Shared Tour Mount Ijen 1D start from Banyuwangi

Our review takes a close look at a budget-friendly shared tour of Mount Ijen, starting from Banyuwangi. This tour promises a unique experience — seeing the famous blue fire phenomenon, witnessing a stunning volcanic sunrise, and exploring Ijen’s breathtaking crater lake. While we haven’t personally taken this particular tour, the detailed information and reviews paint a pretty appealing picture for those seeking a memorable Indonesian adventure without breaking the bank.

What we love about this tour are its affordable price point—just $18 per person—and the chance to share the experience with fellow travelers, making it a social and fun outing. The expert guides and the opportunity to see one of the world’s most extraordinary natural spectacles are definite highlights. On the downside, the tour starts very early, with a trek beginning around midnight, so it’s not ideal for everyone—particularly if you prefer sleeping in or have mobility issues. This tour seems perfect for budget travelers, adventure seekers, and those eager to see Indonesia’s volcanic marvels in a guided, organized way.

If you’re looking for a rewarding, well-organized trip to see the blue fire and sunrise over a volcanic crater — and you’re okay with a late-night start — this tour would suit you well.

Key Points

• Affordable pricing makes this tour accessible for many travelers.
• Shared group setting fosters camaraderie and new friendships.
• Expert local guides ensure safe, informative trekking.
• Spectacular natural phenomena like the blue fire and volcanic crater lake are the main attractions.
• Early morning start requires a willingness to wake up in the dead of night.
• Limited access to blue fire since the volcano has just reopened after a closure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ijen Shared Tour Experience

What’s Included and Why That Matters

For just $18, this tour provides shared transportation, a local guide, entrance tickets, and a gas mask—a small but crucial detail given the sulfur fumes at Ijen. The inclusion of a guide can make or break the experience, especially during the strenuous trek, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the crater’s rim.

The fact that the tour is shared helps keep costs down, but it also means you’ll be part of a small group—likely more fun than a solo trip, especially as you exchange stories with fellow adventurers. The guide, praised in reviews, is described as friendly and reliable, making the challenging climb more manageable and educational.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup options are at Jl. Mendut No.57 in Banyuwangi or at Licin village, setting off at night, usually between 00:30 and 01:00 am, to catch the blue fire phenomenon before dawn. This early start might seem brutal, but it’s necessary because the blue flames only appear in darkness.

The first stop is Pos Paltuding, the last point accessible to travelers before the trek up the volcano. From here, your guide will lead the group along a 3 km trail that takes roughly 1.5–2 hours to reach the crater rim. As you trek, you’ll pass through mossy, rugged terrain, often with sulfur deposits along the path, which adds to the otherworldly atmosphere.

Witnessing the Blue Fire

The blue fire is the main draw. It’s caused by sulfur gases igniting when they reach the surface — a phenomenon rare worldwide, with only Iceland sharing this feature. The blue flames are visible only in darkness, and so you’ll start your climb around midnight to see it.

While the blue fire is indeed spectacular, it’s worth noting that the recent reopening of the volcano means approach restrictions—travelers are no longer allowed to get close enough to the blue flames to approach them directly. That’s a bit of a disappointment but still leaves plenty of photo opportunities of the fiery glow from a safe distance.

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The Sunrise and the Crater Lake

Arriving at the summit just before dawn, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Ijen crater lake, which is a turquoise-colored volcanic lake formed about 2,500 years ago. This lake is notable for its high acidity and impressive size—the largest volcanic crater lake in the world with a depth of up to 200 meters.

The sunrise offers a panoramic view of the mountain landscape and the volcano’s rim, which is a highlight for many. The serene, almost surreal colors of the lake contrast beautifully with the rugged, sulfur-stained terrain surrounding it, making this a perfect moment for photos and reflection.

Tour Duration and Logistics

The entire experience lasts about 8 to 9 hours. Expect to be picked up early in the morning, with the tour ending back in Banyuwangi around mid-morning. The group size tends to be small and manageable, fostering an intimate experience with fellow travelers and guides.

What Real Travelers Say

According to reviews, the guides are a major plus — “Super friendly and reliable” says one traveler, adding that they made the entire trek much easier and more informative. Another highlights the “great views” and a “good guide”, emphasizing the tour’s quality despite its budget price.

One notable point from a traveler’s feedback is that tour information was only provided about 6 hours before departure. While this isn’t uncommon with last-minute bookings, it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer more planning.

The Pros and Cons in Practice

Pros:

• Excellent value for money
• Guided, safe trekking
• Unique natural display of blue fire and volcanic crater lake
• Opportunity to meet fellow travelers

Cons:

• The early start might be tiring for some
• Limited proximity to the blue fire due to recent safety restrictions
• Short notice on tour details in some cases

Transportation and Accessibility

The shared car picks you up at designated points, making logistics straightforward and stress-free. The group size keeps things manageable without feeling crowded. However, given the early hours, travelers should be prepared for a long night and cold temperatures during the trek, so warm clothing is advised.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous souls who don’t mind waking up in the middle of the night and appreciate seeing spectacular volcanic activity through guided tours. It’s also ideal for budget travelers who want a well-organized experience without splurging on private guides or luxury options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $18, this tour offers a genuinely memorable experience—spectacular views, guided safety, and a chance to witness a rare natural phenomenon. While the early start and recent proximity restrictions to the blue fire might be considerations, the overall value and the chance to stand on the rim of an active volcano with a group of fellow explorers make this an attractive option.

If you’re seeking an authentic, budget-friendly way to experience Mount Ijen’s volcanic marvels, this tour delivers on many counts. It’s especially suited for independent travelers eager to see Indonesia’s volcanic wonders with a knowledgeable guide and a bit of camaraderie.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes shared transportation, a local guide, entrance tickets, and a gas mask. These essentials ensure a safe and informed experience.

How long does the trek take?
The trek to the crater takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, covering roughly 3 km each way. The entire tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours.

When does the tour start?
Pickup is typically after midnight, between 12:30 and 1:00 am, to allow for the blue fire viewing and sunrise.

Can I see the blue fire now?
Yes, the volcano has reopened after a closure, but approach restrictions mean you cannot get as close as before. You’ll see the blue flames from a safe distance.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility, altitude, or health issues.

What should I bring?
Warm clothes for the early hours, sturdy hiking shoes, and a camera. The sulfur fumes can be strong, so the provided gas mask is important.

Is meal or breakfast included?
No, meals or breakfast are not included, so plan accordingly before or after the tour.

What about safety and restrictions?
No drones, alcohol, or making fires are allowed. The guides will ensure safety during the trek, but travelers with certain health conditions should consider whether this tour is suitable.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in your planning. Contact the tour provider via WhatsApp for pickup details and additional questions.

In all, this shared Mount Ijen tour offers a well-rounded, affordable adventure into one of Indonesia’s most captivating volcanic landscapes, perfect for those craving authentic experiences with safety and camaraderie at the forefront.

You can check availability for your dates here: