Bukit Hitam - Trek Through the Dense Jungle in Sumatra

So named for it’s black rocks and dense tree cover, Mt. Hitam (known locally as Bukit Hitam) is shrouded in more than just leaves, being a place of mystical folklore. “Hitam” means black though the surroundings are far from dreary with hot springs, waterfalls, and spectacular views. Also home to a forrest preserve, Mt. Hitam offers easy access to untamed Sumatran jungles and even offers a connecting trail to the nearby volcano Bukit Kaba. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, check out our Twin Peaks: Hitam to Kaba package!

Day One
Day Two

Day One

The waterfall at the main camp on Bukit Hitam. Perfect for a brisk morning shower.

Make your way early in the morning to the trailhead by passing through a lush tea plantation towards coffee fields. From here, join a local guide who will take you through the maze of paths created by villagers searching for rattan and other jungle treasures.

Arrive at the hot springs and take a break for lunch. Sometimes we bring eggs to boil in the small side pools for a little extra protein.

After lunch, continue on the trail to a small waterfall and swimming hole. Drop your packs and set up camp, after a quick dip. Spend the night next to the upper falls, taking in the countless stars and falling to sleep to the sounds of the jungle including water cascading down the nearby falls.

Day Two

A stunning view as you sit above the clouds making it well worth the climb!

Wake up in the morning to the sound of multiple waterfalls close by. After a quick dip in the upper falls, break camp and take the 20-minute descent to the lower falls towering hundreds of feet high. Return to the main trail after your fill of swimming and pictures and begin the return hike.

End the day by taking a detour through a secluded field at the tea plantation and cresting a local hill that offers an incredible view of the surrounding plantation as well as the small town far below.

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Summary

Difficulty: Moderate

Activities: Hiking

Terrain: Plantations, Jungles

Duration: 2 Days (Optional 3rd day)

Months of Operation: Year Round Travel

Location: Mt. Hitam Forrest Preserve

Nearest Town: Kepahiang

Closest Airport: Bengkulu (BKS)

Optional 3rd/4th Day for the COMPLETE Adventure!

If you have the time, we strongly suggesting taking an extra day to make the hike from Mt. Hitam over to Mt. Kaba. The trail leads back through rarely traveled jungle where you will have the chance to see more wildlife and enjoy the calming solitude that lives in the upper valley between these two mountains. Read the more complete itenerary for this trek here: Twin Peaks: Hitam to Kaba

What to Bring

A quality pair of hiking shoes – preferably waterproof – are essential.
Comfortable trekking socks – with the various wetlands and streams you’ll be crossing, your feet will definitely get wet, even with good shoes. Good hiking socks can help prevent blistering.
Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Preferably made from quick-dry material.
Leech socks. Land leeches are common on Bukit Hitam. If you’re short a pair we sell them cheap!
Your own water bottle, to cut down on single-use plastics.
A headlamp, especially if you want to take any night walks.
A waterproof jacket in case it rains, and to keep you warm in the chilly evenings and mornings.
Sunscreen. Being so close to the equator, it’s easy to burn quickly-especially when the air is so deceptively cool.

Conditions

The trail generally follows well-defined paths made by local farmers and is usually pretty dry. However, be prepared for land leeches, which can be abundant here in wetter months. Leech socks can help, but you might still be tagged a few times. You can buy a pair of leech socks from us for pretty cheap, and it’s worth the cost!

Price includes a local guide (limited English skills), permits, lunch, and transport from Bengkulu to and from the trail head. Price per person reduced with more than two travelers, but usually limited to a max of ten people to lessen the impact on the environment.

Like all of our trips, you travel at your own risk. Keep in mind that you are visiting a wild and extremely remote area of rural Sumatra, far from quality medical care. It’s your responsibility to make sure you are covered with valid travel and medical insurance.