Kawah Ijen
Witness the rare blue fire and vibrant turquoise crater lake of this active Indonesian volcano.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the blue fire
Kawah Ijen
Best Time
Witness the blue fire
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the rare blue fire and vibrant turquoise crater lake of this active Indonesian volcano.
"An unforgettable experience, a must-see at least once in your life."
Bring a Quality Gas Mask
Essential for the sulfur fumes! Don't rely on flimsy masks. :medical_mask:
Sturdy Hiking Shoes are a Must
The trail is steep and rocky. Good grip is crucial for safety. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ethereal Blue Fire
Crater floor
Witness the mesmerizing, rare blue flames caused by burning sulfuric gases, a truly otherworldly sight.
The Acidic Crater Lake
Crater rim
Marvel at the vibrant turquoise acidic lake, one of the largest of its kind, offering stunning panoramic views.
Sunrise Over the Volcano
Crater rim
Experience a magical sunrise, often shrouded in mist, casting an ethereal glow over the volcanic landscape.
Sulfur Miners at Work
Crater floor
Observe the resilient sulfur miners as they carry heavy loads of sulfur, a testament to their arduous labor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Blue Fire
Prepare for the Sulfur and the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring a Quality Gas Mask
Essential for the sulfur fumes! Don't rely on flimsy masks. :medical_mask:
Sturdy Hiking Shoes are a Must
The trail is steep and rocky. Good grip is crucial for safety. :athletic_shoe:
Trolley Service Available
For a fee, local guides can pull you up in a trolley. :moneywithwings:
Pack Light, Buy Onsite
Stalls sell food & drinks. Avoid heavy bags. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring a Quality Gas Mask
Essential for the sulfur fumes! Don't rely on flimsy masks. :medical_mask:
Sturdy Hiking Shoes are a Must
The trail is steep and rocky. Good grip is crucial for safety. :athletic_shoe:
Trolley Service Available
For a fee, local guides can pull you up in a trolley. :moneywithwings:
Pack Light, Buy Onsite
Stalls sell food & drinks. Avoid heavy bags. :shopping_bags:
Headlamp is Your Best Friend
Crucial for navigating the dark trail. :flashlight:
Cash is King Here
Many vendors and services operate on cash. :moneywithwings:
Dress in Layers
It gets hot during the climb, despite the early hour. :shirt:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Kawah Ijen as an unforgettable, almost otherworldly experience, particularly the rare blue fire and the stunning crater lake. However, many note the significant crowds, especially during peak times, which can detract from the atmosphere and make the descent to the blue fire feel unsafe or congested. The challenging hike is a common theme, with advice to be well-prepared with proper gear.
"My visit to Mount Ijen was an unforgettable experience. The trail was quite crowded, especially during the time I went — it was clearly a very touristy period, and honestly, there were a bit too many people. That took away from the peaceful vibe I was hoping for.
Because of the crowd, I chose not to go down to see the famous blue flames. It felt unsafe — people were pushing to get down, and it didn’t seem worth the risk. Still, the view from the top was absolutely stunning. The bright blue crater lake was breathtaking, even from above.
The sunrise was partially hidden by fog, but it actually gave the whole scene a mysterious, magical feel. We were lucky with the wind direction too — we barely needed our gas masks, as the sulfur fumes weren’t too strong that morning.
If you’re planning to go, definitely bring a flashlight, sunglasses, and good hiking shoes. Despite the crowd, it’s one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype — a must-see at least once in your life."
Kim Normandin
"Beautiful and definitely worth doing — but you have to accept that you’ll be doing it alongside more than a thousand other tourists. Most people start the hike around 2 AM, so it gets crowded, and there’s often a traffic jam on the way down to the blue fire. Still, it’s quite an experience — a bit dangerous, but the sunrise and the mysterious blue flames make it all worthwhile."
Vũ Thị Kim Chi
"An unforgettable experience.
Although I missed the best timing to see the blue fire—since I was in a beginner group—the breathtaking view of the lake made up for it. The stunning scenery and immersive nature quickly eased any disappointment.
I highly recommend wearing proper gear: sturdy hiking shoes, a trekking pole, a good quality mask (due to sulfur gas), and a reliable headlamp, as it’s dark during most of the hike. Avoid carrying a heavy bag—there are many small stalls along the route where you can buy foods and drinks. Make sure to bring enough cash.
For those who aren’t used to long hikes or are not in peak physical condition, you can rent a "taxi" (a trolley pulled by local guides) to go uphill for around IDR 1,000k. If you also use it for the downhill journey, the total cost can go up to IDR 1,700k, depending on your weight and the distance.
The gate opens at 2 AM, so you only have around 2 hours to reach the blue fire before daylight fades it. The trek is quite long and steep—you’ll first hike up to the peak and then descend to the lake where the blue flame appears.
Be extra cautious during the descent, as the path is rocky and slippery. It requires focus and balance, especially in the dark.
Overall, it's a challenging but incredible adventure—well worth the effort if you're prepared!"
Sidqi Averroes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route is to take a bus from Bali to Banyuwangi (around 4-5 hours), then arrange transport to the Kawah Ijen base camp. Some tours offer direct packages from Bali.
You can take a train or bus from Surabaya to Banyuwangi, which takes approximately 5-7 hours. From Banyuwangi, hire a taxi or join a tour to Ijen.
Yes, you can take public buses to Banyuwangi and then local transport to the base of the volcano. However, many travelers opt for organized tours for convenience.
The drive from Banyuwangi city to the Kawah Ijen entrance takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Many tour operators offer direct pick-up services from major cities like Surabaya or even Bali, making the journey more seamless.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can vary, but are generally around IDR 7,500 for domestic tourists and higher for international visitors. It's best to check current prices upon arrival or with your tour operator.
The gate typically opens at 2 AM to allow visitors to hike down for the blue fire phenomenon.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially through a tour, can save time and ensure your entry, particularly during peak seasons.
While you can technically hike independently, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and understanding the volcanic environment.
Access to certain areas might be restricted due to volcanic activity. Always follow the instructions of park rangers and guides.
🎫 🌋 Onsite Experience
The blue fire is best viewed between 2 AM and 5 AM, before the sun rises and diminishes its visibility.
The hike is considered moderately difficult, with a steep ascent for about 2-3 hours to reach the crater rim. The descent to the blue fire is rocky and slippery.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, comfortable clothing (layers are best), and bring a jacket as it can be cool before sunrise. A gas mask is essential due to sulfur fumes.
Yes, you can rent gas masks, trekking poles, and even jackets at the base camp or along the trail.
The main risks include inhaling sulfur fumes, slippery trails, and potential volcanic activity. Always follow safety guidelines and wear protective gear.
📸 📸 Photography
The crater rim offers stunning views of the turquoise lake and surrounding landscape. The blue fire itself is a unique photographic subject.
Be cautious when photographing the blue fire. The fumes can be intense, and the terrain is uneven. Prioritize safety over a perfect shot.
For the blue fire, a tripod and a longer exposure are recommended. For the crater lake and sunrise, adjust settings based on lighting conditions.
Yes, smartphone cameras can capture the beauty of Kawah Ijen, especially with good lighting. However, a dedicated camera might offer better quality for low-light blue fire shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and around active volcanoes for safety and environmental reasons. Check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
but factor in costs for a gas mask rental and potential food/drinks along the way. The trolley service is a significant expense, so be prepared for a strenuous hike if you're on a tight budget.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science Behind the Blue Fire
+1 This rare spectacle is one of the primary draws for visitors, making Kawah Ijen a unique geological wonder.While the blue fire is most visible in the darkness of night, it's important to remember that these are not typical flames. They are a result of chemical reactions and the intense heat of the volcanic gases. The phenomenon is so unique that it's often compared to something out of this world.
It's crucial for visitors to understand the nature of this phenomenon for safety. The gases are highly toxic, and direct exposure can be dangerous. While the blue fire is a breathtaking sight, it's a stark reminder of the powerful forces at play within the Earth. The scientific explanation adds another layer of appreciation for this natural marvel.
Navigating the Kawah Ijen Trek
The trail is well-trodden but can be uneven and rocky, requiring sturdy footwear.Once at the rim, the path descends towards the crater floor where the blue fire is most prominent. This section is particularly treacherous, characterized by loose rocks, slippery surfaces, and intense sulfur fumes.
For those who find the full trek too demanding, a "trolley" or porter service is available. Local guides can pull visitors up the steepest parts of the trail in a cart for a fee, significantly reducing the physical exertion.
The Role of Sulfur Miners
Visitors are encouraged to show respect and consideration for the miners. It's common for miners to be seen carrying heavy baskets of sulfur, and it's important for tourists to give them way, especially on narrow paths. Some social media content highlights moments where tourists inadvertently obstruct the miners' work, emphasizing the need for awareness and courtesy.
The work of these miners is a testament to human endurance and adaptation. They have developed remarkable resilience to the harsh conditions, and their role in the local community is significant. Observing them at work, while maintaining a respectful distance, provides a profound insight into the human connection with extreme natural environments.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit