Indonesia is known as a country with extraordinary natural resources, one of which is the Ijen Crater. Ijen Crater, located on the border of Banyuwangi and Bondowoso regencies, East Java, is a stunning natural tourist destination.
The charm that makes many tourists come to visit is the largest sulfuric acid crater in the world.
Unique natural phenomena such as blue fire (blue fire) and turquoise-colored lakes make this place a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.
Offering a rare and exotic experience, Ijen Crater is not only popular with local tourists, but also worldwide.
In this article, we will review more about the attractions, ticket prices, operating hours, and facilities available in this tourist area. Check out the review until the end so you can plan your trip to Kawah Ijen more carefully!
Overview of Ijen Crater
Ijen Crater is part of the Ijen Mountains and is located within the Ijen Crater Nature Park. This active volcano has an altitude of about 2,386 meters above sea level.
The specialty of Kawah Ijen lies in its turquoise and highly acidic crater lake, as well as the rare blue fire phenomenon, which only exists in Iceland and Indonesia.
This crater was formed by an ancient volcanic eruption and is now a traditional sulfur mining site. The mining activity is still ongoing today and often becomes an interesting photo object for travelers.
Besides the natural scenery, a visit to Ijen Crater can also be an educational experience about geology and the lives of sulfur miners.
Ijen Crater Location Address
Ijen Crater is a natural tourist attraction located in Tamansari Village, Licin District, Banyuwangi Regency, East Java Province, Indonesia.
Ijen Crater is located on the border between Banyuwangi and Bondowoso regencies, so it can be accessed from both directions. However, the most common and popular route taken by tourists is through Banyuwangi due to relatively better road conditions and proximity to the city center and airport.
You can use the services of banyuwangi car rental, banyuwangi motorcycle rental or ijen tour package to make it easier to travel and equip when you want to go to Ijen because all of the itinerary has been neatly scheduled.
Ijen Crater Entrance Ticket Price
To enter the Ijen Crater tourist area, tourists need to pay an entrance ticket which is relatively affordable. Ticket prices vary depending on the day of visit and nationality status. Here are the latest ticket price details:
- Domestic Travelers (Weekday): IDR 20,000
- Domestic Travelers (Weekend): IDR 30,000
- Foreign Tourists (Weekday): IDR 100,000
- Foreign Tourists (Weekend): IDR 150,000
Apart from the entrance ticket, there are also parking fees and a tour guide if you need help during the hike. It is recommended to bring enough cash, as not all counters accept cashless payments. Prices can change at any time, so always check the latest information before departure.
Ijen Crater Entry Terms & Conditions
Now, all visitors must register online through the official website of the East Java BKSDA before coming to the location.
In addition, each visitor must also present a valid health certificate.
This policy is enforced to maintain the safety and health of visitors and support the sustainable management of tourist areas.
Ijen Crater Attraction
The main attraction of Ijen Crater lies in its unique nature that is not found elsewhere. Here are some of the main attractions that make Ijen Crater a favorite destination for many tourists:
1. Blue Fire
The natural phenomenon of "blue fire" in Ijen Crater can only be seen at night until dawn. This mesmerizing blue glow comes from burning sulfur gas as it interacts with the air, creating a magical sight that radiates from the rocks. This rare and mesmerizing moment is a major attraction for photographers and adventurers.
2. Toska-colored Acid Lake
Ijen Crater Lake, the largest acidic lake in the world, offers a breathtaking view of its turquoise waters, contrasting with the surrounding volcanic rock landscape. Despite its allure, the lake's water is highly acidic and dangerous to touch, so visitors are encouraged to enjoy its beauty from a distance.
3. Sulfur Miner Activity
The life of the sulfur miners who work hard to carry heavy loads from the bottom of the crater to the top is a special attraction. This moment often inspires tourists about human resilience and the hardships of life.
4. Sunrise Panorama
The best time to visit Ijen Crater is early morning. Besides the amazing "blue fire" phenomenon, you can also enjoy the beautiful sunrise from the top of the mountain. The gradual change in color of the sky creates the perfect backdrop to capture the moment in photos.
5. Challenging Hiking Route
The journey to the top of Ijen Crater is not easy, but also not too difficult for beginners. The trekking route of about 3 km can be covered in 1.5 to 2 hours. The path climbs steadily, but requires good physical preparation and adequate equipment.
6. Panoramic View of the Mountains and Forests Around the Hiking Trail
Along the hiking trail to the top of Ijen Crater, you will be spoiled with stunning natural scenery.
Mountainous forests, fresh air, and the silhouette of a line of hills and mountains in the distance are the sights that accompany your steps.
At some points, you can see the view of Mount Raung from a distance, especially when the weather is clear.
This panorama is best enjoyed when hiking at dawn towards sunrise, when a thin mist still hangs and the sunlight begins to illuminate the mountain peaks.
Opening Hours & Facilities at Ijen Crater
Operating Hours
The Ijen Crater area is open to the public every day, but visiting times are limited for the safety of visitors and nature conservation. Here are the operating hours you need to know:
- Open Every Day: From 00.00 WIB to 12.00 WIB
To be able to enjoy its natural beauty to the fullest, the best time to climb is around 01.00-02.00 in the morning. This allows you to witness blue fire and enjoy the sunrise.
Available Facilities
Despite being in a mountainous area, Ijen Crater has facilities that are quite supportive of visitors' comfort:
- Vehicle parking area
- Ticket post and security post
- Public toilet
- Simple food stall at basecamp
- Gas mask and head torch rental
- Local tour guide and porter
Gas masks are highly recommended, especially if you want to go down to the crater to see the blue fire up close. Sulphur gas can be very pungent and dangerous if inhaled for long periods of time.
Cover
Kawah Ijen is not just a tourist destination, but also a travel experience that is full of educational values, natural beauty, and human strength in the face of nature. For nature lovers, photographers, or even travelers who simply want to see the wonders of the world firsthand, Ijen Crater is a place that deserves to be on the priority list.
Make sure you make proper preparations before you go, including checking the weather conditions, bringing the right equipment, and maintaining cleanliness while in the area. Nature has given us great beauty, it's our job to preserve it.
