About Batur, Indonesia

One of the most popular destinations is the caldera containing Gunung Batur and its crescent shaped crater lake. An incredible site as the bus reaches the edge of the caldera and you look down at the lake, villages and fields carefully wrapped around the imposing slopes of the volcano.

You’ll have to get a lift down into the caldera but there will be plenty of jeeps waiting to take you to a mate’s guesthouse. Once you’re there they will very quickly attempt to sell you outrageously expensive treks up the volcano (we’re talking $50 for four hours work - the cost should be closer to $5). If you don’t accept there is a risk that they could turn unpleasant and if you attempt the climb on your own you could very easily meet an aggressive collection of locals. Check where you intend to stay beforehand, ask around, and by all means try the climb (it’s pretty easy and you can’t get lost) but be very careful if you get into an argument with anyone - they have no rights but they do have knives. It’s a shame as it is a wonderful place and the cynical attitude of the locals is completely at odds with the vast majority of Balinese.