Trek up to the Ijen crater

After an early breakfast you will drive through the rural countryside around Mount Ijen past many clove and coffee plantations to Pal Tuding (ranger post), from where the trek begins. To reach Ijen Plateau can take approximately two hours and the walk is very steep at times. You will trek through twisty shady trails until clearing the tree line and finding yourself with wonderful panoramic views across the Bali straits. The pathway then leads you to a spectacular viewpoint for the eerie turquoise crater lake. Wafts of multicoloured smoke drift upwards from beneath you and all along the shoreline are bright yellow sulphur deposits creating a barren but beautiful landscape. Whilst here you will see Indonesian sulphur miners who descend into the crater and return with around 80 kilos of heavy sulphur on their shoulders. Having experienced the panorama from Ijen Plateau you will descend back to Pal Tuding where your vehicle is waiting.

The walk/trek is steep at times and demands some care and attention. Walking boots or trainers with good grip are ideal. Please note that in the dry season, the path can become very slippery due to a layer of loose rock and dust. Please take great care when descending from the crater rim.