Exploring Kawah Ijen, Indonesia: A Journey to the Mesmerizing Blue Flames and Turquoise Crater

Welcome to your ultimate guide on experiencing Kawah Ijen in Indonesia. Known for its stunning blue flames and turquoise crater lake, Kawah Ijen offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This travel guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to one of the world’s most unique volcanic sites. Let’s start with a detailed itinerary for Day 1.

Day 1: Arrival in Banyuwangi and Preparation for the Hike

On the first day of your adventure, you’ll arrive in Banyuwangi, the gateway to Kawah Ijen. Banyuwangi is a charming town in East Java, Indonesia, and serves as the perfect starting point for your journey to the Ijen Crater.

Morning: Arrival and Hotel Check-In

Most travelers arrive in Banyuwangi either by plane or train. If you are flying, you’ll land at Blimbingsari Airport, which is a short drive from Banyuwangi city center. Alternatively, you can take a scenic train ride from Surabaya, which offers stunning views of the countryside.

Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation. For a comfortable stay, consider booking at one of the best hotels in Banyuwangi. For example, the Ijen Resort & Villas offers luxurious amenities and beautiful views, perfect for relaxing before your hike.

Afternoon: Exploring Banyuwangi

After settling in, take some time to explore Banyuwangi. This town is known for its friendly locals and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Blambangan Park—a popular spot among locals for relaxing and socializing. Grab lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Javanese dishes like nasi tempong and sate blambangan.

Evening: Preparation and Early Dinner

Since the hike to Kawah Ijen starts early in the morning, it’s important to get prepared. Ensure you have the necessary supplies: comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing (as it gets cold at higher altitudes), a flashlight, and snacks. Don’t forget a breathable mask to protect yourself from the sulfur fumes.

For dinner, consider dining at Sego Tempong Mbok Wah, a restaurant known for its delicious Indonesian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty meal to fuel up for the hike ahead.

Night: Rest and Briefing

Head back to your hotel early to get some rest. If you’ve booked a guided tour, there might be a briefing from your guide about what to expect during the hike. Make sure to get ample sleep, as you’ll be starting the hike before dawn to catch the mesmerizing blue flames.

Day 2: Hiking Kawah Ijen and Witnessing the Blue Flames

Day 2 is the highlight of your journey – the hike to the Kawah Ijen Crater to witness the famous blue flames and the turquoise crater lake. Here’s how your day will unfold:

Early Morning: The Hike to the Crater

Your adventure begins in the early hours of the morning, around 1:00 AM. Most guided tours will pick you up from your hotel. If you are hiking independently, arrange for transportation to the trailhead at the base of Mount Ijen.

The trailhead is located near the Paltuding Base Camp, which is the starting point for your hike. The hike to the crater is approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) and will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete depending on your pace. The trail is well-marked but can be steep in certain sections.

Make sure you have a flashlight or headlamp, as it will be dark. The hike is moderately challenging, so pace yourself and take breaks as needed. Along the way, you might encounter sulfur miners carrying heavy loads of sulfur – a reminder of the tough conditions they work in.

Pre-Dawn: Witnessing the Blue Flames

As you approach the crater rim, you will begin to see the mesmerizing blue flames. These flames are caused by the combustion of sulfuric gases that emerge from cracks in the crater’s surface. The sight of the electric blue flames in the dark is truly otherworldly and a unique natural phenomenon that draws many visitors from around the world.

Be cautious as you navigate this area, as the terrain can be rocky and slippery. The blue flames are best viewed before dawn, so make sure to arrive early. Remember to wear your mask to protect yourself from the sulfur fumes, which can be intense near the crater.

Sunrise: Viewing the Turquoise Crater Lake

After witnessing the blue flames, stay at the crater rim to watch the sunrise. As daylight breaks, the stunning turquoise color of the crater lake becomes visible. The contrast of the vibrant blue lake against the rugged, sulfur-stained landscape is a sight to behold.

Take some time to explore the area and capture photographs. The lake’s color is due to its high sulfur content, which reflects the sunlight beautifully. Remember to respect the natural environment and stay on designated paths to preserve the area for future visitors.

Mid-Morning: Descent and Breakfast

After enjoying the breathtaking views, begin your descent back to Paltuding Base Camp. The return hike is all downhill and should be relatively easier than the ascent. Take your time and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

Once you reach the base camp, reward yourself with a well-deserved breakfast. There are local food stalls at the base camp where you can grab a bite to eat. Try some traditional Indonesian snacks like pisang goreng (fried bananas) or nasi bungkus (rice wrapped in banana leaf).

Late Morning: Return to Your Hotel and Relax

Head back to your hotel in Banyuwangi, where you can freshen up and relax. The hike can be physically demanding, so take it easy for the rest of the day. If you’re staying at a comfortable place like the Ijen Resort & Villas or any other top-rated hotel in Banyuwangi, take advantage of their amenities to unwind.

Afternoon: Exploring More of Banyuwangi

If you have the energy, use the afternoon to explore more of Banyuwangi. Visit local attractions like the Taman Nasional Baluran (Baluran National Park), a national park known for its diverse wildlife and savanna landscape. Alternatively, you can visit the Bama Beach to relax by the sea.

In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on your adventure to Kawah Ijen and plan the next leg of your trip in East Java.

Day 3: Waterfalls and Coffee Plantations in Banyuwangi

After an exhilarating hike to Kawah Ijen, Day 3 is dedicated to exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of Banyuwangi. We’ll visit some stunning waterfalls and the famous coffee plantations in the region.

Morning: Visit Jagir Waterfall

Start your day with a visit to Jagir Waterfall, also known as Air Terjun Jagir. It’s located about 30 minutes from Banyuwangi city center and is a serene spot surrounded by lush greenery. Jagir is a triple waterfall, providing beautiful scenery and a refreshing atmosphere.

Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools at the base of the waterfall or enjoy the tranquil setting by the river. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas. Early in the morning, the site is less crowded, allowing for a peaceful experience.

Late Morning: Exploring Kalibendo Coffee Plantation (Kantor Perkebunan Kalibendo)

Next, head to the Kalibendo Coffee Plantation (Kantor Perkebunan Kalibendo). Located a short drive from Jagir Waterfall, this plantation offers an immersive experience into East Java’s coffee culture. The plantation is nestled at the foot of the mountains, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Join a guided tour to learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. You’ll get to see how coffee beans are harvested, processed, and roasted. The tour often includes a tasting session where you can sample different types of local coffee.

The plantation also has walking trails that allow you to explore the lush coffee fields and other crops such as cloves and rubber. It’s a great way to experience the agricultural heritage of the region.

Afternoon: Lunch and Visit to Kalibendo Waterfall

After the coffee plantation tour, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Javanese dishes to fuel up for the next part of your journey. One popular option is ayam penyet, a dish of fried chicken served with sambal (spicy chili paste).

In the afternoon, take a short hike to the nearby Kalibendo Waterfall. This hidden gem is less visited compared to Jagir Waterfall, offering a more secluded and tranquil experience. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and takes you through the beautiful plantation scenery.

The waterfall itself is a serene spot, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the sounds of nature. Spend some time here unwinding and taking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Late Afternoon: Return to Banyuwangi and Free Time

Head back to Banyuwangi in the late afternoon. Once back in the city, you can spend your free time at your leisure. Consider visiting the vibrant local markets such as Pasar Banyuwangi (Traditional Market Banyuwangi), where you can shop for souvenirs, local snacks, and handicrafts.

Evening: Dinner and Cultural Show

End your day with a cultural experience. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that offers traditional Javanese cuisine. Some restaurants in Banyuwangi also feature live cultural shows, where you can watch traditional dances and music performances. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and end your day on a high note.