KAWAH IJEN Bluefire (With Experienced Guide)

Explore the captivating Kawah Ijen volcano in Indonesia and witness the mesmerizing blue flames that dance across the crater. This guided tour takes adventurers on a midnight hike to the summit, where they’ll arrive just in time to behold nature’s remarkable display. With safety gear, refreshments, and knowledgeable guides, the experience promises a unique and unforgettable journey. Discover the secrets of this natural wonder and uncover the fascinating story behind the Bluefire phenomenon.

Key Points

• 8-9 hour guided tour to witness the mesmerizing Blue Flame phenomenon at the Kawah Ijen volcano.
• Tour starts around 00:00 AM from hotel/homestay, reaches the summit by 03:00 AM.
• Tour includes transportation, English-speaking guide, safety equipment, and refreshments.
• Not suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, and restrictions on strollers, alcohol, and drugs.
• Overwhelmingly positive customer reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and unique experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kawah Ijen Bluefire tour is an 8-9 hour activity led by experienced guides. Priced from $25 per person, the tour departs from Banyuwangi, Indonesia and offers both private and small group options.

Customers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guides provide briefings and hike preparation in English and Malay. Safety gear like gas masks and first aid are included.

The tour isn’t suitable for certain health conditions, and prohibitions include baby strollers, alcohol, and drugs. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and overall experience, rating it 4.7/5.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at around 00:00 AM, the tour departs from the hotel or homestay and travels to Paltuding, arriving at 01:30 AM.

At Paltuding, the group receives a briefing and prepares for the trek.

At 02:00 AM, the hike to the crater begins. By 03:00 AM, the summit is reached, and visitors are treated to the mesmerizing "Blue Flame" phenomenon.

As the sun rises at 05:00 AM, the group observes the stunning crater lake and the ongoing sulfur mining operations.

Finally, the descent from the crater takes place at 07:00 AM, with a return to Paltuding by 08:30 AM.

Included Facilities

Comfortable vehicles transport participants to the tour’s starting point.

Comfortable vehicles transport participants to the tour’s starting point.

Once there, an English-speaking guide provides a comprehensive briefing and helps prepare hikers for the trek.

For safety, the tour includes essential gear such as gas masks, headlamps, first aid kits, and portable oxygen tanks.

Refreshments, including mineral water and a local snack of warm fried banana, help sustain energy levels during the hike.

The tour price also covers Kawah Ijen’s entrance ticket and insurance, ensuring a worry-free experience.

With these top-notch inclusions, participants can focus on seeing the awe-inspiring Kawah Ijen adventure.

Important Information

While preparing for the Kawah Ijen tour, hikers should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, hiking shoes, a jacket, hiking pants, and other essential trekking gear.

Visitors must also obtain a medical certificate, valid within 3 days, to confirm good health, which can be obtained locally for IDR 35,000.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, altitude sickness, or high blood pressure, as well as babies under 1 year and those over 95 years.

Plus, the use of baby strollers, alcohol, and drugs is prohibited during the tour.

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Customer Reviews

Customers who’ve experienced the Kawah Ijen Bluefire tour have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback.

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, the tour has earned rave reviews.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable and helpful guides, who expertly lead the hike and provide valuable insights.

Knowledgeable and helpful guides expertly lead the hike, providing valuable insights for travelers.

The unique opportunity to witness the mesmerizing "Blue Flame" phenomenon and observe the sulfur mining operations has been described as a must-see destination.

Getting to Paltuding

To begin the Kawah Ijen Bluefire tour, visitors will depart from their hotel or homestay in Banyuwangi at around 00:00 – 00:30 AM.

The journey to Paltuding, the starting point, takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Upon arrival at Paltuding, the group will:

1. Receive a safety briefing from the experienced guide.

2. Prepare their gear, including gas masks, headlamps, and warm clothing.

3. Discuss the trek plan and expectations for the challenging hike up to the crater.

4. Embark on the steep, two-hour ascent to the summit of Kawah Ijen, where the famous "Blue Flame" phenomenon awaits.

Exploring the Crater

As the group reaches the summit around 3:00 AM, they’re greeted by the stunning "Blue Flame" phenomenon – a mesmerizing display of electric-blue flames that dance across the surface of the acidic crater lake.

The guide explains that these flames are caused by the combustion of sulfuric gases, which are constantly vented from the crater.

The flames are caused by the combustion of sulfuric gases constantly vented from the crater.

Donning gas masks, the adventurers carefully approach the lake’s edge, captivated by the otherworldly sight. They observe the sulfur miners at work, extracting the valuable mineral from the crater’s fumaroles.

After marveling at this unique natural wonder, the group prepares to witness the sunrise over the crater.

Sulfur Mining and Sunrise

After marveling at the Blue Flame phenomenon, the group prepares to witness the sunrise over the crater.

As the first rays of light peek over the horizon, the landscape is bathed in a warm glow.

The group observes:

1. Sulfur miners emerge from the crater, carrying heavy loads of the valuable mineral on their backs.

2. The vibrant turquoise waters of the crater lake reflect the changing hues of the sky.

3. Steam rises from the crater’s vents, a testament to the volcanic activity below.

4. The group takes in the breathtaking panoramic views, a perfect end to their Kawah Ijen adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hike to the Crater?

The hike to the crater is considered moderately difficult. It involves a steep, strenuous climb through uneven terrain, but with proper preparation and the guidance of an experienced tour guide, it’s manageable for most physically fit individuals.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children Participating in the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year old or individuals over 95 years of age. However, there are no specific age restrictions for children participating in the tour, though their fitness level should be considered.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment or Is It Provided?

The tour allows guests to bring their own hiking equipment, but basic safety gear like gas masks and headlamps are provided. However, medical certificates are required to confirm good health before participating in the trek.

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The tour offers both private and small group options. According to the overview, the group size is flexible, allowing travelers to choose between a private tour or joining a small group excursion.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration for More Exploration?

Customers can request to extend the tour duration for more exploration, though the standard itinerary is 8-9 hours. Additional time would allow for a more leisurely pace and deeper exploration of the crater and surrounding area.

The Sum Up

Exploring the breathtaking Kawah Ijen is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. With an experienced guide, visitors can witness the mesmerizing blue flames and gain insights into the sulfur mining operations. This 8-9 hour tour provides safety gear, refreshments, and an unforgettable experience, all for a starting price of $25 per person. Whether it’s the stunning scenery or the unique cultural aspect, this adventure promises to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: