TLDR: Dino has the patience of a saint, the volcano is incredible, and if you are not fit take the damn taxi.

I simply couldn't pass up the opportunity... read more to visit one of only 2 blue fire volcanoes while I was visiting Bali. Unfortunately I wasn't in the best physical shape by the time I got to Bali due to long COVID, but I was determined to make the climb! Had I known just how gruelling it would be beforehand, I would have taken up one of the taxis at the entrance (900,000 IDR for both ways).

Alas the darkness of 2am hid the torment awaiting me and I naively walked right past the taxis calling out to me and began the hike with my (unfairly fit) husband and Dino Lian, our guide. Did Dino explain the hike in detail before we even started the hike? Yes. Am I geographically challenged and had no idea what any of it meant? Also yes.

We had to stop for a break many, many times on the way to the summit and both my husband and Dino spurred me on without too many jokes at my expense. Dino, my husband, myself, and my jelly legs successfully made it to the rim of the caldera! Happy days! Dino then reminded us that to get to the blue fire and sulphur mine, we would have to descend into the caldera to the lakes edge.

Once again my path forward was hidden by darkness and so I did not know of the further horrors that awaited my legs. The hike up the side of the mountain turned into a scrambling climb for the descent and I absolutely regretted not buying that new pair of Brooks sneakers with superior grip (seriously, it is VERY slippery in places). We eventually made it down to the sulphur mine and were able to witness the absolutely beautiful blue fire. We watched the miners work and bought a little sulphur turtle for 200,000 IDR. The climb back up was the most horrific physical exertion I have ever imposed upon myself and as the sky slowly lightened I was able to finally see the insane climb I had got myself into. By the time I hauled myself Gollum-style back up to the caldera's rim my muscle's muscles were on fire. Dino and my husband both had the gall to not even be out of breath.

From there we watched the sun come up and were finally able to see the beautiful scenery around us. Unfortunately we were unable to see the lake clearly due to the amount of volcanic gas that day, however Dino kindly sent us some photos and videos he had previously taken on a clear day. As wise as he is kind, Dino then organised a taxi to get my pathetic bag of bones back down the volcano (400,000 IDR for the down trip).

Overall the tour was fantastic, each of the staff were super friendly and professional, and I highly recommend this tour.

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  The trekking tour up Mount Batur was a great experience! Our driver picked us up in Ubud on time at 2:00am. So it was still completely dark when we... read more arrived at the top and we were one of the first visitors up, which was great! Tri, our wonderful guide, showed us the best spot to enjoy the whole sunrise while we enjoyed the breathtaking view and had breakfast! After the sunrise, many monkeys joined us at the top of the mountain, which was beautiful. Great combination of an excellent guide and stunning views. Tri was always there when needed, gave us safety and the perfect experience and good mood for our tour. At the same time she gave us space to enjoy the peace and quiet in privacy, but also offered interesting information and lots of support. We had an unforgettable time and a rewarding experience!

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