Camping at Buyan Lake
A Complete Guide to North Bali Nature Adventures
Camping at Buyan Lake. Bali is widely known as a destination for beaches, temples, and culture, but for true nature lovers, North Bali holds an incredible hidden gem—Lake Buyan. Located in the Bedugul highlands, Lake Buyan is one of three twin lakes in the area, along with Lake Tamblingan and Lake Beratan. Its pristine natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make Lake Buyan the perfect camping spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of mainstream South Bali tourism.
Camping at Lake Buyan isn’t just an experience of spending the night in the great outdoors—it’s a journey to connect with the environment, breathe in the fresh mountain air, witness the dramatic morning mist, and enjoy a star-filled night sky rarely found in urban areas.
1. A Glance at Buyan Lake – Bedugul
Lake Buyan is one of the most beautiful natural lakes in Bali, located in the Bedugul highlands of Buleleng Regency. Surrounded by dense tropical rainforest and cool mountain air, the lake offers a serene and natural setting far from the tourist crowds of South Bali. Along with Lake Tamblingan and Lake Beratan, Lake Buyan is known as one of the “twin lakes” of North Bali. The beauty of its calm waters, the light morning mist, and the surrounding green landscape make Lake Buyan a favorite destination for nature lovers, photographers, and tourists seeking a vacation experience closer to nature.
2. Location & Access to Lake Buyan Campground
The camping area at Lake Buyan is located in the Bedugul area, specifically in Sukasada District, Buleleng Regency, North Bali. This area is situated on a plateau approximately 1,200 meters above sea level, so the temperature tends to be cool year-round.
Access from Denpasar
If you start your journey from Denpasar, the distance is approximately 80–90 kilometers with a travel time of approximately 2.5–3 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken. A common route is via Tegalalang, Bedugul, then follow the signs to Lake Buyan. The road conditions are relatively good, although some sections have bends and descents that require careful driving.
Access from Ubud or Singaraja
For travelers already in Ubud, the trip to Lake Buyan will take approximately 2–2.5 hours. From Singaraja in northern Bali, the travel time is approximately 1.5–2 hours via the main road leading to Bedugul.
Because of its location in the highlands, the journey to the lake offers views of hills, coffee plantations, and refreshing mountain air.
3. Main Attractions of Camping at Lake Buyan
Lake Buyan is surrounded by tropical rainforest, pine trees, and other mountain vegetation, creating a natural setting rich in biodiversity. Here are some of the main characteristics that make this area attractive:
Temperature and Climate
Temperatures around Lake Buyan generally range between 18°C and 24°C, with nights that can feel cooler. Gentle breezes and clean air create a very comfortable camping environment, especially for those seeking a mountain experience.
Morning Mist
Mornings at Lake Buyan are often shrouded in a thin mist, especially during certain seasons. This mist creates a mystical atmosphere and is very photogenic, especially when the sunlight slowly penetrates it.
Flora and Fauna
The forest surrounding the lake is home to various species of birds, insects, and endemic flora. The activity of birds in the morning is a special attraction for birdwatchers or those who simply want to enjoy nature passively.
4. Entrance Fee & Camping Fees at Lake Buyan
🎫 Area Entrance Fee
To access the Lake Buyan area, tourists are usually charged a modest entrance fee, which is used to maintain and clean the area. The estimated costs are as follows:
Domestic Tourists (Indonesian Citizens): ± IDR 10,000 – 20,000 per person
Foreign Tourists (WNA): ± IDR 20,000 – 30,000 per person
💡 Prices may vary depending on village or local management policies and the time of visit (e.g., weekends or holiday seasons).
🏕️ Camping Costs at Lake Buyan
Camping at Lake Buyan is natural and not fully managed as a commercial campground. However, you can still camp in permitted areas by paying a small fee to the local management or traditional village.
📌 Estimated Camping Costs
| Camping Type | Cost (Per Person/Per Night) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Camping (own tent) | ± IDR 20.000 – 40.000 | Camping area fee only |
| Camping + Tent Rental (standard) | ± IDR 100.000 – 180.000 | Tent for 2–4 people |
| Camping + Additional Facilities | ± IDR 180.000 – 300.000 | Includes equipment & mattress |
💡 Please note that tent rental costs can vary greatly depending on the local owner, tent size, and additional amenities such as mattresses, mattresses, lights, or sleeping bags.
5. Camping Area Options Around Lake Buyan
The camping areas at Lake Buyan are generally natural and less commercially managed than the more popular campsites in South Bali. However, this is a plus for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Lakeside Camping Spots
Several spots along the lake shore offer flat areas suitable for pitching a tent. These spots usually offer direct views of the lake, allowing you to enjoy the sunrise and sunset with the calm waters as a backdrop.
Garden and Forest Edge Areas
Besides the lake shore, there are also expansive garden or forest edges near the lake that can be chosen as alternative camping spots for those seeking a more private setting.
Note: Because these areas are natural and not officially managed, it is highly recommended to confirm permission with local residents or the local traditional village before setting up a tent.
