Hiking Mt. Batur in Kintamani Bali

The volcano that sits inside the crater is (Gunung) Mt. Batur, along with Lake Batur. I hiked the mountain in 1993 and back then local guides would offer their services. We hired a guide and agreed to buy some drinks from him when we reached the summit, in time to see the sunrise. Times have changed since then. My LP guide describes how a local cartel has basically taken over the mountain using intimidation and threats of violence to trekkers. The organization behind this is called the HPPGB. They won't allow people to hike alone and won't allow other guides on the mountain. Fees for the 3-hour climb are 300,000rp per person, which is steep, especially in Bali.

My LP guide says "While it is definitely recommended to take a guide if you start your climb in the dark, the problem is that trekker's freedom of choice to make a decision, has effectively been hijacked by the HPPGB, who aggressively discourage independent trekkers through intimidatory tactics. Numerous reader's letters have quoted similar stories of HPPGB guides waiting outside their hotel at 4am as they embark on an independent climb, only to be harassed and/or attacked when they refuse to take a guide. One traveller even wrote of hiding in the bushes with a mountain mafia vigilante group in search of him, while another wrote of threats to kill her and her friends. Many travellers turned back in genuine fear for their safety. The HPPGB also has most routes covered, and will try to prevent you from climbing without an official guide."

I recommend you do not climb Mt. Batur, but try the larger Gunung Agung, or the smaller Gunung Catur where you will not get harassed. I noticed various characters strolling around after daybreak wearing camouflage jackets and berets and think they must be part of the vigilante crew, who patrol every morning.