The Volcano Trail Epic Volcano Cycling Adventure

Our thorough review of the Volcano Trail cycling tour in Ubud reveals a seriously fun day of riding that combines adrenaline, awe-inspiring scenery, and expert guidance. While we haven’t personally pedaled these trails, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of what you can expect from this adventure.

What we love most about this tour? First, the well-maintained full-suspension bikes with dropper posts make tackling Bali’s varied terrain comfortable and manageable. Second, the spectacular volcanic vistas and lush rice paddies promise a feast for the eyes at every turn. Third, the knowledgeable guides and smooth organization ensure safety and ease, making this a trustworthy choice for solo travelers, groups, or adventure lovers.

One aspect to consider is the moderate fitness requirement—this isn’t a leisurely ride; it involves around 45 km of riding with some technical sections. But if you’re a confident rider with good fitness, you’ll find this tour a truly rewarding way to see Bali’s natural beauty. Perfect for those seeking an active day out that combines scenic views, technical trails, and local culture.

Who is this tour for?

This adventure is best suited for intermediate to advanced riders who enjoy fast, flowing trails and are comfortable on rough terrain. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a full-day experience that combines biking, breathtaking sights, and a taste of Bali’s rural charm.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery including volcanic landscapes, rice paddies, and local villages
• Well-organized with knowledgeable guides and reliable support
• Gear quality: Full suspension bikes with dropper posts, safety gear included
• Balanced difficulty level with smooth downhill and cross-country sections
• Value for money considering the inclusive lunch, snacks, and transport
• Moderate fitness needed—not suited for complete beginners or those with limited cycling experience

What to Expect from the Volcano Trail Cycling Adventure

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins early at 7:00 am with hotel pickups from key Bali areas like Seminyak, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Canggu, Sanur, Legian, and Ubud. The air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away from the busy tourist spots to the highlands near Kintamani, at roughly 1,600 meters above sea level. This transfer is comfortable and sets the tone for a day of mountain biking through Bali’s volcanic heart.

The Trail Itself: Diverse Terrain with No Extreme Features

The ride is meticulously designed to showcase Bali’s volcanic beauty without alienating riders who prefer fun over danger. The first segment is predominantly downhill, beginning at the high altitude and descending through forested areas and volcanic sand that, as some reviews mention, can be slippery—so confident handling helps here.

The second part of the route takes you through rice paddies and villages, giving a glimpse into local life and traditional farming methods. The trail is about 45 km long, covering roughly 45 hours of riding, with just around 300 meters of climbing but over 1,300 meters of descent—ideal for those who like to enjoy long, flowing downhill sections.

The Highlights:

• Kintamani Mountain: The ride starts with breathtaking views of Mount Batur and the surrounding volcanoes, giving riders a real sense of Bali’s volcanic origins.
• Lush Rice Fields and Villages: We loved the way the trail weaves through Bali’s rural scenes, providing photo-worthy moments and cultural insights.
• Smooth Trails: The route is described as “thrilling” but not overly technical—perfect for those with solid bike-handling skills looking for an adrenaline rush without risking their safety on jumps or drops.
• Support and Safety Gear: Your bike comes with a dropper post, and safety gear, gloves, and knee protection are all included, making the ride secure and comfortable.

Lunch, Snacks, and Refreshments

A highlight for many reviewers is the included lunch and local snacks. You may find yourself overlooking Mt. Agung while enjoying a well-organized meal, which helps recharge for the ride ahead. Bottled water and isotonic drinks keep you hydrated during this active day.

Guides and Support

The guides—notably a senior mountain biking expert—are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and pacing skills. One review mentions Gita, who made the experience fun, safe, and engaging. Vehicle support also ensures assistance is close by if needed, adding peace of mind.

The Value of This Experience

At $80 per person, the Volcano Trail offers exceptional value considering the full-day adventure, quality gear, lunch, transportation, and expert guidance. Many reviews highlight how well-organized and smooth the logistics are, making it an easy option even for first-timers with some cycling experience. The fact that this is booked on average 56 days in advance indicates its popularity among travelers seeking Bali’s best biking experiences.

What the Price Covers:

• Use of high-quality full suspension mountain bikes with dropper posts
• Safety gear including helmets, gloves, and knee pads
• Lunch, local snacks, and drinks
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Bali
• Guided support from experienced guides

Things to Keep in Mind:

• The tour is recommended for people with moderate physical fitness—it’s a full-day ride with some technical sections
• It’s designed for riders comfortable with downhill and cross-country terrain, but not for absolute beginners
• The terrain is mostly smooth but can include slippery volcanic sand and uneven paths
• The tour’s maximum group size is 15, ensuring personalized support and safety

What Past Participants Say

Reviews paint a picture of a well-loved tour with consistent praise for the guides, scenery, and organization. One traveler states, “Made our Bali holiday,” while another appreciates the “faultless organization” and the ability to enjoy Bali’s raw landscapes safely. Many mention that the ride was “challenging but fun,” with some noting that the trail’s flow made it more accessible than more technical downhill routes, yet still exciting.

A recurring theme is the expert guidance—reviewers mention guides like Gita and Ruddy, whose local knowledge, friendliness, and pacing made the experience memorable. Some reviewers highlight their enjoyment of the various terrains, from forest trails to rice paddies, offering a diverse snapshot of Bali’s natural beauty.

Unique Insights from Reviews:

• The initial downhill from 1,600 meters is exhilarating and demands confident bike handling—some riders found it particularly fun.
• The route’s balance of forest, volcanic sand, and rice fields offers a “breathtaking contrast” that keeps the ride interesting.
• Many participants felt the bike quality—Polygon Siskiu dual suspension bikes—made a significant difference, especially in rocky or uneven sections.
• The inclusion of a local, flavorful lunch with scenic views added to the overall value.

Practical Tips for Your Ride

• Wear sporty casual clothing suitable for active outdoor pursuits.
• Advise any dietary requirements at booking; a vegetarian option is available.
• Ensure you have moderate fitness—the ride is demanding but manageable with good preparation.
• Riders should be confident on downhill terrain and have strong bike-handling skills.
• Arrive early for pickup and wear the provided gear throughout the ride to stay protected.
• Bring your own sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture Bali’s stunning vistas.

The Sum Up: Is the Volcano Trail the Right Choice?

This tour offers a balance of adrenaline, scenery, and culture, making it a standout activity for active travelers. The combination of expert guides, top-notch equipment, and breathtaking landscapes creates a memorable adventure that’s worth the price—especially for riders seeking a day of fun, challenge, and stunning photo opportunities.

While it’s not suited for complete beginners or those uncomfortable with technical terrain, confident cyclists will find this tour both invigorating and highly rewarding. It’s best for those who want to combine their love of mountain biking with a taste of Bali’s volcanic beauty and rural charm.

For travelers craving a full-day, guided biking experience that showcases Bali’s most impressive scenery without extreme features, the Volcano Trail is a top pick.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

What kind of bikes are used? The tour provides high-quality full suspension mountain bikes with dropper posts, designed for comfortable handling over varied terrain.

Is the ride suitable for beginners? This tour is recommended for riders with moderate fitness and good bike-handling skills, given the trail’s technical sections and downhill nature.

What should I wear? Sporty casual attire suitable for outdoor riding, plus sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes.

Are safety gear and protective equipment provided? Yes, helmets, gloves, and knee protection are included with the bike rental.

How long is the ride? Approximately 45 km, taking about 7 to 8 hours including breaks and lunch.

What’s included in the price? The fee covers bikes, safety gear, lunch, snacks, drinks, transportation, and guided support.

Can I join if I’m not staying in Ubud? Pickup is available from several Bali areas including Seminyak, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Canggu, Sanur, Legian, and Ubud.

Are there age restrictions? Children must be accompanied by an adult; the tour typically caters to adults and older children with the appropriate fitness level.

What’s the best time to do this tour? The tour starts early morning at 7:00 am, and morning rides are generally recommended for the best weather and views.

In summary, the Volcano Trail Epic Volcano Cycling Adventure offers an exciting, scenic, and well-supported biking day in Bali. It’s a perfect choice for adventure-seekers eager to experience Bali’s volcanic landscapes on two wheels, combining great value, expert guidance, and the chance to create unforgettable memories.