Kawah Ijen Blue Fire Night Hike & Sulfur Mining Tour

Summary

Affordable Kawah Ijen Night Trekking & Jagir Waterfall Stop

If you’re curious about seeing Kawah Ijen’s blue fire and want to keep costs low, this shared night tour covers all bases: transport, guide, entrance fees—even a stop at Jagir Waterfall if you’re up for it. You’ll get real insight into local sulfur mining life and catch sunrise from one of Java’s most unique spots.

What’s the experience like?

The alarm went off at 12:15 AM—honestly, it felt way too early. By half past midnight, we were piling into the van outside the guesthouse with a few other sleepy travelers. The drive to Paltuding was quiet except for the hum of the engine and the occasional rooster crowing somewhere in the dark. Our guide, Pak Budi, handed out gas masks and gave us a quick rundown about what to expect up at Kawah Ijen.

The hike itself took about an hour and a half. It’s not super easy—there are some steep bits—but you don’t need to be an athlete either. The air smelled faintly of sulfur as we got closer to the top; you’ll notice your eyes sting a little if the wind shifts. Down by the crater rim, we could see miners already working under headlamps, their baskets loaded with bright yellow chunks of sulfur. The blue flames were smaller than I’d imagined but still surreal—like something out of a sci-fi movie flickering against the rocks.

Sunrise crept up behind us while we watched the miners hauling their loads up from below. It gets chilly up there before dawn—bring a jacket or you’ll wish you had one. After heading back down (legs feeling wobbly), we stopped for hot coffee at a roadside stall near Kalibendo plantation—nothing fancy but it hit the spot after that climb. On our way back, we made a quick detour to Jagir Waterfall. Some folks jumped in for a swim; I just dipped my toes in because honestly, it was freezing that early in the morning.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kawah Ijen Night Hike and Visits

• Depart from Kampung Osing Inn or hotel at 00:30 AM
• Drive to Paltuding
• Registration at Paltuding
• Hike up to Ijen Crater
• See blue flame, sunrise, and sulfur mining
• Walk back down to Paltuding
• Drive back to Kampung Osing Inn or hotel
• Arrive at Kampung Osing Inn by 08:00 AM
• Optional visit to Kalibendo coffee plantation
• Visit Jagir Waterfall, optional swimming

Top questions

How hard is the hike up to Kawah Ijen?

The trail is steep in parts but manageable if you have moderate fitness. Our guide set an easy pace and there were plenty of short breaks along the way.

Is it safe to visit the crater at night?

Yes, as long as you follow your guide’s instructions and wear your gas mask near the crater where fumes can get strong.

Can I swim at Jagir Waterfall?

Swimming is optional and depends on what everyone in your group wants to do. The water’s cold early in the morning!

What should I bring for this tour?

A warm jacket, sturdy shoes, water bottle, and maybe some snacks for energy during the hike are good ideas.

What’s included

Your spot includes round-trip transport from your hotel or guesthouse, entrance fees for Kawah Ijen, gas mask rental, an experienced local guide who knows every twist of the trail, plus stops at Kalibendo coffee plantation and Jagir Waterfall (if time allows). Driver and fuel are all covered too.