From Surabaya / Malang : Mt Bromo Sunrise – Ijen Blue Fire 2D1N

Experience the Surabaya / Malang: Mt Bromo Sunrise & Ijen Blue Fire 2D1N Tour

This 2-day private journey offers a convenient way to tick off two of Indonesia’s most famous volcanoes—Mt Bromo and Mt Ijen—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s designed for travelers eager to see iconic volcanic landscapes, witness the mesmerizing blue flames, and enjoy authentic local experiences.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to see both sunrise over Mt Bromo and the spectacular blue fire at Ijen, which is truly a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Second, the trip is carefully organized with comfortable transfers, accommodations, and guided services, making it perfect for those who want a hassle-free adventure. Lastly, travelers love the knowledgeable guides and incredible views—reviews consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of the team.

That said, be aware that some parts of the trek, especially to Ijen, can feel strenuous, and you’ll be climbing at night in cooler temperatures. If you’re not comfortable with moderate physical activity or early mornings, you might want to consider your endurance before booking.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, photographers, or anyone looking to experience Indonesia’s volcanoes with expert guidance and a well-organized itinerary.

Key Points

• Two volcanoes in 48 hours: Cover Mt Bromo and Mt Ijen, including sunrise and blue fire viewing.
• Comfort and convenience: Private transport, hotel stays, and meals included.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides and drivers ensure a safe, informative trip.
• Early mornings: Expect to wake up around midnight for Ijen’s blue fire, so be prepared for early starts.
• Stunning scenery: From the whispering sands of Bromo to the sulfur miners at Ijen, every stop is visually striking.
• Value for money: For around $283, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive, well-organized experience with all major entrance fees included.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Day 1: From Surabaya or Malang to Mt Bromo

The journey kicks off around 11:30 pm with hotel or train station pickup in Surabaya or Malang. This late-night start is typical in volcano tours—avoiding traffic and optimizing your chances to see Bromo’s sunrise. The first leg involves a long drive (around 5-6 hours depending on traffic) to Sukapura village, your starting point for the adventure.

Once you arrive, you’ll switch to a 4WD Jeep—a fun way to kick off the morning—and head towards Mount Penanjakan. This spot is famous for its panoramic views of the Bromo caldera and surrounding volcanoes. Arriving around 4 am, you’ll pause for a coffee break, which is highly appreciated after the overnight drive, as you await the sunrise.

The sunrise at Mount Penanjakan is spectacular—early enough to beat the crowds, as some reviews mention that arriving late can make the experience more hectic. The dramatic light over the volcanic landscape provides perfect photo opportunities.

After sunrise, you’ll descend to Mount Bromo’s crater and spend a couple of hours trekking across the sand sea, a surprisingly easy walk for most, but a fun and memorable experience. Following the crater visit, you’ll explore Whispering Sand and the Luhur Temple, adding cultural context to your volcanic adventure.

By mid-morning, it’s time for breakfast at a local restaurant, fueling up before the long drive to Banyuwangi or Bondowoso. This segment is about 5-6 hours, so expect to relax and enjoy the scenery during the transfer. Many reviews mention the professionalism of the driver and the smoothness of the ride, which helps make this a relaxing part of the trip.

Day 2: From Ijen to Surabaya

Early in the morning, around midnight or just after, you’ll head to Mount Ijen. The drive is roughly 2.5 hours, and then the climb begins, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. The ascent is challenging but manageable for those with moderate fitness, as noted by a reviewer who mentioned that the trek “was doable” but infrastructure made it somewhat unsafe at points.

The main attraction here is the blue fire, visible only at night due to the sulfur gases igniting. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is breathtaking—bright blue flames flickering in the darkness, accompanied by the sulfur miners working nearby. As one reviewer said, “Bajar al blue fire de noche me parece peligroso si no estas en plena forma,” highlighting the need for caution and good physical condition.

Once daylight breaks, you’ll descend from Ijen and enjoy a breakfast box provided by the hotel. The day continues with a drive back to Surabaya, which takes about six hours, giving you time to reflect on two incredible volcano experiences.

Practical Details & Tips

Transportation and Guides: The tour uses private vehicles and professional guides, which means you can relax knowing you’re in capable hands. The guides are often praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and patience—especially useful during the early morning climbs.

Timing: Early wake-up calls are unavoidable for the Ijen blue fire, but this is part of the adventure. Arriving early offers a better view and fewer crowds, as noted in reviews mentioning that late arrivals can be busy.

Accommodation: The included hotels, such as the Ijen View Hotel or Palm Hotel, provide comfortable resting spots after long days of trekking and driving.

What to Pack: Dress warmly—early mornings can be cold—and wear sturdy trekking shoes. A headlamp or flashlight is useful for night climbs, and sunglasses or masks help shield you from sulfur fumes at Ijen.

Cost & Value: For $283.12, the package includes all major entrance fees, meals, hotel stays, and transfers. Many travelers mention that this is good value considering the inclusiveness and convenience, especially compared to organizing similar trips independently.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and drivers. One traveler said, “The company arranged a safe, compact, and amazing tour,” praising the organization and safety measures. Another appreciated the stunning views, noting “great views and service,” and advising to “go as early as possible” to avoid crowds.

A solo traveler remarked that “the guide Balon was very friendly and patient,” which emphasizes the personal attention you receive. Conversely, some mention the trek infrastructure at Ijen could be improved for safety, but overall, travelers felt well-supported.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day private volcano adventure offers a fantastic mix of natural wonders, cultural sights, and hassle-free logistics. It suits travelers who want to maximize their time—seeing two major volcanoes with minimal planning—and appreciate guided support.

If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and early mornings, you’ll find this trip rewarding. The scenic views, combined with the chance to witness blue fire and sunrise in a single trip, make it a memorable experience.

It’s perfect for adventure lovers, photographers, or anyone with a curiosity for Indonesia’s volcanic landscape who values organized tours and knowledgeable guides. Plus, if you’re traveling from Surabaya or Malang and want a seamless, all-inclusive experience, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
This tour involves climbing at night, especially at Ijen, which requires moderate physical fitness. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and some uphill walking, you’ll be fine.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast both mornings and a lunch on Day 1. The breakfast at Ijen comes as a supplied breakfast box.

What do I need to bring?
Warm clothing and trekking shoes are essential, along with a headlamp or flashlight for the Ijen climb. Sunglasses or masks are recommended to protect from sulfur fumes.

Can I be dropped off at Bali after the tour?
Yes, you can choose to be dropped off at Ketapang Port for boats to Bali or return to Surabaya, providing flexibility for onward travel.

How long is the drive between sites?
From Mt Bromo to Banyuwangi or Bondowoso, expect about 5-6 hours. The drive from Ijen to Surabaya is around 6 hours.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book around 33 days in advance, but it’s wise to reserve earlier if you want to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is the Blue Fire at Ijen visible only at night?
Yes, the blue flames are best seen at night, which is why the tour begins at midnight. The blue fire disappears once daylight arrives, so timing is crucial.

This carefully structured tour combines adventure, comfort, and unforgettable scenery, making it a compelling choice for those ready for a memorable volcano experience in Indonesia.