Mount Ijen Bromo Tour from Ubud Bali (3 days 2 nights)

Exploring Java’s Hidden Natural Gems: The Mount Ijen Bromo Tour from Ubud

If you’re craving an escape from Bali’s beaches and rice paddies and want to see a different side of Indonesia, this Mount Ijen Bromo Tour offers an incredible opportunity. In just three days, you’ll journey from Ubud to Java, experiencing two of the country’s most breathtaking volcanic landscapes—Ijen Crater and Mount Bromo—without the hassle of planning. This private tour promises scenic drives, early mornings for spectacular sunrises, and a chance to witness some of Indonesia’s most iconic natural phenomena.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is how the tour handles transportation and logistics, allowing you to focus solely on soaking up the views. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll get local insights you won’t find on just any sightseeing trip. That said, it’s a physically demanding itinerary, and the early starts aren’t for everyone. But if you’re eager for adventure and stunning scenery, this tour could be your perfect escape into Java’s volcanic heart.

A standout feature is the seamless coordination—your guide takes care of transportation, ferry crossings, and even includes a gas mask for Ijen’s sulfuric gases. The one thing to consider is the cost—at just over $420 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many reviewers feel delivers substantial value in memorable sights and hassle-free logistics. This trip is ideal for travelers who love natural beauty, are comfortable with early mornings, and want a curated experience that covers some of Java’s most dramatic landscapes.

Key Points

• All-inclusive planning means no stress over transportation, ferry tickets, or accommodations.
• Early mornings at Ijen and Bromo offer the best chances to see sunrise and blue fire.
• Spectacular scenery of volcanic craters, sunrise vistas, and the Sea of Sand makes for unforgettable photographs.
• Guided experience ensures safety, local knowledge, and smooth transitions between stops.
• Physical activity required—expect hikes up to 2 hours and some steep descents into craters.
• Value for money considering the included transport, ferries, and accommodations, this tour offers a comprehensive adventure.

Detailed Review: What to Expect on the Mount Ijen Bromo Tour

The Journey Begins: Bali to Java

Starting bright and early from Ubud at 10:00 AM, the tour kicks off with a scenic drive to Gilimanuk Ferry Port, a journey that takes roughly 4 to 5 hours. The camaraderie of fellow travelers and the anticipation of what lies ahead make this part of the adventure quite enjoyable. The ferry crossing is about an hour, offering a unique perspective as you leave Bali behind and arrive on Java.

Once on Java, your guides will escort you to a local restaurant for a well-earned lunch, leaving you just enough time to settle into your hotel in Banyuwangi. The accommodation here is simple but comfortable, setting the stage for the early start the next day to Ijen.

The Ijen Crater: A Nighttime Trek for Blue Fire

The highlight for many on this tour is the Ijen Crater—famous for its mesmerizing blue flames and sulfuric fumes. The tour departs at 1:00 AM directly from your Banyuwangi hotel, a start time that might seem brutal but is essential for catching the blue fire at its brightest.

The drive to Paltuding, the trailhead, takes about an hour and is complemented by the cool night air. From Paltuding, you’ll hike roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the crater rim, which is manageable for most with moderate fitness. The guides emphasize safety during this ascent, especially when descending into the crater to see the blue fire—an activity that requires caution due to the steep descent and the gases present.

One reviewer, Stefano_M, highlighted how guides like Yogi and Gufron made the experience enjoyable despite the early hours and volcanic gases. They also noted the importance of bringing your luggage along since you’ll head straight to Mount Bromo after the Ijen trek.

A crucial tip: Bring a face mask or gas mask provided by the tour, as sulfur gases can be intense. Watching the blue flames flicker against the darkness is a surreal moment and worth the effort, but the experience is brief; you’re not allowed to linger long at the blue fire point for safety reasons.

Transition to Mount Bromo: Onward to Another Icon

After the Ijen adventure, you’ll transfer to Mount Bromo, which involves a long drive through lush landscapes and rural villages—an opportunity to see parts of Indonesia less touched by tourism. Depending on your energy levels, the ride might be tiring, but the anticipation of the next day keeps spirits high.

Sunrise at Mount Bromo: A Stunning Morning

Rising at around 3:30 AM, you’ll jump into a jeep to reach the sunrise viewpoint, often called Kingkong Hill. The drive takes about 40 minutes over bumpy, steep roads, but the payoff is well worth the bumps. As dawn approaches, you’ll find yourself amidst a crowd of travelers eager to witness the spectacle.

The sunrise at Mount Bromo is an absolute highlight. You’ll see the volcanoes—Mount Semeru, Mount Batok, and Mount Bromo—all aligned in a dramatic scene. Many reviewers, like Stefano_M, mention how the view of the mountains and the village below creates a picture-perfect moment. After sunrise, your jeep takes you across the Sea of Sand, where you can walk or rent a horse to explore the lunar-like landscape.

The Final Moments: Exploring Bromo

The tour includes a trek towards the crater rim, but the main event is the sunrise and the landscape around Mount Bromo. The jeep tour offers a chance to see the volcanic landscape from multiple angles, from the Sea of Sand to the crater’s edge. Remember, entrance tickets to Mount Bromo are not included, so budget accordingly if you wish to explore further.

Practicalities and Value

The tour covers all major transport needs—ferry, private vehicle, and jeeps—and provides accommodations, guiding, mineral water, and gas masks. Breakfast is included for two days, but meals like lunch and dinner are not. Considering the full package, many find the price of around $420 a good deal for a curated, hassle-free experience.

What Reviewers Say

One traveler praised the guides and the overall experience, saying, “Although Mount Ijen was closed due to seismic activity, we saw wonderful places and appreciated the friendliness and kindness of our guides.” This highlights the flexibility and attentiveness of the tour operators.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This three-day adventure is perfect for travelers who love natural scenery and are comfortable with early mornings and some physical activity. It’s suited for those seeking a comprehensive, guided experience that covers two of Indonesia’s most impressive volcanic sites without the stress of planning their own logistics. If you’re after stunning sunrise views, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and the thrill of seeing blue fire, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with limited mobility, or those who prefer relaxed, leisurely tours. The early starts and hikes demand a moderate level of fitness, and the adventure involves some rugged terrain.

The Sum Up

This Mount Ijen Bromo Tour from Ubud offers a well-rounded and authentic adventure into Java’s most spectacular volcanic landscapes. The combination of early mornings, scenic drives, and breathtaking vistas makes it a memorable experience. The tour’s strength lies in its comprehensive approach—covering transportation, accommodations, and expert guiding—allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the inclusion of ferry tickets, private transportation, and accommodations adds significant value. Plus, the opportunity to witness blue fire at Ijen and a volcanic sunrise at Bromo makes it a worthwhile investment for adventure seekers.

If you’re eager to see Java’s volcanic beauty with minimal fuss and maximum convenience, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those who appreciate well-organized trips and unforgettable natural scenery, especially if sunrise views and volcanic eruptions are high on your bucket list.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves hikes up to 2 hours on uneven terrain and steep descents into craters, it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included on both days, but lunch and dinner are not. There are local restaurants along the way where you can purchase meals.

What is the best time to see the blue fire at Ijen?
The tour departs at 1:00 AM from Banyuwangi, with the goal of reaching the crater by dawn. The blue fire is best observed early in the morning, and the tour limits the time spent at the blue fire point for safety.

Are entrance tickets to Ijen and Bromo included?
No, these are separate costs not included in the package. You should budget for these if you wish to enter.

How physically demanding is the trip?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended. The hikes involve some steep climbs and descents, especially at Ijen.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring warm clothing for the early mornings, a face mask or gas mask for Ijen, sturdy shoes, and personal essentials. Remember your luggage since you’ll head straight to Mount Bromo after Ijen.

Can I extend my stay in Java after the tour?
Yes, but there’s an additional cost of 850,000 IDR for returning to Bali after the trip. You should inform the tour provider in advance.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it more personalized and flexible.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Java volcano adventure matches your travel style. With its stunning vistas, expert guidance, and well-organized logistics, it’s a trip that promises some of Indonesia’s most unforgettable natural sights.