Can I go hiking or trekking in Bali?

Short answer

Yes. The classic hike is the Mount Batur sunrise trek (1,717 m), about 2 hours up from a 3 to 4 am start, always with a local guide. Mount Agung (3,142 m) is far harder, needs a licensed guide by law, and closes during major ceremonies. Easier walks include Jatiluwih's rice terraces, Campuhan Ridge in Ubud and the Munduk waterfalls.

In detail

On Mount Batur, guides are arranged through the local trekking association at the trailhead, and walkers without a guide can be turned away. Expect an entry permit of around IDR 100,000 and an all-in shared tour of around IDR 500,000 with pickup and breakfast. The trail is loose volcanic gravel near the top.

Mount Agung is Bali's most sacred mountain. From Pura Pasar Agung, the climb to the crater rim takes about 3 to 4 hours each way; from Besakih, the summit takes 6 to 8 hours up. A licensed local guide is compulsory, and foreigners have been deported after climbing alone.

Agung closes to hikers during big temple ceremonies, and in bad weather or volcanic activity. Local custom also asks women who are menstruating and people in mourning not to climb.

For gentler days, try the marked trails of Jatiluwih (30 minutes to 3 hours), the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud, or forest and waterfall walks around Munduk and the Lake Tamblingan area.

Good to know

Wear proper shoes and bring a warm layer: summits are cold before sunrise.
Book through an operator that names the guide association it works with.
Check closures with your guide a few days before any Agung climb.

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Sources

Rules and prices in Indonesia change often. Always check official sources before you travel.