunrise the view from the peak is breathtaking, I will upload the photos I was took on the mountain. Beside of wonderful views, my family and I were experienced how to boil the egg and banana in the hole of hit volcanic steam, it’s about 200 degrees.\n\nIn the end of journey Jero Jezzn bring us to the places where we relaxing our tight muscle, It is Natural Hot Spring, the hit of water comes from the mountain about 35 degree’s, my family and I highly recommended to take this tour package and also include coffee plantation for testing.\nMy family and can’t commend anymore about Jero Jezzn, He is certainly more than a guide but he is my new family in Bali. For sure we will certainly recommending your service to all people who come Bali. Here is the contact person of Jero Jezzn +6281904082208.\n\nHere is my tips to all of you who wandering to do this tour:\n1. Kindly bring jacket or warm cloth with a hat because there is will be cold before sunrise.\n2. Long pants and trekking shoes is recommended because you’ll walk on the volcanic rock.\n3. Please ask head torch is recommended during your book the tour, Jero will prepared it.\n4. Enough sleep before departure 
(23) Got picked up by a driver along with the others from Ubud. The first stop is a coffee plantation which we had our coffee (is it kopi luwak?) and pancake as breakfast. It is getting cold here and coffee at 3am is just what we needed. Then another couple mins of ride to reach the base camp where we can rent jacket, use the toilet (last chance), and gathered into teams.\n\nMy guide was kadek and Ari. The first part of the hike was flat ground and some steep climb. There are army of minions with torchlight walking together up the mountain. After what seems like an eternity of walking, we finally reached the mid section where the real climb begins.\n\nThe final climb is the monster, totally breaking your quad muscles. I am a gym goer and specially trained my quads to prepare for this hike. But still, I needed to take a 1min break 2 times during the climb. This is also the most dangerous part where one could lost their footing and hurt themselves.\n\nUpon reaching the top, our guide gave us an option to climb further 30mins to the highest point where there are less people but with the same view. Along the way, our guide took great care of us. Ari was a cheerful, humorous, and reliable young man. The hike was more fun with him. The view of the sunrise is stunning!
(24) After reading many reviews, we book the trek from 8AM since we had a 12 years old boy with us, and was advised that 2AM was a little too dangerous for a teenager. However, beside the two hours climb, the real difficulty was the way down! Of course some areas are quite steep but the biggest difficulty was to make sure nobody will roll down the bottom due to the amount of small rocks everywhere that makes it slippery. The visibility on top was average but the steam-cooking was a great experience for members of our family who were all beginners to volcano trekking. We haven't seen any monkeys since the guide explained to us that they usually comes earlier when the bundle of tourists gives them food around 4-5AM.
(25) We booked a 1 day tour with our hotel and this was the main attraction we wanted to see, we viewed from the terrace of a restaurant opposite the volcano this is a real must see on Bali it is really stunning from the terrace you can see the whole of the volcano and the lake and other mountains. It was really busy when we were there and we had to wait about half an hour to get seated outside so we ate inside then ordered drinks and sat outside it was worth the wait.
(26) Climb Mount Agung in Bali island long enough to take, 7 hours to peak for beginners.\nLeisurely walk and see the beautiful views from the top of the Mt Agung and for those who want to climb the Mt Agung, you can hire local guide, with some trips from short, medium and long with cost that is not too expensive.\nYou will get snacks, drinks and guided patiently follow your step
(27) Sme people have reviewed the mountain, but this review is about a very early morning walk up the side of the mountain to watch the sun rise over the lake. We left the hotel at 2.30am by vehicle and were taken to a well organised rendezvous where we met a guide. It's is one guide per 4 people and they provide torches. I suggest taking a backpack with water and a wind proof jacket and you must have good strong shoes. The walk takes about 1-2 hours up the mountain and is a challenging walk, but possible for most average to fit people. I would.not recommend it for anyone with ankle or knee problems as it is steep at times with very loose small rocks and coming down is the same. The view is to die for and the guide. Will cook your breakfast in the steam fissures coming from deep within the mountain. All in all we returned to the hotel at just after 10 feeling exhilarated!
(28) Okay, let start from my condition. I was not ready for long journey to Batur volcano but I have passion to make it on this last day of my vacation in Bali. I am not an avid hiker, and this was my first \mountain\" climb in my life.\nBegan trek at round 03.30 am. the first part is fairly okay and flat, i did get a bit out of breath but i was able to keep up with the general pace. After walk about 50 minute it was hardcore mountain climbing. This is my challenging to make the top, luckily Jero as our guide very helpful, he hold my hand in every single step, It made me feel a lot better!!! A few people also dropped out from he trek, they decided to stop their adventure in the middle of the volcano, however this climb is very do-able.\nOnce we were at the top there is amazing views, bright sky before sunrise and a cup of hot coffee served by Jero, you will 100% will need Jero to made it. I could not say anything to Jero, you are the best!! With our you I can’t made it well.\nWe were luckily enough, the weather was clear, we saw Rinjani mountain in the distance, Mount Abung and also wide of Lake. When I decent, I saw a group of wile monkey. According Jero, moneys leave in side of, main crater, when visitor having breakfast all of monkeys come out to find a food. I was feeding a baby monkey. It look like just 2 week born. The monkey here very well, it was not aggressive. Although not an animal lover, if you are thinking of doing something like the Monkey Forrest in UBUD you are BIG wrong, this monkeys benign. The cost was $60 per person seemed to be normal rate without any haggling. It was worth every penny, 2 hour up and 2 hours down, it's long but worth it, if you consume bottle of wine you’ll paid more the $60, you only get drunk but you paid $60 for this journey you’ll get memorable experienced in your life.\nTips for beginner:\n1. Be sure you’re fit and exercise before do this tour.\n2. Make sure you slept enough before departure.\n3. Bring your warm jacket is recommended\n4. Wear trekking shoes is recommended but sport shoes is okay.\n5. Better book your trekking in recommended company.\n6. Bring hat and hand glove I better then not but Jero will provide it.\n7. Avoid drink alcoholic before trekking it will make your energy down.\nIf you need any assistant or information I recommended contact Jero here is the number +6281904082208. I guaranteed you’ll never regret."
(29) Started our journey at 1:30am, and began trekking at 3:30am. All worth it for the stunning sunrise views.
(30) I would thoroughly recommend this tour to anyone, however if you have mobility or physical issues. I wouldn’t try this as it’s pretty tough even for people who are moderately fit.\n\nFirstly you will be taken to the tour operators base for a quick breakfast (banana pancakes and coffee or tea). We were then driven to the base of the mouantin and joined by a tour guide. We had Ariska she was very friendly and helpful. Also somewhere for a quick toilet before you start your 1.5-2 hour hike. The toilets are very basic.\n\nThe first 20 mins was okay it was uphill but on the road and then the rest of the trek up you really need to stay focus and look where you are going. Make sure you have a torch so you can see it’s very easy to miss a step. You also have a line of people behind following one by one, so you are constantly on the move. Try and slow your breathing down and if you need a break let your tour guide know.\n\nOnce we reached the first stop base the trek got harder, but as long as you follow and listen to your guide you will make it! Even if you feel you can’t make it to the top you can trust me! You don’t have to reach the top if you really can’t make it, but the views from the top are amazing.\n\nAt the top, the tour guide made us breakfast which consisted of a boiled egg each and banana sandwich.\n\nAfter the sunset you will begin your descend back down. Following the way you came up to go back down, but again beware some parts are very steep. Our tour guide Ariska took us back down via a longer route, but was less challenging which involved going round the volcano. The advantage was there was less people so you didn’t have a whole row of people following behind you contanely. Obviously though the descendant down was slightly longer.\n\nAdvice: ideally wear layers than can be easily be taken on or off like hoodies with a tshirt underneath. Hat in case it gets very cold. Torch with enough battery (otherwise your tour guide should be able to supply you with one). Also bring a walking stick (if you have one) for the trek back down. Bring some water and snacks with you as you won’t have a proper stop until you reach the first stop point which is at least an hour into your hike.
(31) I went on the hike today with my sister and it was not at all what I expected but it blew my mind. It is very challenging and rigorous. Also the tour started at 345am so it was pitch black other than a flash light. Our guide, Jay, was incredible. He knew the trail up inside and out. He was personable and caring. He did not judge you regardless if you were fast or slow. He is also very knowledgeable. He gave us a ton of great information about the volcanos, the villages below, and the Bali culture. I recommend this tour as long as you do not have any ailments. Ask for Jay, he’s great!!!
(32) This was one of the best experience I had in Bali. Our driver came to fetch us at 130am. It is a 2 hour journey to Mt Batur. Reached the destination at 330am. A guide by the name of Ketut was there to bring us up the mountain.\n\nWe started our trek in the dark using torch lights. Beginning is easy.\nHowever, it is not an easy trek up.\nLoose rocks and steep ascend in sheer darkness are not exactly the best combo for a relaxing morning hike!\nMy boyfriend was suffering quite a bit during the hike because he's overweight and not in the best physical condition so we had to take frequent breaks.\nAt last, my boyfriend called me and the guide to go ahead first.\nWhen nearer to the top, is much much tougher than the bottom.\nBig thanks to my guide Ketut, if not him pulling me up along, I think I will be much slower.\n\nWe waited for my boyfriend to reach the top. We were glad to be able to catch the sunrise together.\nHowever quite disappointed as there's no breakfast for us. Just only hot chocolate drink being served.\nWas hungry when seeing other people eating bread with eggs and bananas.\n\nThe view of this volcano was incredible. Definitely recommended one of the best activities 🤩🤩
(33) Don't mistake this for trekking, this is mountain climbing. We had to pull our way up with ropes and holding at all time in the rocks. It was physically very hard but it was worth it. The overall experience was amazing he had many stops in the way up, light up a fire or just rest. When you were at middle or higher it was very cold so be aware of that and take some warm clothe but comfortable. It was my boyfriend birthday and our guide said that it was his first birthday party in the summit because we took a cake , hat and it was just perfect, we felt we were on top of the world with amazing view of the sunrise very close to the clowds. This was my first climb and i did it so you can do it. Try you won't regret. 6 h up and 6h to go down.
(34) The mountain is absolutely beautiful but there are corrupt people along the way that require money to gain access to the road.\n\nThe experience was still magical! A must see!
(35) We used \getyourguide in Bali\" book our tour. Everything was seamless from start to finish. The pick up was on time by Putu who can be contacted on +6281239664605. We were then dropped off at a pick up point below the mountain and guided to the top by Widi, a 20 yr old local boy. He started us on the hike at a very fast pace which was a good idea as we had a lot of time to catch our breath higher up the hike when the trek got more difficult. Widi was very helpful, funny and cheerful. He ensured everyone in pur group of 4 was safe, and even helped one hiker to the top who was a but nervous of the height and rolling rocks. The 2nd half of the hike was gruelling but once at the top, the sun rise and scenery makes up for all the effort. A must do in Bali."
(36) I would consider myself a pretty fit person however this climb was way more difficult than anticipated. It took 4 strenuous he's yo climb up the mountain and I got to the top as the fog rolled in and couldn't see more than a meter in front of me.\n\nHowever after a little while the fog cleared and the views are breath taking... best part was my guide he was super positive kept my spirits up and feed me snacks and coffee when ever I wanted to brake:) I love getting to know about the village and its people and about Bali through my Guide well worth this strenous fleet just be prepared.. it is not a hike it is a climb!! Get plenty of rest before and check the weather make sure it is gonna be dry and not foggy!!! And book my guide he was awesome his name is Wayan\n0813-3852-5677 !!!:)
(37) Time at this volcanic environment was beautiful views had lunch at restaraunt across from the volcano and lake this was relaxing beautiful environment
(38) My husband & I ( 50s) & 2 x daughters in their 20s climbed with guide Kadek (organised by Happy Trails). We went up in rainy season but were very lucky to have no rain and the views of the lights at night & then dawn & then across over Bali, Lombok to distant Java & being above 3 layers of clouds was just fantastic, worth all the difficulty. I felt very privileged.\nWe also saw monkeys in the lower tree level.\nWe went up at a similar time to a small group of villagers making a ceremonial ascent & it was most moving to hear devotions in the dark & then up at the top. Magically spiritual place.\nOur info & guide says it usually takes 3-31/2 hours to get up - It took us 4 hours plus & same to get down. The climb is 45 degrees so would be similar in physical exertion to 4 hours of climbing uneven stairs 2 at a time and then 4 hours back down again. Coming down is harder.\nWear head torches & ankle supporting boots/shoes with good grip ( although some locals did in flip flops!!) extra layers are necessary for the top, gloves are useful for coming down. Some elastic strapping came in useful when 1 person's knee started to play up. It would be easy to twist an ankle if tired.\nIt was doable, but often very slow going for some and there was a bit of suffering during & after. Thighs took about 3 days to no longer be tender- it is a good idea to factor in recovery time re sleep/fatigue/pain for 2-3 days.\nEven though some of my family are runners and tri-atheletes & I am not, I think I coped the best. I feel I was saved because I do regular cycling and strength fitness classes at home ( weights, bar bells & squats)\nThe muscles that you use for the climb are thighs/ gluteals/calves & the knees take quite a pounding on way down.\nIf one was to train for this in any way, then repeated squats, rowing, one legged mini-dips and going up & down stairs 2 at a time might help!
(39) Not a big fan of hiking, especially at 2-3am in the morning.\n\nBut going up mount batur was scary & steep, armed with only a torch, i wasnt the bravest (nor the fastest)\n\nBut seeing the sun was beautiful! It was certainly worth it!! Beware the expensive drinks up there though, some of the freelance guides will charge u a lot for a small bottle of cola!\n\nOverall i loved it and certainly will do it again!
(40) Why i say beautiful place because the place is in the middle of mountain.. you can see the mountain and you can take many beautiful picture in there so you must be visit this place.
(41) We tried to find out how to do it without a guide, because it's quite an expense for just 2 hours of hike (around $30). That's when the word \mafia\" started to appear. Some people had really bad experience because of that, and in the end we did like most people do, booking a tour with a guide, including a breakfast at the top with hot drink.\n\nWe woke up at 3 am. I was worried about the cold since I don't have any warm clothes. When I mentioned my concern to the office girl and asked if I could borrow a jacket, she told me that my thin sweater would be more than enough. And I understand now why she told me that, because as soon as we started, locals were trying to sell us jackets. Of course, it's better if I pay.\n\nAs we reached the first \"stop\", I witnessed an altercation between 3 Indonesian guides and a tourist. The latter was walking alone on the path and apparently one of the guide hit him with his motorbike. The three guides stood against the tourist, accusing him of injuring their friend. The tourist tried to explain himself - to no avail - and showed them that he was injured on the leg too. He got kicked in this leg, twice, by one of the guide that was obviously furious against him. The tourist got kicked out of the entrance.\nI highly suspect that this guy didn't take any guide, and locals will never let you pass without one, even if it means using verbal and physical abuse. I was shocked. I started to understand the word mafia. Actually you pay for a guide not because the path is dangerous and difficult, but because the locals are dangerous for you if you don't take one.\nPatrols of locals were passing everywhere, surveying people alone. After reading some reviews after my experience, I realised that it can go very far, some tourists being threatened to be killed if they didn't pay for a guide. And it's not just about the guides, all the locals are involved in this business, and if you are seen alone, you'll get pursued all the way and threatened, until you either go back home or pay. There is no way out if you want to go, if you just want to walk up a simple mountain. It's definitely not normal, it really is a mafia. I regret my choice, because by paying, I allowed this sick business to go on.\n\nAnd. The hike is easy! One path, crowded by guides. Ours was useless and made the trip very annoying, because you can't go at your own pace, the guy would wait everytime for the slowest to follow. Very annoying for the fastest, very pressuring for the slowest.\n\nThen, can we talk about the fact that this volcano is indeed on the UNESCO list, and you cross path with tons of motorbikes on the trail? How good for the environment is that? And not to mention the fact that we are hiking and have to endure the smell of fuel all the way up, also having to stop to let them pass because they drive without caring about hikers. And on top of that they dare sometimes stop and ask people if they need a ride to climb (not free). WE ARE HIKING!\n\nArriving on top, we discover our breakfast. 2 pieces of plain toast, 1 egg, 1 banana. When I asked about the coffee they offered, they told me I have to pay for it. Of course, it's definitely freezing out there and a hot beverage is so tempting that most of the people can't resist and pay for it anyway.\n\nThe sunrise is beautiful, but honestly, you can admire sunrises everywhere. Where it's free, where the site is well maintained and where there are no threats of being killed if you don't pay for a useless guide.\n\nI asked to the guide: \"if it's on the UNESCO list, how can motorbikes work here?\"The guide felt ill at ease and tried to avoid it by replying something like \"the motorbikes take the weakest person to the top, it's only twenty minutes drive\".\n\nI had no pleasure in climbing that volcano, I participated into an horrible business where tourists are used as money spitters. I am surprised to see so many good reviews about this.\nPeople pay but nobody knows where your money is going and what for, since the area doesn't look taken care of. I repeat, it's just a sick business."
(42) I would like to address some concerns we had when deciding to do this trip or not.\nWe did the sunrise trekking tour, which was quite the adventure climbing that mountain in pitch dark. We hesitated at first because my girlfriend was not the strong and enduring type, but in retrospect it is really doable even if you do not practice any sports. You will be slower, but you will get there none the less.\n\nOn top of the mountain there are basic facilities where you can sit, and they sell drinks as well.\n\nOnly word of caution is the way down, there are loose rocks there easy to trip over. Furthermore you will be walking through volcanic ash, so realize your shoes and pants will get dirty. I washed my Nikes in water, and it all came off very easily mind you.
(43) Yes you are up ridiculously early, yes you travel on Bali's back roads for an eternity and yes the second you hit the top you get offered Coca-Cola by about 100 people when all you want to do is have a brew and a sit-down for a minute.\n\nBut despite all of that it is still absolutely brilliant and a must for any Bali trip. What i will say is that if someone tells you that it is an \easy walk\" then they are lying. I saw a few people literally being dragged up there by their poor guides.\n\nBut anyone with a decent level of fitness shouldn't have a problem. i carried my two-year-old up there in a rucksack without any issues."
(44) First trekking of my life, I do any sport but I reached the top of Batur. We went with a guide. You can ask for him at restaurant vulcano II. Departure at 4;00 to be at the top at 6;00 to see the sunrise and have breakfast made by the guide. It is windy at the top. We walked around the crater then return down. I recommend a guide if you are not experienced. It tooks about 6-7 hours depending of the rythms of the group. Great experience!
(45) We just had lunch looking at this view. I am sure it will be quite exciting to climb this mountain and feel the volcanic ash. As per the driver who was driving us, this volcano erupted 5 years ago. Not really sure how much can be relied on this information
(46) We were a bit disappointed when we missed the sunrise due to the fog, but were soon excited as the amazing panoramic view presented itself once the fog started to clear.\nWe will very likely wake up to aches and pains for the next few days but it's definitely worth it!\n\nTips: Bring some isotonic drinks and warm/hot water along, these will be easier for your body to absorb compared to cold water. Eat a little before making the ascent.
(47) Climb to the top was not the easiest but with the right sports shoes and mindset, it’s well worth the exercise and challenge.\n\nGetting to the summit with unobstructed views of the sunrise while having warm hot chocolate in the chilly temperatures was one of the finest feelings I’ve ever experienced.\n\nThis world, and particularly Indonesia is indeed beautiful
(48) It was much harder than expected. Make sure you got proper shoes and clothes for the climb. It was rather dirty at the top. we realised we climbed the wrong way so make sure you look out when coming near the top so you’re on the right track. Don’t do it unless you are a good climber or up for a challenge.
(49) Good view with lake and mountain at the background, lot of tourist are there . \nVery good lunch inside the campus, worth the visit. Keep good time to go around\nGood children play area ,daughter was able to spend time when we were having lunch\nVegetrian food is available with limited options
(50) If you plan to undertake this hike don't if you don't have a moderate level of fitness you will walk up the side of an active volcano along narrow, winding and steep tracks. the track itself is littered with loose rocks and soft sand areas to test you out. The effort is well worth it when you arrive at the summit. The views are exceptional. You must carefully select a morning when you go to ensure you have a clear view of the sunrise. I had a broken view of the sunrise due to clouds but even that was pretty special. Just be warned this is a difficult climb and if you are not careful it would be very easy to hurt yourself. My guide Terri is a slightly built young lady who was extremely sure footed and did not mind stopping to let me catch my breath about six times. I think she was worried she may have to piggy back me the last 200 meters. They say to wear warm clothing I did initially but had to remove a layer not long into the walk so don't be overly concerned about the cold. The cost for the pleasure of testing yourself out is roughly $31 Australian or 310 thousand IDR for two people and remains the same if you are going on your own as I did. If you need to go to the toilet during the trek you go in the bushes there is no toilets along the way so it is a good idea to put a role of toilet paper and some wet ones in your back pack along with water. Don't make the mistake of going it alone use the guides for the cost it is well worth it. there is a colony of Monkeys at the top as well as about 5 Bali Dogs to keep you company. Allow 4 hours for the round trip.
(51) We hiked mt batur today with our 3 kids today aged 6, 10 and 13. It was cloudy as it is the rainy season so not a perfect sunrise.\n\nSome information:\nThe trail was not dangerous for kids it was fine although not easy there are some slippery bits but it never felt dangerous.\nWe hired a private driver and got the whole trip for 160USD as he negotiated the guides, other drivers we contacted quoted $50 for them and approximated $40/ pp for the guide.\nWe didn't go further around the crater rim as it would have cost more and our kids had had enough already, you don't get to see a lot of volcano action if you just go straight up and down, just a few steam vents\nThe view from the top is good but the actual walk is not so pretty\nThere are no longer toilets at the top our guide said they closed them for religious reasons so now you have to pee in the bushes\nWe were offered hot drinks at the top with unnamed prices and they charged us 25000rp/drink\nWe didn't see anyone doing eggs or bananas in steam vents today - we took biscuits and sandwiches as our driver said the local food may not be so clean\nThe guides were helpful (we had to have 2 as you can have max 4 people /guide) although we heard the sad story about the company taking all the money and they don't get much - we tipped $10/ guide probably not very generous, their English was ok and they were very careful with our kids and took turns carrying the 6 year old down the slippery bits\nWe skipped the hot springs as we have our own pool at our villa and the TA reviews were not great but went to gunung kawi and through the Tagallalang rice fields on the way home which were both beautiful\nOur youngest child found the trip a bit long and ended up being sick just before we got home around 11 so if you have kids maybe a stop at the hot springs would be a good idea as ours were pretty stuffed by the end.\n\nOverall I think it was worth it as I love hiking but not as special as I had hoped climbing a volcano for sunrise and I don't think it will be a bali highlight for our kids.
(52) This climb was far harder than I had anticipated. I would consider myself relatively active and participate in moderate exercise 3 times a week roughly, but boy did this shock me. The climb felt like it went on forever and only got harder by each step. It was also extremely difficult trying to balance as we got higher as the rocks under our feet had kept shifting and made it a risk to fall each step. I had thought the early wake up call (2am) would be the hard part- turned out it was the easiest part of the adventure. The beautiful part about this all was the people you meet along the way of the climb and (of course) the view when you reach the top. It is stunning, however there are HEAPS of tourists, so be prepared to reach the top and see hundreds of people with their cameras trying to get the perfect shot. Wasn't as calm as I expected as it was very loud with all the people and sadly seemed so superficial because everyone's just trying to take pics (but I guess this is the world we live in today!)
(53) I was on my way to visit a coffee plantation in Kintamani photographing for a forthcoming project when the drive took me through Mt Batur. The view is worth stopping for at least 10 minutes to grab a picture but keep going as the restaurants/attractions/vendors are all low standard, shabby and well worth avoiding. If you do not agree look on tripadvisor at what everyone else says. By the way the coffee plantation was worth the trip eco/organic supplying F.R.E.A.K. coffee in Ubud...but I am not telling where!
(54) The level for this hike is moderate. With a little bit of determination, you should be able to reach the summit of the mountain.\n\nBooked my guide prior to the trip. We took around 2 hours from the start point to reach the top of the mountain. The initial phase was simple. Flat land as we walk pass the village. The next phase is particular uphill. Initially the steps up was easy, but the last phase of the uphill was more challenging as the slope was steeper and also slippery.\n\nPlease remember to bring a jacket for the trip. Upon reaching the top, we had our breakfast over there. A simple breakfast with bread, egg and hot drinks. If you do not bring a jacket, you will be in the mercy of the cold wind while waiting for the sunrise.\n\nSunrise was beautiful and we could see the surrounding slowly light up by the orange sun. We took our time to take pictures and once ready, we set off to the hot spring located near Mount Batur. It is the best way to reward yourself after a mid night hiking trip.\n\nOverall, a simple trek that rewards you with the gift of nature. A beautiful sight!!
(55) there were people crowding on the pavement and we would need to hike up abit. the view was nice but i wont say that it is worth the crowd
(56) Long road up but view is definitely worth the effort! There is a small shop near the summit with drinks like hot chocolate, sodas, coffee, tea, water, fruits, boiled eggs etc.
(57) Gunung Batur rises from the bottom of a volcanic crater which also contains a lake. The initial view one gets from the crater rim is quite superb - almost the whole circumference of the crater is visible, with the lake and mountain within. On the west side of the mountain can be seen recent black lava flows. Batur has three main crater vents itself; the peak is around 2000 feet above the lake.\nThe best time to walk up Batur is just before dawn, which is around 05:30 to 06:00. Unlike many peaks, the view from Batur at dawn is well worth the walk. Bali can be seen in all directions; Agung seems no distance away and Rinjani on Lombok is very distinct. Not long after dawn the haze and the brightness of the sun obscures the more distant objects from clear view. More importantly, by 7am it is likely to be distinctly hot (from the perspective of British people), and it would be uncomfortable to be still ascending later than this.\nThe worst aspect of Batur is the gaggle of inisistent \guides\" who work out of a hut at the start of the path near Pura Jati (temple) and who claim that it is essential to have a guide for safety reasons and in case you get lost. They want an exorbitant amount per-person for their assistance, which in reality is hardly required. The ascent is only 2000 feet, and even by moonlight the peak is clearly visible almost every step of the way. The path is well-worn and not difficult to follow - take a torch if its still dark.\nIf you get a lift down to the crater floor, most drivers will take you to the guide hut, where you will be ensnared. To avoid the guides, take the alternative road which skirts around the guides' hut - the path up Batur crosses the road in a gentle dip, and is hard to miss.\nMy plan was to start walking some time after the guided tours, expecting to catch them up at the summit, where the guides could not accost me. This worked fine. In fact I walked on the road from Penelokan to the path (1hr), then followed the path to the summit (1more hr), returning to the road via the 2nd and 3rd craters (1 more hr), where I hitched back to Penelokan in a lorry.\nI was in a bit of a hurry, as had a bus to catch later that morning, but I would say that reasonably healthy people could walk up the path in 1.5hrs, at least as far as the crater viewpoint , if not the final steep part to the peak."
(58) Hi everyone, I climbed last weekend the Gunung Agung in Bali. This 3142m high vulcano is about 1 hour drive from Sanur/ 1,5hour from Kuta. Before I climbed I contacted with Wayan, the local guide who's organising the climb.\nI was wondering in the beginning to climb the vulcano on my own but 1 thing: better spend around 40 euro's to climb by a guide then go free to dead/lost etc.\nWe started really early, around 11PM and arrived almost at the summit around 4PM. We climbed kind of that fast because there were just 2 of us. After that we spend 1,5hour talking, drinking coffee and watching the view by night! It was an amazing view!\nWe walked to the summit around 5.30 and from there watched the sunrise. It was one of my best sunrises ever (It wont happen a lot because most of the times I am asleep:) )\n\nThey way back is much quicker and we were back on the ground around 10AM in te morning. Please wear suitable shoes, so no sneakers, flipflops etc. It is good to up, but going down will be a real problem.\n\nLast but not least, I started the climb from Pura Besakih, from here it is the longest way to go up but you will arrive at the real summit (3142m). I saw people from the top on a rock a few hundred meters lower. They started climb from Pasar Agung temple but you only reach 2907M, dont have the best view of sunrise and there are more tourists (at the real top there were only me and the guide Gede)\n\nHow to reach the guide?\nwayan.idguides@gmail.com is his email. He has around 28 guides working for him, all local.
(59) Beautiful views from the top of volacano , the hike started 3.30 am and it was two hours steep climb elevation of 1717 mt above sea level to watch the sunrise at 6 am .\nWhile returning it took 1.5 hrs returned journey involved a lot of slipping and sliding on the loose rocks .\n\nNote\nKindly Wear Mount Hiking Shoes as u won't slip on loose rocks while returning back from mountain down hill .
(60) We booked a day tour include Batur, Bali cultural itinerary includes Silver workshop, coffee favors, village visit, a culture dance, scarfs material workshop & Rice terrace. When reach Batur base, u can feel the cooling air outside, up the hill at the entrance, still got minor charge of each pax in IDR. When reach the restaurant, best is outdoor seats to see mountain views enjoying the breeze, it's awesome!! Take more pics~