Sprawling across over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is a treasure trove for hiking enthusiasts seeking adventure and natural beauty. While the country is renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, world-class surfing and vibrant culture, there is much more to it than these attractions. Its diverse landscapes include towering volcanoes, lush green jungles and pristine lakes, making it an ideal destination for hiking adventures. Hiking tours provide access to various treks, including those on or near volcanoes, and experienced local guides ensure visitors’ safety while offering insight into the region’s unique landscapes. Looking ahead to 2025–2026, Trek Indonesia promises to offer unparalleled hiking & trekking experiences that are both accessible and unforgettable for hikers of all levels.
Mt Batur, Bali
Mt Batur in Bali is famed for being one of the best sunrise hikes in Indonesia. The trek is 6.8 kilometers (4.2 miles) long and typically takes about four hours, making it suitable for hikers of easy to moderate skill levels. Starting at around 3:30 AM, hikers are treated to an astonishing view as the sun rises, casting warm hues over the distant silhouettes of Mt Rinjani and Mt Agung. The path is well-trodden and features several resting points, making it accessible even for those with a baseline level of fitness. Essential items to bring include water, a headlamp for navigating in pre-dawn darkness, and a warm jacket to fend off the cold morning air on top of the volcano.
Mt Ijen, East Java
Mt Ijen is renowned for its stunning natural phenomena, particularly the rare blue fire that illuminates the crater at night. The 14.5-kilometer (9 miles) trek is relatively easy and typically takes three to four hours. Hikers begin their journey at midnight to witness the mesmerizing electric-blue flames caused by sulfur gases igniting in the air due to the intense volcanic heat. Caution is necessary when descending into the crater, as visitors must wear gas masks and navigate through tough terrain. At the heart of the crater is a strikingly beautiful turquoise lake, known to have the highest acidity level of any lake in the world, making it both perilous and captivating.
Gunung Rinjani, Lombok
For those seeking a multi-day trekking adventure, Gunung Rinjani in Lombok is a must-visit. This trek spans 41.4 kilometers (25.7 miles) and typically takes two to three days to complete, offering a moderate challenge with stunning rewards. The trek begins in a tropical jungle and transitions through lush savannah and open grasslands. Although the route is not technically difficult, the final ascent to the summit can be challenging due to strong winds and loose scree. Campers can enjoy views from the rim of the world’s highest caldera lake, offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas. However, it is crucial to monitor volcanic activity, as it can affect access to both the summit and the lake.
Tumpak Sewu, East Java
Tumpak Sewu, aptly named “a thousand waterfalls,” is a spectacular hidden gem located in East Java. While the exact length of this trek is unknown, it typically takes between two and three hours to complete. The journey begins at a viewing platform with breathtaking overviews of cascading waterfalls. As you descend into the canyon via dirt paths, steel walkways, and wooden ladders, expect to encounter some adventurous climbing. The path will eventually merge with the waterfall itself, enveloping trekkers in mist and leading them into a stunning landscape reminiscent of a Jurassic world. This circular hike also offers serene mountain pools for cooling off as you explore further down the canyon.
Gunung Api Purba, Central Java
Gunung Api Purba, also known as Nglanggeran, is perfect for beginners and families. This 2.4-kilometer (1.5 miles) trek can be completed in two to three hours and is characterized by its easy grade. The climb offers a delightful combination of stunning vistas and geological formations, including towering cliffs and massive boulders. The trail, beginning in Nglanggeran village, is dotted with playful monkeys and winding moss-covered paths. Five strategically-placed rest stops provide ample opportunities for breaks and taking in the incredible views.
Padar Island, East Nusa Tenggara
Padar Island in East Nusa Tenggara is renowned for offering some of the most epic views in Indonesia. A brief, yet steep, 1.6-kilometer (1 mile) hike brings explorers to a viewpoint with sweeping panoramas of the surrounding islands and bays. Accessible only by boat from Labuan Bajo, the island is part of Komodo National Park and showcases three beaches with different-colored sands visible from the summit. This easy-to-moderate hike takes roughly an hour, making it a popular option for day-trippers as well as those exploring the broader national park.
Mt Merapi, Central Java
Mt Merapi, located in Central Java, is renowned as the most active volcano in the world. Standing imposingly at nearly 2,900 meters, it offers a thrilling hiking experience that attracts adventure enthusiasts from around the globe. The hike to the summit is considered moderate to hard and typically takes between 6 to 7 hours to complete the 8-kilometer trail.
Embarking on this trek is best done at night. Hikers begin their journey under the starlit sky to reach the summit in time for a breathtaking sunrise—a reward worth the early start. From the peak, hikers are treated to panoramic views of five additional volcanoes, making the climb even more worthwhile. For those seeking an extra challenge, the true summit of Mt Merapi provides an exhilarating conquest. Adventurers can even take it a notch higher by camping overnight on the crater rim, adding to the unique allure of this hike.
Mt Abang, Bali
While most tourists flock to Bali’s Mt Batur for a renowned sunrise hike, Mt Abang offers an exceptional alternative for those seeking a quieter path. This mountain, being the highest part of the Batur Caldera rim, extends across a 13.8-kilometer journey that takes approximately 5 to 7 hours—considered moderate in difficulty.
What sets Mt Abang apart is its lush, forested slopes that lead all the way to the peak. As there’s no volcanic rock underfoot, unlike many other Indonesian hikes, the trail offers a completely different experience. Hiking Mt Abang provides scenic solitude, allowing trekkers to bask in the serene surroundings and vibrant green canopy.
The trek features two temples along the way, each offering stunning views across the lake to the majestic Mt Batur. With its peaceful atmosphere and absence of crowds, Mt Abang’s trail is best ascended during the dry season to avoid the muddy and slippery slopes of the wet months. Its secluded tranquility makes it a sought-after destination for a unique, low-key hiking adventure in Bali.
