3 Must Try Adventure Activities at Mt. Agung
Hiking on holiday is a great way to connect with a new environment and see exotic animals in their natural habitat. This peaceful commune with nature can be a life-changing experience, but what about trekking an active volcano? A trip to Bali’s Mt. Agung gives you just that opportunity. Use our guide to plan your Mt. Agung adventure in advance.
Visit Selat Village
Right at the foothills of Mt. Agung, this beautiful area is perfect to drive through. Take in the views of rice terraces and towering forests. If you’re looking for a trekking guide, you can find some of the best here. If not, simply enjoy the lush scenery surrounding the volcano and take a tour of the local shops.
Who is this for?
Selat Village is great for all types of travellers. Whether you’re an adventure lover or enjoy the tamer things in life, visit Selat to enjoy Mt. Agung, without actually having to climb the beast.
How much is it?
It doesn’t cost anything, unless you decide to take a tour or stop for lunch.
How long will it take?
As long or as little as you would like. We’re confident you’ll find endless enjoyment in this small village. Who knows? Maybe you’ll just pick up and move.
Explore Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple is considered the mother temple of Bali; the largest and holiest temple on the island. Located on the slopes of Mt. Agung, it is a perfect place to visit if you are heading out on a trek. The temple complex has become more like a small village in recent years, with tourist shops and restaurants in development.
Who is this for?
Visiting the temple is great for those of all ages but best for active travellers, as it is located on the mountainside and requires hiking a lot of stairs. It may not be the best activity for the elderly or young children that tire easy.
How much is it?
This attraction doesn’t have a price tag but donations are requested.
How long will it take?
Visiting the temple can be as quick stopping in on the way up the mountain or it can be your main attraction.
Trekking the volcano
Mt. Agung towers 3031 metres into the sky. As the highest mountain on the island of Bali, it has two recognized trails. Avoid going up the mountain during wet season, especially the months of January and February as the trails will be, well, wet.
Who is this for?
This mountain trek is an arduous task, really recommended for those with good stamina. Altitude sickness is possible, so you will want to be well hydrated beforehand.
How much is it?
Trekking the mountain has no cost and no permits are required. It is highly recommended that you have a guide, though. Guided tours with overnight accommodations cost roughly A$150.
How long will it take?
The actual trek takes 5-8 hours if you decide to do it in one swoop, or you can break the climb into two days.
Your ascent up the volcano will offer incredible views and a perfect physical challenge. Be aware that with any adventure sport, complications may arise. Stay protected from any bumps or bruises (or major mishaps) with adventure sports travel insurance from Cover-More.
Image courtesy of Flickr user Gilldrums; cropped from original