Trek up to the Ijen crater

Ijen Plateau Hike: A Journey to Bali’s Mysterious Crater Lake

After a hearty breakfast, your adventure begins with a comfortable vehicle ride to Pal Tuding – the ranger station that marks the starting point of your hike around Mount Ijen. The journey to Ijen Plateau is a challenging yet rewarding experience. The hike itself can take up to two hours, depending on the pace, and is often strenuous. As you venture deeper into the trail, you’ll pass through winding, forested paths surrounded by nature, making the journey both beautiful and demanding.

Upon emerging from the dense woods, the first sight that greets you is truly spectacular. You’ll be welcomed by breathtaking vistas of the Bali Strait, with the lush landscape stretching below. But the real highlight lies ahead: at the end of the trail, you’ll be presented with the hauntingly beautiful sight of Ijen’s crater lake, a surreal turquoise hue that looks almost otherworldly.

The crater lake is accompanied by wafts of multicolored smoke rising from the depths below, adding to the ethereal feel of the area. The landscape is barren, yet magnificent, with the shores of the lake marked by vivid yellow sulfur deposits that contribute to the eerie yet striking beauty of the place. If you’re lucky, you may even witness the daily labor of the sulfur miners. These miners, despite the hazardous conditions, carry up to 80 kg of sulfur on their backs, ascending the steep slopes of the crater as part of their grueling routine. Watching their hard work offers a unique glimpse into the challenges they face in this harsh environment.

After taking in the mesmerizing view of the Ijen Plateau, you’ll begin your descent, retracing your steps back to Pal Tuding where your vehicle will be waiting to take you to your next destination.

While the hike offers incredible views, it’s important to be prepared for the physical demands of the journey. The terrain can be difficult, with occasional inclines, so we highly recommend wearing good traction walking boots or sturdy trainers for better grip and comfort. It’s also crucial to remember that in the dry season, the path can become quite slick, as loose pebbles and dust cover the ground. As you make your way down the steep slope from the crater rim, take extra care to avoid slipping, especially during the descent.