Volcanic treks and hikes in Indonesia
It’s still dark, but hints of red and orange starting to splash lightly across the sky tell you that sunrise is not far away…
Indonesia offers a fantastic variety of volcanic and mountainous hikes that feature other-worldly views from sunrise to sunset, whether you’re looking for a gentle walk or a more challenging trek.
From a privileged position on the peak of Mount Penanjakan in Java, survey the eerie mists that hover over the plain of volcanic sand below. Rising from this surreal landscape is the smoking, cone-shaped crater of Mount Bromo, with the silhouettes of Mount Semeru and Batok moodily emerging in the distance.
As the sun slowly appears slightly to the left of Bromo, it gradually casts a soft hue over the landscape and gives definition to its slopes and the surreal ‘Sea of Sand’ at its feet. The morning sky transforms behind the brooding silhouettes, revealing a kaleidoscope of colours: deep blues, fiery oranges, vivid reds and glowing pinks. With the sun’s warmth making itself felt, head off to trek through this ethereal atmosphere to make your ascent.
Here are some of the best volcanic vistas, geothermal experiences and mountain hikes you can enjoy on your trip to Indonesia:
Trek through the alien sandscapes at the foot of Mount Bromo in Java before making a steep climb to its smoking caldera.
Near Ubud in Bali, hike up the atmospheric slopes of Gunung Batur to watch the dawn break over the thick forest and terraced farmland. When you descend, enjoy a well-earned dip in hot springs overlooking Lake Batur’s serene beauty.
The Ijen Crater in the east of Java offers a challenging ascent that leads you to the smoking caldera and the rewarding sight of the stunning turquoise sulphur lake at its base.
In the highlands of Bali, near the peaceful village of Munduk, stroll through the lush green landscapes, terraced rice fields, and dense forests, pausing for a dip in the gushing waterfalls.
A camping trek of Mount Rinjani on Lombok allows you to take in the surrounding islands as you swim in hot springs by the beautiful crater lake, surrounded by mysterious caves.
The creator’s crater
Bromo, named after Brahma (the Hindu god of creation) is in east Java. It’s a justifiably popular spot to visit as the sun rises over the lunar surrounds of the smoking, silhouetted volcano. As you make your final ascent, smoke from the crater swirls all around you.
Stay nearby to enjoy the panoramic trails that snake through this beautiful, desolate volcanic landscape. Near the National Park’s mountain villages, watch as nomadic Tenggerese herders go about their work.
Soaking up Gunung Batur
Head off before dawn from Ubud or Batur village in central Bali, passing thick forests and peaceful Balinese farmland on the drive to Gunung Batur. Switch on your head torch and enjoy the eerie experience of a gentle trek up the volcano’s slopes in the dark. On reaching the evocative, desolate setting at the top of the caldera, watch the dawn break over nearby Gunung Abang and Agung.
On your trek down, enjoy sweeping views over the countryside and the reward of a picturesque thermal spring to relax in and soak up the views that the tranquil waters of Lake Batur provide.
The fuming crater at Ijen
East Java’s Ijen Crater involves a challenging but rewarding three-hour hike to reach the rim, where sulfuric fumes spill from the crater’s mouth. On the way down you will see the physically demanding work of miners who extract yellow sulphur from the crater's depths, and the sight of the serene (yet highly toxic) turquoise lake that lies at the bottom.
A gentle stroll and gushing waterfalls at Munduk
Near Munduk, in the highlands of Bali, many gentle walks meander through verdant farmscapes, forests and terraced rice fields. Dramatic and welcoming waterfalls hide within the forest. On your walk, encounter several traditional Balinese villages and visit farms harvesting coffee, cloves and cocoa.
Geothermal waters and forests at Mount Rinjani
In the north of Lombok, Mount Rinjani is an active volcano that offers another popular place to admire the rising sun. The physically demanding 2- or 4-day trek to reach the top is available outside of the rainy season (from April onwards). Overnight in base camps, visit traditional Sasak villages, spot monkeys and tropical birds in the forests, admire the views over nearby islands, take a dip in the hot springs at the crater’s lake and explore the mysterious caves.
Day visits of the lower slopes and peaks are an option all year round, taking in waterfalls, rice paddies, farming villages and forests.
