Bali is often celebrated for its beaches, temples, and vibrant culture, but hiking in Bali reveals a quieter, more intimate side of the island. Beyond the surf and sunset bars lies a network of scenic ridges, lush rice terraces, jungle paths. And coastal boardwalks that invite you to slow down and explore on foot.
Whether you are looking for an easy rice field stroll in Ubud, a coastal walk in Sanur, or a countryside trail with views of Mount Agung, Bali offers options for low to moderate intensity adventures. This guide highlights the best places for hiking in Bali, with practical tips to help you plan your walk.
Best Places for Hiking in Bali by Location
Central Bali: Ubud and Surroundings
Ubud is the heart of walking and light hiking in Bali. Surrounded by rice paddies and river valleys, it offers some of the island’s most scenic and accessible trails.
Campuhan Ridge Walk (Ubud)
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of the most popular easy hikes in Bali, known for its open views and gently rolling hills. The paved path stretches approximately 4 km return and follows a scenic ridge overlooking lush valleys and river gorges. The route feels surprisingly peaceful, especially in the early hours of the morning.
Its gentle terrain makes it suitable for most fitness levels, and it is particularly beautiful at sunrise or late afternoon when the light softens the landscape. Small cafés appear toward the end of the trail, offering a pleasant reward before heading back. The walk begins near Jalan Raya Ubud, close to the Blanco Museum area, and is best started early to avoid heat and crowds.
Subak Juwuk Manis & Subak Sok Wayah Rice Fields
For a quieter alternative to central Ubud’s busy streets. The Subak Juwuk Manis and Subak Sok Wayah trails offer a peaceful rice field experience. These connected paths form a loop of around 6.5 km, weaving through traditional farmland, narrow walkways. And small bridges that cross gentle streams.
Walking here provides a closer look at Bali’s traditional irrigation system and daily agricultural life. The scenery feels intimate and authentic, with fewer tourists compared to more famous viewpoints. The entrance is conveniently located just off Jalan Raya Ubud, making it easy to access on foot while still feeling removed from the town’s bustle,
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Located about 20 minutes north of Ubud, Tegallalang is famous for its steep and dramatic rice terraces. The layered landscape creates a striking visual effect, especially when the fields are bright green. Short trails wind down into the valley, allowing visitors to walk among the terraces and appreciate their intricate structure up close.
Although it can become crowded during peak hours, arriving early in the morning makes the experience more relaxed. Exploring slightly away from the main viewpoint often leads to quieter corners with beautiful photo opportunities. For travellers interested in iconic scenery, Tegallalang remains one of the most recognisable spots for hiking in Bali.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (UNESCO Site)
For a more expansive and tranquil experience, Jatiluwih in central-west Bali offers wide, open landscapes and well-marked walking routes. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the area features multiple trails ranging from 1.5 km to over 5 km, allowing visitors to choose a route that suits their time and energy level.
The terraces here are vast and beautifully maintained, creating a sense of space that feels different from busier locations. With fewer crowds and facilities such as small warungs and rest areas, Jatiluwih is well suited for longer, unhurried walks. For those seeking a deeper connection with Bali’s agricultural heritage, it stands out as one of the most rewarding places for hiking in Bali
South Bali: Coastal Walks
If you prefer ocean views to rice paddies, the south of Bali offers scenic seaside paths.
Sanur Boardwalk
Stretching approximately 6 km along the coastline, the Sanur Boardwalk is perfect for a relaxed seaside walk. The paved pathway runs parallel to the beach, offering uninterrupted ocean views and a calm atmosphere that feels noticeably slower than other parts of south Bali. It is particularly popular at sunrise, when the sky turns soft shades of orange and pink over the water.
The route is flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Along the way, you will pass small cafés, beachfront restaurants, and colourful local fishing boats anchored near the shore. For travellers seeking an accessible and leisurely walking route. Sanur remains one of the most pleasant coastal options for hiking in Bali.
Nusa Dua Coastal Path
Nusa Dua features a well-maintained beachfront walkway of about 5 km return, running alongside landscaped resort grounds and clean stretches of sand. The path is orderly and spacious, offering a comfortable environment for walking at any time of day.
One of the highlights along the route is the dramatic Water Blow viewpoint, where waves crash powerfully against the rocks. The combination of manicured gardens, ocean scenery, and open pathways makes Nusa Dua an easy and scenic option for light hiking in Bali’s southern region.
Source: Pexels
East Bali: Cultural and Countryside Trails
East Bali offers a slower pace and a more traditional atmosphere compared to the island’s busier areas. Here, hiking in Bali often means walking through quiet villages, irrigation canals, and expansive rice fields framed by Mount Agung. The landscape feels rural and authentic, giving visitors a closer connection to everyday life on the island.
Trails in this region are generally less crowded, allowing for a more immersive experience. If you are looking to explore Bali beyond the main tourist centres, East Bali provides rewarding countryside walks with cultural depth and scenic variety.
Kastala to Tenganan Walk
Located near Candidasa, the Kastala to Tenganan walk takes you through rice fields, irrigation canals, and traditional rural landscapes. Mount Agung often rises in the background, adding a dramatic element to the otherwise peaceful scenery. The trail provides insight into agricultural life and ends in Tenganan, a village known for preserving the traditions of the Bali Aga community.
The walk typically takes around two hours one way and is best done with transport arranged in advance for the return journey. For those interested in combining nature with culture. This route stands out as one of the most meaningful countryside experiences for hiking in Bali.
Sidemen Rice Fields
Sidemen offers a quieter alternative to Ubud, with sweeping valley views and rice terraces that feel largely untouched by mass tourism. Trails weave through farmland and small villages, allowing visitors to observe daily life at a natural pace. The scenery here feels open and expansive, especially with Mount Agung visible on clear days.
For travellers seeking a more traditional atmosphere and fewer crowds, Sidemen is a rewarding destination. Walking through its countryside provides an authentic glimpse of Bali’s rural character, making it a memorable choice for hiking in Bali beyond the usual highlights.
Source: Pexels
Stay by the Beach, Explore Bali on Foot
For travellers who want both comfort and convenience, Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach offers the perfect base. Located in Nusa Dua, this beachfront resort provides direct access to scenic coastal walks and is within easy reach of Ubud’s ridge trails and Bali’s iconic rice terraces. You can start your morning with an oceanfront stroll. And spend the day exploring some of the best spots for hiking in Bali.
Hiking in Bali reveals a side of the island many visitors miss, from peaceful countryside paths to sweeping valley views. Book your stay, lace up your shoes, and turn your Bali trip into something more meaningful, one step at a time.












