Mount Batur Altitude Sickness: Is It Something to Worry About?
If you’re planning to hike Mount Batur and are wondering whether altitude sickness could be an issue, the short answer is—most likely not. At 1,717 metres (5,633 feet), Mount Batur is well below the elevation where altitude sickness typically becomes a concern. That being said, it’s always good to understand what altitude sickness is, why it happens, and how your body might respond to high places—even if you’re not hitting extreme heights.
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), usually starts to affect people at elevations above 2,500 metres (around 8,200 feet). Since Mount Batur’s summit is just over 1,700 metres and the hike begins around 1,100 metres, you’re not ascending high or fast enough to trigger the kind of symptoms associated with AMS. So for the vast majority of travellers—whether seasoned hikers or total beginners—this hike won’t bring any issues related to altitude sickness.
However, it’s not uncommon for people to experience a little shortness of breath or fatigue during the Mount Batur trek, especially near the steeper parts. This isn’t altitude sickness—it’s simply the body responding to physical exertion in the cool, early morning air. You’re climbing around 600–700 metres (roughly 2,000 feet) up a volcano, often after very little sleep and just a cup of coffee. It’s completely natural to feel a bit winded, especially if you’re not used to hiking. But with steady pacing and regular breaks, almost everyone makes the summit comfortably and safely.
On rare occasions, people with respiratory conditions, very low fitness levels, or anxiety might feel light-headed or dizzy at higher altitudes. But again, Mount Batur is not high enough for oxygen levels to drop in any major way, and symptoms usually resolve quickly with rest. If you’re worried about how your body handles elevation, just take it slow, hydrate well, dress in layers to stay comfortable, and let your guide know how you're feeling.
Another thing to remember is that the conditions during the Mount Batur trek can feel quite chilly before sunrise, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C at the top. It's not altitude-related, but the cold can make you feel a bit off if you're underdressed or tired. Wearing warm clothes, staying dry, and keeping snacks or warm drinks handy can help keep your energy up and your system calm.
In short, altitude sickness isn’t something you need to worry about when climbing Mount Batur. The elevation just isn’t high enough to pose a significant risk. What you should prep for instead is a bit of cardio, a rocky path, and a cold breeze before dawn. The rest? It’s smooth sailing with a huge reward: watching the sun rise over Bali from above the clouds. So tie up those hiking shoes and go for it—you’ve got this.
