The ultimate mountain climbing challenge in Bali is ascending Mount Agung, Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano at 3142 meters. This is not a climb for everybody and is about the same level of difficulty as Mount Kilimanjaro in East Africa. You need to be physically fit. Dress warmly and wear good hiking shoes, and remember to bring a camera.

For religious reasons, climbing the mountain is not allowed during major ceremonies at Pura Besakih, Bali’s most sacred mother temple, around the full moon from late March to early April. The volcano’s last eruption was in 1963 with a great loss of life and extensive damage.

To reach the mountaintop in time for sunrise, the journey begins at night with a drive from Tanah Merah Art Resort to Pura Besakih to meet the guide, who will give important safety instructions. If the moon is full there will be some light, but flashlights will be provided. It takes nearly 5 hours from the temple to reach the peak, with the guide giving as many opportunities to rest as needed.

At the mountaintop the sunrise over the neighboring island of Lombok and beautiful views over nearly all of Bali bring a sense of peace and calm after the strenuous climb. The descent is even more difficult, so be prepared for the journey back down. Sleep in comfort during the drive back to Tanah Merah Art Resort.