Mount Ijen is an active volcano located in East Java, Indonesia known for its stunning natural beauty and unique blue flames. The summit of the volcano is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, with its sulfurous crater lake creating a mesmerizing landscape. Hiking up to the summit is a challenge, but the reward is breathtaking views and a chance to witness the blue flames at night time. Visitors can also explore the coffee plantations around Mount Ijen, which produce some of the best coffee in the world.
The nearest airport to Mount Ijen is Blimbingsari Airport in Banyuwangi, which is around 60 km away from the volcano. From there, visitors can take a taxi or rent a car to get to the base of the mountain. The hike up to the summit takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and is quite challenging, so it is recommended to go with a guide.
The best time to visit Mount Ijen is during the dry season, which runs from May to September, to avoid the risk of rain and fog. The weather is generally cooler in the morning and evening, so visitors should bring warm clothing.
The weather at Mount Ijen is relatively cool and humid, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. During the rainy season, which runs from October to April, there is a higher chance of foggy conditions which can obscure the view at the summit.
Accommodation near Mount Ijen varies from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Budget options start from IDR 150,000 ($10) per night, while high-end options can cost up to IDR 1,500,000 ($100) per night.
There are several small local food stalls around Mount Ijen which offer traditional Indonesian food at affordable prices, starting from IDR 20,000 ($1.5) per meal. Visitors can also find restaurants and cafes at nearby villages and towns that offer a range of cuisines for around IDR 50,000-100,000 ($3.5-7) per meal.
Visitors should exercise caution during the hike up to the summit of Mount Ijen, as the trail can be steep and slippery. It is recommended to go with a guide and to bring appropriate equipment such as sturdy shoes and a gas mask to protect against the fumes. The area around Mount Ijen is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of pickpockets and petty theft in crowded areas. There have also been some instances of harassment reported, especially towards women and LGBTQ travelers.
The population around Mount Ijen is predominantly Javanese, with some Balinese communities in nearby villages. The main language spoken is Javanese, but many locals also speak Bahasa Indonesia. The majority of the local population follows Islam, but there are also some Buddhist and Hindu communities in the area.
The main activity for tourists at Mount Ijen is hiking up to the summit to witness the stunning views of the sulfur lake and blue flames. Visitors can also explore the coffee plantations around the mountain, which produce some of the best coffee in the world. Other activities include visiting nearby waterfalls and hot springs, or taking a trip to the nearby island of Bali.