2-Day Private Ijen & Bromo Tour from Banyuwangi with Jeep

Summary

Private Midnight Hike to Ijen Crater and Sunrise Jeep Tour at Bromo

You’ll hike under stars to see Ijen’s blue fire and meet real sulfur miners before sunrise paints the crater lake bright turquoise. Then ride a Jeep across Bromo’s volcanic sand for sunrise views over Java’s tallest peaks—plus plenty of local flavor along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The air felt chilly as we left Banyuwangi just past midnight. Our guide, Pak Agus, handed us flashlights and a quick pep talk before the drive up to Paltuding. The road was quiet—just the hum of our van and the occasional dog barking in the distance. By 2 am, we started hiking under a sky full of stars. The path’s a bit steep in places, but you’ll see sulfur miners passing by with baskets that look impossibly heavy—some even joked with us as they passed. There’s this faint eggy smell from the sulfur, and if you pause for a second, you can hear the crunch of gravel under your boots.

We reached the rim just before 4 am. It’s still dark then—the blue fire flickers down in the crater like something out of a dream. Our guide explained how it’s caused by ignited sulfuric gas; he even pointed out safe spots for photos (don’t get too close). As dawn crept in, the lake below turned this wild turquoise color I’ve never seen anywhere else. After sunrise, we hiked back down and drove straight towards Bromo—slept most of the way, honestly.

Next morning started early again—3 am wake-up call. A Jeep picked us up right outside our hotel; it rattled along through thick mist to reach the caldera’s edge. At a tiny warung near Kingkong Hill, we grabbed sweet black coffee while waiting for first light. Locals chatted quietly nearby; someone was frying tempeh for breakfast. The sun came up behind Semeru volcano—a view that makes you forget how cold your hands are. We walked across the Sea of Sand to climb Mt. Bromo itself; there’s a low rumble from inside if you listen closely at the crater rim.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Midnight Hike to Ijen Crater

• Drive from Banyuwangi to Ijen area
• Hike to Ijen Summit
• See blue fire and sulfur miners
• View turquoise acidic lake

Day 2 — Bromo Sunrise and Waterfall Visit

• Jeep pickup and drive to sea of sand
• Sunrise at viewpoint with coffee/tea
• Hike to Kingkong Hill
• Hike Mt. Bromo crater
• Return to hotel for breakfast
• Drive to Madakaipura waterfall

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

This trip involves steep hikes and early starts—it’s best for those with moderate fitness. Children must be with an adult.

What should I bring for the hike?

Wear warm layers (it gets cold), sturdy shoes, and bring some snacks or water. All safety gear is provided at Ijen.

Can I see both blue fire and sunrise at Ijen?

You’ll arrive early enough to catch both—the blue fire before dawn, then sunrise over the lake.

Are meals included?

Breakfast is included at your hotel after Bromo; other meals are on your own but there are local cafés along the way.

What’s included

This private tour covers all transport from Banyuwangi—including Jeep rides at Bromo—one night’s accommodation near Bromo, bottled water during hikes, and guidance from experienced locals who know these mountains inside out.