2 Days Tour Ijen and Bromo from Banyuwangi

Travelers eyeing volcanic adventures in Indonesia often consider the Ijen and Bromo tours for a taste of extraordinary natural phenomena and breathtaking landscapes. This particular 2-day package from Banyuwangi promises to hit the highlights, from the mesmerizing Blue Fire of Ijen to the iconic Bromo sunrise. With a price point of just $59, it seems like an appealing way to tick two big volcanic sights off your bucket list, especially if you’re short on time or looking for a budget-friendly option.

One thing that stands out about this tour is its variety of options—you can choose just Ijen, combine Bromo and Ijen in a shared or private tour—offering some flexibility based on your preferences. The tour’s best feature might be the guided hikes and the reliable transportation, including a jeep for Bromo and some essential gear like gas masks and flashlights for Ijen. But, as you’ll see, the experience has some inconsistencies worth considering.

If you’re someone who values authentic local guides and seamless logistics, this tour could be a fit. However, the mixed reviews suggest that expectations around value and the overall experience might vary, making it important to weigh these factors carefully before booking.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this a budget-friendly option for seeing Ijen and Bromo.
• Flexible tour options allow choosing Ijen only, or combining with Bromo, either through a group or private tour.
• Guided hikes and provided gear for Ijen ensure safety during the challenging ascent.
• Mixed reviews highlight some concerns about the ease of hikes and the overall experience.
• Early morning start for sunrise means waking up around midnight, which might be tough but rewarding.
• Limited inclusions mean travelers should bring their own warm clothing and be prepared for additional costs.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Early Morning Pickup & Transit

The tour begins with a pickup around 12:30 am at your Banyuwangi hotel, followed by a roughly 1.5-hour drive to the Ijen area. This early start is crucial for catching the sunrise and witnessing the Blue Fire phenomenon in the dark. Expect the roads to be quiet and the atmosphere somewhat sleepy, but the anticipation of seeing the volcano’s glowing blue flames keeps the energy going.

The Ijen Experience

Once you arrive, you’ll transfer to a designated starting point for the hike. The hike begins around 2 am, lasting approximately 1.5 hours to reach the crater rim. Here you’ll encounter moderate physical exertion, and the terrain can be challenging. According to one reviewer, the trail is quite easy, with many people being assisted by cadillacs or taxis—a detail that might appeal if you’re not an avid hiker, but less so if you want a true trekking experience.

Your guide will provide a gas mask and a torch lamp, essential for safety given the sulfur fumes and darkness. However, some reviewers note that additional torches or headlights might be helpful, as the provided gear is sometimes insufficient.

The highlight here is standing on the rim and witnessing the massive acidic lake with its distinctive turquoise color. Seeing the Blue Fire — a sulfur combustion phenomenon — in the dark is often described as surreal. One reviewer, Cynthia, mentioned that the guide was great, and that the gas mask and headlamp were appreciated, but she also noted that some equipment was lacking, like a flashlight for the descent.

Transition to Mount Bromo

If you opt for the Ijen + Bromo combination, you’ll return to Banyuwangi and stay overnight—either in a shared or private arrangement. The next day, you’ll be transferred to the Bromo area, where you’ll experience a jeep ride into the crater and other scenic spots. Bromo’s fame largely rests on its spectacular sunrise, which you’ll view from a vantage point, often with plenty of photo opportunities.

The Bromo Experience

The jeep ride is usually the highlight for many travelers, taking you close to the volcano’s edge. Expect stunning views of the volcanic landscape, with plenty of spots for photos. The sunrise over Mount Bromo is dramatic, with the volcano silhouette outlined against the morning sky. Bromo is generally considered easier to access than Ijen, but some reviews suggest that the tour might be overhyped or that it’s something you can do independently.

Logistics & Value

The tour includes some essential items like bottled water, entry fees, and gas masks, which simplifies the planning. However, warm clothing is not provided, so bringing your own is advisable, especially for the cold early mornings. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate, but also means you might be sharing the journey with other travelers.

Authenticity & Review Insights

One review from Cynthia pointed out that both excursions felt overrated, with Bromo being achievable on your own and Ijen being a relatively easy trail, often assisted by taxis. She also appreciated the guide’s efforts, but found some limitations in equipment, which could impact the overall safety or comfort.

This feedback indicates that while the guides are knowledgeable, some aspects of the logistical execution may fall short of expectations, especially regarding ease of hikes and gear adequacy.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $59, this tour offers a quick, budget-friendly way to see two of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanic sights. It seamlessly includes transportation, guides, and some gear, which simplifies planning. For travelers on a tight schedule or budget, it can be a good introduction, especially if you’re comfortable with early mornings and a fair amount of group activity.

However, the mixed reviews suggest that if you’re looking for a more authentic, immersive experience, or want to avoid overcrowded tourist spots with minimal hassle, you might want to consider doing some parts independently or seeking a more comprehensive tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want to tick off Ijen and Bromo without the hassle of organizing transport and park entries. It appeals to those who are moderately physically fit, comfortable with early mornings, and open to guided hikes that may not be overly strenuous.

If you’re someone who values authentic local guides and seamless logistics, this tour has those elements, but be prepared for potential limitations like equipment and the overall crowd. It’s a good starter trip, but not necessarily the most in-depth or luxurious way to experience these volcanoes.

This 2-day Ijen and Bromo tour offers an affordable, straightforward way to see some of Indonesia’s most famous volcanic sights. The early morning start, guided hikes, and included gear make it convenient, especially if you’re new to the area or traveling on a budget. On the other hand, the mixed reviews around hike difficulty and equipment mean you should go in with realistic expectations.

If you’re prepared for early mornings, basic comforts, and a group atmosphere, you’ll likely find this tour a worthwhile introduction. But if you’re a seasoned hiker or craving a more personalized experience, consider exploring independent options or more specialized tours.

This trip balances value with adventure, and with some preparation, it can be a memorable part of your Indonesian journey. Just keep in mind that some aspects might feel a bit rushed or simplified—it’s all about what you prioritize in your travel experience.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness. The hike up Ijen takes about 1.5 hours, which might be manageable for most, but some reviews mention it’s quite easy, especially if assisted by taxis.

What is included in the tour?
The package includes transportation, a gas mask, a torch lamp, bottled water, and park admission fees. If you choose the overnight option, accommodation is included for the Bromo part.

Do I need to bring warm clothing?
Yes, you should bring your own warm clothes, such as jackets or sweatshirts, as they are not included. Early mornings are cold, especially at high altitudes.

Can I do this tour on my own?
Yes, some reviewers suggest that Bromo can be visited independently, and the Ijen trail is considered easy enough for a self-guided walk, especially with taxis available.

What time does the tour start?
The pickup is scheduled around 12:30 am, with the hike starting at approximately 2 am, so be prepared for a very early start.

How long does the whole experience last?
The Ijen hike takes about 1.5 hours, and the entire trip to Ijen and Bromo spans roughly 2 days, including overnight stays.

Is the Blue Fire visible every night?
The Blue Fire is a natural phenomenon best viewed in darkness, so seeing it depends on the weather and volcanic activity.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The Blue Fire at Ijen and the spectacular Bromo sunrise are the main draws, along with the chance to see volcanic landscapes and meet sulfur miners.

Are guides knowledgeable?
According to reviews, guides are generally knowledgeable and helpful, but some travelers feel equipment could be improved for safety and comfort.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing you to cancel for a full refund if needed.

This detailed review aims to help you assess whether the 2 Days Ijen and Bromo tour from Banyuwangi matches your travel style and expectations. Remember to weigh the pros and cons, and consider your personal comfort and adventure appetite before booking.