The best scenic hikes and trails in Bali

Good for: Panoramic views of Bali from an active volcano. 

Kicking things off with a bang—Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest peak and an active volcano. Towering at a whopping 3,030m, this seismic giant offers jaw-dropping views of the island and beyond (on a clear day, you might even spot neighbouring Lombok). But before you lace up those boots, check the activity levels first—Agung last flexed its volcanic muscles between 2017 and 2019.

The climb itself is no walk in the park. There are two routes: the hardcore trek from Besakih Temple to the summit, or the more popular (and slightly less punishing) trail from Pasar Agung Temple to the crater rim. The latter takes 4-5 hours each way, starting at 1,700m and peaking at 2,866m. Still, don’t be fooled—it’s not for the faint-hearted or the unprepared.

For an unforgettable experience, start your climb in the dead of night to catch the sunrise, it’s a surreal reward for your effort. And because this is a tough trek, know that you’ll need a local guide to lead the way.

Good for: Bird watching and serendipitous encounters with wildlife.

For those craving a rugged adventure, West Bali National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat) offers a chance to trade well-trodden paths for untamed wilderness. Nestled in the island’s north-western corner, this sprawling 300-square-mile wildlife reserve is a haven for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone looking to swap city chaos for jungle calm.

Home to 160 bird species, including the elusive and almost-extinct Bali Starling, this park draws binocular-wielding enthusiasts from around the globe. But it’s not just about birds. The park’s mosaic of dense rainforest, dry savannas, and mangrove-lined coasts is teeming with over 300 animal species, from wild boars to leopard cats and even the occasional hawksbill turtle.

Keen on exploring? Opt for the easy, two-hour Tegal Bunder Trail for some prime birdwatching, or go all-in with the challenging eight-hour Gunung Klatakan Trail, which takes you deep into the rainforest. Either way, you’ll need an official guide to navigate the park’s trails. Bonus: they can tailor your adventure to suit your interests.

Good for: Swimming in waterfalls.

Those who grew up enchanted by Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden will feel a spark of nostalgia hiking through Sambangan Village, a hidden gem in northern Bali often called the “Secret Village”. This paradise is a playground of natural wonders, boasting turquoise swimming pools, lush jungle paths, and the cascading beauty of Aling-Aling waterfall, the crown jewel of a quartet of falls in the area.

The trek begins in Sambangan Village and takes around 30 minutes, with a guide to lead you through this lush terrain. You’ll meander past rice paddies, cocoa and coffee plantations, and a forest brimming with local blooms and vibrant wildlife. It’s like stepping into a storybook, only this time, the magic is real.

Once you reach the waterfalls, the adventure kicks up a notch. Brave the natural slides or leap into crystal-clear pools under the guidance of your expert. Or, simply take it slow, soaking in the tranquillity of this jungle haven.

Good for: Strolls with the family accompanied by Ubud’s stunning views.

Looking for a hike that won’t leave your legs shaking for days? The Campuhan Ridge Walk is your go-to trail, perfect for anyone craving a slice of Bali’s natural beauty without breaking a sweat. Located just a stone’s throw from Ubud’s bustling centre, this 2km scenic trek along a lush ridgeline offers breathtaking views of the valley below. Bonus? It’s easy enough to bring along parents or grandparents—just skip it if mobility is a concern.

The trail begins at one of two points: the historic Pura Gunung Lebah Temple, a spiritual site said to have been chosen by an Indian priest for its magical energy, or Karsa Kafe, nestled on the opposite end in a quiet village. Either way, you’ll be walking above the spiritually significant Wos rivers, soaking in the serene surroundings.

To make the most of the experience, set out at sunrise or just before sunset, when the soft light makes the landscape glow. Since there’s little shade, midday heat is best avoided. And if you’re feeling adventurous, bring a torch and try a nighttime walk—just keep an eye out for critters like snakes. Accessible, tranquil, and spiritually rich, this is Bali’s most approachable hike.

Good for: Exploring deep into Bali’s wild rainforests.

Standing at 2,276 metres, this extinct volcano is the island’s second-highest peak and one of its most biodiverse areas. It’s said the last true rainforests of Bali thrive on these slopes, and the jungle teems with life—from leaf-eating monkeys to wild pigs and vibrant orchids.

The trek to the summit is no walk in the park. Prepare for a 4-5 hour ascent and a 3-4 hour descent through dense, untamed rainforest. Leeches? Yep, they’re part of the package. But the payoff? Around 2,000 metres up, the canopy thins, revealing sprawling valleys and, if the weather plays nice, a 360-degree panorama of Bali, all the way to the ocean.

Unlike its fiery cousins, Batukaru’s summit isn’t rocky but grassy, dotted with trees, giving it the vibe of a mystical mountain rather than a volcano. It’s no wonder this sacred spot is home to Pura Luhur Batukaru, a revered Hindu temple. Access is limited to protect this ecological treasure, so hiking here feels like entering a hidden realm—a spiritual and physical challenge for the intrepid adventurer.

Good for: Beginner-friendly sunrise hike with views of dramatic volcanic landscapes.

If Bali’s hiking trails had a “starter pack,” Mount Batur would be front and centre. This active volcano, standing at 1,717 metres, offers a hike that’s beginner-friendly but still packed with jaw-dropping scenery. Starting from the village of Toya Bungkah, the trek is around two hours long—short enough to be accessible but with enough steep sections to keep things interesting.

For the quintessential experience, opt for a sunrise trek. Yes, that means a 3am wake-up call, but the reward is worth it: sweeping views of Lake Batur and Bali’s tallest peak, Mount Agung, bathed in golden morning light. The final stretch is a mix of loose gravel and volcanic ash, so proper hiking shoes are a must. The terrain is soft but can be slippery—consider it a gentle test of your balance skills.

If you’re not keen on the climb, jeep tours offer a less strenuous way to soak in the views, though they won’t get you to the summit.

Good for: One of the most breathtaking ocean views in the world.

If ocean views fuel your soul, the Nusa Lembongan Cliff Hike is the trail for you. Just a 30-minute boat ride from Bali’s mainland, this hike feels less like a trek and more like a scenic love letter to the sea. The vistas are so captivating, you’ll barely notice you’re walking.

The adventure kicks off at Dream Beach, where powdery white sand meets impossibly turquoise waves. From here, ascend the gentle rise at the beach’s edge and make your way toward Devil’s Tears, a dramatic spot where waves crash into hidden caverns and erupt in a misty spectacle.

Keep following the path along the cliffs, where you’ll stumble upon hidden rock pools tucked behind bushes—perfect for a quick dip. The trail continues westward, revealing panoramic views of the ocean and Bali’s majestic coastline. Your journey will wind down at Mushroom Bay, a serene cove where you can reward yourself with some well-deserved R&R.

At just 2.5km, this hike is perfect for all fitness levels. Here, it’s more about the journey than the sweat—ideal for anyone who’d rather marvel at oceanic beauty than clock their steps.