One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Bali is by foot, on a nature trail. Some of these hour-long nature trails are easy to conquer, so they work for beginners and kids alike. If you want to give the entire family a weekend of adventure they won’t forget, consider these kid-friendly nature trails.
1. Sambangan Nature Hike
Sambangan is a nature hike located in the northern part of Bali that features endless rice fields. Depending on the tour, the Sambangan Nature Hike features a trek from the rice fields to the Aling-Aling, Kroya, Kembar, and Pucuk waterfalls. After a relaxing stroll to the Sambangan landscapes, you can take pictures, explore the tropical jungle, or take a refreshing dip to the waterfall that falls to the river, it’s your choice!
As with any outdoor excursion, we recommend hiring a local guide to lead you through the many attractions in Sambangan safely. On average, the Sambangan tour will last for one to two hours.
2. Mt. Batur Hike
Mount Batur is an active volcano located in northeastern of Bali. The volcano features a caldera, wherein villages live, and offer a variety of services among trekkers and hikers. One such service is an easy hike that will take you on top of the mountain!
Batur is popular among hikers and nature-loving tourists because the nature trail is very easy to conquer and the picturesque tropical forest that surrounds it. Even better, the sunrise on top of the volcano can’t be missed.
It only takes one and a half hour to reach the end of the trail, but it’s not the highest point of the volcano. Reaching the summit takes another hike along a steep sandy trail. Don’t be surprised to see a warung on top of the summit offering hikers hot drinks and local sweets.
3. Campuhan Ridge Walk
Located in the heart of Ubud, the Campuhan ridge is a popular nature trail among beginners and families alike! The ridge features a stunning view of the Bali outback and tranquil countryside living.
The nine-kilometer trail consists of gorgeous hillsides and lots of fresh air. The trail starts at the Campuhan Ridge Walk then off to the verdant landscapes of the Campuhan valley. From there, you can check out the dense, beautiful tropical forests that span out as far as the eyes can see.
Then, the trail leads to the Campuhan River, where the ancient Pura Gunung Lebah temple complex is located. You can take pictures and explore the temples or ask directions to other nature trails. The high point of the temple will give you a 360-degree view of the valley.
4. Gitgit Waterfall
Gitgit Waterfall Bali is a famous attraction on the northern region of Bali. The region contains various nature trails that vary in length, terrain and difficulty level. One of the easiest nature trails that lead to the waterfall is a well-signposted path goes 800 meters west from the main road of waterfall Gitgit.
Because the path is in the middle of a lush tropical forest, you can expect beautiful greeneries along the way. You’ll also come across a narrow bridge attached over the river. Once you get to the waterfall, you can take a break, soak up the beautiful flora and take a refreshing swim!
5. Tegenungan Waterfall
Located in the Tegenungan Village near Ubud, Tegenungan Waterfall is a popular destination for nature-lovers in Bali. The trail is very short and will only take you a few minutes to reach the waterfall as you descend along a cemented path along the river Tukad Petanu. Before reaching the hidden waterfall, you will walk through a lush tropical jungle. Once you get there, you take a dip in the cool and clear water.
The Tegunungan waterfall is unique because it only measures about four feet high yet the impact of the falling water is very strong. The water is very clean so you can simply swim around and relax in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall. You can also try the springs nearby or take a picture of the woods.
6. Danau Bratan
The world-renowned temple of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is the most popular tourist destination in Danu Bratan. There are different nature trails that will lead you to a spot that offers a view of Mount Catur, including one that only takes an hour to reach. The trails are usually covered by fog and can be quite chilly so wear very thick clothes!
The lake offers water activities like water skiing or boat cruises. If you like going for walks, you can visit the botanical garden named Kebun Raya Eya Karya Bali which houses a diverse species of orchids and large trees.
For adventurous mountain climbers, Danau Bratan also serves as a good starting point for hiking tours to the summit of Mount Catur. It usually takes three hours before you reach the top and two hours to get back to the ground. As you hike up, you will have a great view of the different shrines and buildings inspired by the Dutch.
7. West Bali National Park
West Bali National Park is located in northwest Bali. It’s home to hundreds of species of animals including birds, reptiles, monkeys, wild deer, and so much more. A great way to explore West Bali National Park’s wildlife is by checking out one of its many hiking trails.
The hiking trails usually take only one or two hours to complete. The park requires people to bring a guide forsafety reasons. As you walk inside the lush tropical forest, you will hear the wonderful chirping songs of over 300 bird species. A complete nature hike will take seven hours to complete. And for those who’d rather hike for an hour or two, we recommend asking your guide for shorter trails.
8. Tirta Gangga
Literally translated to Holy Water from the Ganges, Tirta Gangga is an ancient royal palace located in East Bali. There are numerous streams around the area which are used for the irrigation systems of the locals. They built complex but highly efficient rice terraces to raise crops.
Thanks to the verdant landscapes and fresh air, Tirta Gangga, it is a fun spot to go hiking. The best time to go for walks is early in the morning, just as the sun has risen. You can easily walk around for an hour or two and decide which trails to take on your journey. But if you really want to maximize your hike, we recommend hiring a local guide to lead you through various nature trails. You can go on a half-day hike where you will walk along narrow paths passing that lead to local villages and stunning rice terraces.
This article was originally published by Bali Kids Guide, a total guide for Bali with kids, holiday tips, reviews, currency & visa info, and more.
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