Chasing Sunrises: My Midnight Trek Up Mount Batur
In search of a unique adventure, I embarked on a midnight trek up Mount Batur in Bali to witness a breathtaking sunrise. Join me as I recount the journey, from the challenging climb to the unforgettable views at the summit.
The Midnight Adventure Begins
As a digital nomad, I often find myself chasing unique experiences across Southeast Asia. When I heard about the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek in Bali, I knew it was something I had to try. The idea of trekking up an active volcano in the dead of night to witness a sunrise sounded like the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
The journey began with a 2 a.m. pickup from my accommodation in Ubud. The drive to the base of Mount Batur took about an hour, and I was grateful for the chance to catch a few more winks of sleep. Upon arrival, I met JRo, our guide for the trek. Equipped with torches and a wealth of local knowledge, JRo was the perfect companion for the climb.
The trek itself was a medium difficulty hike, and I was glad I had packed a fleece shirt for the chilly summit. As we ascended, the path was steep and challenging, but the anticipation of the sunrise kept me motivated. JRo’s stories about the volcano and the surrounding landscape added an extra layer of intrigue to the journey.
A Spectacular Sunrise
Reaching the summit after about two hours of uphill trekking was a rewarding experience. JRo found us a prime spot to sit and enjoy the view, and I was grateful for his foresight as the area quickly filled with other trekkers. As we waited for the sun to rise, JRo handed us hot teas and began cooking eggs using the steam from the volcanic soil—a unique and memorable breakfast.
The sunrise itself was nothing short of spectacular. As the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, it illuminated the Agung Volcano and the distant Lombok Rinjiani volcano. The view of Lake Batur and the rice fields below was breathtaking, and I found myself snapping countless photos, despite not being much of a social media enthusiast.
The descent was a more relaxed affair, taking a different route that offered new perspectives of the landscape. JRo continued to share fascinating tidbits about the area, making the journey down as engaging as the climb up.
A Hearty Breakfast with a View
After the trek, we were treated to a hearty breakfast at a panoramic restaurant overlooking Lake Batur. The meal was a perfect way to refuel after the morning’s exertions, and the view from the restaurant was a fitting end to an incredible experience.
By the time we returned to our accommodation around 10 a.m., I was both exhausted and exhilarated. The Mount Batur Sunrise Trek had been an intense and rewarding adventure, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. JRo’s guidance and hospitality had made the experience all the more memorable, and I left with a newfound appreciation for the stunning landscapes of Bali.
