Surabaya: Mount Bromo & Ijen Crater 2-Day Shared Tour

Exploring Indonesia’s volcanic landscapes is one of those bucket-list experiences that can leave you breathless—literally and figuratively. This 2-day tour from Surabaya offers a chance to see two of the country’s most iconic and awe-inspiring volcanoes: Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater. While the tour is shared with a small group, it promises a personal feel, guided by local experts who know these landscapes inside out.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular sunrises at Bromo with the surreal glow of blue fire at Ijen—two sights that are difficult to find elsewhere. Plus, the inclusion of transportation, entry tickets, and guided services means you can focus on the experience without worrying about logistics. One potential downside might be the early mornings and long driving hours, but if you’re up for adventure, this is a strong choice.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, well-organized way to see Indonesia’s volcanic highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s perfect for those who enjoy nature, photo opportunities, and don’t mind a little physical activity.

Key Points

• Spectacular Sunrise at Mount Bromo: Witness one of Indonesia’s most famous dawn views.
• Blue Fire at Ijen: Experience the rare and mesmerizing blue flames in the crater’s night glow.
• Expert Guided Tour: Knowledgeable local guides enhance your understanding of each site.
• All-Inclusive Price: Entry tickets, jeep rides, and accommodations included, offering good value.
• Long but Rewarding Days: Expect early mornings and full days of sightseeing.
• Suitable for Active Travelers: Some hiking involved, but not overly strenuous.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Adventure into Indonesia’s Volcanoes

This 2-day shared tour kicks off with a midnight pickup in Surabaya, setting the tone for a full adventure. The early start means you’ll be on the road before dawn, but honestly, the chance to see the sunrise at Mount Bromo is worth every yawn. The journey to the jeep area takes about 3.5 hours via comfortable van, giving you a chance to catch some rest or enjoy the changing scenery.

Once at the jeep station, a short drive takes you closer to the volcanic landscape. From there, you’ll climb a bit and settle into position to watch the sunrise illuminate the Bromo volcano and the surrounding Semeru and other peaks. The view of the sunrise over the sea of sand and the volcanic cones is a classic Indonesia postcard moment. Many travelers mention how magical this scene is, with some describing it as a “must-see in East Java.”

Following the sunrise, you’ll hike across the sand to reach the Bromo crater. The hike isn’t overly strenuous but involves some walking on uneven terrain. Afterward, you’ll have time for breakfast either at Lava View Hotel or a local restaurant—an opportunity to refresh before heading to Ijen.

The long drive from Bromo to Ijen is about 7 hours, but the landscape shifts from volcanic to lush, giving a good sense of Java’s diverse terrain. Upon arrival at Ijen, you’ll settle into accommodations, ready for the next early morning.

On Day 2, you start before dawn again, this time heading to the Ijen Crater. The hike to see the blue fire is around 2-3 hours, but it’s manageable for most. The contrast of the glowing blue flames against the dark crater is unforgettable, a phenomenon unique to this volcanic site. Many reviews praise the “otherworldly” atmosphere and the bright blue flames that are visible only at night.

After the crater tour, the day continues with a scenic drive back to the port, with many noting how well the schedule balances sightseeing with travel time. The tour concludes at Ketapang port, ready for your onward journey.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Surabaya to Mount Bromo

The day begins with a midnight pickup from your hotel, which is essential to catch the sunrise at Bromo. The 3.5-hour drive provides a chance to relax and prepare mentally for the early start. Arriving at the jeep station, you’ll board a jeep or SUV—the vehicle of choice for navigating rugged terrain—making the ascent exciting and manageable.

At Mount Bromo, you’ll spend about two hours soaking in the sunrise views. The landscape is vast, with volcanic cones and the sea of sand stretching out. Many guests comment on how breathtaking the scene is, especially as the early light bathes the volcanic landscape in soft hues.

Following the sunrise, you’ll hike across the sand for roughly an hour to reach the Bromo crater. The hike is moderate—think of it as a walk on loose volcanic ash rather than a rigorous climb. After exploring, breakfast options are available, often at Lava View Hotel or a local eatery, which lets you refuel before the journey to Ijen.

Day 2: Ijen and Blue Fire

The long drive (about 7 hours) takes you through Java’s varied scenery, with a stop for breaks and to enjoy the landscape. Once at Ijen, you’ll check into your accommodation, preparing for an early start the next day.

The real highlight of Day 2 is the night hike into Ijen crater to see the blue fire. The trail takes around 2-3 hours, ascending via well-trodden paths. The blue flames are caused by sulfuric gases igniting when they escape the volcano’s vents—an incredible sight that many travelers describe as “otherworldly”. The view of the crater’s turquoise lake beneath the glowing blue flames makes this a truly unique experience.

After the crater visit, you’ll return to your hotel and then be transported back to the port—an approximately 1-hour journey—completing this intensive but rewarding adventure.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for money is a key point here. For $174 per person, you get guided transportation, all entry fees, jeep rides at Bromo, and accommodations at Ijen, which makes it an excellent deal considering the logistics involved. Many reviews emphasize that the organized nature of the tour takes the stress out of planning such a trip, especially when coordinating transfers and permits.

The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, with travelers noting that their guides were knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the volcanoes and local culture. The inclusion of local guides at Ijen adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience, helping you understand the geology and the sulfur mining process.

However, the early mornings and long hours in transport can be tiring—something to consider if you’re not a fan of early wake-up calls or long road trips. Also, some reviews mention the tour is not suitable for those with altitude sickness, babies under 1 year, or travelers over 70, as the hikes can be challenging for some.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Logistics, and Comfort

Transportation is primarily via van and jeep, with the latter being essential for navigating the volcanic terrain. The van rides are comfortable and provide a chance to see more of Java’s landscape, from volcanic hills to lush forests. The timing is tight but well-organized, allowing you to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

The accommodation in Ijen is usually included, providing a necessary rest point after the long day. It’s not luxury, but it’s functional and clean—a good base for the early hike.

Tipping the driver isn’t included, so if you appreciate the service, a small gratuity would be customary. The tour also includes masks for protection against volcanic ash, which is crucial during the Bromo hike.

The Experience: What to Expect and What Not to Miss

From the moment the tour starts, you’ll be immersed in spectacular landscapes. Be prepared for cold early mornings; bringing warm clothes, gloves, and a camera is highly recommended. The crater hike at Ijen can be demanding, but many describe it as “worth every step” for the chance to see the blue fire.

Most travelers agree that seeing the sunrise at Bromo is a highlight, with many quoting that it’s “a scene like no other.” The blue fire at Ijen is similarly unforgettable, especially when paired with the crater’s turquoise lake beneath.

A common praise is the value for money—all the entry tickets, transportation, and local guides come together at a reasonable price, considering the scope of the experience. Many reviews mention good organization and friendly guides that add to the enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind early mornings and a fair bit of walking. It’s ideal for those eager to see iconic volcanoes without the hassle of logistics and want a well-organized, affordable option that covers the essentials.

It’s also a good choice for photographers hoping to capture sunrise and blue flames, and for active travelers interested in a physically engaging experience. On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable with altitude or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a bit demanding.

For those who want to maximize their time in Indonesia’s volcanic landscapes and don’t mind the travel, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and guided insight.

The Sum Up

This Surabaya to Mount Bromo & Ijen Crater 2-Day Tour stands out as a cost-effective, well-organized way to tick two of Indonesia’s most stunning volcanoes off your list. Its inclusion of transportation, tickets, and guides means fewer surprises and more focus on enjoying the sights. The early mornings and long hours are part of the package, but they’re also what make the experience so rewarding.

The tour offers authentic moments—from the sunrise glow over Bromo to the eerie blue fire at Ijen—that create unforgettable memories. It’s especially suitable for travelers looking for an adventure on a budget and those eager to see world-famous natural wonders with a guided, small-group approach.

If you’re after a value-packed, authentic experience that combines spectacular scenery with cultural insights, this trip is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Surabaya to Bromo, Ijen, and back is included, using vans and jeeps suitable for the terrain.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $174 per person, which covers most expenses including entry tickets, jeep rides, and accommodations at Ijen.

Does the tour include accommodations?
Yes, the price includes overnight stay at Ijen, providing a base for your early morning hike.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, some hiking is involved, especially at Ijen (around 2-3 hours). It involves some uphill walking on uneven paths, so it’s best suited for those in good health.

Will I see the blue fire at Ijen?
Yes, the blue fire is visible during the guided night hike, which typically starts before dawn.

Are guides available at each site?
Yes, local guides accompany you, sharing insights and helping you navigate the terrain safely.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year, travelers over 70, or those with altitude sickness due to the physical nature of the hikes.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, warm clothing, gloves, cash, and possibly a change of clothes for after the hikes.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping the driver isn’t included, so if you appreciate the service, a tip would be customary.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and value, perfect for travelers eager to see Indonesia’s volcanic marvels without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: