A Guide to Nusa Penida Best Hiking Trails

A Guide to Nusa Penida Best Hiking Trails
Waruna Darma Express
08 May 2025
News & Blogs

Nusa Penida, a breathtaking island located off the southeastern coast of Bali, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life, Nusa Penida also offers some of Bali’s most beautiful and challenging hiking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging climb or a beginner seeking a leisurely stroll through stunning landscapes, Nusa Penida has something for every level of adventurer.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best hiking trails on Nusa Penida, including both popular treks and hidden gems. We’ll cover everything from the difficulty level to the scenic views you can expect along the way, so you can plan your hiking adventure and make the most of the island’s natural beauty.

1. Why Nusa Penida is Perfect for Hiking

Nusa Penida offers some of the most dramatic and picturesque landscapes in Bali, making it a hiker’s dream. The island’s terrain is rugged and diverse, ranging from steep cliffs and rocky outcrops to lush jungles and coastal paths. Hiking here allows you to experience the island from a different perspective, offering incredible photo opportunities and a sense of connection to nature.

  • Diverse Landscapes: Nusa Penida’s hiking trails take you through tropical forests, volcanic hills, rocky cliffs, and along secluded beaches, offering a variety of terrain to explore.

  • Breathtaking Views: The island’s stunning coastline provides panoramic views of the ocean, and several of the trails offer incredible vistas of Nusa Penida’s iconic beaches and cliff formations.

  • Seclusion and Tranquility: Unlike Bali’s more touristy areas, Nusa Penida remains relatively undeveloped, and its hiking trails often lead to secluded spots, making it perfect for those seeking peace and quiet away from the crowds.

2. Best Hiking Trails in Nusa Penida

Whether you're looking for an easy walk or a challenging trek, Nusa Penida has a variety of hiking trails that cater to all experience levels. Here are the top hiking trails on the island:

  • Keling King Beach Hike (T-Rex Viewpoint)
    Keling King Beach is one of the most famous and iconic spots on Nusa Penida, and the hike to the viewpoint offers some of the best views on the island. The hike itself is challenging, with steep and uneven terrain, but the reward is worth the effort. From the viewpoint, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the famous T-Rex-shaped cliff and the crystal-clear waters below.

    What to Expect:
    The hike is steep, but well worth it for the stunning views of the T-Rex cliff formation and the surrounding coastline. The view from the top is one of the most photographed on Nusa Penida, making it a must-do for any hiker.

    Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging.

    Pro Tip:
    Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike. The trail can be slippery, especially after rainfall, so proceed with caution.

  • Suwehan Beach Hike
    The hike to Suwehan Beach is one of the most rewarding on Nusa Penida. Located on the island’s southern coast, the beach is relatively untouched and offers a peaceful retreat. The hike to the beach involves descending a steep set of stairs carved into the cliffs. While challenging, the hike offers stunning views of the coastline and the pristine beach below.

    What to Expect:
    The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and clear waters, offering a serene and beautiful setting. The hike is a bit strenuous, but once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with a secluded paradise.

    Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging.

    Pro Tip:
    Be sure to wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the stairs can be steep and slippery in some sections.

  • Atuh Beach Hike
    Atuh Beach is located on the eastern coast of Nusa Penida, and it’s one of the island’s most scenic beaches. The hike to Atuh Beach involves navigating a steep, winding path through lush vegetation. While the hike to the beach is short, it can be challenging, especially during the climb back up.

    What to Expect:
    The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and offers crystal-clear water and soft sand. The hike offers stunning views of the coastline, and once you arrive, you’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful beach and relax in the natural beauty of the area.

    Difficulty Level: Moderate.

    Pro Tip:
    Plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the beach in peace.

  • Teletubbies Hill (Bukit Teletubbies)
    Teletubbies Hill, also known as Bukit Teletubbies, is located in the southern part of Nusa Penida. This unique spot offers sweeping views of the island’s coastline and lush hills. The name Teletubbies Hill comes from the rolling green hills that resemble the landscape from the children's TV show “Teletubbies.” The hike to the hill is relatively easy, making it an excellent option for beginners.

    What to Expect:
    The hike to Teletubbies Hill offers panoramic views of Nusa Penida’s lush green landscape and rugged coastline. The area is peaceful, with minimal tourist crowds, and offers a perfect spot for photos.

    Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate.

    Pro Tip:
    The hill is especially stunning during sunrise and sunset, when the soft light casts a golden glow over the hills and ocean.

  • Seganing Waterfall Hike
    Seganing Waterfall is located on the island’s northern coast, and the hike to the waterfall is one of Nusa Penida’s more challenging treks. The trail takes you through thick jungle and steep terrain, but once you reach the waterfall, you’ll be greeted with a stunning sight. The waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear pool, offering a refreshing spot to cool off after the hike.

    What to Expect:
    The hike is challenging and requires good physical fitness. The waterfall itself is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

    Difficulty Level: Challenging.

    Pro Tip:
    Wear proper hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. This trail can be slippery, and the hike back up can be strenuous.

3. Best Time to Hike in Nusa Penida

The best time to hike in Nusa Penida is during Bali’s dry season, from April to October. During this period, the weather is sunny and warm, and the trails are more accessible, with less chance of rain and slippery paths. The wet season (November to March) can bring heavy rain and strong winds, making the hiking trails more challenging and less enjoyable.

For the best experience, try to start your hikes early in the morning, as this will allow you to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid the heat of midday. Additionally, early morning hikes often provide the best light for photography, especially at the island’s scenic viewpoints.

4. Hiking Safety Tips for Nusa Penida

While hiking in Nusa Penida is an exciting and rewarding experience, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety:

  • Wear Proper Footwear: The trails can be rocky and uneven, so be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.

  • Bring Water and Snacks: Some of the hikes on Nusa Penida can be strenuous, so make sure to bring plenty of water and light snacks to keep your energy up.

  • Use Sunscreen: The sun can be strong on Nusa Penida, so apply sunscreen before heading out and wear a hat to protect yourself from sunburn.

  • Stay on Marked Trails: Always stick to marked paths and follow the trail signs. Some of the hikes can be tricky, and wandering off the trail can be dangerous.

  • Hire a Local Guide: For the more challenging hikes, it’s recommended to hire a local guide who knows the terrain. They can ensure your safety, help with navigation, and provide insight into the island’s history and culture.

Experience Nusa Penida’s Natural Beauty Through Hiking

Nusa Penida is a hiker’s paradise, offering diverse and scenic trails that showcase the island’s stunning landscapes. From the iconic cliffs at Keling King Beach to the secluded beauty of Suwehan Beach and the lush hills of Teletubbies Hill, the island offers something for every type of adventurer.

By exploring the best hiking trails on Nusa Penida, you can experience the island’s natural beauty up close and enjoy panoramic views that are simply unforgettable. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, the island’s hiking trails provide an incredible opportunity to connect with nature and discover the hidden gems of this stunning island.

So pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and set out on an unforgettable adventure through Nusa Penida’s breathtaking landscapes!