Mount Ijen From Bali or Banyuwangi

Tips and Tricks for Hiking Mount Ijen: What You Need to Know

Mount Ijen, located in East Java, Indonesia, is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Famous for its stunning blue flames and the sulfuric crater lake, Ijen offers a unique hiking experience. Whether you're starting your journey from Banyuwangi or Bali.

From Banyuwangi (9 hours round trip)
If you're based in Banyuwangi, the trip to Ijen Crater is relatively short. A comfortable car ride will take you to the Paltuding Base Camp, the starting point of the hike, in about 1.5 hours. This makes Banyuwangi the ideal base for a hassle-free visit, especially if you are short on time. The total duration for a round trip from Banyuwangi is about 9 hours, making it a perfect one-day excursion.

From Bali (22-24 hours round trip)
For those traveling from Bali, the journey is longer but still manageable with proper planning. A 22-24 hours round trip includes a ferry crossing from Bali to Java (about 1 hour), followed by a drive to Banyuwangi and then to the base camp. This option is more time-consuming but allows you to explore both Bali and Ijen in one trip. Starting in the evening around 5-6 pm from bali then drive to gilimanuk port then cross by ferry to Ketapang port banyuwangi (java). From that port is one hour driving to basecamp (Paltuding) and start your hiking in Mount Ijen. After Mount Ijen hiking return to bali island or continue to another destination.

The Hike to Ijen Crater

The hike to the crater begins at Paltuding Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of around 1,800 meters (5,900 feet). The hike to the top is about 3 kilometers and typically takes about 1.5 (approx), depending on your pace. Although the trek is relatively short, it can be steep, and the path is often uneven, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. for this moment all the visitor can’t go down at blue fire area, just 700m distance from blue fire area.

Continue to another side of the rim ijen crater to see sunrise and enjoy panoramic the biggest acidic lake in the world. Then back to basecamp and continue back to your accommodation or ketapang port.

The Blue Fire: What You Need to Know

Mount Ijen is known for its spectacular blue flames, a rare phenomenon caused by the combustion of sulfuric gases. However, it’s important to note that blue fire sightings cannot be guaranteed. Weather conditions, sulfur levels, and the time of your visit all play a role in whether the blue fire is visible. While it’s an incredible sight when it happens, don’t be disappointed if you don’t get to see it. The sulfuric lake and the surrounding landscape are still breathtaking on their own.

What to Bring on the Hike

• Warm Clothing: The temperature at the crater can drop significantly, especially in the early morning, so bring a warm jacket or sweater.

• Comfortable / Hiking Shoes: The path can be rocky and slippery, so make sure to wear sturdy, closed shoes.

• Masks or Scarves: The smell of sulfur can be intense, so it’s helpful to bring a mask or scarf to cover your nose. Even you can rent the gas mask in the basecamp

• Water and Snacks: The hike can be exhausting, so carry enough water to stay hydrated, and some snacks for energy.

• Headlamp/Flashlight: You’ll start the hike at night, so a reliable light source is essential.

Local Guides and Safety Tips

Hiring a local guide is recommended for safety and to get the best experience. Guides are knowledgeable about the route and can show you the best spots for viewing the blue flames and crater lake. They will also ensure you stay safe while navigating the sulfuric fumes, which can be hazardous if not approached correctly. But not all of local guide they can speak English, some of them actually is the minners then they just as a navigator with no explanation,

Final Thoughts

Hiking Mount Ijen is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re trekking from Banyuwangi or Bali. While the stunning crater lake, sunrise and surrounding landscapes are equally impressive. Be prepared for the physical demands of the hike, and plan ahead for your journey from either Bali or Banyuwangi. With the right preparation, your adventure to Mount Ijen will be a truly memorable experience.