From Surabaya : 2 Days Mount Bromo & Ijen Volcano Guide Tour

Travelers looking to tick off some of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanic landscapes will find this 2-day guided tour from Surabaya a compelling option. It promises the thrill of experiencing breathtaking sunrises, spectacular crater views, and the unique spectacle of blue flames (although currently unavailable), all with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of mountain adventure and local culture, along with the convenience of all-inclusive logistics. However, it’s a packed schedule that demands early mornings and a bit of physical effort—perfect for those who want an authentic, immersive experience. If you’re seeking a well-organized, value-packed way to explore East Java’s volcanic wonders, this tour merits serious consideration.

What We Like

• The early start to catch Mount Bromo’s sunrise, a truly iconic scene that’s worth the wake-up call.
• The expert guides and comfortable transportation making the journey smoother than many DIY options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

One Consideration

• The tour schedule is tight and fast-paced, so travelers who prefer leisurely exploration might find it a bit rushed. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility challenges.

Who It’s Best For

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers with a sense of curiosity and a good level of physical fitness. It also suits those who value guided logistics and want to maximize their time without worrying about the details.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunrise at Mount Penanjakan: The early morning start at 3:00 AM is crucial, but the payoff is unforgettable views of the sun rising over the Tengger caldera.
• Lunar Landscape at Mount Bromo: The Sea of Sand and the steaming crater make for dramatic scenery perfect for photos and a sense of adventure.
• Challenging yet Rewarding Ijen Hike: The 1.5–2 hour climb offers spectacular views and a rare chance to see the blue flames (if available), plus a sulfuric lake that’s truly otherworldly.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour covers entrance fees, transport, guides, and even a night’s accommodation, making planning easier and more straightforward.
• Authentic Experience: Travelers often comment on local interactions and sampling regional food during breaks, adding cultural flavor.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is fairly tight, and the pickup time is the night before, so early planning and punctuality are a must.

The Itinerary in Detail

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Day 1: Mount Bromo Adventure

The tour kicks off around midnight with a pickup from Surabaya, heading toward Mount Bromo. The drive is smooth, with modern transport, but be prepared for a very early start—most travelers are up before 3:00 AM. The goal is reaching the viewpoint on Mount Penanjakan in time for what many consider the most spectacular sunrise you’ll see in Indonesia, where the sun peeks over the caldera, illuminating volcanic peaks and the vast “Sea of Sand.”

Once the sky brightens, everyone begins to descend toward the volcanic landscape. The Sea of Sand is a surreal, lunar-like expanse, perfect for wandering or quick photo ops. The climb up the 250 steps to the Bromo crater offers a close-up view of the steaming vent, with sulfurous fumes adding to the atmosphere. The scenery here is raw and dramatic—think ash-gray plains, jagged volcanic formations, and the smell of sulfur.

Post-exploration, the group leaves Bromo behind and heads toward the next stop—many choose to rest or explore local villages along the way, gaining insight into rural Javanese life. The transport is a sturdy 4×4 Jeep, essential for navigating the uneven terrain.

Day 2: Ijen’s Surreal Blue Flames

The second day begins just before midnight, with a steep ascent to the Ijen crater. This hike is challenging, with rocky paths winding through forested lower slopes and barren upper terrain. The climb takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, so good footwear and a jacket are recommended. The temperature before sunrise is chilly—around 3-10°C—so packing warm layers is a smart move.

At the top, the view of the turquoise sulfur lake is spectacular, especially as dawn’s light reflects off the acid surface. If activity permits, you might get close enough to see the blue flames, a phenomenon caused by ignited sulfuric gases, and watch sulfur miners manually extract the mineral—an intense and memorable sight.

Travelers often remark on the surreal beauty of this crater, with jagged volcanic walls framing the lake and glowing blue flames. The experience is both awe-inspiring and humbling, knowing that miners work here daily under hazardous conditions.

After exploring, everyone returns to the vehicle and heads back to Surabaya, with a ferry crossing at Ketapang completing the journey.

What’s Included and What Isn’t

This tour offers excellent value, including hotel pickup, land transportation, park entrance fees, a 4×4 jeep, guides, and even a gas mask for Ijen’s fumes. The ferry from Ketapang to Gilimanuk and a night’s accommodation are part of the package, making it a hassle-free experience.

Extras like horse riding or personal expenses are not included, so plan accordingly. The tour also supplies a health certificate for Ijen and a breakfast near Ijen, which helps start the day on a good note.

Practical Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes and warm clothes—early mornings are cold.
• Prepare for a tight schedule; punctuality is essential.
• Expect a shared room with your travel partner unless you book separately.
• Be aware that the Blue Flame at Ijen is currently unavailable, so don’t plan to see it unless updates change.
• The pickup time is around midnight, so be ready and patient.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to the physical demands.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an exciting way to experience some of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanic landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The combination of spectacular sunrise views at Mount Bromo and the otherworldly crater of Ijen makes for an unforgettable adventure. The guides and transportation make the experience smoother, so you can focus on soaking in the scenery and taking photos.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-for-money trip that packs in dramatic vistas and cultural moments, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind early mornings, physical activity, and sticking to a busy schedule. The experience’s authenticity and stunning scenery will stay with you long after you leave East Java.

FAQ

• What is the starting time for this tour?

The tour generally begins with a pickup around midnight, around 00:00, for the Ijen hike. Check your booking details for exact times.

• Is accommodation included?

Yes, the tour includes one night of accommodation, which is shared with your travel partner unless booked separately.

• What is the price of the tour?

The tour costs $215 per person, covering transportation, park fees, guides, and one night’s stay.

• Is the Blue Flame at Ijen currently visible?

Currently, the Blue Flame is not available, so you might find the crater and sulfur lake the main highlights.

• How is the transport arranged?

The journey uses comfortable mini vans and 4×4 jeeps, ensuring access to rough terrain.

• What should I pack?

Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothes, a jacket, and possibly a flashlight for the early hikes.

• Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?

No, due to the steep, rocky climbs, this tour is not suitable for those with mobility challenges.

• Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?

No, the physical exertion and early hours make it unsuitable for pregnant travelers.

• How many people are in each group?

The tour is typically a shared experience, with group sizes varying, but guided by professionals.

• What if I need to cancel?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

In sum, this 2-day Mount Bromo & Ijen tour offers a powerful snapshot of Indonesia’s volcanic majesty, blending adventure, natural beauty, and local culture into one memorable package. Perfect for those who crave adventure but prefer the comfort of guided logistics, it’s an experience that can redefine your Indonesian journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: