Bali : 3D Ijen Sunrise Mount Bromo Madakaripura Surabaya

Traveling from Bali to Java to witness some of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanic landscapes is an adventure that promises both awe and a touch of challenge. This 3-day, 2-night tour offers a whirlwind of extraordinary sights: the glowing blue fires of Ijen, the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Bromo, and the lush cascade of Madakaripura Waterfall. It’s a carefully crafted journey designed for those willing to brave early mornings and long drives in exchange for unforgettable views and authentic experiences.

What makes this trip stand out? We particularly love how it combines adventure with culture—you’ll hike through rainforests, cross the Bali strait by ferry, and explore some of Java’s most revered natural sites. Plus, the inclusions are generous: private transport, guided hikes, ferry crossings, and hotel stays that keep the trip smooth.

However, one thing to consider is the rigorous schedule. This tour moves fast, with early wake-up calls and tight timing for each stop. If you’re not a fan of early mornings or long drives, this might feel a bit overwhelming. But for travelers eager for a compact, adventure-packed experience, it’s perfect. This trip suits those with a sense of adventure, an appreciation for natural beauty, and a desire to tick off some of Indonesia’s most iconic sites in one go.

Key Points

• Two-night journey covering Java’s top volcanic sites and waterfalls.
• Early mornings and long drives are part of the experience but lead to spectacular sunrises.
• Includes ferry crossings, private transportation, and guided hikes for a seamless experience.
• Excursions include blue fire at Ijen, Bromo sunrise, and Madakaripura Waterfall—some of Java’s most photogenic spots.
• Hotels are basic but comfortable, with one night in Banyuwangi and another in Bromo.
• The cost of $485 provides good value considering the inclusions, but be prepared for additional expenses outside the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting in Bali: Long but Scenic Journey

The adventure kicks off early, with pickups from Bali’s popular areas like Ubud, Seminyak, or Kuta. You’ll spend roughly six hours traveling from your hotel to Gilimanuk Harbor for the ferry crossing. While long, this part of the trip offers a chance to enjoy vistas of Bali’s lush landscape and get in the mood for the adventure ahead.

The ferry ride to Java takes about an hour. During this crossing, you’ll experience a common but often overlooked part of Indonesian travel—a scenic boat journey that connects the two islands. Once on Java, a short drive brings you to Banyuwangi, your base for the night. Expect to arrive around late afternoon or early evening, with time to rest or explore local dining options.

Night in Banyuwangi: Rest Before the Big Day

Banyuwangi is a small but lively town, serving as the gateway to Ijen. The hotel options like Kampoeng Joglo are simple but comfortable, giving you a good night’s sleep before your early start. The highlight of this night is the anticipation of the Ijen Blue Fire, which you’ll visit in the very early hours.

The Magic of Ijen: Blue Fire and Sunrise

The second day begins around midnight, a time when most travelers are still tucked in. Your driver picks you up for the 2.30 am drive to Paltuding, the trailhead for Ijen. The ascent is about 1.5 hours on foot, often in chilly temperatures, so dressing warmly is a must. The trail is accessible but steep, and the guides are essential—they help with navigation and safety, especially when dealing with volcanic gases.

Once at the rim, the real spectacle unfolds. You’ll see the blue flames flickering—a rare, almost surreal sight caused by sulfuric gases igniting at night. The glow is so intense it’s worth waking up for, even if it’s at the crack of dawn. As the sun begins to rise, the acidic crater lake comes into view, offering a stunning contrast of colors. Reviewers often mention how “the view over the crater lake is breathtaking,” and it’s a memory that sticks with many.

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Transfer to Mount Bromo: A Scenic Drive

After descending from Ijen around 8:30 am, you’ll travel to Cemoro Lawang, near Mount Bromo. The drive offers scenic vistas of volcanic landscapes and terraced fields. Once there, check in at your hotel (like Bromo Permai), and prepare for the next early start.

Mount Bromo: Sunrise and Adventure

Day three is the highlight for many—waking before dawn to catch the sunrise over Mount Bromo. A jeep ride up to Seruni Viewpoint at 3:30 am gets the adrenaline pumping. As you arrive, the cool air and anticipation build. Your guide will help you navigate the jeep rides, walking, and horse rides to reach the crater rim.

The sunrise at Seruni Viewpoint is generally described as “spectacular,” with the volcanic landscape illuminated by the early morning light. After taking photos and enjoying the view, you’ll descend to the Bromo crater itself—an otherworldly landscape of ash, sand, and volcanic activity. Many travelers mention the “unique experience” of walking around the crater or riding horses across the sea of sand.

Madakaripura Waterfall: A Refreshing Finish

Post-Bromo, you head to Madakaripura Waterfall, a lush and inviting spot that offers a peaceful contrast to the volcanic scenery. It’s a three-hour guided walk to explore this verdant waterfall, often described as “refreshing” and “beautiful.” The walk is manageable, and the setting is a perfect spot for reflection after the earlier adrenaline.

Ending in Surabaya: The Final Drop-off

By late afternoon, the journey concludes with a drive to Surabaya. The tour ends with drop-offs at the city or directly at Juanda Airport, making it convenient for onward travel plans. The entire trip is designed to maximize your time on the ground, balancing activity with rest.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers praise the smooth logistics and expert guidance, saying that the tour makes it easy to see top sights without the stress of planning. One reviewer noted, “The tour was well-organized, and our guide made everything easy to understand.” Others appreciate the value for the price, especially considering the included ferry rides, park entrance fees, and accommodations.

However, some mention the early mornings—”You need to be prepared to wake up at 2 am multiple days,”—and a few highlight that the long drives can be tiring. Still, most agree that the sights are worth every effort.

Logistics and Practical Tips

Transportation is a private, air-conditioned car, which is a big plus for comfort, especially during the long drives. The ferry crossings are included, removing the hassle of booking separately. The tour includes gas masks at Ijen—a smart safety measure given the volcanic gases—and guides for hiking, which enhance safety and understanding.

Expect to pay around $485 per person, which in Indonesian terms is reasonable given the scope and inclusions. Additional expenses could include meals outside the provided stops, personal souvenirs, or optional activities like horse riding. The hotels are basic but comfortable, with a focus on functional rest rather than luxury.

Timing is crucial: this is a scheduled tour, with specific pickup times, so punctuality is key. Be prepared for early mornings and long days, but know that you’ll return with stories and photos worth sharing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure lovers who don’t mind early starts and want a comprehensive experience of Java’s volcanic highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who value guided convenience and want to see Ijen’s blue flames, Bromo’s sunrise, and Madakaripura Waterfall without the hassle of independent planning.

If you’re short on time but eager to experience Java’s most iconic sights, this tour packs a lot into three days. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or dislike early mornings, you might want to consider spreading out these visits over a longer trip.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a memorable adventure that combines nature’s spectacles, physical activity, and cultural insights, this Bali-to-Java tour offers a compelling package. It’s a well-organized, value-driven experience that delivers some of Indonesia’s most stunning landscapes in a manageable timeframe. While the schedule is tight and the mornings early, the payoff is seeing the extraordinary blue fire of Ijen, the sunrise at Bromo, and the lush Madakaripura Waterfall all in one trip.

This tour strikes a good balance—offering authentic natural sights, the thrill of volcanic landscapes, and the comfort of guided logistics. If you’re prepared for long hours and early starts, you’ll come away with stories and images that last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves hiking, including a 1.5-hour ascent to Ijen and walking around the Bromo crater. It’s manageable for most physically fit travelers, but those with mobility issues may find some parts challenging.

Do I need to bring my own gas mask at Ijen?
No, the tour provides gas masks for safety while exploring Ijen, which are essential due to volcanic gases.

How early do I need to wake up for the main sights?
You’ll wake as early as 2:30 am for Ijen and around 3:30 am for Bromo to catch the sunrise, so be prepared for very early mornings.

Are the hotel accommodations comfortable?
They are basic but comfortable and functional, suitable for resting after long days of exploring.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transport, ferry tickets, hotel stays, guide services, park entrance fees, jeep rides, horse riding in Bromo, tolls, parking, and mineral water.

Can I customize or add optional activities?
The tour is set, but optional activities like extra horse riding or meals outside the planned stops are not included and can incur additional costs.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The ferry from Bali to Java takes about 1 hour.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Adventure travelers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Indonesia’s volcanic icons in a short, well-organized trip will find this tour ideal.

In the end, this Bali to Java trip offers a genuine taste of Indonesia’s volcanic soul—spectacular, adventurous, and rewarding for those ready to embrace early mornings and long drives for the sake of unforgettable views.

You can check availability for your dates here: