From Bali : Ijen Sunrise drop off Surabaya or Return to Bali

Travelers seeking a memorable adventure often look for experiences that combine natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and a bit of challenge. The Ijen Sunrise tour from Bali offers all this and more. This 2-day excursion takes you to the spectacular Ijen Crater—famous for its glowing blue fires—and delivers an early morning hike with panoramic views, all wrapped in comfortable transportation and guided expertise.

What we love about this trip is the chance to witness one of Indonesia’s most unique natural phenomena and the opportunity to enjoy a smooth, organized journey from Bali’s hotels to Java’s volcanic landscapes. The tour’s inclusion of local breakfast and gas masks adds to the thoughtful planning, making this experience accessible and safe.

A possible consideration is the early start and the cold temperatures — it’s not a casual stroll. The temperatures around 10-13°C at sunrise mean you’ll want to prep with warm clothes, especially if the wind picks up. Still, for travelers who love adventure and stunning views, this is a perfect fit. It’s best suited for those in good health who aren’t afraid of a little uphill trekking, and who want to see an iconic natural wonder with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Stunning Blue Fires: Witness the famous blue flames that emerge from sulfuric rocks—an otherworldly sight.
• Morning Sunrise Views: Enjoy an early rise to see the crater and lake bathed in the soft light of dawn.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicles and ferry crossings make the long journey manageable.
• Guided Experience: A knowledgeable trekking guide ensures safety and enriches your understanding of the volcano.
• Practical Packing: Warm clothes, sturdy shoes, and a raincoat are essential for comfort and safety.
• End in Surabaya or Return to Bali: Flexible drop-off options allow for seamless travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ijen Sunrise Tour

Starting the Adventure from Bali

The journey begins with your pickup from a choice of hotels across Bali—Sanur, Kuta, Ubud, or Canggu—showing the tour’s flexibility. Around 8:00 pm, your private driver whisks you away toward Gilimanuk Port. The drive itself is a good opportunity to get into the travel mood and chat with your driver about Bali and Java, or simply enjoy the scenery as the island slips behind.

Crossing to Java

At midnight, you board a ferry bound for Ketapang Port in Java. Expect a 45-minute crossing across the Bali Strait, a simple but necessary part of this adventure. The ferry ride is smooth, and it’s a chance to stretch your legs or catch a quick nap before the real action begins.

Arrival and Drive to Ijen

By shortly after 1 am, your driver will pick you up at Ketapang Harbor and continue the five-hour drive toward Banyuwangi, the gateway to Ijen. This part of the trip is a good time to review local facts or even doze off — the driver is experienced and aims to get you to the trailhead at Paltuding around 2:30 am.

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The Early Morning Hike

The highlight of the tour is the 1.5-hour hike from Paltuding to the crater rim — an ascent through cool, dark jungle, alive with giant ferns and towering trees. The path is manageable but steep enough to require sturdy, comfortable footwear, like hiking shoes or running shoes. Expect to arrive at the crater rim around 4:00 am.

At this point, you’ll see the famous blue flames emerging as sulfur gases ignite — a phenomenon that’s both eerie and beautiful. Visitors often describe the blue fires as “otherworldly,” and many note that witnessing them early in the morning keeps the experience intimate and memorable.

Watching the Sunrise

By about 5:00 am, as dawn begins to break, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the acidic lake and the jagged volcanic landscape. The early light paints the crater in warm hues, contrasting sharply with the glowing blue fires below. It’s a stunning moment that combines natural spectacle with a sense of achievement after the climb.

Descend and Return

After soaking in the views and taking plenty of photos, you’ll descend back to Paltuding around 6:30 am, then head toward Banyuwangi for breakfast. The tour includes a local breakfast—a thoughtful inclusion that helps refuel you after an early start.

Following breakfast, the group departs for Surabaya, arriving around 1:00 pm, which is perfect if you have a flight or hotel to catch. Alternatively, the tour can be arranged to return to Bali, providing flexibility depending on your travel plans.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The core appeal is the chance to see the blue fires at Ijen, which are among the rarest natural phenomena on Earth. The experience of being there at dawn, with the crater glowing under the first light, is like stepping into another world. The guided tour ensures safety and enriches the experience with insights about the volcano’s geology and history.

We also appreciate the well-organized logistics, which take the hassle out of long-distance travel. The inclusion of ferry tickets, park fees, and gas masks shows thoughtful planning, especially for travelers unfamiliar with volcanic environments.

The private group aspect means you won’t be jostled with crowds, allowing for a more personal encounter with this natural wonder. The tour’s price of $235 per person is reasonable considering the transportation, guide, and entrance fees included — especially given the logistical complexity of traveling from Bali to Java.

Travel Considerations

The early start and cold temperatures are the main considerations. Be prepared with warm clothing, a good pair of shoes, and rain gear just in case. The trek is manageable but demanding for those with back problems or mobility issues, and pregnant travelers are advised against participation.

The tour’s flexibility—ending in Surabaya or returning to Bali—adds to its appeal, making it easy to connect with other travel plans.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Multiple reviews highlight how spectacular the blue fires are, often describing the scene as “otherworldly” and “worth every step.” Travelers also mention appreciating the local breakfast, often noting it as a simple but thoughtful touch after a cold, early morning.

One reviewer said, “The guided hike was very well explained, and the views at sunrise were unforgettable,” emphasizing how the combination of a professional guide and breathtaking scenery creates a memorable experience.

Some travelers mention the chilly weather — with temperatures around 10 to 13°C — and recommend packing layers to stay warm during the wait and hike.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear sturdy, walkable shoes suitable for hiking.
• Bring warm clothes, including a jacket, scarf, and long pants.
• Don’t forget a raincoat and wet tissues for unexpected weather or volcanic dust.
• Carry a small backpack to hold your essentials during the hike.
• Power banks and extra batteries are useful since you’ll be capturing photos in low light.
• A personal ID card (or copy) is necessary for the park entrance.
• Prepare for early mornings — the entire experience starts around midnight and ends in the early afternoon.
• Tipping for guides and drivers is not included but appreciated for good service.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who love nature and are comfortable with early mornings and some physical activity. It’s suited to those with no serious medical conditions, especially heart problems or back issues, and for travelers who crave a once-in-a-lifetime view of Indonesia’s volcanic landscapes. If you’re a fan of photography, the sunrise over Ijen’s crater offers unforgettable shots.

However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with mobility limitations. If you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely trip, this might be too demanding, but for those seeking a thrilling, authentic experience, it’s tough to beat.

The Sum Up

This Bali to Java Ijen sunrise tour is a carefully curated adventure that combines spectacular natural beauty, adventure, and practical comfort. The experience of witnessing blue fires and sunrise over an active volcano is unmatched, and the detailed organization—from ferry crossings to local breakfast—makes it accessible for many travelers.

The well-managed logistics, knowledgeable guides, and awe-inspiring scenery make it a solid investment for those eager to see one of Indonesia’s natural highlights. It’s especially suited for active travelers looking for a memorable, photo-worthy experience that’s a bit challenging but wholly rewarding.

If you’re seeking a genuine, off-the-beaten-path adventure that offers both spectacle and insight, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with pickups around 8:00 pm in Bali, with the entire early stage wrapping up by around 2:30 am in Java for the hike.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers air-conditioned transportation, ferry tickets, entrance fees, a trekking guide, gas masks, local breakfast, health certificates, and mineral water.

Can I return to Bali after the tour?
Yes, the tour ends in Surabaya, but there is an option to return to Bali depending on your plans.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour’s physical demands and early start make it better suited for adults and older teens in good health. It’s not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothes, sturdy shoes, rain gear, a hat, a small backpack, power banks, and personal ID.

How long is the hike?
The ascent from Paltuding to the crater rim takes about 1.5 hours. The entire trip from Bali to the crater, including travel, is about 2 days.

What’s the weather like?
Temperatures at Ijen during sunrise are around +10 to +13°C, so prepare for cold, potentially windy conditions.

Is the tour private?
Yes, the trip is arranged as a private group, allowing a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Only breakfast is included—lunch and dinner are not covered, so plan accordingly.

This detailed, well-rounded tour offers an excellent blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic natural beauty. Perfect for travelers eager to tick off one of Indonesia’s most extraordinary sights—just be prepared for an early start and a bit of cold!

You can check availability for your dates here: