Mount Agung

During the months of January and February, heavy rains, floods and landslides are common. At lower altitudes, the climate is tropical and generally the temperate is around 20-25°C. The weather becomes colder at higher altitudes, so packing a warm layer is advised. Wind speeds and gusts also become strong at higher altitudes.

The best time to climb Mount Agung is during the dry months of May to October. Although the weather during the dry months is generally pleasant, do note that small showers can still be experienced from time to time due to the tropical climate. The weather in the morning is generally cooler and less humid than the rest of the day.

Altitude: Climbers should ascend and descend at a steady pace instead of hurrying their way through the route to prevent altitude sickness. Headache, fatigue and nausea are common symptoms.

Falling hazards: Climbers are always recommended to wear suitable hiking boots to tackle the terrain and especially during rainfall when the trails become very slippery and wet. It is highly advised for climbers to take rest till the rain stops. It is also appropriate to have a climbing partner or group to ensure help is at hand.

Cuts and scrapes: A first-aid kit containing antiseptic wipes, muscle pain relief cream and band-aids can also come in handy in case of falls, scrapes and acute pain.

Be cautious when finding guides. Ideally, they should have plenty of local climbing experience and knowledge, and first aid training.

Do not leave your personal belongings such as cameras, phones and passports unattended.

Climbing in groups (especially at night) is sensible and recommended.

Climbing Mount Agung is not allowed during some religious ceremonies, so best ask your tour provider.

It is required to obtain a climbing permit beforehand. When hiring a guide, climbing permits are mostly included within the price.

Police: 112

Ambulance: 118

Search & Rescue: +62-361-751111

The nearest airport is the Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar International Airport). Taxis or shared minibuses will take you just about anywhere on the island. The distance covered from the airport to the starting point of Mount Agung is around 23km. The journey can take 1-3 hours to get to the southern reaches of Mount Agung, depending on the traffic (particularly getting through Denpasar). Getting to the northern side of the mountain could take 1-2 hours longer.

The price of climbing Mount Agung through the Besakih Temple trail can cost approximately $95-110 USD per person.

Although all of the trails offer a unique experience of Mount Agung, taking the longest and less wandered trail starting from Duku Bujangga Sakti will take you through a range of unforgettable landscapes. Be sure to catch the majestic sunrise and don’t forget to bring your camera. For a more authentic experience, hiring an experienced and recommended guide is a sensible move.

Taking the vigorous and challenging route, starting from Pura Pusar Agung Temple is recommended in fine weather. You will come across slippery stones, steep angles, rocks, solidified lava, and dried up stream beds on the way.

Women climbing Mount Agung should not face any special challenges. However, it is best to travel in groups and use a professional and reputable guide or tour service. Avoid unwanted attention or cultural faux pas by taking your dressing cues from locals.

At the time of writing (July 2019), Agung was erupting and very much off limits to climbers. Please check with the local authorities for the latest information about volcanic activity before committing to the climb.

Goatrun.id has organised trail runs at Mount Agung in the past. If these races intrigue you, check up on their upcoming series when planning your visit to Mount Agung.