Bali Mountain Biking Adventure

Bali has a reputation as one of the most spectacular island paradises in the world, where enduring spiritual traditions combine with awe-inspiring natural beauty for a sublime effect. With fast-flowing rivers, deep canyons, crater lakes and volcanoes dominating its interior landscape, Bali's contrasts offer surprises at every turn. The island's multitude of tracks and trails connect its remote villages and provide endless opportunities for adventure and fascinating glimpses of the Balinese way of life.

After landing in Denpasar, riders are whisked out to the coastal village of Sanur to unwind before the cycling begins. The next morning heads up to the slopes of Mount Batur, riding across lava fields and around the base of the volcanic cone. The following ride descends and crosses a mountain pass between Mount Abang and Mount Agung, emerging at a beach on Bali's eastern coast.

The next day's ride explores mighty Mount Agung, including the ruins of a Hindu water palace, spending the night at Candidasa Beach. Heading to the highlands once more, the route rides from the slopes of Agung down to the spiritual and artistic centre of Ubud, before a final loop ride through surrounding rice paddies and jungle ravines, passing sculptures and temples among the groves.

Highlights:

• Ride across lava fields and around the base of Mount Batur volcano
• Cross a remote mountain pass between Mount Abang and Mount Agung
• Explore the ruins of a Hindu water palace on the flanks of Mount Agung
• Ride through some of Bali's finest rice paddy scenery to Candidasa Beach
• Weave through stone-carving villages and Salak fruit plantations
• Explore Ubud's rice paddies and jungle trails, with an optional rafting trip

Surface and terrain:
Almost entirely off-road: dirt roads, single-track, volcanic sand, lava cobbles, gravel and broken tarmac; flat land is almost nonexistent on Bali. Terrain is consistently hilly, though most days trend net downhill. Average climbing is 399m/day (range 233–580m). A few short, steep ascents and descents feature, but nothing long or technical.

Weather:
Tropical climate, constant 28–30°C daytime temperatures. Rainy season December–March (short heavy downpours rather than all-day rain); dry season May–September brings a cooling breeze from Australia.

Suitable for:
Rated "Sport" difficulty. Suited to riders with some off-road mountain biking experience; not technical but demanding due to varied surfaces and gradients. Practising beforehand in warm weather is recommended. Group size 2–16, minimum age 18.