Mount Bintan (Gunung Bintan Besar)

336m (1,102ft)

The entire trek takes 3-4 hours to accomplish for the average climber. Most tourists make it part of a longer 1-2 day itinerary on the island, spending the rest of their time on the Island enjoying the beaches as well as the tropical flora and fauna.

The hike up Bintan goes along a single, clearly marked trail mountain, going up from one side and coming down the other, to enjoy a diversity of flora and fauna along the way. The pathway offers just enough inclines and rocks to make it enjoyable yet challenging.

The start of the trail goes along a stretch of paved road, but as it goes higher the path becomes rugged and enters a fairly sparse rainforest filled with 12m/ 40ft tall trees. With the fallen foliage and the rains that are to be expected at any time of the year, the slope can be slippery and at points there are ropes to help you on your way.

If you’re physically fit, you will be at the summit before you know it, so you just have to slow down and enjoy the jungle scenery.

When you arrive at the summit, you’ll climb up on the (somewhat rickety) viewing platform that looks out to mangroves next to the sea below. The tall trees on the summit will block your view in many directions but will also keep you cool under their shadow.

Start to walk down after spending some time on the summit along the other side of the mountain. The trail is not too different but ends with a small pool (Princess’ Pool) and a waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool water. A short walk on a paved road from that point onwards will bring you back to the main road.

Bintan Islands enjoy a steady 25-30°C (77°F – 86°F) general temperature with only slight variations throughout the year. The mountain is not high enough for it to get significantly colder as you ascend.

The dry season is between March and November and offers a higher chance of unexpected rain. Even so, this season is the best time to plan a hike.

You’ll just need some good hiking shoes for this short trek.

This is a very short trail so you shouldn’t have need for any more supplies than what you bring in your backpack, however, there is both food and water at the trailhead and rest stop shelters, such as huts, pavilions, etc. along the trail.

Neither guides not porters are required for this hike.

Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport in Bintan has domestic services connecting to the main airports in Indonesia. However, most tourists take the ferry from Singapore (or Malaysia).

It is a 35-minute cab drive from the domestic airport to the entrance to Mount Bintan.

If doing this trek during the dry season and especially on weekends or holidays, there will be a good amount of traffic up and down the mountain. It is unlikely you will come up against any dangers.