Kawah Ijen is one of the most fascinating natural destinations in Indonesia. Located in the eastern part of Java Island, this volcanic area is famous for its rare natural phenomenon called the blue fire. This amazing sight can only be found in two places in the world, and Kawah Ijen is one of them. No wonder it attracts nature lovers, photographers, and travelers from around the world who want to see this incredible phenomenon up close. But what is the Kawah Ijen trekking experience really like? Let’s find out below.
What is Kawah Ijen Trekking?
Kawah Ijen trekking is a hike to the summit of Mount Ijen, an active volcano that sits on the border between Banyuwangi and Bondowoso in East Java. The trek takes you along a steep but scenic path leading to a crater with a turquoise-colored acid lake and the world-famous blue fire, a natural blue flame caused by burning sulfur gas that can only be seen at night or in the early morning. That’s why most hikers start their journey around midnight to catch this rare sight before sunrise.
Besides being a popular tourist attraction, Kawah Ijen is also a valuable research site because of its active volcanic activity. Many scientists from around the world visit to study this unique phenomenon, making it not just an adventure spot but also a fascinating open-air laboratory.
Main Attractions of Kawah Ijen
There are several reasons why Kawah Ijen is so special and worth visiting:
1. Blue Fire
The blue fire is the main highlight of Kawah Ijen. This bright blue flame comes from burning sulfur gas at extremely high temperatures and is only visible in the darkness of night. The glowing blue light dancing among the rocks creates a surreal and unforgettable view.
2. Crater Lake
After sunrise, Kawah Ijen continues to amaze with its turquoise-colored crater lake. It is the largest acid lake in the world, with very high acidity levels. Although it’s unsafe to touch the water due to its acidic content, the calm blue-green color contrasting with the bright morning sky makes it a truly beautiful and peaceful sight.
3. Sulfur Miners
One of the most memorable parts of the Kawah Ijen experience is seeing the traditional sulfur miners at work. Every day, they carry heavy chunks of sulfur from the crater using bamboo baskets that can weigh up to dozens of kilograms. Watching their determination and endurance up close is both humbling and inspiring.
4. Sunrise View
After witnessing the blue fire, many hikers continue to the summit to catch the sunrise. At around 2,386 meters above sea level, the view of the sky changing from dark to golden orange, framed by nearby mountains like Raung and Merapi, creates a calm and unforgettable moment.
Route and Access to Kawah Ijen Trekking
You can reach Kawah Ijen through two main routes: from Banyuwangi or Bondowoso. The Banyuwangi route is more popular because the road is smoother and closer to various accommodations. The trek usually starts from Paltuding Post, the main basecamp for hikers. From there, the journey to the top takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours through a well-maintained uphill trail, with several resting points offering nice views along the way.
During the hike, you’ll pass through cool pine forests, rocky paths, and open areas under the wide night sky. On a clear night, you might even see a sky full of stars before reaching the crater. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can rent transportation from Banyuwangi to Paltuding, which takes about two hours, while from Bondowoso it takes around three to four hours.
Preparation Before Trekking
Because the terrain and weather conditions around Kawah Ijen can be quite challenging, proper preparation is very important to ensure a safe and comfortable trip. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
1. Use a Gas Mask and Proper Gear
The sulfur gas in the crater area can be quite strong, so wearing a gas mask is highly recommended. You should also wear comfortable trekking shoes to avoid slipping on rocky paths, and bring warm clothes since the temperature at the summit can drop to 5–10°C, especially before dawn.
2. Bring a Flashlight or Headlamp
The trek usually starts at midnight, so a flashlight or headlamp is essential. It helps you walk safely in the dark and navigate the trail easily.
3. Bring Water and Light Snacks
Trekking to the crater requires extra energy. Carry drinking water and light snacks such as bread or chocolate to keep your stamina up. Also, remember to keep the environment clean by not leaving any trash behind.
It’s also a good idea to check your health before going. If you have breathing or heart problems, consult a doctor first since the gas levels around the crater can be quite high.
Kawah Ijen trekking is more than just a mountain hike—it’s a one-of-a-kind adventure that lets you witness nature’s wonders up close. From the glowing blue fire to the turquoise acid lake and the hard work of the local miners, every part of the journey offers something meaningful. With good preparation and respect for nature, you can enjoy the beauty of Kawah Ijen safely and comfortably.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines natural beauty, physical challenge, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Kawah Ijen is the perfect choice. For those planning to visit, Wonderful Bromo offers the best tour packages. Check out their offers and start your Ijen adventure today!
